If you want to keep your gutters clean and avoid water damage to your home, installing gutter guards is a smart choice. But how much does gutter guard installation cost in the UK, and is it worth the investment? In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know, from costs and types to tips for saving money, in simple and easy-to-understand English.
What Are Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards are protective covers or inserts for your gutters. They help prevent leaves, debris, and dirt from blocking your gutters. Blocked gutters can lead to:
- Water overflow
- Roof damage
- Foundation problems
- Mold and rot
By keeping your gutters clean, gutter guards save you money and reduce maintenance time.
Average Cost of Gutter Guard Installation in the UK
The cost of gutter guard installation depends on several factors:
- Home size – Bigger homes need more gutter guards.
- Type of gutter guard – Materials and durability affect the price.
- Professional vs DIY – Hiring experts costs more, but DIY saves money.
Professional Installation Costs
On average, professional gutter guard installation in the UK costs £10–£25 per linear foot. Most homes have around 200 linear feet of gutters, so total costs can range from:
- Low-end: £2,000
- Mid-range: £3,000
- High-end: £4,500
Professional installation ensures proper fitting and reduces the risk of leaks or damage. Companies like LeafFilter and LeafGuard (US brands) have UK equivalents such as GutterClean or AquaGuard.
DIY Gutter Guard Costs
If you prefer a DIY approach, you only pay for the material:
| Type of Guard | Cost per Linear Foot | Total Cost (200 ft) | Savings vs Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foam Insert | £5.00 | £1,000 | £1,500+ |
| Brush | £6.00 | £1,200 | £1,300+ |
| Micro-mesh | £7.50 | £1,500 | £1,000+ |
| Screen | £8.00 | £1,600 | £900+ |
| Reverse-Curve | £9.00 | £1,800 | £1,200+ |
DIY installation is cheaper, but you need tools and time. Also, some complex roof types may still require professionals.
Factors That Affect Gutter Guard Costs
The final price of gutter guard installation can change depending on your home. Here are the main factors:
1. Gutter Length and Size
- The more gutters you have, the more material you need.
- Standard gutters are 5-inch wide, but some homes have 6-inch or 7-inch gutters.
- Bigger gutters may cost more for both material and installation.
2. Roof Type and Home Size
- Complex roofs with multiple corners take longer to install guards on.
- Larger homes require more materials, increasing total cost.
3. Accessibility
- Trees, uneven ground, or water features around your home can make installation harder.
- Installers may need extra equipment, raising labor costs.
4. Home Height
- Multi-story homes or steep roofs are harder and more dangerous to work on.
- Extra safety measures or lifts increase the installation price.
5. Location and Climate
- Some areas get more rain, leaves, or snow, affecting guard choice.
- Labour costs vary in different UK cities.
6. Hidden Costs
- Permits for exterior work
- Removal of old gutters
- Repairs to fascia boards or roof edges
Types of Gutter Guards
There are many gutter guard types, each with pros and cons. Here’s a simple guide:
1. Plastic Screen
- Cheapest option
- Easy to install yourself
- Short lifespan (3–6 years)
- Works well in mild climates with light debris
2. Foam
- Slides inside gutters
- Water passes through, debris stays on top
- Lasts up to 5 years
- Needs regular cleaning in humid areas
3. Brush
- Looks like a giant bottle brush
- Easy to install
- Lasts up to 10 years
- Traps small debris, so needs cleaning
4. Perforated Aluminum
- Rust-resistant, lasts 10–20 years
- DIY-friendly with basic tools
- Good balance between cost and durability
5. Steel Mesh
- Strong and long-lasting
- Effective against leaves and pine needles
- Less expensive than premium systems like reverse-curve
6. Micro-Mesh
- Finest filtration, prevents most debris
- Available in plastic or metal
- Expensive but low maintenance and long-lasting
7. Reverse-Curve
- Covers entire gutter
- Uses surface tension to direct water
- Requires professional installation
- Expensive, but very effective
Comparing Top Gutter Guard Brands in the UK
| Brand | Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| GutterClean | Micro-mesh | £10 | 10 years |
| AquaGuard | Aluminum | £12 | 15 years |
| LeafStop UK | Steel | £14 | Lifetime |
| EcoGutter | Foam | £6 | 5 years |
Always request quotes from 2–3 companies to compare prices, installation, and warranty.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
Yes, gutter guards are worth the cost if you want to:
- Reduce gutter cleaning frequency
- Prevent water overflow and foundation damage
- Protect roof and fascia boards from rot and mold
Investing in quality guards now can save thousands in home repair costs later.
How to Save Money on Gutter Guard Installation
You don’t have to spend a fortune. Here are some tips:
- Check local installer reviews: Look for companies with good reputation.
- Compare multiple quotes: Get at least 3 free estimates.
- Negotiate: Many homeowners successfully reduce costs by asking.
- Book off-season: Late autumn or winter often has discounts.
- Choose budget-friendly materials: Foam or brush guards cost less.
- Consider DIY installation: Snap-on or drop-in guards are easier to install yourself.
Using these tips can save hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
DIY vs Professional Installation
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Time | Takes longer | Faster |
| Safety | Risky on high roofs | Safer with trained staff |
| Warranty | Limited | Often includes warranty |
| Maintenance | More frequent cleaning | Less frequent |
DIY is good for small, simple homes. For larger homes or steep roofs, professionals are safer and more efficient.
FAQs About Gutter Guard Installation
How long do gutter guards last?
- Steel/aluminum: 10–20 years
- Plastic: 3–5 years
Can gutter guards handle heavy rain?
- Yes, but quality matters. Reverse-curve, screen, and micro-mesh handle heavy rain better.
Which type is best?
- Professionals recommend micro-mesh for DIY and LeafStop UK for professional installation.
Any downsides?
- Price is the main downside. Professional installation can cost £2,500–£4,500 for a standard home.
Suggested Visuals
- Table comparing types of gutter guards
- Diagram showing DIY vs professional installation
- Infographic of costs per linear foot vs total cost
- Photo of gutter guards installed on a typical UK home
Visuals improve readability and engagement for online readers.
Final Thoughts
Gutter guards are a smart investment to protect your home and reduce maintenance. Whether you choose DIY foam guards or premium micro-mesh systems, understanding the costs, types, and installation options helps you make the right choice. Always compare quotes, check reviews, and consider your home’s size, roof type, and climate before making a decision.