How to Choose the Best Gutter Company

Gutters may not be the most glamorous feature of your home, but they play a crucial role in ensuring effective water drainage and preventing damage to your property. Thus, it’s important to choose a gutter company that can deliver effective and long-lasting gutter solutions. But with numerous options available, choosing the best gutter company can be overwhelming.

To help you narrow down your choices and choose the best gutter company, we’ve compiled a few tips:

1. Decide what types of gutters you want
2. Consider material quality
3. Compare warranties
4. Verify company credentials
5. Schedule an on-site evaluation
6. Read customer reviews

When examining these steps, it’s also important to consider your specific needs and budget. Doing so may help set you up for the most success in your gutter replacement project. 

With that in mind, let’s jump right in!

1. Decide what types of gutters you want

It might be hard to believe, because a gutter is a gutter after all, but there are a variety of gutter types available in the market. Each gutter type is designed to serve the same purpose — managing the flow of water from your roof — but some function and look better than others.

The most common types of gutters include the following:

• Sectional gutters — Sectional gutters are constructed from pre-formed sections that are joined together during installation. They are typically made of aluminum, vinyl, or steel and are available in various lengths and shapes. While sectional gutters are easier to install and repair, they are more prone to leaks at the seams over time.
• Seamless gutters — Seamless gutters are made from a single piece of material, usually aluminum, copper, or steel, that is custom-fabricated to fit the exact dimensions of your home. Because they have fewer seams, they are less prone to leaks and require less maintenance than traditional sectional gutters.
• Half-round gutters — Half-round gutters have a rounded bottom and are often chosen for their traditional aesthetic appeal. They are available in various materials, including aluminum, copper, and steel, and can be installed with decorative hangers for added visual interest.
• K-style gutters — K-style gutters have a flat bottom and back, with a decorative shape that resembles the letter "K." They are the most common type of gutter found on modern homes and are available in a wide range of materials, sizes, and colors to complement any architectural style.

While considering the type of gutter you want to install, it can also be helpful to consider an additional product: the gutter guard.

Gutter guards

A gutter guard is a device designed to prevent debris from entering and clogging your gutter system. It’s typically installed over the top of your gutters to create a barrier that allows water to flow freely while blocking leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other debris for causing clogs. In addition, gutter guards can lengthen the life of your gutters and reduce the need to clean your gutters over time. Gutter guards come in various types and materials, including mesh screens, solid covers, foam inserts, and brush inserts, each offering different levels of protection and performance.

In many cases, gutter guard companies can install gutter guards on your existing gutters, which can save you the hassle of replacing your gutters entirely. But if your gutters are in need of repair and/or replacement, gutter guard companies can typically provide new gutter installation services as well, providing you with a one-stop solution for your gutter needs.

2. Consider material quality

Once you’ve considered the gutter style you want, it’s also important to consider the material because it can impact the lifespan of your gutters and their overall performance.

Common gutter materials include the following:

• Aluminum gutters — Aluminum gutters are one of the most popular choices due to their affordability, lightweight construction, and resistance to rust and corrosion. They are available in seamless and sectional varieties and can be painted or coated to match your home's exterior.
• Copper gutters — Copper gutters are prized for their aesthetic appeal and durability. Over time, they develop a natural patina that adds character to your home's exterior. While copper gutters are more expensive than aluminum or vinyl, they offer long-term performance and require minimal maintenance.
• Steel gutters — Steel gutters are known for their strength and durability, making them suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions. They are available in both galvanized and stainless steel options, with galvanized steel being more affordable but prone to rust over time without proper maintenance.
• Vinyl gutters — Vinyl gutters are a budget-friendly option that is easy to install and resistant to rust and corrosion. While they are less durable than metal gutters and may crack or warp in extreme temperatures, vinyl gutters are a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners on a tight budget.
• Wood gutters — Wood gutters were once a common sight on older homes but have largely been replaced by more modern materials due to their high maintenance requirements and susceptibility to rot and decay. However, they remain an option for historic preservation or restoration projects where authenticity is a priority.

3. Compare warranties

Comparing gutter company warranties is a crucial step in choosing the right provider for your gutter installation or replacement project — a good warranty can offer peace of mind and protect your investment. However, not all warranties are created equal and there are a few things you can keep in mind that may help you secure the best warranty for your project.

Here a few things to consider when comparing gutter company warranties:

• Coverage scope — Gutter companies typically offer some version of an equipment warranty, workmanship warranty, and performance warranty. Some companies may offer these warranties separately, but some companies might combine them into one comprehensive warranty.
• Warranty duration — Material warranties can range from 20 years to a lifetime, while workmanship warranties typically vary from 1 to 10 years. A longer warranty period generally indicates greater confidence in the product and service.
• Transferability — Transferable warranties can add value to your home and provide assurance to future buyers. Thus, you’ll want to check if a company’s warranty(ies) can be transferred to a new homeowner if you were to sell your house at some point.
• Prorated vs non-prorated — Prorated warranties reduce your coverage amount over time, which may result in you paying more for repairs and/or replacement costs as the life of your warranty progresses. On the other hand, non-prorated warranties provide full coverage for the entire warranty period.

In most cases, you will find that gutter companies offer lifetime warranty coverage, often in the form of one comprehensive warranty. It’s worth noting whether or not a company offers a robust lifetime warranty or not — a robust warranty may reflect the company’s confidence in its products and services.

When researching and comparing gutter company warranties it’s always important to read the fine print. Companies will have different exclusions and limitations within their warranty coverage, and being aware of these specific terms can help you narrow down which warranty, and in turn which company, is best for you.

4. Verify company credentials

Look for gutter companies with proper licensing, insurance, and certifications. A reputable company should be able to provide proof of these credentials upon request. 

Furthermore, inquire about the company's experience in the industry. An established company with years of experience may deliver reliable service and high-quality products. However, it’s important to remember that a company’s time in business isn’t necessarily an indicator of product and/or service quality — a relatively new business in the industry may offer comparable or better services when compared to a company with decades of experience.

5. Schedule an on-site evaluation

Before making a decision, schedule an on-site evaluation with each gutter company you're considering. This allows them to assess your property's specific needs and provide an accurate estimate for the project. An on-site evaluation also provides you with an opportunity to ask questions about the installation process, timeline, and any potential challenges that could occur. 

During the evaluation, pay attention to the company representative's professionalism, knowledge, and willingness to address your concerns. In many cases, how a company treats its potential customers is a direct reflection of how they treat their clients.

6. Read customer reviews

When researching gutter companies, it’s important to get an idea of what the customer experience is like with each company. One of the best ways to ascertain this information is by reading online customer reviews. 

Based on customer reviews, the top gutter companies on BestCompany.com include the following:

• LeafFilter Gutter Protection
• LeafGuard
• Modernize

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

On BestCompany.com LeafFilter Gutter Protection reviews are overwhelmingly positive — 91 percent of reviews are 4 or 5 stars. Satisfied LeafFilter Gutter Protection customers are quick to mention the following about their experience with the company:

• Superb gutter guard functionality — many customers indicate that their gutters never clog and they don’t have to worry about cleaning them
• Comprehensive warranty coverage
• Responsive customer service — if you have any issues with your gutter system, the LeafFilter team will come to your home to fix the problem

LeafGuard

On BestCompany.com, 81 percent of LeafGuard reviews are 4 or 5 stars. LeafGuard customers frequently highlight the following about their experience with the company:

• Great upfront customer service — LeafGuard representatives are able to answer questions and address concerns
• Quick and easy gutter installation process
• Good value for the system and service — many customers note that the LeafGuard price tag is higher than other gutter companies, but the higher price is worth it

Modernize

It’s important to note that Modernize reviews on BestCompany.com are significantly limited, especially when compared to review numbers for LeafFilter Gutter Protection and LeafGuard. However, based on existing reviews, the majority of customers appear to be pleased with Modernize’s services. 

Satisfied Modernize customers frequently highlight the following about their experience with the company:

• Prompt response times
• Attentive customer service
• Personalized results and information for home improvement projects

The final word

Selecting the best gutter company requires thorough research, consideration of key factors, including gutter types and materials, and careful evaluation of your options. By following the steps outlined above, we hope that you can feel confident in choosing a reputable gutter company that delivers high-quality products, professional installation, and excellent customer service. Investing in a reliable gutter system not only protects your home from water damage but also enhances its curb appeal and value for years to come.