LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: 2024 Review of Major Differences

Wondering which gutter protection system is the better option for your home? Look no further. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare LeafFilter vs LeafGuard, two of the top contenders in the market for over twenty years. Both have received A+ ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and high customer rankings. 

However, these gutter guards do differ in design, cost, and maintenance. Homeowners like you deserve the best in gutter protection, and we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

Compare the benefits of LeafFilter versus LeafGuard below.

LeafFilter Leaf
LeafFilter

LeafGuard
Keeps out All Debris
Low Profile Design
Completely Enclosed System
Works with Existing Gutters
Lifetime Transferable Warranty

LeafFilter vs LeafGuard: Which Is Better?

Choosing the right gutter guard is essential for maintaining the integrity of your home. Gutter guards prevent debris from clogging your gutters, protecting your home from water damage. But not all gutter guards are created equal. Let’s explore the key qualities that set LeafFilter and LeafGuard apart.

Design

LeafFilter’s innovative design features a patented 3-piece system. This includes a micro-mesh screen made of surgical-grade stainless steel, an uPVC frame, and structural hangers. The micromesh screen is so fine that it keeps out shingle grit, pine needles, leaves, and other debris while allowing water to flow freely to downspouts. 

The uPVC frame is durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-lasting protection. The reinforced structural hangers provide added strength to your gutter system. LeafFilter works in the toughest conditions—designed to withstand heavy rainfall and snowfall while minimizing ice dams. LeafFilter’s seamless design ensures that only water enters your gutters.

LeafGuard, on the other hand, uses a curved hood design that allows water to enter while blocking large debris. However, this design has gaps, which can still allow smaller particles to enter, potentially leading to clogs over time. While both designs aim to protect your gutters, LeafFilter’s micromesh technology offers superior protection against even the smallest debris.

LeafFilter gutter guards design allows for little to no maintenance.

Cleaning

One of the main benefits of using LeafFilter is that it significantly reduces the need for frequent gutter cleaning. The micromesh screen prevents debris from entering, so you won’t have to climb a ladder to clean out your gutters as often. This not only saves you time, but also reduces the risk of accidents. In addition, LeafFilter is installed at the optimal pitch to shed debris from the micromesh cover naturally. This minimizes cleaning to a light sweeping of the cover. 

LeafGuard’s design also reduces the need for cleaning, but not to the same extent. The hood-style design can still allow smaller debris to enter, necessitating occasional cleaning. A comprehensive, professional gutter cleaning is recommended annually. Scheduling a professional gutter cleaning will add to the overall cost of the gutter system. 

While both systems reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, LeafFilter’s superior debris-blocking capabilities mean less maintenance for you. In addition, it’s a good idea to proactively trim branches that may deposit leaves on your gutter system. 

Cost

Cost is an important factor when choosing new gutter guards. With most gutter repair companies, you will need a representative to come to the home to provide an accurate cost estimate. LeafFilter cost offers a free consultation and estimate. Typically, multiple factors will play a part in the cost of installing a new gutter system, including:

  • Size of home
  • Linear footage of the roof
  • Type of gutters 
  • Gutter materials
  • Climate and location
  • Repairs needed on existing gutters

LeafFilter, a micromesh system, can be installed directly on your existing gutter system. This means you won’t need a complete gutter replacement, saving on leaf filter costs. LeafFilter offers competitive pricing with the added benefit of 0% financing options. The initial investment may be higher compared to some other systems, but the long-term benefits and reduced maintenance costs make it a worthwhile investment.

LeafGuard also offers competitive pricing, but customer reviews on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot show LeafGuard costs more than LeafFilter. The potential need for more frequent cleaning and maintenance can also add to the overall cost. When comparing the long-term value, LeafFilter’s durability, low maintenance requirements, and lifetime guarantee make it a more cost-effective choice.

Remember that there are various types of gutter guards, and they range in price. Here is a quick reference of costs for the most common types of gutter covers and guards:

  • PVC covers: average cost of $7-10 per foot.
  • Foam inserts: average cost of $3-5 per foot.
  • Micro-mesh covers: average cost of $20 per foot.
  • Surface tension helmets: average cost of $10-12 per foot.

Product Offerings

LeafFilter is available in 39 states with over 200 offices across North America. The product is a 3-part system custom-designed to fit your existing gutter system. LeafFilter offers a three-step gutter guard installation process that includes inspection, prep, and professional installation. We will never install a faulty gutter system. 

  1. Inspect: During installation, our professional installers will check for any areas of concern to identify parts of your system that may need extra attention. We will remove any damaged gutter guards and install new gutters if needed.
  2. Prep: We will clean and prepare your gutter system to ensure LeafFilter is installed and works properly for the lifetime of your home. Our team will check for correct pitch, properly sealed seams, and signs of gutter damage.
  3. Install: Once cleaned and prepared, our team will install LeafFilter directly over your existing gutters for optimal protection. Depending on your home’s needs, installation can take several hours to a full day. After installation, we clean up all debris and excess material.

LeafGuard is available in 36 states in the U.S. The one-piece gutter design differs because if you have gutters, it will replace your current gutters  entirely. This process can take a whole day and factors into the increased product cost.

Warranty

LeafFilter stands out with its lifetime, transferable warranty. This warranty covers clogged gutters and any interior water damage caused by overflowing gutters. If there is an issue, LeafFilter will repair or refund the material price of all installed LeafFilter products. Customer support is available seven days a week to answer warranty or other product questions.

LeafGuard offers a lifetime warranty that covers issues like blistering, flaking, chipping, cracking, peeling, splitting, rotting, and structural deterioration. However, it does not guarantee against clogs. Additionally, LeafGuard’s warranty is only transferable for 50 years, not the lifetime of the home.

Replacement

LeafFilter lasts for the lifetime of your home. Its stainless-steel micromesh and reinforced hangers can withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting protection for your gutters. If any issues arise, the lifetime warranty covers replacement.

Other gutter protection systems, including LeafGuard, may need to be replaced more frequently. The hood-style design and potential for debris buildup can lead to the need for replacement over time. In contrast, LeafFilter’s durable materials and unique design mean you won’t have to worry about replacing your gutter system.

What Homeowner Reviews Say

When it comes to the right choice of a gutter protection product, hearing from other homeowners can provide valuable insights. Both LeafFilter and LeafGuard have positive reviews from satisfied customers. However, many homeowners praise the LeafFilter system for its superior protection against all types of debris and ease of maintenance. Customers also appreciate the lifetime warranty and long-term cost savings, as well as superior customer service. 

“The estimator was very knowledgeable. He answered all the questions that I had, including some that I didn’t know I had.” – Doug L.

“Great product by a great company. Price was right, 0% financing, and lifetime guarantee.” – Frank P.

LeafFilter: There Is No Comparison​

When it comes to choosing the best gutter guard system, LeafFilter is the clear winner. Its patented 3-piece design, superior debris-blocking capabilities, and lifetime warranty make it the best choice for homeowners who want to protect their homes from water damage. With LeafFilter, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your gutters are protected for life.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to protecting your home. Make the smart choice and choose LeafFilter. 

Learn more about LeafFilter and how it can benefit your home.

A cut-away view of Gutter with Leaf Filter installed letting only water through

Brightly colored fall leaves

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between LeafFilter and LeafGuard gutter systems?

The main difference lies in their designs and effectiveness. LeafFilter uses a patented 3-piece system with a micromesh screen that blocks even the smallest debris. LeafGuard gutters use a hood-style design that can allow smaller debris to enter. LeafFilter offers better protection and requires less maintenance.

How do the costs of LeafFilter and LeafGuard systems compare?

While both systems offer competitive pricing, LeafFilter’s long-term benefits, lifetime guarantee, and reduced maintenance costs make it a more cost-effective choice. LeafFilter also offers 0% financing options, making it accessible for homeowners. LeafGuard’s one-piece design replaces your entire gutter system, which adds to the initial installation cost.

Are there any specific maintenance requirements for LeafFilter and LeafGuard?

LeafFilter significantly reduces the need for gutter cleaning thanks to its micro mesh gutter guards. The seamless micromesh screen securely fits over gutters with no gaps for debris to clog gutters. The angled pitch makes it easy to sweep off any debris. LeafGuard’s hood-style design also reduces cleaning frequency but may still require occasional maintenance due to smaller debris entering the system.

What warranties are offered with LeafFilter and LeafGuard installations?

LeafFilter offers a lifetime, transferable warranty that covers clogged gutters and any resulting water damage. LeafGuard provides a lifetime warranty covering various types of damage, but it does not guarantee against clogs and is only transferable for 50 years.

Which is better, LeafFilter or LeafGuard?

LeafFilter is the best gutter guard company due to its innovative 3-piece design, superior debris-blocking capabilities, and lifetime warranty. LeafFilter gutter guards offer better protection, require less maintenance, hold up against heavy rain, and provide greater long-term value.

LeafFilter Lifetime Warranty
Lifetime Warranty

With our lifetime, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your gutters and entire home are protected for life.

1-800-290-6106