LeafFilter vs. Leafguard

LeafFilter and Leafguard are prominent gutter guard installation companies that offer effective filtration products, lifetime transferable warranties, generous performance guarantees, and gutter installation services.  

Our team found that LeafFilter is a better choice than Leafguard for most homeowners due to its higher average customer review scores, effective gutter guard performance, and more comprehensive warranty. We reached this conclusion 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 warranty details.

However, Leafguard’s all-in-one gutter and gutter guard system is a good option for your home if your gutters need replacing and large debris is the main cause of your clogged gutters. Our review of LeafFilter vs. Leafguard takes an in-depth look at these leading brands to help you choose the right provider for your home.

Our Take on LeafFilter vs. Leafguard

LeafFilter and Leafguard are competing gutter guard installation companies that both offer impressive products and professional installation at higher-than-average prices. We recommend LeafFilter as the better option for most homeowners. The company’s stainless steel micro-mesh gutter guard displayed effective debris filtration during our team’s firsthand testing. 

Leafguard may offer 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.

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LeafFilter Cost vs. Leafguard Cost

The cost of both LeafFilter and Leafguard can exceed the industry average of around $4,760. Customer reviews for Leafguard indicate a standard cost of $3,600–$16,000, while LeafFilter pricing typically ranges between $2,500 and $7,000.

Like most home improvement companies, Leafguard and LeafFilter don’t provide specific price information on their websites. We read customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot to better understand how much each company charges for its gutter guard installations. We compiled two dozen reviews that reference cost data for each brand.

The following table highlights our cost findings:

Cost Comparison	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

Source: Average prices disclosed in customer reviews compiled from BBB and Trustpilot.

LeafFilter Cost

Customers in reviews and our 2024 survey respondents reported almost identical LeafFilter prices. Based on our survey results, we concluded an average range of $27.64 per linear foot. We attempted to find more information on how much a LeafFilter gutter system costs independently of its gutter guards. However, there weren’t enough survey responses with this cost information to create a reliable average. 

A number of customers on Trustpilot and the 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 that LeafFilter sales representatives present an initially inflated price and then lower it after negotiating. We recommend staying 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 offer 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 increased initial price without negotiating.

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What Are the Differences Between LeafFilter and Leafguard?

Two of the biggest differences between LeafFilter and Leafguard are their warranty structures and the materials they use. The companies also differ in the types of additional services offered, most notably LeafFilter’s gutter cleaning and repair options.

Warranty

Leafguard offers its customers two forms of financial protection: a no-clog guarantee and a lifetime transferable warranty on its coating. Leafguard’s warranty covers the performance and longevity of its scratch guard coating. 

Comparatively, LeafFilter’s warranty covers material and installation mishaps and includes a “100% clog-free” guarantee. 

Fine Print 

Leafguard’s warranty stipulates that only coating damage related to normal wear and tear is covered. In addition, poor maintenance practices may invalidate the warranty, and homeowners are obligated to notify the company of a warranty claim within 45 days of discovering the damage.

LeafFilter offers to repair any damage or provide a 100% reimbursement of the purchase price for installation.

Materials

Leafguard uses a patented one-piece gutter guard system composed of seamless aluminum rain gutters, structurally reinforced hidden hangers, and a durable gutter helmet. Leafguard’s system is custom-fitted to your home by trained service technicians, with extra wide downspouts positioned every 10 feet.

Of the gutter guard installation companies we reviewed, Leafguard is the only one that doesn’t incorporate micro-mesh stainless steel screens. 

During our product testing, LeafFilter’s 275-micron surgical-grade, micro-mesh filter was the most effective system for preventing the accumulation of small debris. The frame is made of an unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) material that the company claims will “never warp or deteriorate.” The structural hangers that support the screen are made of steel and connected directly to the home’s fascia board.

Additional Services

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 downspout and gutter installation as well as gutter cleaning and repair. However, it only offers these services if you purchase its gutter guards. Based on our review, 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.

Feature Comparison

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	✔	✔
Quotes good for one year	✔	✘
Provides financing options	✔	✔
Offer gutter installations	✔	✔
Offers gutter cleaning and repair	✔	✘
Average customer review score of 4 out of 5 stars or higher	✔	✘

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Quote and Installation Process

To get a quote from either LeafFilter or Leafguard, reach out through a phone call or online request form. A customer service representative will contact you to get additional information for installation. They’ll schedule an appointment for a free in-person inspection and quote.

LeafFilter’s Quote and Installation Process

The inspection and installation process for LeafFilter involves the following steps:

• LeafFilter’s representative will inspect your gutters at your home. They’ll measure the total length of your gutters and your roof pitch and check for damage.
• The representative will share an on-the-spot quote, present the LeafFilter system, and then negotiate with you on price. If you agree to the quote, they’ll schedule an installation appointment. 
• On the scheduled date, an installation team will clean and repair your gutters if needed and install your new gutter guards.
• You can register your warranty on LeafFilter’s website after installation.

Note that LeafFilter’s quote is good for a full year, giving you plenty of time to shop around and compare prices for gutter guards.

Leafguard’s Quote and Installation Process

Here’s what Leafguard’s quote and installation process looks like:

• Leafguard will send a representative to your home for an inspection. The representative will provide a quote and, if you agree to the offer, schedule a date for your installation. 
• On the installation day, a team of technicians will create a custom-fit one-piece Leafguard gutter and gutter guard system for your home.
• The technicians will remove and dispose of your old gutters. 
• The crew will install hidden structural hangers and the gutter guard system, adjusting the pitch to ensure proper water flow before cleaning debris.
• The technicians will share photos of the completed project, answer any questions you have, and depart.

As is often the case with online home services, Leafguard frequently advertises discounts and specials on its website. Keep an eye out for ways to save on the upfront value of your gutter guard installation. 

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Our Testing Insights

After testing every type of do-it-yourself (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 resulted in 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 good choice for homeowners who want to decrease the frequency of gutter cleaning.

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Homeowner Reviews of LeafFilter and Leafguard

We read hundreds of customer responses from independent review sites such as the BBB 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.

LeafFilter Reviews

LeafFilter has more than 6,000 reviews on the BBB with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars at the time of this writing. Its Trustpilot page boasts more than 126,000 reviews, 82% of which reflect 4 to 5 stars for an average rating of 4.3 stars. Customers praised 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 [a] very timely installation. We had heavy rains right after and they worked perfectly! I highly recommend them.” —Rick Pfeiffer via Trustpilot, March 2024

Critical reviews highlighted LeafFilter’s high-pressure sales tactics, inconsistent installation quality, and tendency to freeze over. While negative reviews were sparse, the issues presented were consistent. The review below highlights a consistent theme regarding communication from the company:  

“Not happy that I wasn’t informed that large icicles would be forming and hanging from the gutters after snow fall and cold temperatures. Then if it warms up a bit during the day, they melt and drip onto the driveway, making it ice-covered and extremely dangerous to walk on.” —James W. via the BBB, November 2024

We believe LeafFilter’s product is effective and its customer service is impressive after reading customer reviews. But like most nationwide brands, some branch locations may have subpar quality. For the best experience, we recommend reading BBB reviews for your nearest branch before choosing LeafFilter. 

Also, we recommend communicating clearly with your sales representative during your initial consultation. Remain firm on your budget, negotiate, and express that you want the technician team to clean up the job site once the installation is complete.

Learn More: LeafFilter vs. Leaf Solution

Leafguard Reviews

Leafguard’s BBB page has 1.5 out of 5 stars with more than 160 reviews at the time of this writing. The company also has 2.2 out of 5 stars based on 58 reviews on Trustpilot. Customers praised the professionalism of Leafguard’s representatives, particularly the installation crews, as seen in the following review.

“[A] guy came to our home and showed us their product, which we thought was impressive. Two days later, they arrived to install our gutters. Three workers arrived and started work immediately. The guy who cut the material left, and the other two installed them in one day. They worked very diligently and finished. When they left, there was not a shred of debris left. We have only had them three days but have had rain two of those days and they have worked as they should. We are very happy with our purchase.” —Catherine via the BBB, September 2024

Critical reviews mentioned 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 want our money back. High pressure sales tactics [saying], ‘Let me talk to my supervisor and see what I can do to get that price down.’ We took the bait and paid almost $13,000 for an 876 square-foot-home. And [the gutter guards] always look dirty—the rain drips right off the bottom and leaves puddles. You have to sweep or spray pine needles off the sides otherwise the water doesn’t go into the gutter. Biggest waste of money ever! And they won’t come fix anything even though they guaranteed it all.” —Cherrish S. via the BBB, December 2024

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 may use high-pressure sales tactics to justify steep price tags.

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FAQs About LeafFilter and Leafguard

Is LeafFilter better than Leafguard for pine needles?

Yes, LeafFilter is better than Leafguard for pine needles, based on our review. 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 the BBB mentioned that Leafguard gutter guards became clogged with pine needles. Learn more about the best gutter guards for pine needles.

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 suggest that it overflows in rain over roof valleys and on steep roofs. LeafFilter handled downpour levels of rainfall during our product testing without overflowing. Learn more about the best gutter guards for heavy rain.

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How We Evaluated Gutter Guard Brands

To provide fair and accurate comparisons of the top gutter guard installers, we developed a comprehensive review methodology to measure and score brands. Our review standards were developed based on interviews with industry experts, consumer reviews and surveys, and the factors that guide homeowners as they make buying decisions, including material and design, warranty coverage, value, services offered, and effectiveness.

Our Rating System

Our rating system was derived from thorough research and hands-on experience. We analyzed gutter guard installers’ websites, tracked third-party ratings, and gauged consumer sentiment to complete our understanding of each gutter guard company. We reinforced this research with firsthand data by purchasing, installing, and testing gutter guard systems. 

Here are a few details about our research methodology:

• First-party research: We comprehensively researched each provider’s website to learn about its products, services, warranty, payment options, and more. We also collected proprietary data by surveying homeowners who have had gutter guards installed. 
• Third-party ratings: We read and analyzed consumer reviews and ratings on reputable third-party sites such as the BBB, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Yelp. This reveals potential patterns of customer complaints and favorable outcomes.
• Hands-on testing: For DIY products, we order and test for filtration effectiveness, durability, and more. For installation companies, we request a showroom floor and perform a series of tests to determine performance and quality.