Installing gutter guards on your home helps prevent clogged gutters and downspouts and makes routine cleaning easier. But it’s important to choose a gutter guard that aligns with your home’s needs, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. Gutter guards all share the basic goal of keeping debris out of your gutter system, but they come in various materials and designs that affect performance and curb appeal.
To help you find a gutter guard that is right for your home, we’ve researched the best professional-install and DIY gutter guards on the market. This guide highlights the differences among gutter guard types and our top picks for gutter guard products and services.
Best Installation Process
Uses steel micro-mesh materialTransferable lifetime warrantyComes in various colors
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The 8 Best Gutter Guards of 2023
Here are our top 8 picks for the best gutter guards to protect your gutters from leaves and debris:
- LeafFilter: Our Overall Top Pick
- LeafGuard: Best for Longevity
- HomeCraft: Best for Shedding Leaves
- All American Gutter Protection: Best for Comprehensive Gutter Service
- MasterShield: Best Curb Appeal
- Raptor: Best for DIY Installation
- FlexxPoint: Best DIY Option
- Amerimax Home Products: Best for Multiple Options
How We Chose the Top Gutter Guard Providers
We researched and analyzed dozens of gutter guards and gutter guard companies. Our team then formulated a rating system based on several significant factors. We evaluated the quality and type of gutter guard offered, the ability to customize with colors, warranty lengths and limitations, and additional features such as heating elements.
Speaking directly to a representative at each company, we determined how each gutter guard company personalizes its installation process for each home. We also noted if the company guarantees its quote for a particular length of time, allowing customers time to make an informed decision.
We evaluated each provider based on their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to determine reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.
What to Look for in a Gutter Guard
Certain gutter guard types are better suited to different homes and regions. You also need to consider whether you’re comfortable installing them yourself or whether a professional installation is a more attractive option. We’ve detailed these considerations and listed several more important factors for your buying decision below.
Gutter Guard Types
This table highlights key design and functional aspects of the main types of gutter guards. Choose the type of gutter guard that best matches your home’s needs.
| Gutter Guard Type | Foam | Brush | Screen | Reverse Curve | Mesh and Micro-Mesh |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Sponge-like, foam design | Bristled design similar to a large bottle brush | Metal or plastic material with numerous openings to allow water through | Curved metal or plastic design that uses liquid adhesion to direct water into gutters | Metal or plastic material with more tightly spaced openings than gutter screens |
| Debris Filtration | Blocks most large and small debris, including leaves, twigs, and pine needles | Blocks most large debris but underperforms with small debris, such as shingle grit | Blocks most large debris but may allow debris smaller than its openings to enter the gutter system | Sheds most large debris but may carry shingle grit and other smaller types of debris into the gutter system | Blocks large and small debris |
| Installation | Fits inside gutter system | Fits inside gutter system | Attaches to gutter, typically by snapping onto the gutter or with hardware | Can attach to gutter or may be a one-piece design that requires replacing the existing gutter system | Often requires hardware to attach onto gutter system |
| Good For: | Convenient drop-in installation | Convenient drop-in installation | Reducing cleaning maintenance | Full gutter replacement | Maximizing debris filtration |
| Not Good For: | Durability | Reducing cleaning maintenance | Blocking small debris | Low visibility install | Cost-effective installation |
Materials Used
Gutter guard materials vary by product. Foam gutter guards are lightweight and easy to install but are susceptible to mold growth and deterioration over time. Plastic materials can swell and crack due to weather changes and may need periodic replacement.
Aluminum is a popular choice for gutter guard frames and resists warping and rust. However, aluminum materials may be susceptible to damage from heavy debris, such as tree branches. Many high-end gutter guards use stainless steel, adding strength to the design and resisting warping, rust, and corrosion
Pro vs. DIY Gutter Guards
Many gutter guards are available for DIY installation. You can purchase drop-in gutter guards, such as foam and brush designs, from online retailers such as Amazon. These options are easy to install but have durability issues and require frequent cleaning. Several mesh and micro-mesh gutter guards are also available for DIY projects but involve a more rigorous installation.
Professional installation keeps you off the ladder, saving you time and energy. Some gutter guards require professional installation; this is common with companies selling high-end micro-mesh and reverse-curve designs. One major benefit of professional installers is they will typically clean your gutters, make repairs, and install new gutters as necessary.
Cost
DIY gutter guard installation is generally more cost effective but often time consuming and may not be the optimal choice for homeowners with larger homes. A professional installation is a bigger investment but usually includes a higher-end product and a trained specialist to handle the labor.
Professional installers often offer gutter and downspout replacement, repair, and cleaning as part of your gutter guard purchase. Most will require you to schedule an inspection before providing any pricing information.
Here is sample pricing for several DIY gutter guards:
| Gutter Guard | Material/Design | Gutter Guard Cost Per Linear Foot | Gutter Guard Cost for 200 Linear Feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raptor Gutter Guard (for 5-inch gutter) | Stainless steel/micro-mesh | $2.60 | $625* |
| Amerimax Lock-In Gutter Guard (for 5-, 6-, or 7-inch gutter) | Steel or aluminum/mesh | $1.33 | $266 |
| FlexxPoint Gutter Cover System (for 5-inch gutter) | Aluminum/screen | $1.22 | $249 |
| GutterBrush Gutter Guard (for 5-inch gutter) | Steel core, polypropylene bristles/brush | $3.32 | $698** |
| GutterFoam K-Style Gutter Guard (for 5-inch gutter) | Polyurethane/foam | $1.50 | $299 |
*Raptor’s product is exclusively sold at Amazon in 48-foot kits. You would need to buy five kits to get 200 linear feet of material.
**Pricing is for 210 linear feet of material.
Warranty
A warranty provides additional security and peace of mind with your gutter guards. Many gutter guard warranties extend beyond 20 years, and some companies provide transferable lifetime warranties.
These warranties often have limitations, though. In particular, any tampering with the roof or structure around the guards will likely void your warranty.
Our Recommendation for Gutter Guards
Gutter guards help prevent debris from entering rain gutters while routing water away from your home’s siding and foundation. They also reduce, but do not eliminate, the need and frequency for gutter maintenance. However, gutter guards vary in their designs and ideal applications.
DIY gutter guards may be the right solution for homeowners who have the equipment and comfort level to install gutter guards themselves. We recommend Raptor Gutter Guard for its durable micro-mesh design and superior debris filtration compared to many other DIY products. Keep in mind that Raptor requires a more involved installation than simple drop-in or snap-on gutter guards.
Professional gutter guard installation leaves the work in the hands of a specialist. We recommend LeafFilter for its comprehensive service, including gutter cleaning and replacement when necessary before attaching its patented micro-mesh gutter guard. LeafFilter’s high-end, stainless-steel design has openings measuring 275 microns, which filters debris as small as pine needles, shingle grit, and pollen.
The Top Professional Gutter Guards
Gutter guards requiring professional installation are often unique, proprietary designs that emphasize different attributes. One gutter guard company may underscore the debris types restricted from entering the gutter while another highlights how its gutter guard impacts the home’s curb appeal.
We’ve considered these factors and many more to rank our top five picks for the best professional gutter guards:
LeafFilter
Fast Facts:
- Type: Micro-mesh
- Material: Stainless steel, aluminum, and unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) Steel micro-mesh
- Warranty length: Transferable lifetime
- Good For: Protection against twigs, insects, bird nests, leaves, pine needles, shingle grit, and pollen
LeafFilter
4.5/5
What We Like
LeafFilter offers a three-piece, steel micro-mesh gutter guard system that utilizes surface tension to pull water through your gutters but push debris off. Its steel body means that extreme temperature changes will not warp the guard over time. LeafFilter pitches the guard flush with your roof to minimize maintenance and visibility from the ground.
LeafFilter’s gutter guarduPVC gutter guard frame comes in various colors, such as off-white and beige, to help the visible lip of the product match your home’s scheme.
Other services:
- New gutter installation
- Gutter cleaning
- Gutter sealing and repair
What We Don’t Like
Many customer reviews for LeafFilter have mentioned pushy sales tactics and high initial quotes. We’ve also seen feedback about ice buildup on the gutter guard during cold snaps.
4.5/5
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for LeafFilter’s Aurora, Colorado, branch. Some of these reviews were critical of the company’s professionalism and punctuality. Many homeowners noted that it took several phone calls to ensure they received services on the correct date. However, LeafFilter was responsive to each review.
Many reviews praised the quality of LeafFilter’s gutter guards, though some homeowners noted that LeafFilter’s guards are not ideal for extreme winter conditions. On its blog, The Leaflet, the company advises homeowners to take preventive measures to combat ice dams. You also have to clean your gutters every one to two years with LeafFilter’s gutter guards, despite advertising that you’ll never have to clean them again.
Call for a free quote:800-940-4391
Read more:LeafFilter review
LeafGuard
Fast Facts:
- Type: Reverse curve
- Material: Aluminum
- Warranty length: Transferable lifetime
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and other large debris
LeafGuard
4/5
What We Like
LeafGuard is a great option for homeowners looking for new gutters that include built-in protection against clogs. The reverse-curve design features a sturdy, one-piece construction that replaces your existing gutter system. The aluminum material resists warping and cracking and can endure the elements longer than many types of DIY gutter guards.
LeafGuard customizes the length of each gutter run during professional installation for the perfect fit. It also uses a scratch-resistant finish and offers its gutter system in 12 or more colors.
What We Don’t Like
LeafGuard requires you to replace your entire gutter system. Reverse-curve designs are susceptible to allowing small debris, such as shingle grit, into the gutters. Heavy downpours can also allow water to spill over onto your home’s siding.
4/5
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed 100 reviews across Trustpilot and the BBB. Positive reviews mentioned professional and knowledgeable sales staff, clean and courteous installation, and a quality product. Discontented customers called out aggressive sales tactics, inflated prices, and limitations in the lifetime warranty.
Read more: LeafGuard review
HomeCraft
Fast Facts:
- Type: Micro-mesh
- Material: Stainless steel and aluminum Steel micro-mesh
- Warranty length: Transferable lifetime
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and shingle grit
HomeCraft
4.3/5
What We Like
HomeCraft Gutter Protection offers a marine-grade, stainless steel, micro-mesh gutter guard with raised diamonds throughout its cover. The guard also features a powder-coated aluminum frame that fits almost any gutter size. HomeCraft secures its gutter guard during installation by using hidden reinforced metal hangers attached to your fascia boards, keeping it secure in stormy conditions.The HomeCraft gutter guard sits flush with your gutter and has low visibility from the ground.
Other services:
- Gutter installation
- Gutter cleaning
- Gutter repair
What We Don’t Like
Some customers report an unsatisfactory customer service experience, citing spam phone calls. Micro-mesh gutter guards can have water freeze on the surface during cold winter conditions.
4.3/5
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We found overwhelmingly positive reviews during our analysis of the 100 most recent Google Reviews for HomeCraft’s Charlotte, North Carolina, branch. Many of the reviews mentioned the company’s responsiveness and overall value. Many homeowners were also impressed with their quoted price and financing options.
The few critical reviews claimed that HomeCraft completed installation haphazardly, or that the quote process was frustrating.
Read more: HomeCraft Gutter Protection review
All American Gutter Protection
Fast Facts:
- Type: Micro-mesh
- Material: Stainless steel and aluminum
- Warranty length: Lifetime
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and shingle grit
All American Gutter Protection
4.5/5
What We Like
All American Gutter Protection provides a similar micro-mesh gutter guard system to LeafFilter, though All American’s design features an aluminum rather than uPVC frame. Its gutter guard is lightweight and resists warping and bending during large temperature fluctuations. The low-profile design minimizes visibility from the ground.
Other services:
- Gutter and downspout installation
- Fascia replacement
What We Don’t Like
All American Gutter Protection doesn’t provide as much information online about its product as many competitors. The aluminum frame may be susceptible to damage from falling debris.
4.5/5
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed 100 Google Reviews across All American Gutter Protection branches in Atlanta; Nashville; Philadelphia; Greenville, South Carolina; and Ann Arbor, Michigan. Most customers praised the company for its effective installation and quality gutter guards.
There were noticeable complaints. Some reviews criticized All American Gutter Protection’s punctuality and scheduling. We recommend being somewhat flexible with your appointment time if you decide to use All American Gutter Protection.
Read more:All American Gutter Protection Review
MasterShield
Fast Facts:
- Type: Micro-mesh
- Material: Steel, aluminum, and copper Copper and steel micro-mesh
- Warranty length: Transferable lifetime
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and insect nests
MasterShield
4.5/5
What We Like
MasterShield uses a similar micro-mesh design as many competitors but with a unique spin, weaving copper into the mesh. This copper breaks down oils and repels microorganisms, helping to keep sludge from clogging your gutters. The gutter guard’s aluminum frame is warp and crack resistant. We also like that MasterShield offers a heated version of its gutter guard to prevent the mesh from freezing over in winter conditions.
MasterShield’s gutter guard comes in 14 colors to match your roof and existing gutter system. When installed, the gutter guard’s pitch aligns with the angle of your home’s roofing system to help shed debris.
Other services:
Some MasterShield dealers offer gutter repair and replacement.
What We Don’t Like
We don’t like MasterShield’s marketing strategy claiming that customers will never need to clean gutters again. Gutters will always require some cleaning maintenance, with or without gutter guards.
4.5/5
What Homeowner Reviews Say
Out of 100 recent Google Reviews for MasterShield’s branches in Dallas and Atlanta, many customers praised MasterShield’s professionalism and punctuality. Complaints revolved around higher prices than competitors that offer similar products.
The Top DIY Gutter Guards of 2023
You can install gutter guards yourself if you don’t want to hire a professional. This is a cost-effective solution that is sensible for many homeowners. However, DIY gutter guards often come with more limited warranties, and design quality can vary considerably among brands. Below our our top picks for DIY gutter guards:
Raptor
Fast Facts:
- Type: Micro-mesh
- Material: Stainless steel and aluminum micro-mesh
- Warranty length: 25 years
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and insect nests
What We Like
Raptor Gutter Guard is a highly efficient, DIY micro-mesh gutter guard. It’s made of 304 stainless steel, which is rust- and corrosion-resistant. The gutter guard is highly compact and provides ample protection against fine debris while still effectively filtering water.
Raptor’s gutter guards are also eco-friendly. Instead of plastics or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the company uses 100% recyclable aluminum and stainless steel. Raptor manufactures its guards to be easy to install on most gutter sizes in 4-foot sections. It includes an installation guide with all purchases.
What We Don’t Like
The gutter guard material can be hard to cut to shorter lengths. The ease of installation may also vary considerably depending on your gutter and roof type.
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed the 100 most recent Amazon reviews for Raptor Gutter Guards and found that the majority were positive. Many customers praised the guard’s simple and low-key appearance, rust resistance, and easy installation. The few critical reviews said that the cost was too high for their needs or that the measurements online were incorrect.
FlexxPoint
Fast Facts:
- Type: Screen
- Material: Aluminum
- Warranty length: 50 years
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, pine needles, bird nests, and insect nests
What We Like
FlexxPoint offers aluminum gutter screens for various gutter widths. You can choose white, black, brown, or matte silver guards to match your home’s color scheme. The guards come in lengths of 22, 102, 125, 200, and 204 feet so you can easily order the amount your home requires.
FlexxPoint uses a three-point design. This helps prevent water overflow and potential foundation damage by acting as a dam and slowing water flow over the gutter cover.
What We Don’t Like
We don’t like FlexxPoint’s claim that absolutely no debris will enter the gutter through its product. Gutter guards reduce cleaning frequency but do not eliminate the need for gutter maintenance. The aluminum design may be susceptible to damage from heavier debris.
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed the 100 most recent Amazon reviews for FlexxPoint’s 102-foot, residential 5-inch gutter guards and found that the majority of reviews were four stars or higher. Most customers liked that the guards were quick and straightforward to install. The few critical reviews mentioned receiving damaged products or having difficulties with pine needles getting stuck in the guards.
Amerimax Home Products
Fast Facts:
- Type: Mesh
- Material: Options for vinyl or steel
- Warranty length: 10 to 20-year warranties (varies by product)
- Good For: Protection against twigs, leaves, and other large debris
What We Like
Amerimax Home Products offers several mesh gutter guards, including designs made with steel, PVC, or vinyl. Most of its products snap onto your existing gutter without using hardware, supporting an easier installation. Amerimax’s higher-end steel gutter guards can withstand severe weather. Its lower-end vinyl design is more cost effective and will last longer in milder climates.
Amerimax’s gutter guards are compatible with K-style gutters and can fit most common gutter widths.
What We Don’t Like
Warranty lengths for Amerimax’s gutter guards vary among products and are shorter than most competitors. Color options are limited.
What Homeowner Reviews Say
We analyzed the 100 most recent Amazon reviews for the 10-count pack of Amerimax’s Hoover Dam Gutter Guard. Very few of these reviews were negative. Many customers praised the guard’s quality and easy installation process. Critics mentioned damaged products from poor packing or being confused about how many guards came in a package.
In Conclusion
All gutter guards share a basic concept and function. But it’s the unique design features that determine how well each gutter guard performs diverting debris and keeping your gutters unclogged.
For its advanced filtration and material durability, we recommend LeafFilter as our top-rated professional gutter guard. Raptor Gutter Guard is our top DIY choice, featuring a similar micro-mesh design to LeafFilter and receiving mostly positive reviews on Amazon.