Services Offered by Gutter Guard Companies
Many of the above companies offer a full suite of services beyond gutter guards. These often include cleaning and repair services, covered by a comprehensive service agreement.
Gutter Guard Installation
While most gutter guards require professional installation, others have straightforward do it yourself installation. Brands such as LeafGuard and LeafFilter provide installation services as part of their packages. If you're installing new gutters, consider stainless steel micro-mesh and aluminum guards as the highest quality options. You can also select reverse-curve guards or PVC screens depending on the company. Each material has a different life span and resilience against the elements.
Gutter Installation
Many gutter guard providers offer total replacement of the gutter system. This is particularly true if you choose a seamless system such as LeafGuard's, where the gutters already have built-in guards. Technicians will measure and trim each piece on-site to match your home's dimensions. Comprehensive gutter installation includes end caps, hangers, downspouts, and other components in one package. While gutter guard providers will encourage you to get professional installation, it usually isn't required with the purchase of their products. We recommend professional installation if your home is multi-story.
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 contractors won't repair a gutter system if a different company installed it.
Gutter Cleaning
Most homeowners aren't fond of cleaning their gutters, but it's critical to do it regularly. Debris, such as pine needles, shingle grit, and leaves, can build up and cause more severe issues, especially on low-pitch roofs. Many companies will offer periodic cleaning packages for newly-installed gutters.
Warranties
Warranties differ between gutter guard installers, and may cover materials, labor, or both. Material warranties are often 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
Whether you're scheduling a downspout repair or replacing your gutters with an integrated system, it's crucial to screen each company on your shortlist. Look over the points below and ask any questions you have.
- Cost: Request quotes from multiple different contractors so you can compare prices. Some companies will quote package deals for comprehensive gutter installation, while others bill separately for gutter guard installation, fascia board replacement, and gutter cleaning.
- Expertise: Each gutter guard installer has a different experience level. Look at a company's website to see the services it offers, and find a provider that aligns with what services you need.
- Guarantees: Over time, the combination of summer rainstorms 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 solid warranty plan.
- Licensing: Installers must follow state workers' comp laws to protect their crews. Massachusetts or Fitchburg might also require gutter installers to carry a trade license and liability insurance. Call your local government to learn more about specific requirements and ensure a company has the proper licensing before signing a contract.
- Reputation and reviews: The best way to assess a home services company is to read customer reviews. Look at the company's profile on Yelp, Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau, social media, and Trustpilot to guide your decision. Each company will have both positive and negative reviews, so you should also evaluate how the team responds to complaints.
How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?
Installing new gutter guards typically costs between $432 and $3,657. Up-front gutter guard costs can be high for some homeowners. However, you'll save money over time by preventing water damage to your foundation, roof, and fascia. Factors such as gutter accessibility, home size, length and width, and time of year impact the final quoted price.
In this table, we've listed the cost per foot rates for popular gutter guard types in Fitchburg. 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 | $5 |
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 Fitchburg
Should I use gutter guards for my rain collection system?
Should I install my own gutter guards?
Can gutter guards handle any size of debris?
What are some problems I might encounter with my gutter guards?
Does gutter size affect the cost of my gutter guards?
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