Services Offered by Gutter Guard Companies
Many gutter guard providers offer a complete suite of services beyond guard installation and repair. They could also provide cleaning services for and make repairs to other components of your gutter system, including that coverage in a comprehensive warranty.
Gutter Guard Installation
While most gutter guards need professional installation, others have easy do it yourself installation. Brands such as LeafGuard and LeafFilter provide installation services as part of their packages. Stainless steel micro-mesh and aluminum gutter guards are quality options for new gutter systems. Other types include reverse-curve gutter guards or PVC screens. Warranty options and gutter protection vary based on the type of guard you choose.
Gutter Installation
Many gutter guard providers offer full gutter system replacement. This is especially true with one-piece products such as LeafGuard's, where the mesh is attached to the gutters themselves. Each piece is measured and cut on-site to fit your home. Comprehensive gutter installation includes hangers, downspouts, end caps, and other components in one package. Gutter companies usually won't force you to get professional installation with your new gutters. However, if you have a two-story or taller home, we recommend it so your system can work to its full potential.
Gutter Repair
Temperature changes, standing water, and debris accumulation can lead to leaky, less effective gutters. Ask each company about its repair options and policies. Some providers won't repair a gutter system if a different company installed it.
Gutter Cleaning
Most Ellicott City residents dislike cleaning their home's gutters, but it's still critical to do it at least twice a year. When leaves, shingle grit, pine needles, or small particles gather, the risk of clogs and water damage increases. This is especially the case if you have a low sloping roof. Ask your gutter company about cleaning packages.
Warranties
Warranties differ between gutter guard providers, and may cover materials, labor, or both. Material warranties are frequently longer, sometimes lasting the product's lifetime. Installer warranties can cover maintenance for a set time, often 10-15 years.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Gutter Guard Company
Homeowners should conduct a thorough vetting process when evaluating a gutter guard company. Whether you're booking downspout repairs or need a full gutter system with gutter covers, review the following factors before you commit.
- Cost: Get estimates from multiple companies so you can compare prices. Some contractors quote a package deal for complete gutter installation. Others charge separately for fascia board replacement, gutter guard installation, and gutter cleaning.
- Expertise: Gutter companies have different service offerings and levels of expertise. Look on company websites for each team's services, and choose a company that has expertise with your home's specific situation.
- Guarantees: Over time, summer downpours and winter ice dams can wear on your gutter system. Numerous reputable companies have warranty plans extending 10-plus years. If you live in an area with a harsher climate, find a gutter system with a competitive warranty.
- Licensing: State and local governments frequently require gutter installers to obtain licensure and insurance coverage. Before you sign a contract, get in touch with your local government to ask about particular requirements. If licensure is required, verify a company is in good standing on the issuing board's website. You should also verify a company's compliance with liability insurance and workers' comp regulations.
- Reputation and reviews: Online feedback from past customers is an incredibly valuable tool for evaluating any home services company. Sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp provide crucial insight into past experiences and how a company responds to complaints.
How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?
Expect an installation cost of $394 to $3,465 for new gutter guards. The initial cost to have gutter guards installed can be high, but the product will pay off long-term by protecting your foundation, fascia, and roof from water damage. Variables such as gutter home size, length and width, time of year, and accessibility will determine the total project cost.
In this table, we've listed the cost per foot rates for popular gutter guard types in Ellicott City. To determine how much your gutter guards might cost, look for the material you want in the table. Then, multiply the cost per foot by your gutters' total linear footage. Don't include downspouts in your calculation.
Material | Cost per foot |
---|---|
Aluminum mesh | $4 |
Brush | $4 |
Foam | $2 |
Plastic mesh | $4 |
Reverse-curve | $3 |
Stainless steel micro-mesh | $5 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gutter Guards in Ellicott City
Should I add gutter guards to my rain collection system?
Should I install my own gutter guards?
Can gutter guards stop any size of debris?
What are some problems I might run into with my gutter guards?
Does the size of my gutters affect the cost of gutter guards?
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