How Much Does It Cost to Install Gutter Guards?

In this guide

Leaf Guard Cost per Linear Foot

Leaf guards and gutter guards are sold and installed by the linear foot. There are several types of guards and materials, meaning there is a range of costs for the project. The average cost range for the material is between $0.60 and $6.50 a linear foot, with installation costing an additional $2 to $12 a linear foot, depending on who installs it. This makes a total cost range of $2.60 to $18.50 a linear foot. Below are the average cost ranges for installing different lengths of guards.

Leaf Guard Cost per Square Foot

When calculating the average cost for gutter covers, one unit of measurement used by manufacturers as an alternative to linear feet is square footage. You can’t convert linear feet to square footage without first knowing both the length and width. Linear feet only represent the length of the gutter guard, while the square footage considers the width. For example, if your bedroom is 15 feet by 15 feet, then the room is 225 square feet. The average cost of gutter covers per square foot without installation is $2 to $10.

Keep in mind that the industry standard for providing cost estimates for gutter covers is in linear feet. Your home’s square footage is typically only asked for by professionals before installing leaf guards.

Gutter Guard Cost by Type

Gutter guards range in price depending on the material type. Each type differs in cost, durability, and effectiveness. Before choosing a type, understand the pros and cons of each.

PVC Gutter Guard

PVC gutter guards cost between $0.60 and $1.50 a linear foot. PVC/vinyl screens are the lowest quality screens. The guards lay on the gutters and can be tucked under the eave ¹ or drip edge without any fasteners. They are usually sold in lengths of 3 to 4 feet long. They are also easy to install. Lay them into the gutter and snap under the edge. They are best for leaves and needles, and you can expect durability up to 6 years or 3 years in harsh climates.

Mesh Gutter Guard

Depending on the material, mesh gutter guard prices range from $0.80 to $1.25 a linear foot. Mesh gutter guards come in stainless steel and aluminum. Like surface tension/gutter helmets, these mesh screens keep out most debris but may have trouble with small debris slipping through. Mesh gutter guards are best for hardwood leaves and last for 3 to 12 years, depending on the material, with plastic being the least durable and aluminum the most durable.

Aluminum Perforated Gutter Guard

Aluminum perforated gutter covers cost between $1 and $1.50 a linear foot.Perforated aluminum covers come in lengths of 4’-8’. They also install easily, laying directly on the gutter and tucking beneath the eaves without fasteners ². The perforations allow water to go through easily, but they can get blocked by wet leaves. Perforated aluminum covers are best for all debris types and last 10 to 20 years.

Stainless Steel Gutter Guard

For a stainless steel gutter guard, expect to pay between $1.50 and $3.50 a linear foot. Steel screens are more durable than PVC and aluminum screens. Most come in pre-cut widths and lengths but can easily be cut using tin snips ³. Some types of steel screens curl down between the gutter and fascia. Some types tuck under the first layer of the shingle and should be avoided to prevent damage. Steel screens are best for both leaves and needles, and expect 7 to 10 years of use if they are powder-coated. If not powder-coated, expect a 5-10-year lifespan.

Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard

Micro-mesh gutter guards cost between $1.75 and $2.50 a linear foot. Micro-mesh covers are a much tighter guard than standard mesh. While a standard mesh cover can let smaller debris through, a micro-mesh cover keeps out all but the tiniest particles. Unlike regular mesh, these guards are stiff and inflexible. They are more difficult to install, but they still tuck under the eaves without fasteners. They are usually sold in lengths of about 4 -feet.

Foam Gutter Guard

Prices range from $2.50 to $3.50 a linear foot for foam gutter guards and are designed for DIY installation. When looking for a fast solution, a foam gutter guard can be a good choice. This is a roll of foam that you place inside the gutter. It does not block everything, but it keeps the larger pieces and leaves out. This system needs to be cleaned regularly, but it helps solve clogging problems.

Brush Gutter Guard

Brush gutter guards cost between $2.50 and $3.50 a linear foot. Brush gutter guards work on the same principle as the foam guard. You place the brush inside the gutter, and it catches the larger pieces of leaves and debris. Like the foam guard, you need to periodically clean off the brush. However, the installation is fast and easy and designed to be done DIY, so there are no additional installation fees.

Gutter Helmets Cost

For gutter helmets, expect to pay between $3.50 and $6.50 per linear foot. Surface tension gutter guards, or gutter helmets, are made from a solid piece of metal covering the entire gutter. The outside edge curves downward to the gutter. Gutter helmets must be installed at an angle similar to that of the roof and work best on mild and moderately sloped roofs. These gutter guards last an average of 10 to 20 years, with some offering a lifetime warranty.

Leaf Guard Price by Brand

There are several manufacturers of gutter guards. Some are designed for professional installation and are made to fit your gutters and home, while others can be put in DIY or by your handyman. Each brand is known for making one or more specific types that may or may not fit your needs:

Leaf Relief Gutter Guard Cost

Leaf Relief gutter covers have an average cost of $1.60 to $3 a linear foot. Leaf Relief is an aluminum perforated gutter guard. It goes over the top of your gutter and tucks beneath the edge. They are visible from the street because they are not a flat cover. They are designed to help drain the maximum amount of water possible while keeping leaves out of the gutter. Each is about 4 feet long, and you can purchase them in packs of 20 for a lower cost. The Leaf Relief warranty is called “Never Clogs, Never Overflows” and provides protection for 25 years from the time your product is purchased.

Gutterglove Cost

Prices for Gutterglove options range from $1.70 to $2.50 a linear foot. Gutterglove makes a type of micro-mesh screen that snaps over the top of the gutter. These are flat, low-profile screens that are fairly easy to install. They come in 4-foot lengths and can be purchased in packs of 20 to get as many as 80 linear feet at once. They are made of durable aluminum and are fairly readily available at most big-box stores. Gutterglove offers a 40-year limited parts warranty to protect customers against any potential manufacturer defects.

EasyOn Gutter Guards

Easy ON gutter guards will cost between $2 to $3 a linear foot and are available in packs of up to 24 feet. Easy On gutter guards are a type of micro-mesh guard designed to be easy to install. They are readily available in lengths of about 4 feet, and you can purchase them in packs for a small discount. These guards are fairly flat and less easily seen from the street. Customers that purchase the Easy On gutter guard system for their home receive a 25-year limited parts warranty from the manufacturer.

Raindrop Gutter Guard Cost

RainDrop gutter covers cost an average of $3 to $5 per foot. RainDrop offers self-cleaning gutter systems. The company specializes in versatile fits that work with any home style. The systems are compatible with both 5” and 6” gutter sizes. Gutter covers can be cut from RainDrop to fit non-standard sizes. Gutter covers are constructed from a blend of polypropylene to remain flexible and withstand poor weather conditions. This material is resilient in warm weather climates. RainDrop has a warranty that lasts 20 years and can be transferred to the new homeowners after the sale.

K-Guard Cost

The average K-Guard gutter covers cost from $7 to $10 per foot. K-Guard fully integrates all of its guards with your home’s gutter system. This means that there is a perfect fit each time and no chance for debris to get in. You must purchase your guards directly from the company and have them professionally installed. Because the guards depend on your gutter’s type and installation, the pricing varies but costs around $7 per foot. The K-Guard system is backed by a lifetime “no clog warranty,” with the company stating that the covers should last for as long as the house stands.

Valor Gutter Guard Cost

Valor gutter guard cost per foot is between $8 and $11. If you are looking for options from stainless steel to copper filters in a range of styles, contact Valor. This company custom makes guards for your home. This means that they are guaranteed to fit and work no matter what size or style your gutters are. They also have options for filters and finishes, including several color options. The Valor gutter cover warranty lasts for 25 years and is transferable to new homeowners. The warranty provides limited parts protection.

LeafGuard Cost

LeafGuard systems will cost an average of $9 to $32 a linear foot. If you want to have your gutter guards professionally installed with no seams ⁴, consider LeafGuard. These are a solid, gutter cover or cap, rather than a mesh or perforated cover. The water flows over the top and under a lip to enter your gutter, where the leaves and debris cannot follow. This means that you never need to clean them off. They are custom made and installed to your gutters, so they tend to cost more than other brands. The Beldon LeafGuard is a one-piece system manufactured from thick pieces of aluminum. The system includes an integrated hood to optimize water flow and push twigs and other debris off the gutters. Beldon LeafGuard systems cost $14 to $32 per linear foot. LeafGuard is one of the few manufacturers that provides a lifetime “no clog” warranty on their gutter products. They also have a lifetime guarantee that the paint finish will not scratch or crack.

Bulldog Gutter Guard Cost

Bulldog gutter covers will be around $10 to $14 per foot for most projects. Bulldog gutter guards are an aluminum system that keeps water flowing freely through gutters and prevents any clogs. Style options include white or dark bronze, with both being made from 99% recycled aluminum materials. These gutter guards fit 5”, 6”, and 7” gutter sizes. The company provides a clog-free guarantee for 25 years from the time of purchase.

Gutter Helmet Prices

Customers pay between $15 and $17 a linear foot to purchase Gutter Helmet systems. Another custom-made gutter guard with a seamless appearance on your roof is the Gutter Helmet. This is a flat guard with a slightly rounded lip that provides an opening for water to drain. The guards are fairly unobtrusive but do a superior job of keeping leaves and other debris out of your gutters. They are made of solid material, so they last longer than thinner guards. The Gutter Helmet standard warranty protects their gutter covers for 35 years from the time of purchase.

Leaf Filter Gutter Guards Cost

Most homeowners pay between $15 and $35 per foot for LeafFilter covers. LeafFilter systems rely on stainless steel micromesh to prevent clogged gutters. The mesh prevents even the smallest of debris from entering the gutters, including pine needles, seeds, and other types of grit. The mesh is rated at 275 microns fine to keep out all debris while still allowing water to flow freely. The frame is made from UV protective materials to prevent it from warping or deteriorating from snow and ice. The LeafFilter gutter cover system is protected under a lifetime warranty that transfers to any new homeowner. If clogs occur, you will be refunded the full material cost.

MasterShield Gutter Guard Cost

On average, MasterShield Gutter guards cost between $17 and $20 a linear foot. If you live in an area where blue/green algae grows on your home and gutters, investing in a guard system from MasterShield can help. These are micro-mesh guards made with steel and infused with copper. The copper kills blue/green algae and stops the black streaks that can discolor gutters and the areas below them. The guards also do a superior job of keeping debris out of the gutters. MasterShield boasts one of the strongest lifetime warranties on their gutter cover systems with a promise of no clogs, or they will refund you the cost of your purchase.

Labor Cost to Install Gutter Guards

There are a few options to choose from when installing gutter guards. If you purchase your own gutter guards, you can hire a handyman to install them, averaging in cost from $2-$4 per linear foot. You can also hire a full-service gutter guard company that provides its own gutter guards and pro installation. This costs anywhere from $8-$12 per linear foot for the installation, but some companies roll the gutter cover installation cost into the material cost, depending on the project type. The duration of the work depends on your home’s size. Each type of gutter guard is designed to install differently. Some snap on, some hinge ⁵, and others require custom cuts with screws or bolts. A few companies make the guards to fit exactly, meaning they are cut on-site.

Gutter Guard Replacement

The effectiveness of the gutter guards determines if you need to replace them. If you’re noticing the gutters are becoming clogged in areas, then you should have them checked out by a professional to determine if you need a new system. You may be charged a $50 to $75 fee for the service. However, the fee may be waived if you decide to replace the guards. Damaged gutter guard screens could indicate the need for a new system. Less expensive types may have metal screens that become corroded or clogged up with dirt and debris after only a year of use. Professional systems are normally backed by a guarantee of 20 years or longer and should be replaced free of charge if they require replacement. However, if you need to replace them, expect to pay around $3 to $10 per foot for the average cost of gutter covers.

If you’re getting a new roof on your home, you may need gutter guard replacement. Most gutter covers are installed with the previous roofing type and material in mind. Talk to a contractor about whether you can reuse the gutters and gutter guards once the new roof is installed.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Gutter Guards

There are many gutter guard systems to choose from. When selecting the best system for your home, consider accessibility, roof type and configuration, home height, location, and climate because they impact your project’s cost. Accessibility plays a role in the installation of gutter guards on a home. On homes higher than a single story, it can cost more and require a professional to install. The installation of gutter guards also costs more if you have many rooflines ⁶ or a steep roof. Shallower or flat roofs are safer, easier to work on, and cheaper. Location and climate also play a role in selecting gutter guards. Homes in colder climates with snow and ice need gutters and screens to withstand the weight, such as a perforated aluminum material.

Gutter Guard Pros and Cons

Gutter guards offer many positives for homeowners, but they also have a few drawbacks. A clogged gutter can lead to issues like water around your home and foundation, which can lead to cracks. Having a gutter guard means that your gutters function properly, avoiding these issues. Gutter guards also mean that you do not have to clean your gutters as frequently, saving time and money. Some gutter guards also have added benefits, such as heat to prevent ice dams and copper to prevent algae. These attributes may help your gutters last longer.

However, gutter guards need to be cleaned on occasion, so they do not make your gutters completely maintenance-free. Some are visible from the street, which can detract from your home’s curb appeal. They can also bend or dent upon impact, which can make them less effective. If your roof is very steep, they also need to have proper installation so that the water does not overshoot them.

Gutter Guard Maintenance

Although gutter guards reduce gutter maintenance, they don’t eliminate it. On an annual basis, you should check the gutter guards to confirm that they are still secured properly to the gutters. Check for any signs of warping, chipping, or visible cracks. After any major storm, you should consider cleaning the gutter guards to remove any twigs, branches, and debris. Depending on the type of guard, you may be able to uninstall it from the gutters and simply hose it off. Once free of any debris, secure them back onto the home.

Cost of Seamless Gutters with a Leaf Guard

Seamless gutters have many advantages. They offer a better appearance and are less likely to develop leaks and other issues. A seamless gutter can be installed with a leaf guard system, either a seamless system made just for the gutters or a basic system fitted on top. The average cost of seamless gutters is around $3 to $30 a linear foot, depending on the material. Gutter guards cost $0.60 to $6.50 a linear foot. The cost to install seamless gutters with a leaf guard ranges from $3.60 to $60 a linear foot.

Screw On vs Snap On Gutter Guards

There are two main types of gutter covers to consider. Some products simply snap onto the gutters, while others need to be fastened with screws. Snap on types are usually simpler designs and fit directly over gutters. In many cases, homeowners won’t use a professional to install this version. The snap on guard effectively keeps out large debris such as leaves and twigs. The disadvantage of this type is that since the gutter cover isn’t customized to your home, results aren’t always the best for the product. Snap on versions cost under $5 per foot.

Screw on versions are more effective at keeping out more debris, including smaller objects such as pine needles and roof grit because they are custom fitted. However, they do require professional installation and will be more costly, with prices $7 or more per foot.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Gutter Cleaning

Cleaning the gutters prevents future leaks and water pooling. Many companies offer semi-annual cleaning to avoid water pooling. The average cost to have the gutters cleaned is $188.

Heated Gutter Guards

Heated gutter guards are great for homeowners in cold regions. The heated gutter guards prevent snow and ice from building up in the system to eliminate any issues associated with ice dams and keep water from entering the home. The average cost to install heated gutter guards ranges from $1,500-$5,000. If gutter guards are already installed, the heated system can be installed on the existing gutters to save money.

Downspout Screens

Downspout screens, also known as foam filters, prevent leaves and other large debris from clogging the gutter downspouts. Many of the screens are designed to fit in any downspout to ensure smooth drainage. These screens can prevent you from having to manually clean the downspouts. The cost for a downspout screen is approximately $2-$5 each.

Downspout Extensions

Downspout extensions are a great investment for your gutters. A downspout extension controls how water falls from your gutters and diverts water away from your home’s foundation. The average cost for a downspout extension is approximately $8-$12 each.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

³ Tin snips: A tool used to cut sheet metal

⁵ Hinge: A type of joint that attaches two items together but allows one of them to swing back and forth, such as a door attached to a door frame

⁶ Rooflines: Construction material, typically composed of vinyl or aluminum, used to enclose the underside of eaves and ceilings