Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always needed, indicators of blocked gutters are typically clear. Signs of chronic gutter problems include:
- Leaky seams or joints where water leaks out of gutters
- Mold growth, interior wall stains, or peeling exterior paint on walls near gutters.
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
- Visibly damaged, sagging, or misaligned gutters that no longer direct rainwater correctly
- Frequent clogs that lead to overflow and water spilling over gutters
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
Look for an experienced gutter guard installation company that has been in business for many years and has installed many different brands and models of gutter guards. These companies know how to properly take measurements and install gutter guards on your unique home setup. Inquire how long they’ve been in business and request local referrals.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that any providers you're considering are properly licensed, bonded, and insured, with both workers compensation and general liability coverage. This protects you from liability for possible injuries and accidents. Request current licensing and insurance papers from any potential providers.
Choose Reputable Brands
Look for reputable gutter guard brands such as LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet when selecting an installer. Avoid generic no-name or off-brand 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 prevent debris-trapping gaps from forming.
Examine Warranties
Leading gutter guard companies usually provide 20-year or lifetime warranties against rust, leaks, clogs, and other defects. Before picking a provider, closely inspect its warranty terms on workmanship and materials guarantees. Warranties are the most effective way to protect your gutter investment.
Check Reviews and Referrals
It's a good idea to research online reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, or Yelp to learn about customer experiences. You can also ask neighbors to suggest quality local gutter guard companies. When researching providers, it's best to choose companies with a history of good reviews instead of just one or two reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
The six typical types of gutter guards include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, allowing water to pass through while catching debris. Brush guards cost around $4.01 per linear foot.
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. With this type of guard, debris lands on the foam instead of in your gutter. On average, you can expect to spend $2.44 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 pay $3.69 per linear foot for screen guards.
- Mesh guards have smaller holes than screen guards and similarly catch debris while allowing water to flow through. Mesh guards are durable and encourage debris to slide off rather than sit on your gutters. On average, you can expect to pay $3.59 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. Micro-mesh guards have smaller holes than standard mesh guards, which allows even less debris through. Micro-mesh guards cost roughly $4.72 per linear foot.
- Surface tension guards, sometimes called reverse curve guards, use surface tension to allow debris to slide off while water flows through into the gutter. They are normally visible from the ground. Surface tension guards cost around $2.75 per linear foot.
