How much does gutter guard installation cost?

Gutter guards are the secret to extending the life of your home, helping you save tons of money for roof repair and maintenance. Even better, they are available in various sizes and types. You can always pick one that suits your needs and budget. But how much will they cost you? 

The average gutter guard installation cost, including labor, is $1,400. It sounds like a lot to spend, but you can be flexible with your budget and get better estimates for this project by looking at the essential factors.

Average gutter guard installation costs

Factors affecting gutter guard installation costs

Gutter guard type

Different kinds of gutter guards are available for home installation, depending on the type of roofing material and budget. Some popular options include the following:

• Steel screens. Typically made of heavy-duty powder-coated aluminum or galvanized steel, these are among the top three cheapest roof guards, costing around $2.50 per linear foot. They can also protect against leaves and debris. However, they might not be as effective in larger rain events.
• Plastic screens. The most affordable in the market, plastic gutter guards are worth a little over $0.50 per linear foot. They are lightweight, resistant to rusting and corrosion, and easily installed by DIYers. However, the material is less rigid than steel and may not hold up for many years.
• Mesh screens. A mid-range option in terms of cost, with an average price of $3, mesh gutter guards usually feature built-in UV protection or stainless steel construction. They are very effective in keeping out leaves and other debris. However, pine needles and small pods can clog them because of their small openings.
• Foam inserts. The average cost of foam guards is around $3, but you can buy one for $2 per linear foot. Foams are popular because they fit snugly into the gutters and allow water to pass through while catching debris well. On the downside, they can retain water, causing seeds and pods to take root. 
• Brush. Gutter brushes contain heavy-duty bristles inserted into the gutters, blocking out leaves and other debris. Although they require occasional cleaning, the brushes are easy to attach and maintain, but the installation costs may also set you back at almost $4 per linear foot.
• Gutter helmets. These are some of the most expensive gutter guards on the market, with an average cost of $5 per linear foot. With their half-round shape, the helmets slide over the existing gutters and act like a shield, protecting them from leaves and debris. However, they might not work well in areas prone to heavy rainfall or snow because of the design.

Labor cost

You can install gutter guards yourself to save on labor costs. However, this is not advisable if:

• You are scared of heights.
• Your home has two or more stories.
• The roof is challenging to access.
• You are uncomfortable with the size and type of ladder you need for the job.
• You want to avoid costly mistakes, such as incorrect measuring and installation.

In these cases, hire a professional installer. On average, the labor cost to install gutter guards is around $9 an hour. Depending on these factors, you can spend more or less:

• Gutter coverage. Installers charge per linear foot, so the wider the coverage, the higher the cost.
• Accessibility. The cost can also increase if your roof is hard to reach and requires extra equipment or more time to install guards correctly.
• Materials or guard type. Most gutter installation experts already supply the materials. The per-hour rate could rise if you prefer a mesh or gutter helmet over plastic or steel.
• Location. Those who serve more popular urban cities could charge more because of higher demand and cost of living.

Additional gutter guard services

How much does it cost to install gutter guards? It also varies if you want other services to go along with it:

• Gutter cleaning. Cleaning the existing roof and gutter is a necessary step before installing guards, and it usually costs an additional $50 to $200, depending on the size of your home or property.
• Gutter replacement or repair. If some gutter sections have holes, rust damage, or weak spots, the provider should replace or reinforce them before installing the guards. The cost of gutter repair or replacement usually ranges from $150 and up.
• Gutter maintenance. Keeping the gutters in top condition requires regular inspection and cleaning, costing around $50 per hour for the labor. You may also have to pay extra for materials if the guards have to be replaced or adjusted.

Hire a gutter guard installer on Airtasker

The cost of gutter guards installed is worth it when you think about the peace of mind, safety, and convenience they bring. If you need professional help, post a task on Airtasker. Here is how it works:

1. Describe your task. Include details of the size, type, and condition of your gutter guards and additional services that you need.
2. Get offers from Taskers near you. You can view each profile and rating to find the most qualified person for the job.
3. Agree on a price. You can communicate with the Tasker to receive a fixed quote that fits your budget.
4. Schedule the task. Once you’ve chosen the best Tasker for the job, arrange a convenient time and date for them to complete the installation and other tasks you requested.

Can you install gutter guards yourself? Yes, but to spare yourself from the hassle and safety risks, it is best to hire a professional. Airtasker makes it easy to find the right person for the job. With an experienced Tasker, you can rest assured that your gutters are in good hands.