Gutter guard installation costs between $1,565 and $3,476 on average for 200 linear feet, which covers around a 2,000-square-foot house, according to our 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners with a professionally installed system. Gutter guards help prevent debris buildup inside your gutters, which can reduce the frequency of cleanings and save you money on home repairs if your gutters clog.
We evaluated price estimates from the gutter guard industry to help you find the best gutter guards for your home. In this guide, we’ll cover the average cost of gutter guard installations, materials, and more. Or, if you’re looking to save on labor, we also touch base on costs for do-it-yourself (DIY) installation.
Key Takeaways
- Professional gutter guard installation averages $1,565–$3,476 for 200 linear feet, or about $12 per linear foot, based on our 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners nationwide.
- Factors such as gutter length and size, roof configuration, home height, accessibility, and local labor rates can impact your final installation price.
- Nearly 94% of our survey respondents reported being “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with the overall performance of their gutter guards.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Gutter Guards?
The amount you pay for gutter guard installation will vary depending on the type of gutter guard you choose. Companies typically price gutter guard materials by linear feet, and the average 2,000-square-foot home has about 200 linear feet of gutters. Additionally, guard materials affect the total cost of installation due to their strength, durability, and ease of installation.
Professional gutter guard installation companies, such as LeafFilter, typically price installations based on the total linear feet of your existing gutters. The average cost per linear foot for a professional gutter guard system is $12, according to our survey respondents who purchased from five top-recommended gutter guard providers. Expect to pay an average of $2,334 or more for a 200 linear-foot system. The table below shows the cost range among major providers for their gutter guards based on reports from homeowners who took our survey:
| Brand | Material Cost Per Linear Foot | Total Gutter Guard Cost (200 Linear Feet) |
|---|---|---|
| Leafguard | $7.82 | $1,565 |
| LeafFilter | $8.57 | $1,715 |
| All-American Gutter Protection | $8.75 | $1,750 |
| Gutter Guards America | $15.82 | $3,164 |
| Homecraft | $17.38 | $3,476 |
You’ll generally pay less for DIY gutter guards because you only pay for the guards themselves without installation. However, you still have to install the DIY guards yourself or hire a professional.
Here’s how much DIY gutter guards cost to install by type, which we also determined with our homeowner survey:
| Material | Material Cost Per Linear Foot | Total Gutter Guard Cost (200 Linear Feet) | DIY Savings vs. Pro Installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foam insert | $6.31 | $1,262 | $1,072 |
| Micro-mesh | $7.62 | $1,523 | $811 |
| Brush | $7.66 | $1,532 | $802 |
| Reverse-curve | $8.30 | $1,660 | $674 |
| Screen | $8.89 | $1,778 | $556 |
Keep in mind that some gutter guard brands and types may exceed these averages. For example, high-end, professionally installed products such as reverse-curve designs or durable metal micro-mesh screens can cost $3,476 or more for larger homes.
To determine your specific cost, you’ll need to get a personalized quote for your home. If your current gutters are in disrepair, installers will typically suggest installing new ones before adding guards. If you want to combine the two projects, the installers can add the cost of gutter installation to the total cost of your gutter guards.
Please note: If your house is two stories or higher or you have a steep roof, we highly recommend hiring a professional gutter installation company to complete the project.
Why Is Gutter Guard Installation So Expensive?
Several factors contribute to the price of gutter guard installation, including professional labor costs and features of your home, such as the width of your gutters and your current climate. Below are the most important factors that impact the amount you pay per linear foot of gutter guard.
Gutter Length and Size
The more gutter guard materials you need to outfit your home, the more expensive the job will be. You’ll pay more for additional linear feet of raw materials and labor costs for the additional time it takes to install them.
Another factor to consider is the gutter’s size. Typical sizes are 5-inch, 6-inch, and 7-inch widths. We recommend measuring your gutters before purchasing guards since some guards are only compatible with certain sizes. Most gutters are 5 inches wide, but some houses may have 6- or 7-inch gutters. It will cost extra to fit gutter guards to unusually-sized gutters.
Roof Configuration and House Size
Your roof’s layout and your home’s size both influence the total cost of gutter guard installation. Adding guards to complex gutter runs with multiple corners or long roof lines takes more time to complete, while simple, straight runs such as those on many single-story ranch homes are typically faster and less expensive. Larger homes require more linear feet of gutters and guards, which increases both material and labor costs.
Accessibility
Trees and any other obstructions to the work area increase the cost of labor since these obstacles take installers time to work around. Obstructions can be on the ground, too. Complex landscaping, water features, or uneven ground can limit safe ladder positioning. If your installer has to obtain specialized tools or equipment to complete the job, that will be reflected in your gutter guard installation cost.
Home Height
The height and pitch of your roof can impact gutter guard installation costs. Multi-story homes are more challenging and hazardous to work on, often requiring industrial lifting equipment. Steeply pitched roofs present similar safety concerns, which can slow installation and increase labor charges. Expect higher costs if your home is two stories or more, or if the roof is difficult to access safely.
Location and Climate
Gutter guard installation costs vary depending on where you live. The local climate and common debris types impact which gutter guard type you should choose and, therefore, the installation cost. For example, flimsy plastic mesh guards probably aren’t the best option for areas with snow and ice, and brush guards won’t stop fine debris like shingle grit and pollen. Additionally, your area’s typical labor cost will inform your final price.
Additional Hidden Costs
Beyond the standard material and labor charges, you may encounter extra expenses during gutter guard installation. In some areas, you’ll need to pay permit fees for exterior home improvements. If your existing gutters are damaged or outdated, you may get charged for removal and disposal. Additionally, repairs to fascia boards or roof edges uncovered during installation can increase your total cost.
What Are the Different Types of Gutter Guards?
Most gutter guards are made from plastic, metal, or a combination of both, and they are designed to either sit on top of a gutter or fit inside it. The type of guard you choose can affect how well your gutters stay clean and how much maintenance they require over time. Some options are geared toward budget-conscious homeowners willing to do occasional upkeep, while others are designed for maximum durability and minimal cleaning.
Below, we break down the most common gutter guard types along with guidance on durability and the climates and budgets they are best suited for.
Plastic Screen
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plastic screen gutter guards offer the lowest upfront cost but the shortest lifespan compared to other styles. Sold in rolls that match your gutter width, you can cut these guards to size and install them by laying the screen on top of your gutter and tucking the edges under the eave.
Plastic screen guards block leaves and pine needles fairly well, yet strong winds can dislodge them, and extreme temperatures can warp or crack the material. With an average life span of only 3–6 years, they cost less than micro-mesh or aluminum guards but require more frequent replacement. This option works best for budget-conscious homeowners in mild, low-debris regions such as parts of the Pacific Northwest coast or the Mid-Atlantic.
Foam
Foam gutter guards slide inside your gutters, letting water pass through while debris stays on top. Installation is simpler than with most other guards because you only need to cut the foam to the desired length and set it in place.
Although they cost less than steel mesh or reverse-curve systems, foam inserts require more maintenance because debris tends to accumulate on their surface. In humid climates, such as the Southeast, foam can trap moisture and grow mold or algae, while dry climates, such as the Southwest, this material performs more reliably. You can expect up to five years of use with foam guards, although prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight or constant moisture can reduce their lifespan.
Brush
Brush gutter guards resemble oversized bottle brushes, with bristles sticking out from a metal core. You insert them into the gutter, trimming the length if needed, for a faster install than most other gutter guard designs.
Brush guards handle large debris such as leaves and twigs better than foam guards but can trap fine debris like pine needles, which makes them harder to clean than micro-mesh or reverse-curve systems. Their durability of up to 10 years makes them appealing in dry regions, but brush guards are less practical in areas with heavy pollen or evergreen trees.
Perforated Aluminum
Perforated aluminum guards use rust-resistant metal sheets with small holes to block debris while allowing water to flow through. Unlike foam or brush guards, they sit on top of the gutter and attach with fasteners or by bending the edges into place, making them suitable for confident DIYers.
Perforated aluminum guards last 10–20 years and hold up well in a variety of climates, including the Midwest and Northeast. However, hail-prone areas like the Great Plains can dent the panels, and fine debris can slip through the holes more easily than with micro-mesh guards. This option provides a good balance between cost and longevity, offering more durability than plastic screens at a lower price than premium micro-mesh systems.
Steel Mesh
Steel mesh gutter guards offer greater strength and longevity than plastic mesh while providing effective protection against leaves and pine needles. They are relatively easy to install, although you will need tin snips to cut them to size, and you can easily clean them by brushing off dry debris.
Powder-coated versions resist rust and typically last 10–20 years, making them a strong choice for snowy, icy climates such as the Upper Midwest or for homes in windy coastal areas. While they cost more than aluminum or plastic guards, steel mesh guards are still less expensive than premium reverse-curve systems. We recommend avoiding models that install under shingles, as they can cause water intrusion and may void your roof warranty.
Micro-Mesh
Micro-mesh guards offer the most effective filtration of all styles, capturing even the finest shingle grit while allowing water to pass through. Available in plastic, steel, or aluminum, they sit above your gutter like perforated aluminum guards but use much finer screening.
Plastic models are more affordable but last only about three years, while powder-coated metal versions can last up to 20 years with minimal maintenance. They excel in wet, tree-heavy regions such as the Southeast, Pacific Northwest, or New England. Although they cost more than standard mesh or aluminum guards, micro-mesh guards offer superior debris protection and lower long-term maintenance needs.
Reverse-Curve
Reverse-curve guards cover the entire gutter and use surface tension to guide water inside while directing debris over the edge. They require professional installation, unlike most other guard types, and can last up to 20 years with minimal upkeep.
Reverse-curve guards outperform open designs like screens, mesh, and foam in shedding large debris and preventing clogs. However, they come with one of the highest price tags, making this option best suited for homeowners in regions with high-debris or heavy-rainfall.
Compare the Top Gutter Guard Brands
Learn more about the best professional gutter guard brands in the table below:
| Company | Star Rating | Price | Type | BBB Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$8.57 per linear foot | Micromesh with uPVC frame | A+ | |||
$7.82 per linear foot | Integrated with gutters, micromesh | A+ | |||
$15.82 per linear foot | Micromesh | A- | |||
$17.38 per linear foot | Micromesh | F | |||
$8.75 per linear foot | Micromesh | A+ |
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
Gutter guards can be worth the investment since their benefits often outweigh the initial installation cost in the long run. Clogged gutters can cause problems such as water overflow and moisture buildup in your home’s foundation. According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, moisture in your foundation can lead to mold and rot, turning a minor gutter issue into a much more expensive repair.
Gutter guards help prevent these problems by keeping large and small debris out of your gutters, allowing water to flow freely during rain. They can also reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, especially when designed with a sloped surface that encourages debris to slide off on its own.
We recommend LeafFilter as the best gutter guard company for its high-quality design and professional installation. When we tested LeafFilter’s micro-mesh guard, it captured the most debris without causing water overflow compared to standard foam and brush guards. LeafFilter also provides a robust lifetime warranty, ensuring your investment is protected. We recommend requesting quotes from LeafFilter and at least two other brands to compare pricing, products, and warranty options.
How To Save Money on Gutter Guard Installation
Protecting your home from clogged gutters doesn’t have to mean paying top dollar for installation. With the right approach, you can lower your gutter guard costs while still getting reliable protection and long-lasting performance. The tips below can help you save money while still getting quality results.
- Check local installer reviews: Read online reviews to find reputable companies that consistently deliver good results at fair prices.
- Compare multiple gutter guard quotes: Gather at least three free estimates from local installers to find the best option for your needs.
- Negotiate with installers: Ask your installer if they can match or beat a competitor’s quote, include free upgrades, or reduce labor costs. According to our survey, nearly half of homeowners (45%) negotiated the price of their gutter guard installation. Of those who negotiated, over 91% successfully reduced their final installation cost.
- Book during the off-season: Many companies offer discounts in late fall or winter, when demand slows, resulting in potential savings.
- Choose budget-friendly gutter guard materials: Premium options, such as stainless steel micro-mesh, typically cost more. Consider plastic, foam, or brush guards, as these options offer more affordable alternatives for certain homes.
- Ask about financing options: Some installers offer payment plans so you can spread costs over time instead of paying in full upfront.
- Consider a DIY installation: Snap-on or drop-in guards are often simple to install yourself, helping you save on labor. However, DIY gutter guard systems may require more frequent maintenance.
FAQs About Gutter Guard Installation
How long do gutter guards last?
Gutter guard lifespans vary depending on their material and how well you care for them. With regular cleaning and maintenance, a stainless steel or aluminum gutter guard can last between 10 and 20 years. Gutter guards made from lower-quality materials such as plastic typically last between three and five years.
Are gutter guards worth the money?
Gutter guards are worth the money if you want to reduce how often you need to clean your gutters and simplify the cleaning process. You only need to clean your gutters once every year or so with a good gutter guard system. Plus, you can brush off leaves and twigs from the top of the guard instead of scooping out gunk and debris from inside your gutters.
Can gutter guards handle heavy rain?
High-quality gutter guards can handle heavy rain. Reverse-curve, screen, and micro-mesh gutter guards can filter large amounts of water. Brush and foam guards are known to clog more easily and have difficulty managing heavy water flow. Learn more about the best gutter guards for heavy rain.
Which gutter guard is the best?
We find LeafFilter and Leafguard to be the best professionally installed gutter guards on the market because of their robust build quality and lifetime warranties. We recommend Raptor Gutter Guard for DIY projects due to its micro-mesh design, which is the best guard design for preventing debris clogging and water buildup.
Is there a downside to gutter guards?
The main downside to gutter guards is their price. According to our survey of 1,484 homeowners who bought professional gutter guards for their homes, they paid an average of $3,232 for their gutter guard system. That said, the investment can help you save even more by preventing expensive foundation, roofing, and water overflow issues.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Team backs 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 guard’s durability, quality, filtration, and cleanability. To date, we’ve 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.
