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LeafFilter Gutter Protection is a top gutter and gutter guard service provider with high customer review scores across Google Reviews. The company’s three-piece micro-mesh gutter guard design is more aesthetically pleasing than other styles and is easy to have professionally installed. Further, LeafFilter’s thorough installation process ensures your gutters are in great shape before applying the guards.
After conducting in-depth research, analyzing hundreds of customer reviews, secret-shopping the most popular brands, and testing gutter guards firsthand, we have chosen LeafFilter as one of the best gutter guards available.
Fast Facts About LeafFilter
- Material: Stainless steel, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC)
- Style: Micro-mesh screen
- Installation: Professional only
- Warranty length: Transferable lifetime
- State availability: 47 (not in Alaska, Hawaii, or Arizona)
- Good for: Protection against twigs, insects, bird nests, leaves, pine needles, shingle grit, and pollen
Our LeafFilter Testing Process
We ran a series of tests to determine if LeafFilter’s gutter guard lives up to its reputation. We contacted LeafFilter to obtain this guard. LeafFilter’s team supplied us with a floor model of a model roof, siding, and gutters with its micro-mesh gutter guard system installed.
Our tests measured the LeafFilter gutter guard’s effectiveness at keeping out debris, allowing water to pass through the gutters, and withstanding wear and tear. We also thoroughly inspected the LeafFilter system by checking its profile and design.
Here is a more detailed overview of how we tested LeafFilter’s gutter guard and the results of our testing process:
- Design and material inspection: We inspected the system for any obvious design flaws that could affect its performance. We checked the micro-mesh screen, fittings, seals, and substructure. We also applied various “stress tests” to determine how well the system withstood impacts, weight, and other factors.
- Results: The LeafFilter system is well-designed and withstood our stress tests. No portions of the guard were faulty, poorly constructed, or easily compromised. We were particularly impressed at how tightly the screen fit into the frame. We attempted to lodge pine needles into this gap without success.
- Performance test: This test assessed the gutter guard’s ability to filter out debris and handle large amounts of water. We placed an assortment of debris on the guard and applied water to the roof and guard at different speeds. We then checked how much material the system kept out and how much water it filtered before overflowing.
- Results: LeafFilter performed as advertised. It kept out most debris, including seedpods, pine needles, and leaves, and only allowed dirt and dust to pass through. It handled a large amount of water without overflowing.
- Profile and ease of cleaning: We observed the guard from various angles and heights, gauging how easy it was to see from the ground. We then applied more debris to the guard and used water, gloved hands, and other tools to clean it off.
- Results: LeafFilter’s guard performed well in this test. Its design includes a built-in pitch that makes it easy to clean and for debris to slide off. We could clean most of the debris from the guard with a light brushing. We noted that the system is difficult to spot from most angles, so it has a subtle, unobtrusive appearance on homes. We could only spot the screen directly from the sides (over the endcaps).
What We Like About LeafFilter
We like LeafFilter’s low-profile design that keeps the gutter guards out of sight from the ground. We also like the micro-mesh screen’s superior filtration capacity. In addition, LeafFilter’s professionals offer a convenient installation service that includes gutter cleaning, repair, and replacement as necessary. The company backs its product with a transferable lifetime warranty.
During testing, we inspected the height and pitch of the gutter guard’s screen. We like that it has an unobtrusive appearance and is not easily visible from the ground. We were impressed by the guard’s performance, which kept out even small debris.
LeafFilter Gutter Guard System
LeafFilter’s gutter protection system uses a tightly spaced micro-mesh screen to draw in water without flushing debris through your home’s gutter system. The screen even filters out the smallest of debris like shingle grit and pollen. The gutter system still needs periodic cleaning and maintenance, but this level of filtration practically eliminates any debris buildup within your gutter system.
Product Specifications
Here are some of LeafFilter’s key product features:
- Micro-mesh screen: Using a stainless-steel screen with 275-micron openings, LeafFilter’s rust- and corrosion-resistant gutter guard can block debris as small as pollen and shingle grit.
- uPVC frame: LeafFilter’s gutter guard has a uPVC frame that resists warping and bending. The frame gives the gutter guard a built-in pitch, allowing it to sit flush with your roof for a low-profile design.
- Hidden hangers: When installing the gutter guard, LeafFilter uses hidden hangers that nestle inside and reinforce your home’s gutter system. This prevents the gutter guard from being an eyesore and provides extra strength and stability.
Quote Process and Pricing
A LeafFilter gutter guard system’s cost will depend on how many stories your home has, the linear footage of your gutters, and whether you require downspout or gutter repair services.
We contacted LeafFilter to request a quote. The company will not provide an estimate without inspecting your home, but we were able to learn about the basic estimate process. LeafFilter will assess your gutters’ condition, take measurements, and provide an estimate that will remain valid for one year.
We read several customer reviews mentioning high initial quotes from LeafFilter. Some negotiating may be expected, but it does not guarantee a lower price.
Installation Process
LeafFilter’s straightforward installation process includes the following steps:
- After you request a quote, a team member will schedule an inspection to determine your gutters’ linear footage and whether they need repair or replacement.
- Once you agree to LeafFilter’s terms, it will send one or more installers on the scheduled date to install the gutter guards and replace your gutters, if necessary. The team will prepare your existing gutters by ensuring they have the correct pitch, show no signs of damage, and are properly sealed and aligned.
- LeafFilter’s team will clean up any debris after installing the gutter guards. We found many customer reviews on Trustpilot that cited a timely installation and satisfactory cleanup.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Your LeafFilter gutter guard should require little maintenance and cleaning. Though debris might remain on top of LeafFilter’s gutter covers after heavy downpours, you can wait for it to dry and fall off on its own. However, because the guard has a built-in pitch, you can also use a blower or broom to knock the debris off the gutter guard.
We tested its ease of cleaning using the LeafFilter gutter guard model. We noted that the built-in pitch allowed most debris to slide off when hit by water flow. We easily cleaned off what little debris remained with a light brushing.
Defects may also occur. Due to this, LeafFilter provides a Lifetime Transferable Warranty and a 100% money-back guarantee.
You will still need to clean your gutters occasionally, but having a LeafFilter gutter guard installed greatly reduces the frequency of cleaning and maintenance. We recommend inspecting your gutter system at least once a year or after you experience inclement weather, such as a hurricane, that could have damaged the guard or gutters.
LeafFilter Warranty
LeafFilter’s manufacturer’s warranty lasts a lifetime and is transferable to the next homeowner if you sell your home. However, many terms and conditions apply. We’ve listed some of the most notable warranty exclusions and limitations below:
Exclusions:
- Doesn’t cover damage caused during installation to gutters, fascia boards, roof substrates, or surfaces
- Becomes void if the gutter guards sustain damage from structural changes, such as those caused by falling trees
- Becomes void if the gutter guards are modified after the original installation
Limitations:
- Does not apply to damage resulting from ice dams
- Does not apply to homes with an inadequate number of downspouts for the home’s size and design
- Is limited to single-family homes and single-family units within a multi-unit structure
LeafFilter reserves the right to inspect and validate all warranty claims. The buyer is responsible for informing LeafFilter of the suspected defect via a written explanation within a reasonable time after discovering it. LeafFilter may request additional information, including photos, and may also require a field inspection.
LeafFilter Reviews
LeafFilter holds an overall positive reputation. We analyzed recent reviews on Google and Trustpilot and found the majority of customers rated the company four stars or higher. Many reviewers praised LeafFilter’s thorough installation and professionalism. More critical reviews cited high prices and pushy sales tactics.
Read some of the reviews we analyzed below:
Our gutters were old and not working well. LeafFilter replaced and added gutters, downspouts, and [fascias] around our home. They did a beautiful job! Our gutters are efficient and aesthetically appealing as well. —Naomi Allen via Google Reviews
LeafFilter installed the leaf filter system to my gutters. The [representatives] were very professional and easy to speak with. The installer [did] a marvelous job on installing the filter system. No more rooftop climbing for me. —Kenneth Bradford via Google Reviews
I received a quote for over $10,000 (originally $12,000+ before “discounts” were applied) for 241 feet of gutter protection. If that wasn’t ridiculous enough, then I received a text a few days later telling me they would offer “employee” pricing. Today they changed their quote to $3,645 for cash [transactions]. —Mitch Mitchell via Google Reviews
LeafFilter employed misleading sales tactics stating “lifetime warranties” at sale but then refusing to supply warranty documentation until after work is completed. Only upon final completion of the work and payment is the customer informed that the “lifetime warranty” is only for the actual equipment failing and that there is only a one-year workmanship warranty, which if the system fails it is obviously more likely to be from workmanship than from hardware failure. —Chris Page via Google Reviews
Our Recommendation
We recommend LeafFilter as our top pick of the gutter guards we reviewed. The company offers an effective design, has favorable customer reviews, and provides convenient professional installation service. Our gutter guard testing confirmed that LeafFilter’s micro-mesh guard is effective at filtering water and preventing debris from entering your gutters, and its design is aesthetically pleasing. The company also backs its product with a lifetime transferable warranty.
LeafFilter FAQ
Why are clean gutters important?
Clean gutters help protect your home’s foundation and siding from water damage caused by overflow. They also provide a basic level of pest protection, deterring insects attracted to decaying organic matter. Regular gutter maintenance also helps prevent mold and mildew caused by roof leaks and rotting fascia boards.
What is the best material for gutter guards?
Though this may depend on the type of debris your home experiences, micro-mesh and surface-tension gutter guards provide the best overall results. Not only are these types of gutter guards more effective at blocking small debris like pine needles, but they also require the least amount of maintenance and gutter cleaning.
Will LeafFilter install gutters for me?
Yes, LeafFilter will install new gutters during its installation process if it finds that it is necessary or if the homeowner requests it.
Do I need to clean LeafFilter gutter guards?
You will rarely have to clean LeafFilter’s gutter guards. Some debris can remain on top of the gutter covers during heavy downpours. However, gutter guards from LeafFilter are very easy to clean. Given that the guard has a built-in pitch, you can use a blower or broom if you notice debris piled on top. You could also wait for the debris to dry and see if it falls independently. However, this will rarely happen, given that the guard uses surface tension in its design to pull debris off of it.
What color are LeafFilter gutters?
LeafFilter gutters come in several colors, including beige, brown, white, and gray.
How We Chose the Top Gutter Guard Providers
We researched and analyzed dozens of gutter guards and gutter guard companies to create an in-depth review methodology. We formulated a rating system based on the factors homeowners find most important. We evaluated each provider’s gutter guard design and aesthetics, service offerings, customer service and communication, quote process, warranties, and financing options.
We created a separate rating system for DIY-installed gutter guards sold on retailer sites. We evaluated these guards based on their quality of materials, aesthetics, communication, warranty, customer reviews, and cost.
We evaluated each provider’s reputation using independent, third-party sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google My Business pages. For products, we analyzed the customer reviews on whichever online retailer primarily hosts the product.
