Gutter Guard Cost Factors
The main cost components of installing gutter guards are materials and labor.
Gutter Length
Gutter guards typically cost between $1 and $10 per linear foot for the materials. Different gutter guard materials have different price points, and what you should expect to pay for gutter guard installation will depend on the length of your gutters and the type of guards you need to purchase.
Types
The price of gutter guards varies widely depending on what type you choose. The best gutter guard types block as much debris as possible, including seeds from nearby trees, fall leaves, flowers, and more. You can choose between metal-mesh screens, micro-mesh screens, vinyl grids, full-surface tension covers, foam inserts, and more. All will vary in price (more on that below).
Materials
Depending on what type of material you choose, costs can range from about $1 to $9 per linear foot. Popular material options include steel, micro-mesh, foam, plastic, perforated aluminum, brush, and gutter helmets. Here’s a look at the costs for different materials:
| Gutter Guard Material | Gutter Guard Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Steel Screen | $1.50–$3.50 |
| Micro-Mesh | $2–$4 |
| Foam | $2–$3.25 |
| Plastic | $.40–$1 |
| Perforated Aluminum | $.50–$1.50 |
| Brush | $3–$4.25 |
| Gutter Helmets | $3.50–$6.50 |
Installation
Labor to install gutter guards costs an average of $9 per hour. Labor costs can vary from location to location, so it’s a good idea to reach out to a gutter installation company near you to see what prices are like in your area.
Attachment Type
The attachment type of your gutter guard is important to ensure they function properly. In general, gutter guards promote the natural effects of wind or gravity for debris to naturally flow off the tops of the gutter guards. Good gutter guards will be securely fastened, rather than clipped on, to make sure they can handle that job. The less secure the attachment, the less expensive the gutter guard will be—but they won’t be as effective.
Location
Gutter guard installation prices vary from location to location. For instance, it can cost between $6 and $16 per linear foot to install gutter guards if you live in New York, NY. But prices drop to between $4 and $7 per linear foot if you live in Des Moines, Iowa.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are a few types of gutter guards to choose from, with the most popular options being mesh screens and grids made of metal, mesh, or vinyl.
Metal Mesh Screens
Metal mesh screens are a popular option for gutter guards. They’re usually made from stainless steel or aluminum and typically cost between $1 and $4 per linear foot to install. Because they’re not as fine as some other gutter guards, they may still allow small amounts of debris to pass through.
Micro-Mesh Screens
Micro-mesh screens are one of the more expensive types of gutter guards, but they’re incredibly effective. They cost an average of $9 per linear foot to install. They feature a metal screen covered with wire mesh, which stops almost all types of debris. Micro-mesh screens may require professional installation.
Vinyl Grid
A vinyl grid gutter guard is another affordable option. These vinyl grids cost between $1 and $4 per linear foot to install. While they cost less, they’re not as durable as metal gutter guards.
Full Surface Tension Covers
Full surface tension covers are made from a solid sheet of metal and block debris while still allowing water to pass through a small gap. This gutter guard is on the more expensive end at $4 to $8 per linear foot.
Gutter Brushes
Gutter brushes work like a filter to trap leaves and debris while allowing water to pass through. They cost an average of $3 per linear foot. To keep them functioning correctly, you’ll need to remove and clean the brushes periodically.
Foam Inserts
Foam inserts are an affordable option at around $2 per linear foot. This type of gutter guard allows water to pass through the gutter while blocking leaves and other debris on top of the insert, where it washes away.
Gutter Guard Suppliers
The top three gutter guard suppliers in the U.S are: LeafFilter, HomeCraft, and All American.
LeafFilter: A popular gutter guard system that uses a micromesh material.
HomeCraft: One of the largest gutter guard companies in the Southeast.
All American: Gutter guards are backed by a lifetime performance guarantee.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Gutter Guards Yourself?
Depending on what type you choose, you can take a DIY approach to gutter guards if you’re looking to save money. On average, you’ll save about $9 per linear foot on labor costs. You’ll still need to pay for the materials, and you’ll also need equipment, including a ladder, safety glasses, gloves, and more.
While it’s definitely doable to install gutter guards yourself, it’s not always the best option—and let’s be honest—do you really want to spend your weekend atop a tall, scary ladder? You should keep in mind that improper installation can void your roofing warranty. A professional may be able to fit the gutter guards to your gutter better to ensure that they work the way they’re supposed to. You can get in touch with a gutter guard cover company near you for a personalized quote.
“When choosing a gutter guard company, we recommend picking a contractor with their own in-house crew. This guarantees consistent quality and can save you money. When a company uses subcontractors for their work, their labor costs end up being much higher than if their technicians are in-house,” said Jose Figueroa, Expert Review Board member and crew supervisor and sales representative at Artisan Quality Roofing in Apex, N.C.
