Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always needed, signs of backed up gutters are clear. Issues stemming from persistent gutter problems include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your home's foundation
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
The right installation company will have extensive experience, including multiple years in business and experience with several brands and models. Companies with experience can properly take measurements and install gutter guards to meet your distinct needs. Inquire about how long a company has been performing installations and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Make sure that any providers you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both workers compensation and general liability policies. This protects you from liability for potential injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for companies that provide highly reputable gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that offer only their own off-brands or generic no-name guards, which may not have gone through the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Gutter guards should be sized and cut while at your home to match your gutters. Select a company that specifically measures and trims guards for your house rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Guards fitted for your home leave no gaps for debris accumulation.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies typically offer 20-year or lifetime warranties covering leaks, clogs, rust, and other problems. Before picking a company, carefully read through the warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are an excellent means of protecting your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Be sure to check online reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and other review sites to find customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with plenty of satisfied customers rather than only one or two sporadic reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that are placed in your gutters to stop debris. They're light and easy to install. Foam guards cost around $2.46 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that sit inside your gutters, catching debris while allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost roughly $4.04 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while keeping debris out. On average, you can expect to pay $4.33 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but let water through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and allow debris to slide off rather than sitting on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.09 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards, allowing even less debris through than mesh. These types of guards are extremely effective. On average, you can expect to pay $5.17 per linear foot for micro-mesh guards.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They are normally visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.19 per linear foot.
