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Highlights
- The average cost to install LeafFilter gutter guards is $2,700 to $6,800.
- LeafFilter installation costs may vary depending on the number of guards installed, how accessible the gutters are, gutter repair or replacement needs, labor rates, and more.
- Installing LeafFilter gutter guards can reduce annual maintenance costs over time, prevent debris from blocking gutters, and lessen the chance for water to damage the roof or foundation.
- Many homeowners are comfortable cleaning out their gutters, but when it’s time to stop doing the yearly chore, then a pro LeafFilter installer can get a home’s gutters protected for years to come.
LeafFilter is a gutter guard company that offers a patented three-piece gutter guard system that keeps leaves, sticks, shingle grit, and other debris from falling into the gutters and blocking the flow of water. This system lets water penetrate the gutter guard screen freely from the roof, into the gutters, through the downspouts, and away from the home.
The answer to “How much does LeafFilter cost?” depends on a number of factors such as total number of gutter guards needed, how accessible the gutters are, labor rates, and the pitch of the roof. HomeGuide reports that LeafFilter systems typically cost between $2,700 and $6,800 for materials and labor.
According to Mike Gori, VP of product development, research, and development at Leaf Home Solutions, “LeafFilter offers free, at-home estimates to provide an accurate cost based on the size and complexity of an individual’s project. Factors such as home size/shape/style, as well as the condition of the current gutters, are all taken into consideration when giving a cost estimate. We also offer financing and discounts for seniors and military personnel.”
Factors in Calculating LeafFilter Cost
Material and installation costs will depend on a variety of factors, specifically the gutter size and number of linear feet, which will determine the amount of material needed to complete the installation. Other factors include gutter accessibility, whether the home requires a full or partial install, the roof shape and pitch, and the amount of labor required.
Understanding what drives LeafFilter costs will help homeowners understand the LeafFilter price when they receive the estimate and possibly help prepare them to negotiate the price with the company. Homeowners interested in choosing the best gutter guards will want to consider several common factors and their associated costs.
Gutter Size and Material
LeafFilter estimates are based on the linear feet of existing gutters and the amount of material needed. Before the gutter guards are installed, a homeowner will receive a customized estimate that, in many cases, is negotiable. LeafFilter cost per foot is based on the number of linear feet of material needed. The cost per linear foot is typically between $18 and $45, but the final estimate will be based on other factors as well.
Gutter Accessibility
Since labor is part of the average cost of LeafFilter, gutter accessibility will factor into the final price. Gutters on multistory homes, steeply pitched roofs, or homes with complex roof lines are often less accessible than gutters on simple gable-style roofs. That means they will likely cost more to install due to the additional labor it will take to get them in place properly.
Full vs. Partial Install
Depending on the layout of the home and where debris tends to build up, LeafFilter experts may recommend installing the LeafFilter gutter protection system only in certain areas. A full install on every gutter around the house is more expensive than a partial install. If homeowners have a specific budget in mind, they can ask the LeafFilter expert if there are areas they should target rather than installing the system on the entire home.
Roof Shape and Pitch
The shape and pitch of the roof will impact the cost of LeafFilter installation. For homes with complex roof lines, installers will need to make more cuts, which will result in more time to install the system. Homes with steeply pitched roofs will also require more time and labor for the LeafFilter installers to attach the system safely. Additionally, difficult roofline projects will typically require more equipment to ensure the safety of the installers, which could increase the cost due to the risk.
Labor
When homeowners get a LeafFilter estimate, the labor to install the system will be included in the estimate rather than as a separate line item with an hourly rate. Labor costs will go up depending on the condition of the existing gutters, the complexity of the installation, and the size of the house. A successful LeafFilter installation requires that the existing gutters be in good condition to allow for a good attachment with the system.
If the existing gutters need to be replaced, a LeafFilter pro can usually do the job. Gutter installation costs average about $622 to $1,677. New gutters will increase the overall cost of the project due to the extra materials and labor. For complex installations or a large home, the cost of labor can increase based on the additional time it takes to install the system.
Additional Costs and Considerations
In addition to the actual cost of labor and materials associated with LeafFilter installation, homeowners may need to consider other cost aspects such as discounts offered by the company, financing options, gutter repair or replacement for damaged or old gutters, downspout extensions and screens, gutter heaters, and tree trimming.
Discounts and Financing
LeafFilter offers a 10 percent discount for active and retired military personnel, and this can be used in conjunction with any of its other offers. The company also offers a 10 percent discount for seniors 65 and older.
If homeowners don’t have the cash on hand to pay for gutter guard installation, they may be able to work with their mortgage company to take out a home equity loan, or they may want to shop around for a home improvement loan that will allow them to finance the cost of the gutter guards.
LeafFilter gutters can be financed through the company with a Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card. The card typically has an introductory offer for qualified borrowers, such as 0 percent financing for 24 months. At the end of the promotional period, the lender will charge interest for purchases, so homeowners who choose this financing option will want to make sure they try to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends.
Gutter Repair or Replacement
If the existing gutters are worn out or damaged, homeowners may need to ask about gutter replacement or gutter repair cost before installing a new LeafFilter system. The house may also need soffit or fascia repair to ensure the LeafFilter system can be installed properly. Taking care of these repairs will increase the overall cost of LeafFilter installation, but it helps ensure the system works as it should. Homeowners may also want to hire one of the best gutter cleaning services such as Window Genie or Men in Kilts prior to installing LeafFilter.
| Gutter Service | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Fascia repair | $600 to $6,000 |
| Gutter cleaning | $119 to $228 |
| Gutter repair | $193 to $620 |
| New gutter installation | $622 to $1,677 |
| Roof tail repair | $300 to $3,000 |
Downspout Extensions and Screens
Downspout extensions are attached to the bottom of a downspout to direct water farther away from the home’s foundation. They cost between $5 and $20 per linear foot to install, making them a cost-effective way to help control the flow of water and protect the home’s foundation.
Downspout screens fit into or over the hole of the downspout and prevent debris from funneling into the downspout where it could get lodged and cause a water dam. Because they’re not part of the LeafFilter system downspout screens will need to be purchased separately. They typically cost about $8 each depending on the style.
Gutter Heaters
In areas that experience colder weather, ice dams can form in gutters that are clogged or poorly maintained. Ice dams are ridges of ice that form on the edge of the roof as snow thaws and refreezes throughout the day. When an ice dam occurs, it prevents melting snow from properly draining off the roof.
The ice can build up under the shingles and cause significant damage to the attic, walls, and ceiling of the building when it melts. A solution for homeowners is to install gutter heaters, which are actually just heat cables installed in the gutter to melt some of the ice buildup. This system can cost between $500 and $1,300.
Tree Trimming
One way to keep debris off the roof is to trim back any tree branches that hang near the home, dropping leaves, seeds, and sticks onto the roof. Tree trimming costs an average of $200 to $760; this cost can vary based on the size of the tree and its condition, accessibility, and the time of year.
Benefits of Choosing LeafFilter Gutter Guards
Without gutter guards, gutters will need to be cleaned once or twice per year. If they become clogged, water can back up and leak into the soffit, fascia, walls, and foundation of the home. Gutter guards are worth it since they can help homeowners avoid costly repairs to their house due to water damage. LeafFilter gutter guards are ideal for easy gutter maintenance with a low-profile design that prevents debris from building up and blocking water from draining.
Lifetime Transferable Warranty
The LeafFilter warranty guarantees that its LeafFilter Gutter Protection System will keep gutters free of debris. On the off chance the gutters do clog with debris and subsequently fill with water, causing interior water damage to the home, the warranty states that the manufacturer will repair the problem or refund 100 percent of the material purchase price for all LeafFilter material installed on the home. The warranty is also transferable to the next homeowner.
As Gori explains, “Being the world’s largest service provider of gutter protection has allowed LeafFilter to offer consumers a limited lifetime transferable warranty.”
Reduced Gutter Maintenance
Homeowners who are curious about how often to clean their gutters are advised to do the deed once or twice a year if they don’t have any kind of leaf filters or gutter guards. With LeafFilter installed on a home’s gutters, it’s likely that homeowners won’t have to clean their gutters at all, but it’s still a good idea to check them periodically to ensure the system is working properly. If assistance is needed, homeowners can expect to pay an average of $119 to $228 for gutter cleaning costs.
Low-Profile Design
LeafFilter’s completely enclosed system is basically impossible to see from the street. Since rooflines, soffits, and fascia are key components in the appearance of a home, this can be an important factor to consider. When homeowners are considering LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard, it’s worth noting that LeafFilter has a low-profile design compared to LeafGuard’s reverse-curve design that also costs more.
Debris Prevention
While the LeafFilter system prevents debris from getting into the gutters, one of the disadvantages of LeafFilter is that debris has been known to accumulate on the top of the gutter guards. This is less problematic than debris accumulating inside the gutter, but it warrants a mention. Homeowners can check the condition of their gutters and LeafFilter system periodically to ensure there isn’t any debris piling up that could damage the guard and create a dam.
LeafFilter Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Homeowners are often keen to tackle a few projects on their own and might wonder how to install gutter guards on their own. While a steady-on-their-feet homeowner may be willing and able to clean their own gutters with the help of the right ladder, installing gutter guards is a job for the pros. The LeafFilter gutter protection system must be professionally installed by LeafFilter installers.
The installers will inspect the existing gutters to ensure they’re free of damage and debris, remove ineffective gutter guards, and install new or replacement gutters if necessary. They will also realign and seal the existing gutters so the installation can go as smoothly as possible. This ensures that the system is installed properly on the existing gutters.
Off-brand or DIY gutter guard cost falls between $615 and $2,348, but while these gutter guards can help prevent debris from accumulating in the gutters, they don’t come with the same guarantee and warranty as LeafFilter. Homeowners looking to save money on gutter guard installation may be tempted to go the DIY route, but the money saved by installing a DIY system may end up being spent later on replacement gutters or repairing damage if the gutter guards don’t do their job properly.
“We advise consumers to not move forward with DIY gutter covers,” says Gori. “Their designs typically do not allow for a custom fit to each run of gutter, which is required to guarantee strong performance of the system and protection of your home. Oftentimes, DIY systems fall short on guaranteeing protection with no warranty or limited-service capability for the consumer’s unique application. Consumers expect solutions to be able to offer long lasting protection.”
How to Save Money on LeafFilter Cost
Professional LeafFilter installation is an investment that will protect the home from water from clogged gutters that can cause extensive water damage. To make LeafFilter installation fit within the budget, homeowners can consider the following ways to save money on the project.
- Clean the gutters before the installation. LeafFilter installers can clean the gutters for the homeowner, but this comes at an additional cost. If homeowners have experience with this task and follow safety protocols, then cleaning the gutters before the installers arrive can reduce the cost since less labor is required.
- Schedule during the offseason. Typically, gutter maintenance is at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds in the spring and fall. This means that scheduling LeafFilter installation during the summer and winter months could save money since demand is lower and companies may offer discounts.
- Negotiate the final price. LeafFilter is known for its willingness to negotiate a price that works for the homeowner. This also means representatives from the company may quote a higher rate at the beginning of the sale than homeowners are actually willing to accept. Reading LeafFilter reviews and online discussion threads can help clarify how others handled the negotiation process so you can negotiate a better price too.
- Consider financing your LeafFilter installation. When cash isn’t readily available, but it’s time to stop dealing with debris-filled gutters, financing options may be available. One of the best home equity loans (consider U.S. Bank or Flagstar) or best home improvement loans can help alleviate a financial burden.
Questions to Ask About LeafFilter Installation
To get the best results and feel confident about the process, it’s important for homeowners to ask the right questions about LeafFilter installation.
- What are the benefits of the LeafFilter system?
- Do you offer a written quote? How long is the quote good for?
- How does LeafFilter compare with Leafguard?
- How long will installation take?
- Is there anything I can do to prepare my gutters for LeafFilter installation?
- Do I need to be present during the installation?
- What discounts am I eligible for?
FAQs
Homeowners who install a LeafFilter system can reduce gutter maintenance. This system can also prevent water from clogging in the gutters and downspouts, which can create leaks and water damage down the road. Since this project can cost a fair amount of money, homeowners know it’s important to have as much information as possible to fully understand the product and what it does.
Q. Which is more expensive: LeafGuard or LeafFilter?
The total cost of LeafFilter or LeafGuard depends on the individual home. Factors such as gutter accessibility, the roof pitch, the state of the existing gutters, and the total linear feet required will impact the final price. On average, LeafFilter costs between $18 and $45 per linear foot to install, while LeafGuard costs between $20 and $70 per linear foot to install.
“LeafFilter’s award-winning 3-piece system is scientifically engineered to perform throughout all seasons, allowing only water to filter through and be moved away from your home’s foundation,” explains Gori. “Our gutter guard solutions fit all styles of gutters, giving homeowners confidence that we can provide the right solution for their needs. LeafFilter consists of stainless-steel micro mesh, or polymer frame and structural hangers, making this 3-piece system highly durable and optimized for debris repellence and weather resistance.”
Q. Does LeafFilter work in heavy rain?
When installed correctly, LeafFilter’s micromesh filter will keep debris out of the gutters while allowing water to flow freely through the filter and into the gutter—even in heavy rain. This can help ensure water drains off the roof and away from the house, reducing the likelihood of water overflow that can damage the attic, walls, and foundation of the house.
Q. Does LeafFilter cause ice dams?
When installed correctly and inspected regularly, LeafFilter shouldn’t cause ice dams—although the company doesn’t advertise that LeafFilter prevents them either. The overall design helps to keep debris from entering the gutters, but it’s still possible for ice to accumulate along the edges in extremely cold temperatures and along shadowed areas of the roof. The best solution is to install gutter heaters in shady places where ice dams are prone to develop.
Q. Does LeafFilter stop pine needles?
Yes, LeafFilter will stop pine needles from falling in gutters. It’s a completely sealed design with a stainless steel micromesh filter that’s 275 microns fine, meaning that it’s small enough to block debris as large as pine needles or as small as shingle grit. The angled design allows the pine needles to slide off the gutters, keeping them debris-free.
Q. How long do LeafFilters last?
Because of its quality construction and stainless steel micromesh filter, LeafFilter gutter protection can last up to 20 years. Standard aluminum, plastic, or other stainless steel gutter guards may only last 5 to 10 years and often require more maintenance than a LeafFilter system. Homeowners can check the gutters about once a year and inspect them for damage to ensure the system lasts as long as possible.
Q. Does LeafFilter need maintenance?
Technically, LeafFilter’s micromesh gutter protection system won’t need any maintenance, and any defects are covered by the lifetime warranty. As with any gutter system, homeowners are encouraged to check the condition of the gutters at least annually. Doing so will allow them to remove any debris that may have gotten stuck on top of the screen and look for any cracks or leaks in the gutter itself.