Install gutter guards to eliminate most cleaning

Gutter guards reduce cleaning frequency from twice a year to once every 2-3 years. They range from $1/foot DIY snap-in screens to $45/foot professionally installed micro-mesh systems.

Options by Budget

• DIY snap-in mesh screens ($1-$3/ft): Available at Home Depot and Lowe's. Snap over existing gutters in minutes. Block leaves but allow small debris through. Effective for moderate tree coverage. Total cost for 200 ft: $200-$600.
• LeafFilter micro-mesh ($17-$45/ft installed): The most popular professionally installed system. Micro-mesh blocks pine needles, shingle grit, and seeds. Average whole-house cost: $4,531 for 200 linear feet. Lifetime transferable warranty.
• LeafGuard one-piece ($50-$60/ft installed): Replaces gutters entirely with an integrated hooded design. Average: $4,334 for 200 linear feet. Best for heavy debris areas.

Which to Choose

• Few trees, mostly large leaves: DIY mesh screens are sufficient
• Pine trees, small seeds, heavy debris: Micro-mesh (LeafFilter or similar) is worth the investment
• Gutters already damaged or old: LeafGuard replaces everything at once

Tips

• Even with guards, inspect gutters annually — no system is 100% maintenance-free
• DIY screens sometimes blow off in high winds; secure with sheet metal screws
• Calculate ROI: if professional cleaning costs $300/year and guards cost $4,500, guards pay for themselves in 15 years while eliminating the hassle