How Much Does It Cost to Install Gutter Guards?

Reviewed by Carol J Alexander remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Gutter guards prevent leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other types of debris from accumulating in the gutter, eliminating the need to clean them out as frequently. However, since there are so many styles to choose from, there is a wide range of costs associated with installing them.

The national average cost for installing gutter guards is between $53 and $804, with an average spend of around $429 on 150 linear feet of metal mesh covers. On the low end, 100 linear feet of PVC covers run from $36 to $134. On the high end, you can spend between $468 to $2,000 for 200 linear feet of surface tension guards. Labor costs would be added, depending on how many hours it takes to perform the work.

Material costs to install gutter guards

Factors influencing gutter guard installation cost 

Gutter guards come in several different types, sizes, materials, and shapes to fit different gutters. Some guards prevent clogging better than others and have a longer life span – and some brands cost more. So, let’s look at these cost factors more closely to help you choose the best option for your home.

Linear footage

Like gutters, leaf guards are priced by the linear feet of gutters. So, your home’s square footage isn’t necessarily a factor as much as how many feet of gutters you have. The cost of gutter guards per linear foot ranges from $.36 to $10, on average, depending on where you live.

Labor

A professional siding contractor typically charges $80 to $149 per hour to install gutter guards.

Since installing gutter guards is a popular DIY project, paying for a professional installation will add labor costs to your budget. However, hiring a gutter guard company or siding installer to do the work for you ensures the job is done satisfactorily and covered by a warranty. Charged by the hour, labor costs depend on the type of guards, the accessibility, and how many linear feet you have to install.

Accessibility

If you have a one-story ranch, installing gutter guards is relatively straightforward. However, installing gutter guards on a three-story colonial carries more risk because of the height. The installer must also use extension ladders, scaffolding, and safety equipment, which could increase the labor charge. 

Other things make gutters inaccessible, like overhanging trees, climbing vines, or exceptionally steep roofs. When your gutters are hard to get to, it will affect the labor cost of installing guards.

Type of gutter guard

There are several gutter guard types to choose from. Most are made of plastic, metal, or a combination and offer varying degrees of effectiveness. Some types sit on top of the gutter while others rest inside. The best type for your home depends on your budget and the size of the debris your gutters usually collect. Below, we discuss the most popular gutter guard options. 

Plastic PVC screen

Depending on your location, PVC gutter guards cost $.36 to $1.34 per linear foot.

Plastic screen guards are affordable and easy to install, but they don’t last as long as other options at three to six years, can deteriorate or warp in the sun, and quickly become dislodged in high winds.

Aluminum perforated cover

Aluminum gutter guards cost from $.72 to $4 per linear foot, depending on the width and your location.

This guard style is made from flat sheets of aluminum shaped to fit into the gutter by a metal-forming machine. The aluminum is pierced with holes or slots, allowing water flow. Popular brands of perforated aluminum gutter guards include FlexxPointPro, A-M Gutter Guard, and Amerimax.

Metal mesh guard

Metal mesh gutter guards cost $.35 to $5.36 per linear foot, depending on the type of metal, whether cut pieces or a roll, and your location.

Metal mesh guards are constructed of expanded metal, typically aluminum or galvanized or powder-coated steel. Because the mesh isn’t very fine, small amounts of debris still pass through, but they’re good at keeping leaves, twigs, seed pods, and fruit out of the gutters. In addition, these guards last longer than PVC and require less maintenance. Popular brands of perforated aluminum gutter guards include Amerimax and Spectra.

Steel screen

Steel screen gutter guards cost $1.64 to $5.61 per linear foot.

Steel screen guards consist of stainless steel or powder-coated screening mounted on aluminum or plastic frames. The screen resembles window screening but has slightly larger openings. Steel screen guards are sold in manageable sections. Popular brands include Atlas and Gutterglove.

Micro-mesh

Micro-mesh gutter guards cost $1.64 to $5.61 per linear foot, depending on your location.

Steel micro-mesh gutter guards take the steel screen a step further. This workhorse design incorporates a layer of wider mesh and a second layer of mesh that is so fine that virtually nothing but water gets through. Typically, micro-mesh is made of stainless steel. Popular brands include Gutterglove, Best-1, and Atlas.

Foam guard

Foam gutter guards cost from $1.44 to $9.38 per linear foot, depending on the width and density of the foam.

Believe it or not, one style of gutter guard is foam. When placed inside the gutter, it allows water to flow through but keeps leaves and debris sitting on top to be swept away by the wind or the homeowner. The downside of foam is that it harbors spores and bacteria, contributing to algae growth, fungi, and odors. This makes it necessary to remove and wash it occasionally. Foam gutter guards typically last up to 10 years. Popular brands include GutterFoam and Tidy Gutter.

Brush guard

Brush guards cost, on average, from $.72 to $5, per linear foot.

Another unconventional type of guard is a long brush that inserts inside the gutter to block debris. Resembling a long bottle brush, it is easy to install, durable, and last 10 to 20 years. However, you will have to clean it occasionally to remove small debris from the bristles, which is why some homeowners don’t choose brush-type guards. Popular brands include Vevor and GutterBrush.

Surface tension gutter guards

You can install gutter helmets for an average of $2.34 to $10.

A style unto itself, surface tension guards (gutter helmets or reverse curve guards) are akin to a piece of sheet metal curved over the gutter's opening. Instead of fasteners, they’re held in place by tension. It directs water flow into the gutter through a small opening, but leaves and debris slide off. You can use a broom to sweep away anything sticking to the cover.

Cost of gutter guards by type

The cost to install gutter guards on your home

Budget-friendly gutter guard installation

Depending on the type of gutter guard, a budget-friendly installation costs $36 to $144.

Homeowners on a budget will find PVC gutter guards affordable if they perform the labor themselves. You can install 100 linear feet of PVC covers for $36 to $134, but this type of guard requires a bit of tool-savviness. Installing foam or brush guards requires no tools. DIYing a brush gutter guard on 100 linear feet would cost at least $72. Installing foam would cost around $144 at the minimum.

Mid-range gutter guard installation

So, a mid-range installation could include 150 linear feet of metal mesh covers, ranging between $53 to $804, plus $1,710 on average for labor.

You don’t have a large budget but don’t want to DIY this home improvement project. In the mid-range pricing tier, you can hire a professional to install steel micro-mesh guards to prevent debris buildup in your gutters. So whether you experience large debris like pinecones or small debris like twigs and seed pods, new gutter covers will eliminate that arduous task of gutter cleaning.

High-end gutter guard installation

For a high-end gutter protection system, you can pay from $2,748 to $4,280, and beyond.

When you have a luxury home, you do what you must to protect it. That includes a professional gutter guard installation using the best gutter guards of high-quality materials. In this pricing tier, you can spend $468 to $2,000 for 200 linear feet of surface tension guards, plus labor. The average labor cost to install a gutter guard system is $114 per hour, and the installation process takes roughly an hour per ten feet of gutter. So remember, the larger your home, the higher the total cost. 

DIY vs. professional gutter guard installation

The easiest way to save money on a gutter guard installation is to do it yourself. However, a DIY installation isn’t suitable for everyone because it involves climbing and working on a ladder. 

It’s important to note that every type of gutter guard isn’t so DIY-friendly. Always consult an expert on the best kind of guard for your home and budget before deciding. If you’re wondering if the savings of installing the guards yourself is worth the effort, we’ve compiled a list of what to expect from a DIY versus a professional installation. 

Doing it yourself

• You can take your time
• Save labor cost
• May not have the right tools
• Have to be comfortable working on a ladder
• Learning curve

Professional

• They know what they’re doing
• Work is warrantied
• Professionals have access to better gutter guard materials
• Cost is all-inclusive
• Capable of replacing your existing gutters, if needed

Paying for your gutter guard installation

Generally, most homeowners can pay for installing gutter guards out of pocket. But, if it’s a reach for your budget, consider choosing a type with a lower price tag. However, if you’re coupling this project with a total gutter replacement or find hidden damage that needs repairing, you may want to withdraw funds from your home equity line of credit (HELOC).

Otherwise, consider using a personal loan or low-interest credit card.

Other considerations

• Hidden damage – When removing leaky gutters from your home, you may find hidden damage in the fascia, soffit, or roof line. The repairs will add to the project's overall cost, whether from water or insects. 
• Permitting and building codes – Replacing gutters and installing gutter guards do not typically require building permits, but always check with your local building official to make sure. If you hire a licensed professional to do the work, they will take care of this for you. 
• Warranties – Always ask about warranties on products and workmanship. Some products include a lifetime warranty.
• Location –  Labor and material costs vary from one region of the country to the next. For instance, prices are higher in urban areas than in smaller cities and rural communities. Always check with a local gutter installation company when comparing costs.
• Scheduling – Ask the contractor if scheduling the work at a particular time of year will save you money. Some installers will give a discount if it’s not their busy season. 

Keep the water flowing

Install leaf guards to avoid clogged gutters and downspouts, which can lead to water damage, mildew, and corrosion on your gutter system. If you feel unsafe climbing a ladder, find an experienced pro to install them for you.