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Homeowners often have the same question when it comes to gutter guards: Are they worth it? Yes, we believe that quality gutter guards are worth it because they do in fact prevent debris buildup within your gutters. A buildup of debris can easily cause the gutters to clog and overflow which may lead to water damage to your homes exterior and foundation.
While most homeowners would benefit from having gutter guards installed, there are exceptions. In this article, well explore why you mightor might notwant to invest in gutter guards. Well also explain the different types available and highlight a few of the best gutter guards on the market.
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Gutter installation can range anywhere from $1,000 to $6,600.
Get Quote Adobe- Royalty FreeThe average cost of gutter guard installation is typically between $1,000 and $2,000.
Get Quote (C) Pat HarryThe average cost of gutter repair can range from $150 to $630.
Get QuoteIf gutter guards are right for you, here is an easy reference to the best gutter guards for as reviewed by the Architectural Digest Reviews team:
The biggest reason to install gutter guards is to save yourself the time, money, and hassle associated with backed-up or overflowing gutters. Gutter guards may not be able to prevent every possible issue, but they can make your life easier in many situations. Gutter guards offer significant advantages in terms of preventing water damage and basement flooding, says Gavin MacRae, owner of GJ MacRae Foundation Repair. [Gutter guards] reduce gutter maintenance and extend the lifespan of gutters.
The cost to install gutter guards may be worth it if you have experienced or are concerned about any of the following issues:
Without gutter guards, pests can make themselves at home in your gutters. Mice, squirrels, bats, and birds can build nests in them, for example. Spiders might spin webs and lay eggs, and mosquitos can take advantage of the wet environment. In addition to any other problems these pests might cause, their presence can clog or damage your gutters. Gutter guards help by making your gutters much less hospitable and more difficult to access.
If you live in an area with cold winters, any water that doesnt drain from your gutters can freeze. Your gutters might also develop ice dams if the snow on your roof melts, flows down to the gutters, and then refreezes. Gutter guards help by preventing clogs and improving water flow so that the melted snow can drain from your gutters properly instead of refreezing.
Gutters filled with dry leaves and pine needles can be a fire hazard, especially if you live in an area prone to wildfires. Embers can travel in the wind, land in your gutters, and set the debris ablaze. Gutter guards help by reducing debris buildup and forming a physical barrier between wind-blown embers and any debris that makes its way into your gutters.
When your gutters develop a blockage, you must spend time, money, or both to address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. For instance, the weight of trapped water and waterlogged debris can cause the gutters to sag or pull away from your home. They can also develop rust and leaks. High-quality gutters guards can significantly reduce or eliminate blockages, which means less frequent maintenance and repairs.
Clogged gutters can cause several types of water damage. They can overflow, causing soil erosion, foundation cracks, and basement flooding, or the water can back up in your roof and ceiling. As the water makes its way into places it should not be, mold and mildew can begin to grow. The runoff can even carve trenches through your yard and damage your landscaping. Gutter guards help block clog-causing pests and debris and, in turn, prevent water damage.
Clogged or dirty gutters provide everything seeds need to germinate: water, air, light, and warmth. Your gutters might even provide sufficient soil and food. As a result, mold spores, spinners, and other seeds can make their way into unprotected gutters and begin to grow. Mold, mildew, and bacteria can also grow in your gutters. The best gutter guards can keep seeds out and allow water to flow properly.
Homeowners today can choose from several types of gutter guards. Each type has its advantages and downsides. Below, we cover how each option works and which are worth the investment.
Foam gutter guards sit inside your gutters. They come in different shapes and sizes to ensure a snug fit. While water should be able to pass through the foam easily, most debris will be kept out.
The downside to foam gutter guards is that theyre prone to freezing and shrinking. Though they are a relatively inexpensive option, they deteriorate over time. As a result, you need to replace them every few years.
Brush gutter guards also sit inside your gutters. They resemble large bottle brushes or pipe cleaners with stiff bristles, and they can easily last five years or longer if properly maintained.
Although gutter brushes are effective against large debris, small debris might get stuck in the bristles. You will need to remove the brushes and spray them off periodically to remove any debris that builds up. If youre looking for a low-maintenance option, brushes may not be the best choice.
Screen gutter guards typically slide under the first row of shingles on your roof. They may be perforated pieces of metal or plastic, or they could resemble fencing or mesh. Either way, they sit on top of your gutters rather than inside them.
The performance and longevity of screen gutter guards vary depending on the design, and most will require regular cleaning to remove any debris caught in the holes. However, screen gutter guards can be an easy-to-install and cost-effective DIY option.
Reverse curve gutter guards are among the most effective. They generally extend slightly past the outer edge of your gutters before curving back in. As water and debris flow off your roof, surface tension will cause the water to follow the curve into your gutters while debris slides off.
This type of gutter guard requires professional installation, often by the manufacturer. While some brands can simply be added to your existing gutters, others require new gutter installation.
Micro-mesh gutter guards resemble screen gutter guards but have much smaller holes. They are effective and, depending on the type, relatively easy to clean. Some brands even offer DIY installation options.
The most effective micro-mesh gutter guards typically require professional installation and carry a higher price tag than DIY mesh or screen gutter guards. However, the top brands are generally worth the cost for their longevity and effectiveness.
While gutter guards can be a valuable investment for many homeowners, there are a few downsides to them that include the need for periodic maintenance and cleaning, not eliminating all debris in your gutters, and the cost considerations.
While many people might assume that once you install gutter guards, you do not have to worry or care for them, this is not entirely the case. Occasionally, they need to be cleaned to remove any debris on top of the gutter guard that might be impeding water flow. They also need to be inspected periodically to determine if any damage has been incurred from strong winds or heavy debris.
It is important to recognize that some debris will likely still accumulate in the gutters, especially depending on the type of gutter guard you choose. Therefore, gutter guards do not eliminate the need to clean out your gutters, but greatly reduce the frequency of it.
Gutter guards, particularly professional installation from trusted companies, can be a large investment. This is particularly the case if you install new gutters along with gutter guards. It is important to understand the costs before you commit to installing gutter guards so that you can make the best decision for yourself and your budget.
The Home Depot, Lowes, and other home improvement stores sell a variety of DIY-friendly gutter guard solutions. You can even find certain brands on Amazon. Installing gutter guards yourself will give you much more control over the timeline and cost. However, the installation could take several hours, depending on the type of gutter guards you choose and your skill level. Your selection will also be limited compared to what a professional gutter company can offer.
Professional installation is the safer option, especially if you want to ensure that your investment is worthwhile. Not only do professionals have access to the highest quality products, but they are also better equipped to install them. Professionally installed gutter guards also tend to have better warranties than their DIY counterparts. This option will come with a much higher price tag, though.
LeafFilter, LeafGuard, and Gutter Guards America are our top three recommendations for gutter guards. Note that while none of these companies provide pricing on their websites, you can request a free quote from each. All three offer a transferable lifetime warranty and require professional installation.
Best Overall
Visit Site Visit SiteLeafFilter offers a three-piece, steel micro-mesh gutter guard system that uses surface tension to pull water through your gutters but push debris off. Its steel body means that extreme temperature changes will not warp the guard over time. LeafFilter pitches the guard flush with your roof to minimize maintenance and visibility from the ground.
LeafFilters gutters come in various colors, including off-white and beige, to match your homes external color scheme.
Other services: New gutter installation, Gutter cleaning, Gutter sealing and repair
Many customer reviews for LeafFilter have mentioned pushy sales tactics and high initial quotes. Weve also seen feedback about ice buildup on the gutter guard during cold snaps.
Best Reverse-Curve
Visit Site Visit SiteLeafGuard is a great option for homeowners looking for new gutters that include built-in protection against clogs. The reverse-curve design features a sturdy, one-piece construction that replaces your existing gutter system. The aluminum material resists warping and cracking and can endure the elements longer than many types of DIY gutter guards.
LeafGuard customizes the length of each gutter run during professional installation for the perfect fit. It also uses a scratch-resistant finish and offers its gutter system in 12 or more colors.
LeafGuard requires you to replace your entire gutter system. Reverse-curve designs are susceptible to allowing small debris, such as shingle grit, into the gutters. Plus, you may see visible debris accumulation on the curve of the gutter guard. Heavy downpours can also allow water to spill over onto your homes siding.
Best Customer Reviews
Visit Site Visit SiteGutter Guards America produces a corrosion-resistant micro-mesh gutter guard that will last for the life of your home covered by a transferable lifetime warranty. It features a seamless aluminum body and surgical-grade stainless steel mesh that prevents leaves, pests, and fine debris from entering your gutter. Plastics, vinyl, and adhesives are absent from the construction, so you know your gutter guards wont fail from abrupt seasonal changes.
Installation is handled by professional contractors, providing you peace of mind that everything is in place and working correctly. Work crews also address issues with your existing gutters by cleaning, aligning, and re-sealing them as necessary.
Some customer reviews mention that it can be difficult to schedule an inspection and installation. Marketing for this gutter guard states that it provides a maintenance-free experience, however, all gutter guards still need some cleaning and maintenance.
Gutter guards are a worthwhile investment if your gutters tend to collect debris or attract pestsespecially if your area also experiences heavy rain. However, if you live in an arid climate or urban area with no trees nearby, keeping debris out of your gutters may not be a priority.
If you decide to invest in gutter guards, reverse-curve or micro-mesh designs are the most effective and easiest to clean.
Gutter guards have a few potential downsides. Depending on the type you buy, they could amount to a sizable investment. They also do not entirely eliminate the need for regular gutter cleaning, however, they do make it much less frequent. In the winter, some types of gutter guards make ice dams more prevalent.
How much you should pay for gutter guards depends on what type you want. For professionally installed micro-mesh or reverse-curve gutter guards, you can expect to pay an average of $10$25 per linear foot, including materials and installation. High-quality DIY options might only cost you $4$5 per linear foot for materials, however, the installation will be your responsibility.
Yes, even with gutter guards, you may still need to clean your gutters occasionally. How often and how much effort is required will depend on the type of gutter guards you purchase.
We researched and analyzed dozens of gutter guards and gutter guard companies to create an in-depth review methodology. We formulated a rating system based on the factors homeowners find most important. We evaluated each providers gutter guard design and aesthetics, service offerings, customer service and communication, quote process, warranties, and financing options.
We created a separate rating system for DIY-installed gutter guards sold on retailer sites. We evaluated these guards based on their quality of materials, aesthetics, communication, warranty, customer reviews, and cost.
We evaluated each providers reputation using independent, third-party sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google My Business pages. For products, we analyzed the customer reviews on whichever online retailer primarily hosts the product.
We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.
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Mike MillerMike Miller is a writer and editor with more than a decade of experience crafting consumer-facing content. He has a passion for helping homeowners find the best gutter protection for their homes.
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See full bioGutter guards can be a significant upfront investment but are often worth it for homeowners who experience heavy rainfall and debris around their homes. Once they are installed, they can save you time, money, and the headache of frequently cleaning your gutters. Gutter guards also help protect your home from water damage to its roof, foundation, and exterior. However, gutter guards may not be worth it if you live in an arid climate or dont have trees surrounding your home. Our guide explores if gutter guards are worth the cost, how different types of gutter guards work, and which of the best gutter guards may be right for your home.
Gutter guards are designed to keep debris and pests out of your gutter system.
Gutter guards could be a good investment for homeowners who frequently clean clogged debris from their gutters.
Expect to pay between $4,000 and $7,000 for a professional gutter guard installation. DIY gutter guard installation will cost an average of $170 to $700.
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Gutter Installation
New gutters added to your home cost an average of $1,700-$3,100
GET QUOTEGutter Guard
Gutter guard installation costs an average of $600-$1,500
GET QUOTEGutter Repair
The majority of gutter repairs cost $143-$604
GET QUOTEInstalling gutter guards costs between $4,000 and $7,000, on average. For DIY gutter guard installation, expect to pay between $170 and $700.
To determine the average cost of gutter guards, we read customer reviews for every major gutter guard company on the market and recorded any comments that noted pricing figures. We also surveyed 1,000 homeowners who have installed gutter guards and asked what they paid for their systems. For all DIY gutter guards, we obtained up-to-date cost information from their Amazon product pages.
The following table provides a more comprehensive breakdown of gutter guards:
Gutter guard typeTotal gutter guard installation costGutter guard material cost per linear footGutter guard material cost for 200 linear feetProfessional installation cost per linear footPlastic screen$170$200$0.85$1$170$200DIYFoam$200$400$1$2$200$400DIYBrush$600$850$3$4.25$600$850DIYPerforated aluminum$265$300$1.32$1.50$265$300DIYSteel screen$300$700$1.50$3.50$300$700DIYMicro-mesh$4,000$5,500$2.75$5$550$1,000+$20$27.50Reverse-curve$3,600$7,300$3$6.50$600$1,900$18$36.50Gutters perform an essential function by directing rainwater away from your homes foundation. However, leaves and other debris can fall into them and eventually block water flow. Birds and pests can also find their way into your gutters, build nests, and cause your gutters to back up and overflow.
When theyre functioning well, gutter guards can:
revent clogging by reducing or eliminating the amount of debris entering your gutters
water flow
ard off damage caused by a water backlog, including ice dams, rotted fascia boards, and roof leaks
iscourage insects and animals from making homes in your gutters
The best gutter guards achieve all of this while reducing the time and effort you must put into gutter maintenance. Not all gutter guard systems are created equal, however. Some types perform much better than others.
One major downside of gutter guards is that they can lead to ice dams forming over your gutters. Ice dams are typically caused by poor attic ventilation, but ice and snow buildup on top of your gutter guards can also contribute to the formation of ice dams. We recommend installing heat tape to help prevent ice dams if you live in an area that gets heavy snow or freezing temperatures in the winter. You should also inspect your attic regularly to ensure proper ventilation.
Gutter guards do not eliminate the need for gutter cleaning, but greatly reduce the frequency. According to our survey of 1,000 homeowners who purchased gutter guards, 70% of the respondents stated that they needed to have their gutters cleaned 2 or less times a year after installation.
Finally, if gutter guards are installed improperly, particularly as a DIY project, they can cause damage to your roof or gutters. For this reason, we recommend a professional gutter guard installer who has experience with installation on many different type of gutter systems and roofs.
Gutter guards offer a range of benefits, from keeping out pests to preventing foundation damage. The main benefits are the protection they offer your homes drainage system and the time and hassle they save you on future gutter cleanings. Below, we outline some of the main reasons you should consider installing gutter guards.
Leaves, twigs, pests, and other debris will accumulate within an unprotected gutter system and weigh it down. This buildup will eventually lead to sagging, leaks, overflows, and even gutters disconnecting from your home. Gutter guards help prevent this damaging material from entering your gutter system and extend its lifespan. Youll still need to clean your system, but the guards will make the cleaning process quicker and easier.
Many gutter guard installers offer gutter installation as an additional service. Some providers, such as LeafGuard, offer an all-in-one gutter and guard system, requiring you to replace your gutters when installing gutter guards. If your gutters are old and in poor condition and require a replacement, it may be worth it to install gutter guards at the same time to extend the life of your new gutter system.
Clogged debris inside gutters will eventually lead to overflows. Overflowing gutters can result in water damage to your walls, foundation, fascia, and lawn. Gutter guards keep this debris out of your system while still promoting water passage. This process prevents other costly problems from developing.
Homes surrounded by dense trees or other greenery require more frequent gutter cleaning due to the leaves and needles they drop into your gutters. Gutter guards make this cleaning easier and quicker while also helping your gutters function more efficiently. We tested more than a dozen gutter guards and found that many only required light brushing with a gloved hand or brush to dislodge debris.
Pests such as wasps, ants, bees, birds, and chipmunks love to nest in gutters. Gutter guards create a physical barrier to keep these pets out.
Gutter guards may not be the best investment for homeowners in some instances. They are most beneficial to those surrounded by heavy foliage or living in highly rainy areas because they protect gutter systems from clogged debris and water damage due to overflows. Homeowners who dont have plants or trees within 20 to 30 feet of their homes and those in arid areas likely wont benefit from gutter guards.
Homeowners in coastal areas must be selective about which guards they install. Sea air corrodes metal guards more quickly, so vinyl and PVC options are a better choice in these regions.
You can choose from five different types of gutter guards. The best one for your home should allow water to flow freely while preventing debris from entering your gutters.
Micro-mesh gutter guards have the same basic design as gutter screens but use a much finer mesh. Because the holes in micro-mesh are so small, the maximum size of particles that can pass through is much smaller. As a result, micro-mesh screens are among the most effective gutter covers available. Theyre also extremely durable, often lasting 20 years or longer, and require minimal maintenance.
Micro-mesh guards had highs and lows when it came to performance, with material being the deciding factor. Stainless steel products had the best performance of any type of gutter guard; these products blocked all forms of debris, were durable, and withstood strong downpours. However, plastic micro-mesh guards possessed small ridges along the edge of the holes in the screen. These ridges made the holes too small to allow water to pass through effectively, resulting in consistent overflows.
Reverse curve gutter guards use surface tension to guide water into your gutters. One side slides under your shingles, while the other extends out over the top of the gutter before curving back. Water will slide along that curve and fall into the gutters while other debris rolls onto the ground.
This type of gutter guard lasts several years and performs very well, but installation is complex. Every reverse curve gutter cover that our team checked out required professional installation. Popular brands for professional installation include Gutter Helmet and LeafGuard.
We found that DIY reverse curve guards were hit or miss. Higher-end products performed well, keeping out the majority of debris and handling moderate rainfall. However, lower-cost guards made from thin plastic prevented water from entering the gutter system, rendering them useless. You get what you pay for with these guards more than with any other product.
Gutter screens sit on top of your gutters, often sliding under the first row of shingles. A wide variety of designs fall into this category. Many resemble wire fencing, mesh, or a metal grate. Gutter screens can be made of plastic, vinyl, stainless steel, or aluminum.
The smaller the holes, the better the screen will block debris. However, screens with larger holes may be less likely to clog and are easier to clean. You can expect screen gutter guards to last 5 to 10 years, depending on the brand. Raptor and Amerimax are two well-known brands.
We tested several types of screen guards, including powder-coated steel, plastic, PVC, and aluminum. The performance of each guard varied widely, with the aluminum and steel options coming out on top.
The aluminum guard from A-M Gutter Guards that we tested resembled a large flat sheet perforated with holes. It had a strong connection and was easy to clean. The Amerimax steel option that our team tested had a simple wire mesh snap-in design. It excelled at allowing heavy downpours to pass through while blocking most debris, except for shingle grit and pine needles.
Foam gutter guards are porous enough for water to flow through, but they often block almost everything else. These gutter guards sit inside your gutters and come in different shapes and sizes to fit different gutter styles.
Foam gutter guards may need to be replaced every one to two years. They can shrink in the sun, leaving gaps that smaller debris can fall through. Theyre also prone to algae growth and freezing. Some brands, such as GutterStuff and GutterFoam, extend the life span of their products by applying germicide and a UV coating.
We found that these guards were among the most effective at blocking debris. GutterFoam blocked debris as small as shingle grit. However, its one of the priciest options for a DIY product, and it doesnt last as long as other options. Even with a UV coating, foam gutter guards will break down in sunlight and degrade more quickly than stainless steel or PVC products.
Brush gutter guards are round brushes with stiff bristles that slide inside your gutters. They resemble giant pipe cleaners or bottle brushes. Although the bristles can effectively prevent large debris from entering your gutters, pine needles, and other small debris will still make their way inside.
This type of gutter guard can last five years or longer. However, youll likely need to remove brush gutter guards periodically to clear any debris caught in the bristles. GutterBrush and Gutter Whiskers are two popular brands.
During testing, we found that these brush guards were effective at handling most large debris and allowed efficient water passability. The bristles of the brush guard stopped twigs, leaves, and seedpods from entering the gutters. However, they were the most difficult to clean, requiring our team to completely remove the brush to get debris out. We had some difficulty installing the guard, as it kept getting snagged on our gutter systems hidden hangers.
As you research gutter guards, you may notice a huge price difference between the products available at your local Lowes or Home Depot and the quotes provided by professional gutter companies.
Quotes from professionals include the cost of installation, which includes both materials and labor. Another reason for price variation is that professionals have access to brands and models not sold in stores.
Although a DIY installation may save you hundreds of dollars, gutter guard installation costs arent the only factor to consider. Installing gutter guards can take several hours, and since ladders are involved, the job comes with risks. If you choose a style that slides under your shingles, improper installation could even void the warranty on your roof.
Before deciding on a DIY installation, consider the following:
The equipment required:
At the very least, youll need a partner, a ladder, a bucket, a hose, and gloves. You may also need tin snips, a miter or circular saw, and a drill or screwdriver.
The steps involved:
You must identify the style and size of your gutters to ensure that you purchase compatible gutter guards. Before installation, clean your gutters thoroughly. You may need to trim the gutter guards, too.
The difficulty level:
Some gutter guards are harder to install than others. The installation will be more difficult if your home has two stories, a steeply pitched roof, or unusual architectural details.
Hiring professionals may cost more, but it will save you time and hassle. Professionally installed gutter guards are typically more effective and may be backed by a lifetime warranty.
Our team read hundreds of customer reviews, searched through company histories, and analyzed each gutter guard product based on its materials, performance, and quality. We also purchased, installed, and tested every major type of DIY gutter guard to determine the most effective option. Our testing included assessments of debris filtration, water passability, durability, and appearance.
After comparing each gutter guard against our objective rating and review methodology, we chose the following professionally installed gutter guards as our top recommendations:
LeafFilter: Our Top PickLeafGuardGutter Guards AmericaHomeCraftAll American Gutter ProtectionOur survey found that the majority of customers were satisfied with the companies on this list. Overall, 63% of customers were satisfied with these professional installers. The company with the highest satisfaction rating was Gutter Guards America, with 89% of customers noting they were satisfied or very satisfied.
We believe gutter guards are worth it for homeowners who have issues with debris buildup and rain overflows within their gutters. If left untreated, clogged gutters can cause expensive water damage to your home. And, while gutter guards dont eliminate the need for gutter cleaning, they make it a much less frequent and easier chore. Choose one of the best gutter guards for your climate and debris type to make it a worthwhile investment. For example, some gutter guards cant keep up with heavy rainfall or block smaller debris such as pine needles. If you choose a less expensive DIY product, such as a thin plastic guard, you may have to replace the guards every few years. Homeowners living in arid climates without many surrounding trees may not want to invest in gutter guards.
We recommend requesting quotes from multiple companies, comparing their products, and browsing customer reviews. This will help you identify whether gutter guards are worth it for your home and which type would work best.
In most cases, you still need to clean gutters with gutter guards. However, by blocking most debris, gutter guards can make the job easier or less frequent. How often you need to clean gutters with gutter guards depends on the brand and type of guard.
The exact process of installing gutter guards will vary. However, most installations will involve the following steps:
Gutter guards can be installed on all types of roofs. However, the options and level of difficulty may vary depending on the pitch and style of your roof. Consider hiring a professional if you have a particularly steep roof, a metal roof, or another unusual feature.
We back up our gutter guard recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each gutter guard product and provider. We conduct research by reviewing product specifications and provider website information, speaking with customer representatives, and analyzing customer reviews. We reinforce this research with thorough firsthand product testing, assessing each gutter guards durability, quality, filtration, and cleanability. To date, weve tested more than a dozen professionally installed and DIY gutter guard products. We then score each provider against our review standards for gutter guard design, customer support, the quote process, services, and reviews to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at .
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