7 Best Gutter Guards for Your Home in 2022

Gutter guards are designed to help protect against animals, large debris like sticks and leaves, and small debris like sand from clogging up your gutters. With a gutter guard in place, water can properly flow from the roof into the gutter system. Overall, gutter guards help protect the foundation of a home, and they keep you from having to be on a ladder to clean out your gutters. 

Choosing the right gutter guard for your home can be overwhelming. However, the importance of a great gutter guard is clear: If you want to keep your home gutter system functioning correctly, gutter guards are a must. Read our guide to learn more about the best gutter guards of 2022, how to choose the perfect one for your home, and what to look for. 

A gutter guard is placed in or on top of your existing gutters, and they’re usually made of metal, plastic, brush, or foam. Without gutter guards, it is likely that your gutters will get clogged with leaves, pine needles, dirt, sticks, and more. Without regular cleaning, this blockage can lead to water overflowing the gutters, pooling around your home’s base, and causing structural damage to your home’s foundation.

In order to avoid these costly issues, you should invest in a gutter guard system. Although with gutter guards you will likely have to do some routine upkeep on the gutters—like removing large sticks and leaves every few months—a mesh or micro-mesh gutter guard will allow water to seamlessly flow into the gutter and away from your home. Read on to learn more about the best gutter guards available.

Top 7 Best Gutter Guards of 2022

There are hundreds of gutter guard choices for homeowners. When reviewing these choices, we looked at everything from cost, to quality of the product, to gutter type, to installation, and much more. Here is how the top 7 gutter guards ranked in 2022. 

1. LeafFilter Gutter Guards: Best Professional Installation 
2. HomeCraft Gutter Protection: Best Design
3. All American Gutter Protection: Most Customizable 
4. MasterShield: Most Eco-Friendly
5. Raptor Gutter Guards: Best DIY Mesh 
6. Amerimax Lock In Gutter Guard: Easiest To Install 
7. Gutter Stuff Foam Gutter Guards: Best Foam

1. LeafFilter Gutter Guards

Key Features

• Steel gutter guard with micro-mesh technology
• Customizable sizing
• Guards are rustproof
• uPVC frame material
• A+ rating from BBB

LeafFilter Gutter Guards are the most well-known and trusted gutter guards in the industry. LeafFilter has been on the market for more than 16 years and has an A+ rating with the BBB. In addition, the LeafFilter Gutter Guards are available in 43 states across the country. The guard itself is a 275-micron steel mesh. The mesh material allows the LeafFilter gutter guards to keep out all debris and improve water flow. The material is so well designed that LeafFilter felt comfortable providing a lifetime transferable warranty with the product. 

All LeafFilter Gutter Guards are installed professionally. Local LeafFilter organizations across the country will come to your home to quote, assess any current gutter issues, and then install your new system within days. You can get pricing from the LeafFilter website or learn more about costs on our cost breakdown page. The process of getting your gutter guards on your home is quite simple when dealing with LeafFilter. For those ready to have a quality gutter guard experience, LeafFilter should be one of your top options to consider. 

LeafFilter Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Patented system

✓ Installed by professional

✓ Lifetime transferable warranty

✓ Durable and long-lasting design

✓ Quick installation process

✓ Gutters can be installed in addition to gutter guards

✓ A trusted name in the industry

Cons

X Must be professionally installed

What Customers Are Saying 

LeafFilter is accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating and 3.7 out of 5 stars based solely on customer reviews. LeafFilter boasts a 4.4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot based on 81,624 reviews as well.

The majority of LeafFilter’s customers are pleased with the installation process, the quality of the gutter guards, and the professionalism of contractors. Customers said that their LeafFilter gutter guards have prevented the buildup of debris in their gutters. Others have said that LeafFilter’s installation team arrived on time and installed the gutter guards without hassle. The most common complaint is about the pricing, which LeafFilters representatives often negotiate until the customer is satisfied with the cost.

To get a free quote from LeafFilter Gutter Guards, type in your zip code on its website.

Read our LeafFilter Gutter Guards review to learn more.

2. HomeCraft Gutter Protection

Key Features

• Durable 275-micron steel mesh,
• Patented system to help improve water flow 
• 304 marine-grade stainless steel
• Works for most kinds of roofs
• Lifetime transferable warranty

HomeCraft Gutter Protection offers the best-designed gutter guards on the market. HomeCraft gutter guards will work on anything from a shingle roof to a metal roof. Many metal roofs are incompatible with gutter guards, but HomeCraft has a system that will work. HomeCraft Gutter Protection has been around for about five years, and they are still growing and expanding. At the current time, you will have access to their product across five different states. These mesh gutter guards are great at keeping out all debris and ensuring there is no corrosion or rust on the guard itself. 

HomeCraft leaf guards come with a lifetime transferable warranty. The raised mesh design allows debris to sit up a little on the top of the guard while the water can flow through. For best results, you should keep your HomeCraft Gutter guards as clear as possible to ensure proper water flow.

HomeCraft Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Mesh gutter guards keep all debris out 

✓ Free estimates

✓ Will install gutters 

✓ It can use on all types of roofs 

✓ High-quality mesh material

Cons

X Need an appt to get a quote

X Only found in ten states

What Customers Are Saying

HomeCraft Gutter Protection has fairly high marks from customers across multiple customer review sites. From the BBB, HomeCraft has 3.7 out of 5 stars and an overall B rating. On Trustpilot, HomeCraft has 4.7 out of stars based on 100 customer reviews.

Most of HomeCrafts customers experienced interactions with very professional and knowledgeable sales representatives. Customers also say that HomeCraft gave them a fair quote for gutter guards, and has competitive pricing compared to some of the other top companies. Reviews typically say that the gutters have kept debris and pests out since installation, and the majority of customers are satisfied with their experience. Some reviews mention mixups involving scheduling or color selection, but HomeCraft communicated to resolve any outstanding issues.

To get a free quote from HomeCraft Gutter Protection, visit its website.

Read our HomeCraft Gutter Guards review to learn more.

3. All American Gutter Protection

Key Features

• High-quality stainless steel
• Lifetime warranty
• Gutter guards are rust-proof 
• Over 30 color options
• Aluminum frame material

All American Gutter Protection makes some of the most customizable gutter guards. This company offers professional installation, and they will make sure that the gutter guards they install will match the needs of your home exactly. With more than 20 years in the industry and a BBB rating of A+, All American Gutter Protection gutter guards have become one of the top sellers. All American Gutter Protection Guards feature an aluminum frame combined with a stainless steel micro-mesh. The aluminum material is lightweight, yet it helps to support and increase the strength of your current gutter system. With micro-mesh on top of the aluminum design, all large and small debris is kept out of the way. 

Another thing that helps All American Gutter Protection stand out is the lifetime warranty that comes with the product. In addition, there are often sales and promotions for the military and seniors. All American Gutter Protection could be a great fit if you want fair pricing but a high-quality product.  

All American Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Discounts for military and seniors

✓Stainless steel micro-mesh 

✓ Won’t bend, warp or break 

✓ Guaranteed for the life of the home

✓ High BBB Ratings

✓ Aluminum frame for longevity 

✓ Professional installation

Cons

X No option for DIY install 

X The website does not give that much information

What Customers Are Saying

All American Gutter Protection is a BBB accredited business with an A+ rating and 4.21 out of 5 stars based on 64 customer reviews. All American has closed all nine complaints it received in the last 12 months. On Trustpilot, All American has 3.7 out of 5 stars.

Many All American Customers say that their installation teams arrived on time and efficiently installed the guards. Some reviews say that even if their roof required more product or supply chain issues, All American stood by its original competitive quote. Other reviews claim that the professional installers were willing to come back to help customers solve any problems if they experienced leaking and were knowledgeable in answering any questions regarding ice dams, overflow, or costs. Some customers complained of scheduling mishaps, but the company resolved the issue promptly.

To get a free quote from All American Gutter Protection, fill out this form.

Read our All American Gutter Guards review to learn more.

4. MasterShield Gutter Guard

Key Features

• Pitched design 
• Lifetime warranty
• Over 30 color options
• Made from recycled materials

MasterShield’s Gutter Guards have the best design on the market. The founder and inventor of the MasterShield Gutter Guard is the same person that invented the micro-mesh design years ago. With some improvements on this original design and increased technology, the MasterShield gutter guard has come a long way. The first thing that will stand out about the MasterShield gutter guard is the slope of the guard. This gutter guard is not installed directly on top of the gutter and is instead installed at an angle, the same as the roof’s pitch. The MasterShield Gutter Guard allows water to collect in the gutter, but it does not keep debris sitting on top of the guard. 

If you really want to ensure very little time is spent cleaning your gutters or roof, the MasterShield is a smart option to consider. There are more than 30 colors available with the MasterShield guard to ensure that the look will match your home. In addition, there is a filter installed in the mesh that helps to encourage even the smallest shingle debris to drain from your roof properly.

Mastershield Pros and Cons

Pros

✓ Pitched angle design to allow for better flow of debris

✓ It comes with a filter for better water flow

✓ Professional installation 

✓ Eco-friendly product

✓ Available from many dealers throughout the country 

Cons

X The filter can get clogged at times

X Higher priced gutter guards 

X Expensive installation

What Customers Are Saying

MasterShield Gutter Protection is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau but has 3 out of 5 stars on the site. MasterShield is not a commonly used or reviewed website, so there is a lack of written customer reviews on the internet. Of the few reviews, one customer said that her MasterShield products weathered a couple of heavy storms and performed beautifully. Some of the more frequent complaints say that MasterShield was a bit more difficult to schedule with than other providers, and often required multiple communication efforts to get problems fixed.

Read our MasterShield Gutter Guards review to learn more.

Best DIY Gutter Guards

There are dozens of DIY gutter guards to choose from. We analyzed each of these gutter guards’ cost, availability, features, effectiveness, durability, warranty, and more. Here’s how our best DIY gutter guards ranked: 

5. Raptor Gutter Guards

Key Features

•  25-year warranty 
• Rustproof gutter guards
• Three sizes available (5, 6, or 7 inches)
• Stainless steel material
• Any homeowner can install

Most gutter guards on the market that have a mesh material are installed by professionals. This is because some mesh gutter guard installations can be a bit more complicated; however, the Raptor Gutter Guards can give homeowners that professional installation quality while allowing them to save quite a bit of money on the installation of the product. The Raptor Gutter guards have a very impressive filtering ability. You can purchase these guards in a few different sizes so that they will match your current gutters. The heavy-duty materials are relatively easy to work with, and they will last for a very long time. One of the things to be aware of when installing your own gutter guards is the presence of a warranty. Some companies will void all warranties if the installation is done by anyone but a professional. However, with the Raptor Guards, you get a 25-year warranty, and they even give you the self-tapping screws necessary to put this gutter guard to work. 

Raptor Pros and Cons

Pros

✓ Different size options 

✓ Micro-mesh material blocks debris

✓ Heavy-duty materials 

✓ Product provided with self-tapping screws

✓ Corrosion-resistant 

✓ Easy to install 

Cons

X Higher priced than some other DIY gutter guards 

What Customers Are Saying

Of 3,723 total reviews on Amazon, the Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Raptor Gutter Guard has an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Although many reviews say that the product is more expensive than other DIY options, they say that the overall quality is excellent. Many customers were satisfied with the product as it came with the correct instructions, extra screws, and the proper drill bit head. The main complaint is that for some people, the holes in the gutter guards were too small that during really heavy rains water couldn’t pass through quick enough and would overflow.

To see the current pricing of this Raptor gutter guard, look on Amazon.

6. Amerimax Lock In Gutter Guard

Key Features

• Made of powder-coated steel
• 4, 5, and 6-inch options
• Available in packs of 1-25
• 10-year warranty
• Rustproof

Amerimax Lock In Gutter Guard is the easiest to install. This is a mesh gutter guard with durable powder-coated steel. If you are a new homeowner looking for a quick and affordable way to have your gutter system work effectively, then Amerimax Lock-In could be a perfect installation option. The lock-in part of the gutter guard is very easy to learn, and you can make quick work once you see how the system works. The guard will slide under the first row of shingles without lifting them up, and then it will lock into the gutters themselves. Amerimax is compatible with the 4, 5, or 6 inch K Style Gutters. Although you will have to be in charge of installing AmeriMax Lock-In Gutter Guards, the 10-year limited warranty on this product is a nice feature. Most DIY gutter guards have little or no warranty. However, Amerimax knows this will be a relatively easy project to install, and they are comfortable offering a strong warranty.

Amerimax Pros and Cons

Pros

✓ Made in the USA

✓ It comes in a neutral color to blend in 

✓ Very simple installation process

✓ Easy to work in corners and shorter areas 

✓ Mesh pattern keeps a good amount of material out of the gutters 

✓ About 75 feet of product in each package

Cons

X Not as durable as other gutter guards 

X Mesh is not as effective as the micro-mesh

What Customers Are Saying

The Amerimax Home Products 636025 Lock-In Gutter Guard has an average of 4.5 stars based on 1,157 total reviews. The guard scored a 4.8 on instruction quality, 4.7 for sturdiness, and 4.6 on value for money. Many customers say that the installation was relatively easy as they do not require fasteners or tools and that it is a great option for the affordable price point.

To see the current pricing of Amerimax Lock In Gutter Guards, look on Amazon.

7. Gutter Stuff Foam Gutter Guards

Key Features

• 15 years of proven performance
• Easy installation
• 5-year warranty
• 4, 5, or 6-inch width options
• 32, 96, 144, or 192-foot length options.

GutterStuff Foam Gutter Guards are the best foam gutter guards on the market. The foam material will allow debris to sit on top and water to flow through. A key highlight about foam gutter guards is that they are very easy to work with and install. This is an option that you won’t need a professional for. The GutterStuff Gutter Guards allow you to cut the gutter guards into pieces and put them in the gutter where necessary. The sizing and measuring of this project are straightforward. The concept here is that when the foam gutter guard is in the gutter, only water will be able to pass through the foam and into the gutter; all other debris stays on top. It should be noted that foam gutters typically don’t last as long as micro-mesh gutter guards simply because of the material type. The GutterStuff Foam Gutters do come with a UV Protectant to help decrease deterioration over time. 

GutterStuff Pros and Cons

Pros

✓ UV Protectant

✓ It fits directly in the gutter

✓ Easily to clean debris off the top 

✓ Simply trim pieces to fit in the gutter

✓ Foam will not attract bacteria or water pooling 

✓ Fastest installation of DIY gutter guards 

Cons

X Not the best choice in a heavy downpour 

X Some of the debris can stick in the foam, and you will need to pick it out by hand

What Customers Are Saying

The GutterStuff GSP-K5-8box-VC Foam Gutter Insert has an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 93 global Amazon reviews. The gutter guard received the highest marks on ease to install, which is 4.7 out of 5 stars. Most satisfied customers say that the GutterStuff guards are very easy to install as the instructions are clear and understandable. In terms of effectiveness, many reviews say they get the job done. However, the main complaint is that large debris will still pile up on top of the foam. It’s best recommended that you don’t get this gutter guard if you live in an area with a lot of trees.

To see pricing for GutterStuff Foam Gutter Guards, look on Amazon.

Types of Gutter Guards

There are several different types of gutter guards, each with varying levels of durability, installation difficulty, and overall structure.

Screen Gutter Guards

The screen gutter guards are known for blocking out a great deal of debris and leaving it to sit directly on top of the gutter itself. Screen gutter guards allow for excellent water flow but sometimes let small particles into the gutters. 

Screen gutter guards are best for homeowners that deal with minimal debris but very heavy rainfall. The size of the water collection holes in the screen is larger than they are for other options on the market. 

Mesh Screen Guard Guards

Mesh gutter guards take the idea of a screen concept and make it just a bit better. Where screens have large holes that are relatively well-spaced apart, a mesh gutter guard has a more condensed pattern allowing for even more debris blockage. 

The mesh gutter guards are typically stainless steel material that will not rust, bend or warp over time. Most of the top gutter leaf guard providers in 2022 will offer some mesh or micro-mesh gutter guard. 

Micro-Mesh Screen Gutter Guards

Micro-mesh is typically considered the best gutter guard option on the market. The micro-mesh keeps out almost all debris but still allows for proper water flow off the roof. The micro-mesh materials are durable and often have channels to allow the water to pool up on the guard and eventually seep in. 

Some micro-mesh gutter guards are known to be able to keep particles as small as shingle dust from entering the guard itself. Micro-mesh gutter guards typically come at the highest price, but they have the most functionality.  

Reverse Curve/Surface Tension Helmets

Reverse curve gutter guards are installed at the same pitch as the roof, yet they have a unique pattern that tries to grab water before it slides off the roof. The reverse curve or surface tension gutter guards use gravity to collect as much water as possible while letting debris fall off naturally. 

The only problem with the reverse curve gutter guards is that they can sometimes need an installation that requires lifting a row of shingles. This is something that a professional needs to do to ensure there are no additional issues. 

Foam Inserts

The foam gutter guard is essentially a piece of foam that sticks in your gutters. The foam has a flat top, and it will keep debris from entering the gutter. The foam material allows water to flow into the gutter. 

The foam gutter guards are very easy to install, and they do a great job of collecting debris on top of the gutter instead of letting it fall in. We see foam gutter guards’ issue is that they tend to deteriorate faster than a micro-mesh material. 

Brush Gutter Guards

A brush gutter guard looks like a bristle-type brush that sits in a gutter. The brushes keep large debris out while still allowing for water flow. Overall the brush design is effective when there is heavy rain, but it does require you to clean your gutters much more often. 

Most of the brush designs on the market will be DIY-friendly and something that you can do in just an afternoon of time. Brush gutter guards also tend to be a bit more affordable because of the simplicity of the overall design.

Find the Best Gutter Guard Pro in Your City

Compare the Best Gutter Guard Companies

How to Choose the Best Gutter Guards For Your Home

Quality of the guard

The quality of the leaf gutter guard is probably the most critical factor to consider when purchasing gutter guards for your home. The idea is to choose an option that is going to last for many years. In fact, some of the best gutter guards on the market have a lifetime warranty. 

Gutter guards will be exposed to rain, water, snow, and even sunlight which can eventually lead to them breaking down or deteriorating. Ensure that the material, design, and overall type of gutter guard are of the highest quality possible within your budget. 

Price Point

The pricing of gutter guards is typically calculated based on the linear footage of gutters that are necessary to wrap around the entire home. The micro-mesh gutter guards tend to be the most expensive as they are also the most effective. 

If you are having a professional installation of gutter guards, expect that the price is going to vary depending on where you are located, the height of your roof, and the number of gutters that you already have installed on your home. 

Installation difficulty

As you have seen from our list of the best gutter guards of 2022, DIY options and professional installation options are available to homeowners. The DIY options typically require the use of a hammer, ladder, and basic tools. 

For the DIY options, make sure that you have some experience with DIY projects in the past. It takes time to master the concept of being on a ladder and using your hands to install a product. If you are not entirely comfortable with this, get a quote for professional installation. The overall process when it comes to professional installation is quite fast. 

Visual appeal

Most gutter guards are designed so that you cannot see them from the ground. However, there are some pitched or very visible slope options. If you install a gutter guard that does not match your roof or your home, it will be very noticeable. 

Look for companies that have different color options to ensure a match with your home. Overall the visual appeal of gutters and gutter guards should have an impact on the decision that you make. 

Gutter Coverage

When determining the necessary gutter coverage, accurate measurements of the linear footage of gutters need to be considered. Customers need to consider the different size options that gutter guards come in as well as the number of feet needed to protect the entire home. 

It is best to have an in-person estimate to ensure that you have an accurate idea of how much gutter coverage you will need. If you are not good at measuring gutters, you can have a professional come out and see which of these gutter coverage choices could be best for you. 

Warranty Options

Warranty options for gutter guards vary widely. Some will come with no warranty at all, and others will have a lifetime transferable warranty. Transferring a warranty to a new home buyer offers some great value and allows homeowners to feel as though they got their money’s worth when purchasing the gutter. 

Warranties are typically going to cover the cost of replacement if your gutter guard starts to deteriorate, rust, or corrode. 

Material

The material of your gutter guards is going to make a difference as well. As you have probably noticed stainless steel materials are quite popular because of their longevity. However, there are other options and choices on the market. 

• Stainless steel – stainless steel gutter guards are one of the most durable materials that gutter guards come in. Gutter guards that come with lifetime warranties are often going to have a lifetime warranty. 
• Copper – copper materials can have a higher quality look, and they are great for holding up in all weather conditions. The copper material is usually priced very high, and not all gutter installation companies will offer this. 
• Aluminum – many of the stainless steel gutter guards have a combination of aluminum and stainless steel. The aluminum materials are known to not bend, warp or break through the years. 
• Plastics – in years past, gutter guards were often made with plastic materials; however, more companies have moved towards stainless steel. Plastics tend to crack after very long exposure. 
• Foam – Foam gutter guards are typically easy to work with from an installation standpoint but not as durable long term. Foam gutter guards usually come with some kind of UV Protection to ensure they don’t deteriorate from the sun.

Advantages of Using Gutter Guards

Keeping large debris 

Anything from pine cones to pine needles to large leaves can get stuck in your gutters. When these items get stuck in your gutter system, not only do they block water flow, they also start to deteriorate and cause more long-term issues inside the gutter.

Deterring rodents and insects

If you are not careful, rodents and insects can turn your gutter system into a home. When your gutters have debris in them, they may also have standing water. This standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitos and other insects. Gutter guards will help prevent this from happening. 

Better drainage

Gutter guards allow for the proper water drainage from the roof. If your gutters are clogged, water will flow over the gutters and pool around the home’s foundation. The problem with this is that the foundation can eventually deteriorate and experience issues over time. 

Less gutter maintenance/cleaning

Getting up on a ladder and cleaning your gutter is a chore that no one enjoys. In addition, the process of cleaning and maintaining gutters can be hazardous. There are many injuries each year from homeowners that fall from a ladder during this process. 

Recommendations & Final Thoughts

Although out of all of the gutter guard options on our list, the LeafFilter gutter guards stand out as the best overall option. The LeafFilter Gutter Guards have been on the market for more than 15 years, and they have a very strong warranty that comes along with the product. In addition to having an A+ rating with the BBB, the quality of the LeafFilter product is excellent. 

LeafFilter gutter guards feature a mesh material that helps to keep all debris from entering into the gutter. The more you can keep out of the gutters, the better the water flow will be. LeafFilter is very responsive to your request for a quote and will have the installation completed in just a few days.

Hopefully, you now feel as though you can choose a gutter guard for your home and feel like you made the right decision. We know that it can be confusing to sort through all of these different options and come up with the best choice, but in the end, you will be glad you did the initial research. Choosing a high-quality and long-lasting gutter guard will help keep you safe and ensure that your home stays in great shape. 

Although the LeafFilter Gutter Guards sit at the top of our list, getting quotes from several companies makes sense. Comparing pricing and availability in your area will help give you some options, and in the end, you will be able to work out the best deal for your gutter guards. The best gutter guards in 2022 all offer excellent longevity and durability and are a great addition to any home. 

Gutter Guard Company Ranking and Review Methodology

At House Method, transparency and trust are our most important values for the reader. We’ve done the homework for you and have researched over 50 gutter guards so you can have the information you need to make the best choice for your home. That’s why we took the time to create an objective rating system and score each gutter guard and gutter guard provider companies according to our methodology.

We also dug into the details of each gutter guard to ensure that you could make the best decisions for your home and keep your gutters debris-free for years to come.

To make the most of our research, we developed a formula to objectively determine the best gutter guards based on the following criteria:

• National coverage – If applicable, How many states does the company cover? We found the number of states covered by each company.
• Customer service: How is the customer experience when calling the providers? Based on our phone calls, we were able to judge each company’s customer service.
• Trust: What do customers rate the company? We looked into what customers are saying about their experience with the company.
• Unique perks: Does the company offer discounts or cover special items? We looked for perks offered by each company that sets them apart from the competition.
• Warranty terms – We looked into the warranty of lifetime warranty terms if it is offered by the provider. 
• Construction materials – What is the gutter guard made out of? What are the extra parts needed? We found what each company’s guards are made from and how they are installed.
• Installation process – Does the company do in-person estimates? What are customer experiences when professionals install the gutter guards? We looked into how the installation process works for each provider.
• Cost – How reasonable are prices in comparison to the industry average? We compared the costs of each company to competitors.
• Buying process – if the gutter guard is a DIY installation, how easy is the buying process? We looked for shipping costs and shipping time, as well as where the product can be bought from.