Gutter guards or regular cleaning?

Published national ranges for installed gutter guards, guard materials, gutter cleaning and clearing downspouts, and what to ask before you choose.

Updated October 1, 2026 · 8 official sources
On this page: 3 sections
  1. 1What gutter guards cost
  2. 2What cleaning costs
  3. 3Weighing one against the other

The figures here are published national ranges from cost guides. They aren't quotes, and local prices vary. Use them to weigh guards against paying for cleaning, then get quotes from gutter contractors near you if you'd like to compare.

What gutter guards cost

Gutter guards Published range
Installed about $6 to $17 per linear foot, or $800 to $2,200 for a full set1-3
Screen or foam guards $0.50 to $5 per linear foot for the material1, 4-5
Brush guards $1.25 to $4 per linear foot for the material1, 4-5
Reverse curve guards $3.50 to $10 per linear foot for the material1, 4-5

The material ranges are for the guards alone. An installed price includes the work. We don't list a range for national-brand guard systems, so ask any brand's dealer for a written price.

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What cleaning costs

Gutter cleaning Published range
Typical visit $100 to $300 a visit6-8
One story $70 to $250 a visit6-8
Two stories $100 to $375 a visit6-8
Three stories $130 to $480 a visit6-8
Clearing downspouts $50 to $150 added to a cleaning visit6-8

Weighing one against the other

What makes sense depends on how often your gutters need cleaning. Before you decide, ask:

  • A cleaning company how often they'd suggest cleaning your gutters, and what each visit would cost.
  • A guard installer which kind of guard they'd use on your gutters, and why.
  • Whether the guards will still need cleaning or checking, how often, and whether the installer does it.
  • What the guard warranty covers, and whether it covers clogs.
  • Whether your gutters are in good enough shape for guards, or need repair first.

Then compare the installed guard price with what you'd pay for cleaning over the years you expect to stay. The gutter materials guide covers new gutters and repairs, and the roofing and gutter cost estimator shows these ranges for the job you pick.

Ranges compiled from Angi, Fixr, Forbes Home and HomeGuide, checked September 2026.

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One request instead of calling contractors one at a time. It's free.

Sources (8)

  1. Angi: gutter guards cost ↑
  2. Fixr: gutter repair cost ↑
  3. Forbes Home: gutter installation cost ↑
  4. HomeGuide: gutter guards cost ↑
  5. Fixr: gutter guard installation cost ↑
  6. HomeGuide: gutter cleaning cost ↑
  7. Angi: gutter cleaning cost ↑
  8. Fixr: gutter cleaning cost ↑

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