The Best Gutter Guards to Catch Leaves and Debris
Our top-picks will keep your gutters gunk-free.
Reviewed by Dan DiClericoHome Improvement & Outdoor Director
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Rather than dragging a ladder out from the garage and climbing to the roof to clean the gutters every few months, there is an easier solution for keeping your gutters unclogged and empty: gutter guards.
Rain, snow, wind and any sort of volatile weather can lead to excess water, leaves and debris that get trapped in your gutters, but installing gutter guards will help prevent anything from clogging your gutters and ultimately reduce the number of times you need to clean out your gutters. When the gutters become clogged, they don't allow for proper rainwater runoff, which can contribute to a whole host of problems, like roof leaks, basement water damage, mold growth and even a few unwelcome pests. Gutter guards will leave you with fewer issues down the line.
To find the best gutter guards, we extensively researched products, consulted with home improvement experts and considered online customer reviews and interviewed home improvement experts from the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab.
- Best Overall: A-M Gutter Guard Aluminum Gutter Guard
- Best Value: LeafFilter Gutter Guard Protection
- Best Micro Mesh: Raptor Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard Cover
- Best Plastic Grid: Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
- Best Metal Mesh: Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard
- Best Brush Insert: GutterBrush Gutter Insert
- Best Foam Insert: GutterFoam EZ Foam Filter Gutter Guard
- Best Color Options: FlexxPoint FlowGuard Premium 50-Year Gutter Cover System
Pros
- Lightweight but able to withstand intense downpour
- Material won't rot or rust
- Sleek design
Cons
- Expensive
Specifically designed to handle extreme downpours while keeping dirt, grime and debris out of gutters, these gutter guards' lightweight aluminum construction will stay rust- and rot-free. Though pricey, the sleek design allows them to easily blend in with your house, thanks to hidden hangers that make them less visible from the ground.
Several reviewers on Amazon said they're easy enough to DIY, although we advise hiring a professional for something as intricate as putting in gutter guards. "A very good product at a fair price and its excellent design is simple to install," one reviewer wrote. Another said, "The opportunity cost of not having to climb a ladder to clean the gutters and downspouts makes these an incredible value."
Type: Metal mesh screen | Material: Aluminum | Sizes: 5" or 6" widths in lengths of 23', 50', 100' or 200' | Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- GH Home Renovation Award winner
- Keeps both small and large debris out of gutters
- Stainless-steel framework is strong and stable
Cons
- Needs to be installed by a professional which can add to costs
A GH Home Renovation Award winner, LeafFilter's gutter protection impressed our Lab experts in testing. They were wowed by the stainless-steel construction that provided a strong stable framework, enhanced by hidden support hangers. Thanks to the micro-mesh material, water is drawn through the screen and can easily pass through into the gutters without chunks of leaves, pine needles, asphalt roof granules and more getting through.
“The installers were top-notch, professional, prompt and highly capable," one tester said. “My entire gutter system is doing a much better job managing rainwater, and I haven't had to clean the gutters or guards once in the four months since they went in.”
Since LeafFilter creates custom gutter protection, you can expect to pay between $10 to $35 per linear foot, an increase to the average cost of $2 to $35 per linear foot, since these custom guards need to be professionally installed and the price factors that in. That being said, having gutter guards provides security and solace in knowing that they are secured and will stay in place even in the most aggressive weather compared to an at-home DIY job with other brands.
Type: Micro-mesh surface-tension cover | Material: Stainless steel and uPVC | Sizes: Custom | Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Micro mesh is excellent at keeping out debris and catching rain
- Stainless steel is a sturdy and rust-resistant material
Cons
- May need to be adjusted based on your gutter measurements
These heavy-duty covers are great at blocking leaves, rocks, pine needles and other debris. The stainless steel is rust-resistant and less likely to bend and warp due to exposure to the elements. Micro mesh can be difficult to install on your own so you might have to shell out a few extra dollars to get them professionally installed.
With over 4,000 five-star ratings, this Amazon best-seller is a favorite for its sturdy build and streamlined look that prevents the covers from being an eyesore. "I am a contractor and these are the best quality and the best price I have found!" one reviewer wrote.
Meanwhile, another user said, "They are so rigid; they are easy to slide into tight-fitting areas. You will never have to replace them!" Though, others noted that they may need to be adjusted based on your gutter measurements.
Type: Micro-mesh cover | Material: Stainless steel and aluminum | Sizes: 5", 6" or 7" widths, with a length of 4' (12 sections) | Warranty: 25 years
Pros
- Ideal if you need a basic covering and live in a dry climate
- Easy DIY installation
- Inexpensive
- One roll covers up to 20 feet of gutters
Cons
- Typically needs to be replaced every few years
- Not good for areas with volatile weather
Plastic gutter guards can work well to keep gutters debris-free if you live in an area with an arid climate that doesn't experience much rain or snow or with little surrounding nature. Although plastic is flimsier than metal and isn't ideal if you find yourself constantly needing to clean out your gutters, it's a good choice if you're searching for something that's budget-friendly that acts as a basic barrier and doesn't need to withstand heavy debris like rocks, sticks, wet leaves and mud.
Plastic grid screens are often cheaper (one roll covers up to 20 feet of gutters) and simple to install, but they don't stay intact for more than a few years, which means you will need to replace them. Although some reviewers mentioned they didn't hold up well in extreme heat or cold, they did like that they were quick to install, budget-friendly and effective at keeping larger pieces of debris out of gutters. "The grid is not fine enough to keep out the small debris, but overall [they] work well and are very inexpensive," one customer wrote in the reviews.
Type: Plastic grid screen | Material: Plastic | Sizes: 6" width in 20' length | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Convenient "lock-in" installation
- Made with durable powder-coated steel
Cons
- Not great at keeping smaller pieces of debris out of gutters
If you often have to fish large leaves, sticks and branches out of your gutters (like, say, if you live in an area with a lot of large trees), metal mesh screens are an excellent way to protect your gutters. These powder-coated steel guards, which come in a pack of 25, are designed to slide under shingles and lock into the front lip of the gutter.
Although the mesh lets water pass and flow easily through the gutters, the sizable holes will allow smaller rubble to get through, which can lead to build-up — meaning these guards might not be the best choice if you deal with smaller pieces of debris on a regular basis. That said, Amazon reviewers liked that these feel sturdy and stay in place securely with no fastening. "They snap right into our gutters, have a rounded top to allow debris to roll off," said one reviewer.
Type: Metal mesh screen | Material: Steel | Sizes: Fits 4", 5" or 6" widths, in 3' length (25 sections per pack) | Warranty: 10 years
Pros
- Easy to install
- Prevents birds from building nests in gutters
Cons
- Expensive
Designed to slide in with no resistance or fastening, these brush inserts help stop gutter overflow by trapping leaves, dirt, weeds, mud and even ice in its thick bristles. Available in a variety of lengths from 6 feet up to 105 feet, they can simply be pulled out when they need to be cleaned and then easily reinserted to prevent clogging and extensive water damage.
While they are expensive, online reviewers loved how they not only prevent debris buildup, but how they also act as a repellent for animals. "These were easy to install and they keep our gutters clean. GutterBrush also keeps the birds from building nests inside our downspouts."
Type: Brush insert | Material: Galvanized steel wire and polypropylene bristles | Sizes: 5" width in lengths of 6', 15', 30', 45', 60', 75', 90' and 105' | Warranty: 10 years
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Easy to install
- UV-protected foam, according to brand
Cons
- Not suitable for very rainy and leafy areas
For an affordable option with the easiest installation, foam gutter guards are the way to go. These triangular blocks of foam are placed into gutters without any screws and can be cut to perfectly fit the length and width of your gutters. Water flows through the foam's pores, while the block of foam stops any leaves or debris from falling into the gutter.
GutterFoam says their inserts are designed with a UV-protected filter and a germicide to help maintain their quality over time and prevent bugs from living and breeding in the gutters. Plus, they're not visible from ground level, so you don't have to worry about them ruining the aesthetics of your home.
You'll have to climb up a ladder a bit more often with these gutter guards than with mesh-screen guards because leaves and debris are more likely to get trapped in these foam inserts. "Though the foam inserts can handle moderate rainfall and debris, if your home is surrounded by leafy trees and torrential downpours are common, you’ll be better off with another gutter guard," said Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab at the GH Institute.
Type: Foam block | Material: High-grade polyether outdoor foam | Sizes: 4", 5" or 6" widths with a 4' length | Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Permanently attached to the house
- Four color options
- Easy installation when following instructions, according to online reviewers
Cons
- Pricey
DiClerico recommended these durable gutter guards that are permanently fastened to the fascia board, a.k.a., the long board that runs below the lower edge of the roof. While the price may be on the higher end when you increase the length to fit around an entire home, the design of this model is effective and long-lasting: The three ridges keep leaves and debris elevated from the gutter guard's surface, allowing for more airflow and water to pass through.
Reviewers on Amazon reported that the installation was easy and the gutter guards lived up to their promises. "These guards keep the leaves out and even in a Midwest downpour, the gutters still handle all water," one online customer wrote. Choose from seven lengths and four color options (including white, brown, black and matte silver) to match the color scheme of your home's exterior and roofing.
Type: Metal mesh screen | Material: Aluminum | Sizes: 5" wide with length options of 22', 102', 125', 204', 510', 1,020' and 5,100' | Warranty: 50 years
How we choose the best gutter guards
When compiling our list of the best gutter guards, our experts considered the cost, material, type, durability, installation process and ideal regional location for each.
We researched the top-performing brands and favorites of our in-house home improvements experts. We also looked at previously tested picks or similar alternatives to top-tested products that received high marks online.
What to look for when shopping for the best gutter guards
When choosing the right gutter guards for your home, there are a few factors to keep in mind that will vary from person to person:
✔️ Installation: Although you can install most, if not all, gutter guards yourself, our Lab experts' advice is to hire a professional who is better equipped to handle the safety measures required to work on a roof. That being said, a lot of gutter guards come with step-by-step instructions so if you choose to do so, you have the option to DIY them yourself.
✔️ Cost: "Don’t spend top dollar on the best system on the market," recommended DiClerico. He said you can typically find a decent deal when it comes to the various types of gutter guards including installation fees. On average, homeowners spend $1,000 on the installation of gutter guards in addition to the gutter guards themselves. That’s assuming you'll use 200 linear feet of gutter, which is typical. "There is a wide range on either side of that average, from $200 for plastic DIY guards up to $5,000 or more for professionally installed metal covers," DiClerico said. Of course, if you have a multi-story home with steep pitches and complicated roof lines, you can expect to pay a lot more, anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. Keeping this average cost in mind allows you to make sure you're getting the best price when you get quotes from a professional.
✔️ Type and material: There are three main types of gutter guards: screens, inserts, and covers, and they can be made of different materials. Although it can be a personal decision, it's best to consult an expert to make sure you choose the right one for your home. Inserts usually slide in with little-to-no tools required, while screens and covers typically need to be locked, snapped or screwed in. These are some of the most common combinations:
- Plastic grid screens: These plastic screens with a grid design are usually the cheapest option, costing around $1 or less per foot. They're known for being easy to install and inexpensive, however they can be flimsy and prone to collapse in extreme weather conditions so they are best suited for environments with arid, nonvolatile weather patterns.
- Metal mesh screens: Made from sheets of aluminum or stainless steel with holes punched into it, metal mesh screens are an inexpensive option, costing around $2 to $4 per foot of material. They are great at trapping large pieces of debris, though seeds or granules from an asphalt roof can often get through the cracks and build up in the gutters. Since they are made with more durable materials compared to something more flexible like plastic grid screens, they are good at withstanding heavy rainfall, snow or ice.
- Micro-mesh screens: These steel or aluminum frames covered with a fine mesh screen are excellent at keeping debris out of the gutter while withstanding even the heaviest of rainfall. However, they can be a bit pricier than other options, costing around $10 per foot (usually $20 with installation), and can be more difficult to install (in other words, it's highly recommended to hire a pro).
- Gutter inserts: Although not a traditional choice, these brush or foam inserts slide in and sit inside the gutters, allowing water to pass through while trapping leaves, dirt and more. Generally about $3 to $4 per foot, these can be affordable and somewhat easy enough to install on your own. Keep in mind that you'll typically need to clean the inserts more frequently than traditional gutter guards.
- Surface-tension gutter covers: These metal covers have a curved front that allows water to drain into the gutter while debris flows over and off the roof. Like micro-mesh screens, they can cost around $10 per foot (usually $20 with installation), but they do a wonderful job at preventing debris from building up, although they aren't advisable for areas that receive heavy downpours. They usually require more screws and bolts to fit properly to the gutters, but as long as you're fine with paying a pro to do it for you, you should have no problem.
- Gutter-and-gutter guard combos: These high-performing systems not only look sleek on your house, but most times they are custom-made to fit your home perfectly. Although they can be quite expensive and usually require a professional to install, they are an excellent option if you live in an area with volatile weather and you need something that will stand up to it. For instance, if you reside in the Northwest, you can get great benefits from a custom system like this. Whereas if you're from the South, you can save your money and find something more affordable that better suits your needs.
Do gutter guards really work?
For most homes, yes. Gutter guards stop leaves, debris and more from clogging your gutters while allowing water to flow through the gutters and off your roof. Not only do gutter guards help with rain runoff, but they prevent birds and animals from burrowing in your gutters or building nests. They also help keep rainwater from leaking into your home's foundation, which can lead to structural issues, mold, flooding and more.
There are certainly different regions, like wet, heavily wooded areas, where it will be more of a necessity to have gutter guards installed than others. But no matter where you live, any home can benefit from the extra protection that gutter guards provide.
It's typically more cost-efficient to invest in gutter guards rather than paying for gutter cleaning, which can cost about $150 on average per session, and needs to be done at least two to three times a year. "The gutter system is one of the home’s most important protections. It keeps the water away. Gutter guards keep the whole system working at peak levels by preventing leaves and other debris from clogging the gutters and stopping rain water from flowing safely off the roof," said DiClerico. "Bottom line: Gutters protect your home. Gutter guards protect your gutters."
Do gutter guards need to be cleaned?
All gutter guards need to be cleaned eventually, but how often they need to be cleaned depends on the model. While the best systems (including micro-mesh screens) offer enough protection that you rarely need to clean them, DiClerico still recommended cleaning them once a year, especially if there are a lot of leaves and debris on your roof. Foam inserts are more budget-friendly, but you're sacrificing effectiveness and consequently, you'll have to clean them more often.
DiClerico advised cleaning the gutter guards by climbing up a ladder to clean the gutters by hand. Or if you want to keep your feet on the ground, some leaf blowers and pressure washers have special attachments for this.
Either way, you'll be cleaning your gutters less often than you would need to without gutter guards: "The whole point of putting in gutter guards is so that you don’t have to climb up on a ladder a few times a year to clear away leaves and other muck," DiClerico says.
Do gutters guards work in heavy rain and snow?
If you live in not-so-sunny climates, certain gutter guards will be better suited to withstand intense conditions. "Many mesh screen systems can handle extreme weather, especially those that are designed to be anchored to the fascia board," DiClerico said. On the other hand, he advised against snap-in guards and gutter inserts for homes that experience heavy rain and snow.
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Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The scientists and consumer product specialists in the Good Housekeeping Institute have been evaluating home improvement and outdoor products for decades, and we're committed to bringing you trustworthy and unbiased recommendations based on our experts' extensive knowledge and firsthand experience.
For over three years, Assistant Editor Annie O'Sullivan has written about gifts, holidays, home and more for Good Housekeeping. For this story, she relied on her own in-depth research and insight from online reviews to find the best gutter guards on the market. Assistant Commerce Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute Isabella Cavallo recently updated this article with more picks and information.
O'Sullivan and Cavallo consulted with Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab at the GH Institute, to write and update this story. He has over 20 years of experience writing product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership from routine maintenance to major renovations.
Annie O’Sullivan (she/her) covers holiday, gift guide, travel, and lifestyle content at Good Housekeeping. She has a degree in magazine journalism from Syracuse University and previously reported for Runner’s World, NBC New York/NY 4 and Woman’s Day. Annie also has experience writing entertainment news and celebrity-focused content.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
