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Installing a high-quality gutter guard is a home improvement task that every homeowner should consider. We’ve evaluated the country’s best gutter guards on several key metrics, including their performance and installation process. For this guide, we extensively researched LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet—two major industry names—to determine how their products compare.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet: Fast Facts
Here are a few fast facts about LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet.
| Fast Facts | LeafFilter | Gutter Helmet |
|---|---|---|
|
Gutter Guard Design |
Stainless steel micro-mesh |
Aluminum reverse-curve |
|
Warranty Type |
Lifetime transferable |
Lifetime transferable |
|
Pricing |
Requires free inspection |
Requires free inspection |
|
State Availability |
44 |
41 |
|
Years in Business |
18 |
36 |
|
BBB Score |
A+ |
N/A* |
*Better Business Bureau (BBB) scores are accurate as of August 2023.
**Southeastern Metals Manufacturing Company (SEMCO) makes the Gutter Helmet product. Gutter Helmet dealers in various locations have their own Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Benefits and Drawbacks
Below, we’ve listed some of the main benefits and drawbacks of LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet.
LeafFilter Benefits and Drawbacks
We like LeafFilter’s durable design, but the product can be pricey. Here are some more of LeafFilter’s main benefits and drawbacks:
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
|
Has a lifetime transferable warranty |
Often provides high initial estimates |
|
Is built with a durable micro-mesh screen and strong unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) frame |
Has mixed reviews about the customer service experience |
|
Can filter debris as small as pine needles and shingle grit |
Gutter Helmet Benefits and Drawbacks
Gutter Helmet has decades of industry experience, but its product may not be the best for areas that get heavy downpours. Here are some more of Gutter Helmet’s main benefits and drawbacks:
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
|
Has a lifetime transferable warranty |
Can accumulate debris residue on the curve of the gutter guard |
|
Has more than three decades of experience in the industry |
May spill water over onto the side of the home in torrential rain |
|
Sheds debris better than most DIY gutter guard designs |
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Gutter Guard System
The LeafFilter gutter guard features a micro-mesh design made from surgical-grade stainless steel that fits onto your existing gutter system. It filters debris using surface tension, directing water through the mesh and into the gutter while discarding debris onto the ground below.
Gutter Helmet’s gutter guard has an aluminum reverse-curve design that fits over the top of your gutter. It relies on the design’s curvature and liquid adhesion to funnel water into the gutter without accepting debris.
Both gutter guard companies require a home inspection from an authorized dealer before providing an estimate.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Product Specs
LeafFilter’s gutter guard has a micro-mesh design with the following specifications:
- 275-micron openings, small enough to block shingle grit and pollen
- Hidden hangers to reinforce the existing gutter system
- Low-profile design that is difficult to see from the ground
Here is how Gutter Helmet compares:
- Available in 10 colors
- One-piece, reverse-curve design that attaches atop the existing gutter
- Textured frame that improves durability
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Installation Process
LeafFilter employs the following installation process:
- A LeafFilter representative will perform a free inspection of your home to assess the existing gutter system and provide an estimate.
- On the scheduled date, the LeafFilter representative will perform any agreed-upon gutter removal, repair, or installation services. This includes gutter sealing as necessary.
- The LeafFilter representative will then reinforce the existing gutter system with hidden hangers and install the LeafFilter gutter guard, cleaning up any debris.
Here is how Gutter Helmet compares:
- Your local Gutter Helmet dealer will send a representative to conduct a free inspection of your home and provide an estimate.
- If you sign the contract, a technician will come on the scheduled date to adjust and seal your existing gutter system as necessary for the performance and support of the gutter guard.
- The Gutter Helmet technician will install the gutter guard and clean up any debris.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Maintenance and Cleaning
Whether you choose LeafFilter or Gutter Helmet for your home’s gutter protection needs, you should still plan on conducting regular gutter cleaning. Gutter guards reduce necessary gutter cleaning maintenance, but debris will still build up over time. No gutter guard can ensure clog-free gutters for the life of your home.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Warranty
Both LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet offer transferable lifetime warranties. You should carefully review the terms and conditions of each warranty before you decide which gutter guard to purchase. Both companies should provide additional warranty details with a written estimate.
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet Reviews
Many positive third-party customer reviews acknowledge LeafFilter’s effective gutter guard design. We’ve also come across more critical reviews that discuss pushy sales tactics and high initial estimates.
Gutter Helmet reviews vary among local dealers but generally express positive sentiments about the professionalism of company representatives. More negative reviews mention that Gutter Helmet’s gutter guard performs worse than expected.
LeafFilter Reviews
Here are a couple of recent LeafFilter reviews:
“I already had LeafFilter on three other gutters, but after a new roof install, I needed to remove a 20-year-old gutter topper and replace it. I was pleased with the LeafFilter I already had, so I decided to put it on the final stretch. I now know my house is protected from birds, debris, etc., and I do not have to hire anyone to clean them out again.” —Sandy Hastings via Trustpilot on June 20, 2023
“LeafFilter system of rain gutter guards appears to be made of quality material and installation by the installer only took one person one day for my three bedroom house plus a detached garage. I made a mistake and signed my contract without checking other prices and/or sources of rain gutter guards. My impression is that the LeafFilter agent didn’t have a standard price list per foot of gutter installed. Bottom line: I feel I paid significantly more than I should have. I requested to speak to a supervisor but got returned to my same agent.” —Jerry Jensen via TrustPilot on June 20, 2023
Gutter Helmet Reviews
Here are some recent Gutter Helmet reviews:
“[Gutter Helmet representative], the estimator for Gutter Helmet repairs, came to our house as promised and right on time. The minor repair was covered under our warranty when we purchased the system in 2017. The two installers fixed the problem on 8/2/2022. They were right on time and very professional. They also told us that we are entitled to an inspection and cleaning once a year which we were not aware of.” —Anthony L via Yelp on August 2, 2022
“I called the company when the rains started last fall to say the gutters were leaking over the porch. She told me they were at least 45 days behind and that was the last I heard from them. No follow up.” —Pat P via BBB on January 11, 2023
Our Recommendation
LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet both offer quality gutter guard solutions that include professional installation. Based on our research, we recommend micro-mesh gutter guards to maximize your home’s protection from heavy rain and debris. LeafFilter has one of the most heavy-duty micro-mesh solutions available, blocking many types of debris buildup. This gutter guard can even shed small debris such as grit from roof shingles and pine needles.
Gutter Guards FAQ
Are foam gutter guards a good option?
Compared to micro-mesh and reverse-curve gutter guard designs, foam gutter guards provide limited protection from debris and water damage. Heavy rainfall and sun exposure can deteriorate the foam material over time, so you should expect to replace it frequently.
Do gutter guards cause ice dams?
Most well-designed gutter guards should not contribute to ice dams when cleaned regularly.
How much does it cost for a professionally installed gutter guard?
Installation costs vary significantly for professional gutter guard installation. Many gutter guard companies offer free estimates that require an inspection of your home’s exterior.
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.