Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, signs of clogged gutters are clear. Some indicators of persistent gutter problems include:
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Providers with extensive gutter guard installation experience that have handled a wide variety of styles and models will know how to take accurate measurements and fit guards to your home’s unique dimensions. Reach out to these companies to find out about their experience and ask for local references.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Make sure that any companies you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both general liability and workers compensation coverage. 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 carry top gutter guard brands like LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet. Avoid companies that offer only generic no-name guards or their own off-brands, which may not have gone through the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
Guards should be sized and cut while at your home to match your gutters. Select a company that custom measures and trims guards for your home 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 are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties that cover leaks, clogs, rust, and other defects. Before choosing a provider, closely inspect its warranty terms on materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to look at online reviews on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Google Reviews to see what customers say about their experience. You can also ask neighbors to suggest quality gutter guard businesses in your area. When researching potential providers, you should choose companies with a history of consistent positive feedback rather than just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six primary types of gutter guards are as follows:
- Brush guards are precisely what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters to let water through while catching debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.04 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards consist of pieces of foam that are placed in your gutters to block debris. They're light and easy to install. On average, you can expect to spend $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water to pass through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.33 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards stop debris but allow water to flow through. Mesh guards have even smaller holes than screen guards. They're durable and let debris slide off as opposed to 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, letting even less debris into your gutters than mesh. They are extremely effective. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.17 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let debris slide off while water flows into the gutter. They can usually be seen from the ground. On average, you can expect to spend $3.19 per linear foot for surface tension guards.
