Between mushy leaves, sticks, and other debris you’ll be scooping out while standing on a ladder, cleaning your gutters twice a year isn’t a fun task, but it’s not always affordable to hire a contractor to do it for you.
Gutter guards, or gutter coverings, protect your home by filtering debris, dramatically reducing the frequency of gutter cleanings. If you’re interested in investing in gutter guards, look no further than LeafFilter or LeafGuard, two of the top gutter guard protectors with lengthy track records of helping homeowners with unique gutter protection systems. Keep reading for my review of LeafFilter Vs. LeafGuard to understand where each company shines and help you find the company that best fits your needs.
My Take on LeafFilter Vs. LeafGuard
After performing a deep dive on LeafFilter Vs. LeafGuard, my pick is LeafFilter, as the company ranked better in nearly every category. I’ve given LeafFilter the superlative “Best Professional Installation and Cost” for its competitive yet affordable pricing, detailed installation process, and durable three-piece system.
LeafFilter’s three-piece system is made from micro-mesh steel, making it durable and corrosion-resistant. In addition to installing your new gutter guards, LeafFilter will clean and seal your current gutters, nearly eliminating the cost of cleaning your gutters entirely. If you live in an area with pine trees, you’ll be happy to know that LeafFilter was ranked in the top place for the top gutter guard for pine needles.
In contrast, LeafGuard, my choice for “Most Durable,” offers a simple one-piece gutter guard design and is better for homes with less functional or more heavily-damaged gutters. LeafGuard’s free quote includes the removal of old gutters, gutter guard installation, and future maintenance.
| LeafFilter | LeafGuard | |
| My Pick | ✓ | |
| Superlative | Best Professional Installation and Cost | Most Durable |
| Our Rating | 4.6 | 3.8 |
| BBB Rating | A+ | A+ |
| Average Cost for Installation | $17–$45 per linear foot | $11–$37 per linear foot |
| State Availability | 47 States (not available in South Dakota, Hawaii, and Alaska) | 36 States (not available in Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming) |
| Get a Free Quote | Visit Site | Visit Site |
What Does LeafFilter Vs. LeafGuard Cost?
LeafFilter’s pricing is typically between $17 and $45 per linear foot. You’ll find that this cost is a bit higher than some industry competitors, but this does include the installation cost, as LeafFilter guards can only be installed by trained professionals.
Like most service-oriented companies, LeafFilter doesn’t offer flat rates or direct pricing information on its website. Instead, you’ll need an in-person inspection before receiving your custom quote, depending on factors like home size, gutter damage, roof pitch, location, and more.
LeafFilter does offer a 10% senior and military discount, which can help you save a healthy chunk of money if you qualify.
LeafGuard is cheaper than LeafFilter at $11 to $37 per linear foot. Like LeafFilter, this includes the home inspection, gutter removal, and gutter system installation. I like that LeafGuard offers a flexible financing plan for its gutter guard systems. For the most affordable payment option, you can pick a 132-month (11-year) plan with a $99 down, $99 for installation, and $99 monthly payments to pay off your LeafGuard system.
Overall, LeafFilter receives better reviews for its high-quality installation and product, so I would choose this company despite its slightly higher price point because of the greater value it offers customers.
| Cost | LeafFilter | LeafGuard |
| Gutter replacement | $17–$45 per linear foot | $11–$37 per linear foot |
| Full gutter system replacement | $2,600–$6,300 | $2,000–$7,500 |
Warranty Coverage
Gutter guards are a significant investment that many homeowners feel is worth it because gutters can collect nasty debris, experience clogs, and attract pests if not kept up. So, what kind of gutter warranties do these companies offer to give you peace of mind that your investment is protected?
LeafFilter’s warranty has the slogan “Clog-Free. Guaranteed.” This warranty backs up LeafFilter’s claim to keep out seed pods, pine needles, shingle grit, and much more. Its systems withstood heavy rainfall and simulated debris during product testing without the micro-mesh screen or uPVC frame warping. If you’re concerned about heavy rain, leaves, or pine needles crowding your gutters, LeafFilter’s warranty covers you.
LeafGuard is a proprietary brand with one-piece aluminum gutter guards that are said to “Get it. And forget it.” It claims to have a simple, patented, durable design. When looking at the fine print, I found that its limited lifetime warranty covers free maintenance and adjustments if the system doesn’t work as advertised.
In general, gutter guard warranties are not needed by most homeowners installing gutter guards because the product itself is durable. However, things happen, and occasionally, mistakes with the installation may affect the product’s functionality, so having a gutter warranty that lasts at least a few years covers you in case you spot signs of poor installation.
My pick for this category is LeafFilter because its warranty is a lifetime finish warranty that is transferable and more thorough than LeafGuard’s warranty. With LeafFilter’s lifetime warranty, you’re covered for an entire gutter system replacement or a 100% refund of the material purchase price of the whole installation if your home sustains water damage from a gutter-caused overflow or your gutters become clogged. However, if you modify the original product or if the LeafFilter guard is damaged by trees, plants, structural changes, or uncontrolled acts of nature, like hail or storms, this warranty becomes void.
Remember that these exceptions align with the industry standards for gutter warranties, so this isn’t particularly unique. Overall, LeafFilter’s lifetime transferable warranty is a standout because many companies like LeafGuard offer limited warranties, so this is a massive bonus for homeowners seeking peace of mind that their investment will last.
What Gutter Guard Types Do LeafFilter Vs. LeafGuard Offer?
Between the two companies, I deem LeafFilter as the better product for its high-quality materials and how it blends in better with the home, making it less noticeable from the ground.
What LeafFilter Gutter Guards Offer
LeafFilter gutter guards are three-piece systems that allow unrestricted water to flow through the gutters while preventing debris and leaves from clogging your gutters. From an aesthetic and home value perspective, I appreciate that the LeafFilter gutter guards are less bulky and blend in better with the roof and existing gutters.
LeafFilter’s professional installation includes the following:
- Steel micro-mesh screen: This screen is surgical-grade stainless steel that prevents small debris from entering your gutter system with its 275-micron fine micro-mesh screens that keep pine needles, small branches, shingle grit, and leaves out.
- uPVC frame: This durable frame supports the micro-mesh screen at the gutter’s top but still allows unrestricted water flow.
- Structural hangers: These hangers are placed inside the gutters to secure the entire gutter guard system.
- Surface tension: Surface tension is critical to keep water flowing but debris out. LeafFilter’s system has a built-in pitch that creates surface tension to maintain this.
What LeafGuard’s Gutter Guards Offer
LeafGuard’s design has an extra thick aluminum shell that’s 20% thicker than the industry standard, making it a good choice for stormy areas or homes with heavily damaged gutter systems. The system is reinforced with noncorrosive brackets that fasten directly to the fascia board every 2 feet.
Each LeafGuard gutter guard has the following:
- Aluminum reverse-curve design: The unique aluminum reverse-curve design creates surface tension and helps your gutter system handle heavy rainfall — up to 32 inches per hour. LeafGuard gutter guards also have extra large downspouts, making them ideal for rainy areas or gutter systems that clog easily.
- Hidden hangers: Fitted hidden hangers are installed on the fascia board every 2 feet to keep them in place and away from roof shingles.
- ScratchGuard paint: This patented paint is crack, chip, and peel-resistant to keep your gutter guard system looking nice for years.
- Custom-fitting: Each LeafGuard gutter is custom-fit to your gutter system, making this company an ideal choice if you have a unique gutter system.
How Do Installation Services Compare Between LeafFilter and LeafGuard?
Regarding service and installation processes, LeafFilter and LeafGuard are on par with each other with no notable differences. However, customer reviews show a different side, painting LeafFilter in an overall more favorable light.
Install Process Comparison
LeafGuard stands out with a slightly more extensive installation process.
LeafFilter’s Installation Process
LeafFilter’s installation process requires a professional installer certified for LeafFilter’s products. To start this process, contact your LeafFilter sales representative to schedule your free inspection to start this process. An experienced LeafFilter representative will come to your home to inspect your gutter system, measure the length of your gutters, and check for damages before creating a personalized estimate.
Next, you’ll schedule a time for the installation specialist to install your new LeafFilter gutter system. Many customers have noted that technicians were available for next-day installations, so this is often a speedy process. Upon arrival, the technician will clean your gutters, fix any damaged or worn-out sections, and install your new gutter guards, which can take a few hours to an entire day, depending on the project’s scope.
LeafGuard’s Installation Process
LeafGuard’s installation process is a little more extensive because each gutter system is custom fit to the exact specifications of your house. Otherwise, the installation process is similar, with a LeafGuard gutter installer coming to your home for a free evaluation and walkaround of your gutter system. I like that LeafGuard’s installers also offer extra education on how the LeafGuard system works while performing the walkthrough so you have a better understanding of the product’s functions and the installation process.
Customer Reviews
Like any gutter guard service provider, negative reviews exist for both companies. The key is to look at trends and assess reviews on multiple third-party platforms, like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
After reviewing hundreds of reviews for each company, I’ve come to the following consensus about how customers feel about the installation process, product, and customer experience: Overall, I would feel more comfortable purchasing from LeafFilter based on the general consensus of the customer reviews I delved into on multiple review websites. Read on to find out why.
LeafFilter’s Reviews
LeafFilter has a higher rating and a much larger volume of reviews on third-party platforms. Many customers highlighted their favorable experiences with the LeafFilter gutter system installation — specifically, that the quote process and repairs to their existing gutters were top-notch. LeafFilter reviews also noted an overall positive experience with the technicians and representatives, with customers speaking to the friendliness, professionalism, and knowledgeability of LeafFilter employees.
LeafGuard’s Reviews
In contrast, LeafGuard had mixed customer opinions, with the gutter cleaning and installation process being pointed out as weaker spots in the company’s process. Some customers noted that their LeafGuard gutter guards acquired buildup after several years, prompting them to contact the company for free maintenance. While LeafGuard did send technicians to clean the gutters out, customers shared that the cleaning left much to be desired, with some even needing to call the company back. Positive LeafGuard reviews repeatedly highlighted the excellent customer service they received from the representatives they worked with and the installers.
Does LeafFilter or LeafGuard Offer Any Additional Services?
In terms of additional services, LeafFilter takes the lead because it offers gutter repairs and replacement services for your existing gutter system as part of its installation process. Costs of gutter repair vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether your home’s gutters need complete replacement or repairs, so speak with your LeafFilter installer during your free at-home evaluation about the estimated cost.
In contrast, LeafGuard only offers complete gutter replacement services, which can add to your overall cost if your gutter system isn’t severely damaged.
Where Are LeafFilter and LeafGuard Available?
LeafFilter has a broader coverage area and more service locations than LeafGuard, with 47 states offering LeafFilter services. The company doesn’t serve the following states:
- South Dakota
- Hawaii
- Alaska
LeafGuard services 36 states. If you live in the following states, you won’t be able to use this company’s services for your gutter guard installation needs:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Rhode Island
- South Dakota
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
If you live in Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Hawaii, neither LeafFilter or LeafGuard are available service providers. Instead, I recommend using our gutter guard company finder tool to find local companies that serve your area.
So, Is LeafFilter or LeafGuard the Best?
A quality gutter guard system saves you hours of cleaning your gutters each year and reduces your risk of injury while working on a ladder. A proper gutter guard system can extend the life of your roof and foundation, saving you money in the long run on home repairs.
For me, LeafFilter is the best gutter service because of its more comprehensive lifetime warranty, better customer reviews, and multi-piece system, which can be installed on existing gutter systems. However, LeafGuard may be the best option if you live in an area with intense storms or heavy rainfall, as its thicker aluminum design can withstand more inclement weather.
I recommend considering your top priorities and gathering several free quotes from multiple providers before making your final decision. If you’re looking to make cleaning your gutters less of a headache, call LeafFilter and LeafGuard to get your free estimate.
FAQs About LeafFilter and LeafGuard
Which is more expensive, LeafGuard or LeafFilter?
LeafFilter is more expensive when it comes to the price per linear foot. However, LeafGuard’s one-piece system requires the entire gutter system to be replaced, so its prices can fluctuate and be more expensive, especially if you need a large gutter system.
Does LeafFilter cause ice dams?
No, LeafFilter doesn’t cause or prevent ice dams. Ice dams form at the roof’s edge, so a good gutter guard system can help divert water through the gutters and away from your home so it doesn’t freeze in the eavestrough.
What time of year should you buy gutter guards?
The best times of year to perform a DIY gutter installation or hire a professional gutter guard installer are August and September. Temperatures begin to drop, but it’s also early enough to avoid a significant onslaught of falling leaves, which become a nuisance during installation as the gutters must be completely clear.
Methodology: How I Evaluated LeafFilter and LeafGuard Against Our Review Standards
As a member of Today’s Homeowner’s team, I strive to bring you the most transparent and accurate information for your home improvement projects. My gutter guard ratings emphasize high-quality gutter guard systems that can keep your gutters debris-free for years.
My detailed ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and interviews with former and current home improvement experts.
A gutter guard company can earn 100 points across six categories, converted to a five-star scale. I researched and analyzed LeafFilter and LeafGuard based on the following formula:
- Product Overview (15 points): Micro-mesh gutter guards are the best on the market. They screen even the smallest debris from your gutters and typically have the structural integrity to withstand heavy rainfall and accumulated debris from trees and surrounding foliage. I used customer testimonials and in-house testing results to determine debris resistance. I also took into consideration multiple color and sizing options.
- Services Offered (35 points): I rated gutter guard providers highly that offer a full range of services — gutter installation and removal, complimentary maintenance, and more are factored into this rating.
- Affordability (15 points): Though getting cost estimates for gutter guards usually requires home visits, I ranked companies based on factors such as discount and financing programs, multiple easy payment options, and the increased value of complimentary maintenance.
- Warranties (10 points): A company that stands behind its products and services typically offers material and workmanship warranties. I evaluated companies based on the comprehensiveness of each warranty.
- Customer Service (10 points): I considered customer service availability and ease of communication.
- Company Reputation (15 points): I looked into each company’s service record to determine how they treated clients and how they responded to customer complaints. Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and complaint response rate were our primary metrics for this category.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
