Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
While gutter guards aren't always necessary, signs of backed up gutters are clear. Some indicators of persistent gutter problems include:
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
- Mold growth, peeling exterior paint, or interior water stains on walls near gutters.
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks out of gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion patterns around your house's foundation
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer correctly direct rainwater
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Look for an experienced gutter guard installation provider that has been in business for multiple years and has installed various guard brands and models. These companies know how to properly measure and handle the installation of gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been installing guards and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Check that the companies you're considering have valid licenses, bonds, general liability insurance, and workers compensation coverage. This shields you in case of any injury or accident that could arise. Ask potential providers for current licensing and insurance papers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for reputable gutter guard brands such as Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter when selecting an installer. Avoid generic no-name or off-brand guards, which likely lack thorough testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For ideal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your specific gutter setup. Select a company that uniquely sizes and cuts guards specifically for your home, rather than using one-size-fits-all guards. Accurately fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard installers often offer 20-year or lifetime warranties against rust, leaks, clogs, and other defects. Before choosing a provider, read over its warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your investment into your gutters.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to look at online reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to read about customer experiences. Ask neighbors to recommend quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, you should choose companies with consistent positive feedback instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six most common types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Foam guards are large pieces of foam that sit in your gutters to stop debris. They're lightweight and easy to install. On average, you can expect to spend $2.46 per linear foot for foam guards.
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, catching debris and allowing water to pass through. Brush guards cost around $4.05 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while blocking debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.37 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 let debris slide off rather than sitting on top of your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $4.12 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and let even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost around $5.19 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, also called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to encourage water to flow into your gutter system while debris slides off. Normally, they can be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $3.21 per linear foot.
