Signs You May Need Gutter Guards
Although gutter guards aren't always required, the symptoms of blocked gutters are usually clear. Signs of chronic gutter issues 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 cause overflow and water to spill over gutters
- Leaky joints or seams where water leaks from the gutters
- Soggy ground or visible erosion around your house's foundation
How To Choose a Gutter Guard Installer
Assess Their Experience
When picking an installation company, look for one with years of experience and knowledge about numerous brands and guard types. A company with experience will understand how to take measurements and fit gutter guards for your specific needs. Ask about a company's years of experience and request referrals from local customers.
Verify Proper Licensing and Insurance
When getting in touch with potential installation providers, always verify that they are licensed, bonded, and insured with both workers compensation and general liability protection. This protects you if any accidents or injuries happen. Request current licensing and insurance papers from 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 generic no-name guards or their own off-brands, which may not have undergone rigorous quality control testing.
Seek Custom Fit Services
For optimal performance, gutter guards need to be measured and trimmed on-site to match your unique gutter setup. Pick a company that uniquely sizes and cuts guards specifically for your home, rather than using universal guards. Accurately fitted guards will leave no gaps for debris to get stuck.
Examine Warranties
High-quality gutter guard installers are typically backed by 20-year or lifetime warranties covering rust, clogs, leaks, and other defects. Before picking a provider, look into its warranty terms for materials and workmanship guarantees. Warranties are the best way to protect your investment into your gutters.
Check Reviews and Referrals
Take some time to look at online reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and other review sites to read customer feedback. Ask neighbors which companies they recommend for quality local gutter guard installation. When researching, look for providers with a history of steady positive reviews rather than only one or two sporadic reviews.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are six typical types of gutter guards. These include the following:
- Brush guards are made of large brush bristles that partially obstruct your gutters, allowing water to pass through while stopping debris. On average, you can expect to spend $4.06 per linear foot for brush guards.
- Foam guards are lightweight and easy to install. The foam collects debris and keeps it out of your gutter. Foam guards cost roughly $2.47 per linear foot.
- Screen guards have large holes that allow water through while blocking debris. Screen guards cost around $4.73 per linear foot.
- 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 spend $4.40 per linear foot for mesh guards.
- Micro-mesh guards are typically the most effective. They have smaller holes than regular mesh guards and let even less debris through. On average, you can expect to pay $5.45 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 through into the gutter. They can typically be seen from the ground. Surface tension guards cost roughly $3.47 per linear foot.