Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Gutter guards aren't always necessary, but evidence of obstructed gutters is clear. Signals of ongoing gutter troubles are:
- Visibly saggy, damaged, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your foundation
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over 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. Experienced companies can properly measure and fit 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
Verify that any businesses you're considering are properly certified, bonded, and insured, holding both workers compensation and general liability coverage. This protects you from liability for potential injuries and accidents. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for well-known gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter when selecting an installer. Avoid off-brand or generic no-name guards, which likely do not undergo the same level of rigorous testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For top performance, gutter guards should have custom measurements and trimming on-site to match your gutters. Pick a company that takes specific measurements and trims guards for your home instead of using universal options. Well-fitted guards avoid debris-trapping gaps.
Examine Warranties
Top gutter guard companies are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties that cover leaks, clogs, rust, and other defects. Before choosing a provider, look into its warranty terms for workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect 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 learn about customer experiences. Ask neighbors for recommendations of quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should choose companies with a track record of consistently good feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six most common gutter guard types include the following:
- Foam guards are light and easy to install. The foam collects debris and keeps it out of your gutter. Foam guards cost around $2.46 per linear foot.
- Brush guards are just what they sound like: large brush bristles that sit in your gutters and block debris while letting water through. On average, you can expect to pay $4.05 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Screen guards have large holes that let water through while keeping out debris. Screen guards cost around $4.45 per linear foot.
- 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 as opposed to sitting on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to spend $4.18 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards have even smaller holes than mesh guards and allow even less debris into your gutters than mesh. They are extremely effective. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $5.25 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to let water flow into gutter system while debris slides off. Generally, they will be visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.27 per linear foot.
