Based on our hands-on testing of the LeafFilter micro-mesh system and extensive research of LeafGuard — including customer review analysis, discussion with representatives and reading its warranty — we chose LeafFilter ahead of LeafGuard as the best gutter guard for most homeowners.
LeafFilter’s advanced micro-mesh technology, ease of installation and excellent customer support gave it the edge. LeafGuard’s unique one-piece design offers excellent protection, but LeafFilter’s versatility and superior filtration earned the nod from the Homefront team.
To arrive at this decision, we reviewed the features, performance, cost and customer satisfaction of both gutter guard providers.
LeafGuard vs. LeafFilter: Our quick take
LeafFilter’s micro-mesh gutter guard filtered out even small debris during our testing while allowing water to flow freely. Its compatibility with many gutter types and simple installation make it a favorite with homeowners seeking a hassle-free experience with their gutter guards.
LeafGuard’s seamless, reverse-curve gutter guards allow water to flow over the edge while preventing debris buildup. The gutter and gutter guard are also one contiguous piece, meaning you’ll have to remove your existing gutters for installation.
The table below shows how the two providers stack up in various categories. Note that LeafGuard offers aluminum gutter guards and LeafFilter offers uPVC guards. The cost data below is from our October 2023 gutter guard survey.
| Category | LeafGuard | LeafFilter |
|---|---|---|
| Our score (out of 5) | 4.3 | 4.7 |
| Material options | Aluminum | uPVC/vinyl |
| BBB rating | A+ | A+ |
| State availability | 38 states | 47 states |
| Cost | $20 per linear foot | $22 per linear foot |
LeafGuard vs. LeafFilter: What services do they offer?
LeafGuard and LeafFilter both offer gutter protection systems designed to prevent the buildup of debris such as leaves, pine needles and pests — and to ensure the free flow of rainwater.
They differ in fundamental design. LeafGuard has a reverse-curve design that causes falling debris to slide off the guard using water surface tension. LeafFilter employs a layer of stainless steel micro-mesh, supported by a uPVC frame, to prevent debris from falling into the gutters.
LeafGuard services
LeafGuard’s gutter protection system includes a built-in hood that prevents clogs and reduces the need for regularly scheduled cleaning. Its services include the following:
- On-site inspection and custom fabrication
- Disassembly and removal of old gutters
- Installation by trained technicians
- Measurement to ensure a perfect fit
- Free cleaning under the company’s lifetime “no-clog guarantee”
LeafFilter services
LeafFilter’s gutter guards comprise a three-part system: its 275-micron stainless steel micro-mesh screen, a uPVC frame, and hidden structural hangers. LeafFilter’s services include the following:
- On-site cost estimation for installation after inspection
- In-depth analysis of your gutter guard needs, including inspection of downspouts and current gutters
- Assessment of potential high-debris areas to determine need for full or partial installation
- Installation by trained technicians
- Removal of ineffective gutter guards and installation of new gutters if necessary
LeafGuard vs. LeafFilter cost: Which has the better value?
As with any home improvement or maintenance project, the cost of gutter guards can vary widely based on your roof’s size, the materials used, the brand you select and whether you choose professional installation or the DIY route.
LeafFilter and LeafGuard are the only two gutter guard companies whose systems cost more than an average of $4,000 for a 200-foot installation, based on our October 2023 survey of 865 homeowners who had gutter guards professionally installed.
Overall, we found LeafFilter provides a better value despite its slightly higher price due to its more effective filtration system.
LeafGuard cost
Our survey found that LeafGuard costs $4,014 to install on 200 feet of gutter. That breaks down to $20.07 per linear foot.
LeafGuard requires professional installation, which accounts for much of the price. Cleanup and disposal are also factored in. Additionally, existing gutter systems must be disassembled and replaced by new gutters that are custom-shaped and sized on-site. So you’re really paying for new gutter guards and gutters in one invoice.
LeafGuard’s lifetime clog-free guarantee promises free gutter cleaning in the event of clogged gutters.
LeafFilter cost
LeafFilter cost was the highest of the providers we reviewed, costing $4,484 for a 200-foot installation, according to our survey. That equates to $22.42 per linear foot.
Like many providers’ guards, LeafFilter’s guards can be installed directly on your current gutters. LeafGuard, on the other hand, requires you to replace your whole gutter system. So, keep in mind that LeafFilter’s higher installation cost does not include gutter replacement, while LeafGuard’s does.
Still, the greater expense of LeafFilter can be justified by its ability to filter fine particles, including pollen, shingle grit and dirt.
LeafGuard vs. LeafFilter: What do customers say?
LeafFilter’s Better Business Bureau consumer rating is better than LeafGuard’s. However, it’s common to see unfavorable sentiments on consumer review sites, as they usually reflect a vocal minority.
LeafGuard customer reviews
LeafGuard owns a BBB rating of A+, but BBB consumer reviewers rate the company 1.5 out of 5 stars.
LeafGuard customers appreciate the product’s durability and effectiveness in preventing clogs. Many favorable reviews cite reduced frequency of maintenance and the satisfaction of knowing their gutters are protected year-round.
In a 5-star BBB review posted in October 2023, David praised LeafGuard’s installation process and the crew. The same consumer said LeafGuard met its warranty obligations twice — once because of a leak and once because of warping.
On the other hand, many unfavorable BBB reviews cite high-pressure sales tactics as a turnoff. In a 1-star review posted in February 2024, Regina M. wrote, “The whole business is built on aggressive sales that prey on new homeowners just trying to protect their home, and older folks not wanting to go on their roofs but also want to maintain their home.”
LeafFilter customer reviews
LeafFilter holds an A+ BBB rating and a BBB consumer review rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars.
Most favorable customer reviews praise customer service and workmanship. Unfavorable reviews cite high prices, unreliable workmanship and high-pressure sales tactics.
In a 5-star BBB review posted in June 2024, Jason praised the skill of the installation crew: “The precision of the cuts and joints were seamless. There were no visible gaps or seams anywhere. They tacked down the downspouts at the height I wanted and filled all the joints with silicone. They worked their tails off in the heat and cleaned up even better than it was before they arrived.”
In a 3-star review posted in June 2024, Scott wrote that “The salesman did not inspect preexisting gutters and overcharged for an estimate which was later reduced by someone up the chain.”
LeafGuard vs. LeafFilter: What about their warranties?
Both companies offer lifetime transferable warranties. This means the warranty lasts for the lifetime of your home and transfers to new owners if you decide to move. Also, both guarantee their product will prevent gutter clogs.
LeafGuard warranty
LeafGuard’s warranty states that as long as the surfaces of its gutter guard system are installed correctly and all cleaning methods have been applied properly, the product will not experience any of the following:
- Blistering
- Chipping
- Cracking
- Flaking
- Peeling
- Red rust
- Rotting
- Splitting
- Structural deterioration
While the warranty is transferable, a change in ownership reverts the warranty length to 50 years from the installation date. The warranty does not cover the following:
- Mold or mildew
- Normal weathering
- Physical abuse or misuse
- Structural failures
- Vandalism or accidental damage
- Weather damage
LeafGuard offers relief in the form of repainting, replacement or repairing its product, where applicable.
LeafFilter warranty
LeafFilter’s “no-clog guarantee” is connected with its lifetime warranty. If LeafGuard’s system ever allows your gutters to become clogged and overflow, the company will provide a replacement or refund 100% of your material purchase price.
The warranty does not cover the following:
- Damage related to ice dams
- Damage related to plant life or weather
- Damage to your gutters or fascia board
- Roof substrate
The homeowner is responsible for reporting any covered damage to LeafFilter in a timely manner. Defects or suspected defects must be reported in writing to your local LeafFilter retailer. The retailer might request additional information, such as photographs or a field inspection.
Final take: Is LeafFilter or LeafGuard better for you?
We recommend LeafFilter over LeafGuard for most consumers. LeafFilter offers a versatile, highly effective gutter protection system. Our research shows that it provides technologically superior gutter protection, and many customers praise the professionalism of installers and customer service representatives.
LeafGuard is a solid option if you prefer a seamless, one-piece design and a transferable lifetime warranty with fewer limitations.
Our rating methodology for gutter guards
The Homefront team incorporates our carefully developed methodology to rate professional gutter guard providers and do-it-yourself (DIY) products. We research and test gutter guards, interview industry experts and speak with company representatives to provide the information you need to make an informed decision before investing in gutter guards.
We assess professional gutter guard installation companies on construction materials and appearance, services and installation methods, cost, communication and customer service. We rate DIY gutter guard products on similar factors while emphasizing our product testing results.
We synthesize this information into review standards focusing on key aspects of the gutter guard buying experience and scoring each company out of 100. This score translates to the 5-star rating you see in our reviews.
BBB ratings are accurate as of July 2024.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.
Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.
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