LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard (2024)
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LeafFilter and LeafGuard are the two most popular national gutter guard brands. Articles featuring the best gutter guard companies always mention these two industry powerhouses. Both LeafGuard and LeafFilter offer high-quality products, lifetime transferable warranties, performance guarantees, and gutter installations. After reading hundreds of customer reviews, conducting a survey of 1,000 homeowners who have purchased gutter guards, researching each company’s performance, and analyzing their warranty details, we believe LeafFilter comes out on top.
LeafFilter has higher average customer review scores, boasts effective gutter guard performance, and offers a more comprehensive warranty. However, LeafGuard’s all-in-one gutter and gutter guard system could be a better option for your home if your gutters need to be replaced. Our guide takes an in-depth look at these leading brands to help you choose the right provider for your home.
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Which Costs More?
According to customer reviews, LeafGuard costs more than LeafFilter. Like most home improvement companies, LeafGuard and LeafFilter don’t provide price information on their websites. We read customer reviews on Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot to better understand how much each company charges for gutter guard installations.
We compiled two dozen reviews that reference cost data for each brand. LeafGuard’s standard cost range was between $3,600 and $16,000, although some reviews reported prices exceeding $20,000. LeafGuard reviews that included both cost and linear feet revealed a range of $70 to $108 per linear foot.
LeafFilter customer reviews revealed a range of $2,400 to $8,000 for gutter guard installation. This cost data was reflected in our survey results, which revealed an average of $2,500–$7,000. We surveyed more than 1,000 customers of top gutter guard providers, including 243 LeafGuard customers and 129 LeafFilter customers. These survey findings showed a similar price per linear foot: $26.21 for LeafGuard and $27.64 for LeafFilter.
The following table highlights our cost findings:
| Provider | LeafFilter | LeafGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Cost Range | $2,500–$7,000 | $3,600–$16,000 |
| Cost per Linear Foot | $27.64 | $26.21 |
| Cost for 200-Linear-Foot Installation | $5,528 | $5,242 |
LeafFilter Cost
Customers in reviews and our survey respondents reported almost identical LeafFilter prices. We concluded an average range of $2,500 to $7,000 and $27.64 per linear foot based on our survey results. We attempted to find more information on how much a LeafFilter gutter system costs independently of its gutter guards, but there weren’t enough responses with this cost information to create a reliable average.
A number of customers on Trustpilot and BBB reported prices at or above $10,000. These reports were twice to three times the average reported price from most customers and our survey respondents.
Upon digging deeper into customer reviews, we noted a theme of LeafFilter sales representatives presenting an initially inflated price and then lowering it after negotiating. Be firm when discussing your budget with the sales representative, and don’t be afraid to negotiate.
LeafGuard Cost
Customer reviews indicate that LeafGuard costs between $3,600 and $16,000. This price appears high at first glance, but LeafGuard’s system is an all-in-one gutter guard attached to seamless gutters. When signing up for a LeafGuard installation, you’re buying a two-for-one bundle of seamless aluminum rain gutters and a reverse-curve gutter guard.
LeafGuard could be a good deal for homeowners with old gutters that need replacement, as you’re getting a high-end gutter system with the purchase of your gutter guards. Seamless aluminum gutters cost anywhere from $1,400 to more than $7,500.
Many customers on review sites such as the BBB and Trustpilot reported prices greater than $10,000. Our survey responses averaged around $4,300. Most survey respondents reported their systems were between 100–150 feet, which reduced the total costs.
We also noted in reviews that customers reported LeafGuard offered initially inflated prices exceeding $10,000, only to drop the price through negotiations. We suspect that customers reporting higher costs took the high initial price without negotiating. LeafGuard’s financing page supports a standard cost of around $7,900, as it requires customers to purchase a system valued at $7,883 to qualify for financing.
How Do LeafFilter and LeafGuard Compare?
LeafFilter and LeafGuard offer high-end products at prices above the industry average. While our survey results indicate a similar cost per linear foot for both installers, customer reviews show LeafGuard typically costs more than LeafFilter.
LeafFilter’s warranty, product performance, and customer review ratings surpass LeafGuard. LeafGuard’s warranty protects its scratch-proof coating, while LeafFilter’s warranty covers the entire system’s material cost. Based on our firsthand testing, micro-mesh gutter guards perform better than reverse-curve designs by preventing smaller types of debris and filtering more water without overflowing. LeafFilter customer review scores across independent review sites are higher than LeafGuard reviews, with consistent 4- and 5-star ratings compared to LeafGuard’s average of roughly 2 stars.
Due to these distinct differences in quality and performance, we recommend LeafFilter for most homeowners, particularly those looking to block small debris such as pine needles. LeafGuard provides unique benefits that may make it a better choice in some circumstances. LeafGuard is an all-in-one gutter and gutter guard system, so it could be a good investment if you need to replace your gutters in addition to installing gutter guards. Its unique reverse-curve design promotes self-cleaning and could reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning.
Review the table below for an at-a-glance comparison of the two providers.
| Factor | LeafFilter | LeafGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Gutter guard options | Three-piece system, including micromesh, a uPVC frame, and structural hangers | One-piece reverse-curve guard made of aluminum |
| State availability | 47 states | 36 states |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| Warranty | Lifetime transferable | Lifetime transferable on scratch-proof paint |
| Average customer review score | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 2 out of 5 stars |
| Good for | Blocking small debris; filtering heavy rainfall; easy cleaning | Self-cleaning; blocking oak leaves, twigs, and other plant matter |
LeafFilter and LeafGuard Fast Facts
LeafFilter
Best Filtration
LeafGuard
Best for Large Debris
What Are the Pros and Cons of LeafFilter and LeafGuard?
LeafGuard and LeafFilter both offer high-quality gutter guards but come with high price tags to match. Review their primary highlights and downsides below.
LeafFilter Pros and Cons
LeafGuard Pros and Cons
LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: What Services Do They Offer?
LeafFilter and LeafGuard offer additional services, such as gutter replacement and downspout installation. However, both companies only provide additional services with the installation of gutter guards.
LeafFilter Services
LeafFilter offers gutter and downspout installation as well as gutter cleaning and repair. However, it only offers these services if you purchase its gutter guards. There’s no indication that you can hire LeafFilter to clean or repair your system post-installation outside of what’s outlined in its warranty and guarantee.
LeafGuard Services
LeafGuard has an all-in-one system, so it installs new seamless gutters and downspouts with its gutter guards. This means it doesn’t provide gutter cleaning or repair services because it will remove your old gutters as part of the installation. It doesn’t offer post-installation services outside of its never-clog guarantee, which promises to clean your system if it clogs.
Review a quick comparison of LeafFilter and LeafGuard’s key offerings and features in the table below.
| Factor | LeafFilter | LeafGuard |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks small debris | ✔ | |
| Uses high-quality materials | ✔ | ✔ |
| Provides a lifetime warranty | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers a performance guarantee | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers free quotes | ✔ | ✔ |
| Has quotes good for one year | ✔ | |
| Provides financing options | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offer gutter installations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers gutter cleaning and repair | ✔ | |
| Has an average customer review score of 4 out of 5 stars or higher | ✔ |
What Type of Gutter Guard Performs the Best?
There is no “one-size-fits-all” gutter guard. Each guard type has strengths and weaknesses. Micro-mesh guards block most debris, but they’re expensive and can freeze over, creating ice dams. Brush guards are the easiest to install but clog and are difficult to clean. Screen guards have the most secure connections and resist high winds but overflow more easily.
After testing every type of DIY gutter guard and major brands such as LeafFilter, we found that micro-mesh systems are best suited for homeowners looking to block small debris. LeafFilter’s micro-mesh screen functioned as advertised, blocking particles as small as shingle grit. It was easy to clean thanks to its built-in pitch, which allowed debris to slide off to the ground.
We tested DIY reverse-curve gutter guards, the same type of guard as the LeafGuard gutter protection system. We found that reverse-curve guards experienced the least debris buildup. When installed correctly, the runoff from your roof and shingles will push debris to the ground. Since debris can’t collect on the system, it requires the least upkeep, making it a great choice for homeowners who want to decrease the frequency of gutter cleaning.
What Are Customers Saying About LeafFilter and LeafGuard?
We read hundreds of customer responses from independent review sites such as Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot to understand how customers feel about LeafGuard and LeafFilter. This analysis provided us with valuable insights into each company’s process, product performance, and pricing.
LeafGuard Reviews
LeafGuard has mixed to negative customer scores across independent review sites. Its BBB page has 1.5 out of 5 stars with more than 160 reviews. It has 2.2 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with 44 reviews at the time of writing. Customers praise the professionalism of LeafGuard’s representatives, particularly the installation crews, as seen in the following review.
“We recently had leafguard installed on our house. I had to get on top of a ladder at age 67 female, to clean out gutters out before leafguard. Now I don’t need to because of their no clog guarantee. It actually made the house look better, and the employees were all very nice and very professional. They made sure we were pleased with everything and cleaned up behind themselves. I really can’t say enough about them other than they are excellent.” — Diane Gibbons, Nov. 7, 2023, on Trustpilot
Critical reviews mention several issues: LeafGuard’s high prices, pushy sales tactics, and tendency to overflow on steeply pitched roofs or in heavy rain. The review below highlights these common themes regarding pricing and sales tactics:
“We were pleased with our Leaf Guard gutters we got years ago from a different company, so I went to this company first to replace a gutter on the front and a small piece on the side. The salesperson was on a script but couldn’t answer questions. Then he quoted ‘around $15,000’ and said that ‘price’ was only good if I signed that day. Thank goodness I did not. I found another company that has larger gutters and works the same (their salesperson used to work for the original company that put on the gutters on the back of our house.) They got the work done quickly and with great care for $3,300. I think the only thing better about Leaf Guard were the access points to the downspouts, but that wasn’t worth $12,000 to me when there are only 2 downspouts for the job that needed to be done.” — Kym S., July 5, 2023, on BBB
Reading LeafGuard reviews gave us the impression that its product is a good fit for some roofs, such as asphalt roofs. Homes with metal or steeply pitched roofs may experience issues with LeafGuard in heavy rain. LeafGuard’s technicians and customer service representatives appear professional and courteous, but its sales representatives use high-pressure sales tactics to justify steep price tags.
LeafFilter Reviews
LeafFilter’s customer reviews are generally positive across review sites. It has more than 6,000 BBB reviews with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Its Trustpilot page boasts more than 123,000 reviews, 82% of which are 4 to 5 stars for an average rating of 4.4 stars. Customers praise the effectiveness of LeafFilter products and the promptness of its scheduling and installations, including the following review:
“I am very pleased with my Leaffilter Gutter Protection. High quality throughout the whole process and very timely installation. We had heavy rains right after and they worked perfectly! I highly recommend them.” — Rick Pfeiffer, March 18, 2024, on Trustpilot
Critical reviews highlight LeafFilter’s high-pressure sales tactics, inconsistent installation quality, and tendency to freeze over. While negative reviews were sparse, the issues presented within them were consistent. The review below highlights a consistent theme regarding cleanup after installation:
“Product and installation was ok but when he cleaned the gutters there was old roofing nails in them which were left all over my driveway. Sent picture of nails I picked up and sent it to the sales person and never heard a word back from him.” — Jerry Clark, Dec. 11, 2023, on Trustpilot
We believe LeafFilter’s product is effective and its customer service impressive after reading customer reviews. Like most nationwide brands, some branch locations will have subpar quality. For the best experience, we recommend reading BBB reviews for your nearest branch before choosing LeafFilter. Also, communicate clearly with your sales representative during your initial consultation. Be firm on your budget, negotiate, and express that you want the technician team to clean up the jobsite once the installation is complete.
Our Final Thoughts on LeafFilter and LeafGuard
LeafFilter and LeafGuard offer impressive products and professional installations at a higher-than-average price. We recommend LeafFilter for most homeowners. Its gutter guard performed effectively during firsthand testing. Its customer review ratings are higher than LeafGuard’s, and its warranty is more generous.
LeafGuard may be the right choice for homeowners who don’t mind paying for an all-in-one seamless gutter and gutter guard system that requires less cleaning. While LeafFilter’s built-in pitch removes most debris and simplifies cleaning, LeafGuard’s unique reverse-curve guard boasts impressive self-cleaning abilities.
FAQ About LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard
Is LeafFilter better than LeafGuard for pine needles?
Yes, LeafFilter is better than LeafGuard for pine needles. LeafFilter’s micro-mesh gutter guard blocked 100% of the pine needles we applied during testing. We tried to force needles between the frame and screen, but they wouldn’t slip through. Multiple customer reviews on BBB mention LeafGuard became clogged with pine needles.
How do LeafFilter and LeafGuard compare in terms of cost and effectiveness?
Both LeafFilter and LeafGuard are more expensive than the industry average. Customer reviews for LeafGuard indicate a standard cost of $3,600 to $16,000, while LeafFilter pricing typically ranges between $2,500 and $7,000. Both products are effective, but we believe that LeafFilter’s micro-mesh guard performs better than LeafGuard’s reverse-curve design based on customer reviews.
What is the downside of LeafFilter?
The downsides of LeafFilter are its high price tag, tendency to freeze over in winter and form ice dams, and sales representative’s pushy tactics.
What is the downside of LeafGuard?
The downsides of LeafGuard are its high costs, tendency to overflow on steeply pitched roofs, and inability to block small materials such as pine needles.
Which system performs better in heavy rainfall?
Based on our firsthand testing and customer reviews, LeafFilter performs better in heavy rainfall. LeafGuard is rated to handle 32 inches of rain per hour, but customer reviews indicate that it overflows in rain over roof valleys and on steep roofs. LeafFilter handled downpour levels of rainfall during our product testing without overflowing.
Our Rating Methodology
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 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 reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
