When it rains, it pours. But your gutters- and gutter guards- can protect your home from extensive water damage. On average, installing gutter guards can cost a fair bit, but the actual price can vary based on how long your gutters are and what materials you go for.

So, what exactly are gutter guards?

Rain gutter guards are handy add-ons you can install to stop leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging up your gutters. While they don’t completely eliminate the need for gutter maintenance, they do cut down on the amount of time you have to spend cleaning them out. And for a lot of homeowners, that convenience alone makes gutter guards worth the cost.

In this post, we’ll walk you through a few factors that influence the cost of gutter guard installation in Utah. Let’s dive in!

What Factors Affect the Cost of Gutter Guards?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all cost for gutter guards. Several factors can influence how much you’ll end up paying. Here’s a breakdown of what might affect the cost of gutter guards for your home.

Type of Gutter Guards

First off, the type of gutter guard you choose is going to have a big impact on the price. For example:

Screen guards are relatively easy to install and one of the more affordable options. They fit on top of your gutters and block larger debris while allowing water to pass through.
Foam guards fit directly inside the gutters and are extremely easy to install — you can even do it yourself. While they block debris from entering the gutter entirely, they can get saturated and require occasional replacement.
Brush guards are like oversized pipe cleaners sitting inside the gutters. They catch debris while allowing water to flow around them.
Surface tension guards, also known as “helmet” gutter guards, are more complex. Water clings to the guard and flows into the gutter while debris slides off. Installation usually requires professional help.
Micro-mesh guards have tiny holes that only let water through. They are generally the most effective—and the most expensive. Each type of gutter guard has its own set of pros and cons. Generally, the more complex the design, the higher the cost.

Material Quality

The durability and quality of materials significantly affect the cost of gutter guard installation. Investing in higher-quality materials can mean longer-lasting protection for your gutters. Plastic or vinyl guards are lightweight and inexpensive but may not withstand severe weather as well as metal options. Aluminum and stainless steel are more durable and resistant to weather, but they come with a higher price tag.

Length of Your Gutters

The total length of your gutters directly impacts the amount of material needed, and thus the cost. Larger homes or those with complex roof designs will have more extensive gutter systems, increasing the overall cost for guard materials and potentially the installation.

Gutter Size and Shape

Unusual gutter sizes or shapes can require customized guard solutions, which are typically more expensive. Standard sizes are easier and cheaper to guard, but if your home has unique features, you might need to spend a bit more on custom-fitted guards.

Installation Complexity

The difficulty of gutter guard installation in Utah can also affect the final price. A single-story home with easy access to gutters will cost less in terms of installation than a multi-story house with steep roofs and multiple obstructions. Professional installers may also charge more for installations that require additional safety measures or specialized equipment.

Condition of Existing Gutters

If your gutters are in poor condition, they may need repair or even replacement before gutter guards can be installed, adding to the total cost. Making sure your gutters are clean and in good repair before installation helps avoid these additional expenses.

Geographic Location

Your location can influence costs due to differences in labor rates, availability of materials, and even typical weather patterns. For example, areas with heavier rainfall might require more robust gutter protection, influencing both material choice and cost.

Seasonal Discounts

Installing gutter guards during the off-peak season can sometimes offer cost benefits. Many installation companies provide discounts during slower periods, like late fall or early winter, to encourage homeowners to purchase during their less busy times.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Gutter Guards Yourself?

Thinking of putting in gutter guards on your own to save some cash? You can! You’ll just need to cover the cost of gutter guard materials, and some basic equipment like a ladder, safety glasses, and gloves.

Plus, don’t forget to budget a little extra for any tools and supplies you might need to get the job done. For an average home with a typical gutter length, the total cost could range from affordable to a bit pricier, depending on what materials you go for.

While installing gutter guards by yourself is an option, keep in mind it’s not exactly a walk in the park. It involves climbing up on the roof and balancing on a ladder, which has its risks. If you’re not experienced with this kind of work, it might be safer and smarter to call in the pros.

In case you decide to go with a professional, make sure to get quotes from a few different gutter guard companies. Look for one with fair prices, a good reputation, and tons of positive feedback from customers. That way, you can be sure you’re getting good value and a job well done.

What is the Average Cost to Install Gutter Guards?

So, how much does it usually cost to put in gutter guards?

Well, for a regular-sized house with about 150 linear feet of gutters, you’re looking at an average cost of around $1,125. The price can swing from lower to higher depending on the specifics of the job.

But here’s the deal—if you’re up for a bit of DIY, you could end up spending way less, maybe around a couple of hundred dollars, especially if you’re working on a smaller house and go with something like plastic or PVC screen guards.

On the flip side, if you have a bigger place and want the top-of-the-line steel surface tension guards installed by pros, the cost could climb up to around $4,000.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right gutter guards and figuring out installation can be tricky, but it’s a valuable investment in protecting your home. By understanding the types of guards available and the factors that affect installation costs, you can make a more informed decision that suits your needs and budget. Remember, sometimes spending a bit more upfront can save a lot of money and hassle in the long run.

Don’t let clogged gutters cause you stress! With Ace Gutter, Inc., you get reliable, high-quality gutter guards installed by professionals. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to find out how you can save time and money with our durable gutter solutions.