LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet are professional gutter guard installers that both provide impressive products, a robust suite of services, and transferable lifetime warranties. After a thorough review of each company, we recommend LeafFilter thanks to its effective micro-mesh guard, better average customer review scores, and more reliable installation process.
Gutter Helmet offers a reverse-curve gutter guard, and there are some situations when it could be the better choice for your home. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about both providers to help you pick the best gutter guard for your needs.
Our Take on LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet
LeafFilter’s screen uses surgical-grade stainless steel woven into a 275-micron mesh filter, which is fine enough to block small particles such as shingle grit. This screen is set within a uPVC frame with a tight seal. During our firsthand testing of the guard, we tried to force pine needles between the filter and frame and noted we couldn’t penetrate the seal. The system’s built-in 11-degree pitch forces most debris to roll off. Any remaining debris is easy to clean off with a garden hose.
Gutter Helmet offers a different take on gutter protection. It uses a reverse-curve design atop a raised platform. This platform features horizontal stiffening ribs, scratch-proof paint, and a rough texture to slow the flow of water. These elements work together to counteract the overflow problems that are common in reverse-curve systems.
Customer reviews back up the effective performance of each system. However, we believe LeafFilter is a better choice for most homeowners. LeafFilter offers a more generous warranty and has higher customer review scores. While Gutter Helmet offers a unique reverse-curve design and a lifetime transferable warranty, customer reviews express dissatisfaction with the dispatch fee that accompanies services, even those covered under the warranty.
We Recommend LeafFilter If You:
- Are looking for a micro-mesh stainless steel gutter guard
- Have issues with small debris, such as pine needles, clogging your gutters
- Appreciate the peace of mind of a “100% clog-free” guarantee
We Recommend Gutter Helmet If You:
- Prefer a reverse-curve design that requires minimal maintenance
- Want to purchase gutter services independent of gutter guard installation
- Are looking for a guard that self-cleans via water flow
LeafFilter vs. Gutter Helmet at a Glance
The table below shares an at-a-glance look at Gutter Helmet and LeafFilter’s key offerings and characteristics, including design, warranty, and financing options.
| Factor | LeafFilter | Gutter Helmet |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks small debris | ✔ | ✘ |
| Uses high-quality materials | ✔ | ✔ |
| Provides a lifetime warranty | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers a performance guarantee | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers free quotes | ✔ | ✔ |
| Has quotes good for one year | ✔ | ✘ |
| Provides financing options | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offer gutter installations | ✔ | ✔ |
| Offers gutter cleaning and repair | ✔ | ✔ |
| Average customer review score of 4 out of 5 stars or higher | ✔ | ✔ |
LeafFilter Cost vs. Gutter Helmet Cost
To determine the cost of gutter guard installation, we read hundreds of customer reviews, noting any responses that mentioned pricing, and surveyed 1,484 gutter guard customers in 2025. The only cost data we could find on Gutter Helmet is hosted on a distributor website. Based on our findings, Gutter Helmet costs more per linear foot than LeafFilter.
You can review our findings in detail below. Note that these pricing figures are estimates, and the cost of installing gutter guards on your home will depend on several factors, such as your total length of guttering, roof pitch, and gutter condition.
LeafFilter Cost
Based on more than a dozen customer reviews that cited pricing figures and our survey of 150 LeafFilter customers, LeafFilter costs between $2,500 and $7,000. Our survey respondents noted an average cost per linear foot of $16.31, which means you can expect to pay around $3,262 for a 200-linear-foot LeafFilter gutter guard system.
Some commenters on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) reported prices at or above $10,000. These responses were prevalent enough that we took a closer look and found that LeafFilter’s sales tactics were responsible for the higher cost ranges. Several customers said that LeafFilter sales representatives initially presented an inflated price of $8,000–$10,000 or more. During negotiations, they lowered the cost to a more reasonable range.
Because this sales tactic isn’t uncommon in the home improvement space, expect to receive an initial quote that’s two or more times what you should pay. Be prepared to negotiate and be firm about your budget to lower the price of your LeafFilter system.
Gutter Helmet Cost
We read every available Gutter Helmet customer response on BBB and Trustpilot, but none mentioned cost figures. There were too few respondents who used Gutter Helmet in our survey to create a reliable average. Gutter Helmet doesn’t host any price information on its website.
The only data we could find is shown by Lednor Home Solutions, which owns and distributes Gutter Helmet. According to Lednor, you can expect to pay between $35 and $65 or more per linear foot for products such as Gutter Helmet. For a standard-sized gutter system (200 linear feet), this price range will result in a total cost of $7,000 or more.
What Are the Differences Between LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet?
While LeafFilter is our top pick, each company has strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick look at where each company succeeds and where it could improve.
LeafFilter Pros and Cons
Pros
- Blocks debris as small as pine needles, seedpods, and shingle grit
- Has high average customer reviews on BBB and Trustpilot
- Offers a lifetime transferable warranty
Cons
- Uses aggressive sales tactics that some customers compare to buying a used car
- Doesn’t offer its additional services outside of gutter guard installations
Gutter Helmet Pros and Cons
Pros
- Self-cleans with runoff from the roof system
- Features a raised platform with stiff ridges and a textured surface to prevent overflows
- Has PermaLife scratch-proof paint to improve corrosion resistance and longevity
Cons
- Costs more than the industry standard
- Charges a dispatch fee for any services
Warranty
Both companies offer lifetime, transferable warranties. LeafFilter’s warranty covers material and installation mishaps and includes a “100% clog-free” guarantee. Gutter Helmet’s warranty covers materials and workmanship for the life of the gutter system. It includes a guarantee against cracking, chipping, and peeling.
Fine Print
LeafFilter offers to repair any damage or provide a 100% reimbursement of the purchase price for installation. Gutter Helmet’s warranty doesn’t cover installation, nor does it cover damage caused by the building settling, structural failure, or natural disasters.
Materials
LeafFilter’s 275-micron surgical-grade micro-mesh filter stood out during our product testing as the most effective system for blocking small debris. Its frame is constructed from unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC), which the company claims will “never warp or deteriorate.” The screen is supported by steel structural hangers that attach directly to the home’s fascia board.
Gutter Helmet’s reverse-curve design is strengthened by horizontal ribs that direct the flow of water downward and into the gutters through a small opening along the edge of the guard. Aluminum mounts bolted to the roof support the guard, and the guard itself is protected with a coating of anti-corrosive paint.
Additional Services
LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet offer impressive gutter guards and additional services, such as gutter installation and cleaning. LeafFilter only provides additional services with its gutter guard installations. Gutter Helmet’s available services depend on the franchise location but aren’t limited to guard installations. Below, we’ll discuss the service offerings provided by each company.
LeafFilter Services
LeafFilter offers additional services, including the following:
- Downspout installation
- Gutter cleaning
- Gutter installation
- Gutter repair
Note that LeafFilter only provides its additional services with gutter guard installation. To have your gutters repaired or install a new system, you must purchase LeafFilter gutter guards. Additionally, post-installation servicing is limited to what’s covered under its warranty and guarantee.
Gutter Helmet Services
Gutter Helmet works with franchise and branch locations, so its services vary depending on your local office. Lednor Home Solutions, the company that owns Gutter Helmet, offers the following services in addition to gutter guard installations:
- Fascia and soffit repair
- Gutter cleaning
- Gutter repair
- Roof replacement
- Seamless gutter installation
- Sectional gutter installation
Quote and Installation Process
As professional gutter guard installers, both LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet require on-site inspections before they provide an estimate for the job. Both can be accessed through their respective websites or by phone to initiate the quote process.
LeafFilter Quote and Installation Process
The LeafFilter inspection and installation process includes the following steps:
- A LeafFilter representative will visit your home to inspect your gutters. The inspection will include measuring the gutters’ total length, checking for damage, and assessing your roof pitch.
- They’ll provide an on-the-spot quote, present the LeafFilter system, and negotiate pricing. If you accept the quote, an installation appointment will be scheduled. LeafFilter quotes remain valid for a full year, allowing you time to compare prices before making a decision.
- On the installation day, the LeafFilter team will clean and repair your gutters if necessary before installing the new gutter guards.
- After installation, you can register your warranty on LeafFilter’s website.
Gutter Helmet Quote and Installation Process
To receive a quote from Gutter Helmet, contact the company by filling out an online form, calling its toll-free number, or using its live chat. A customer service representative will direct you to a verified local installer.
The inspection and installation process for Gutter Helmet involves the following steps:
- A representative will come to your property and inspect your gutter system. They’ll check linear feet of guttering, roof pitch, gutter condition and other potential cost factors. You’ll get an on-site quote and negotiate a price. If you agree to the quote, they’ll schedule an installation date.
- On installation day, a trained technician crew will arrive at your home and complete the services. Once the job is complete, the crew will clean up the job site, dispose of any debris, and show you pictures of the completed installation.
- Once your product is installed, you can register any applicable warranties through the company’s website.
Our Testing Insights
Our firsthand testing of LeafFilter and a dozen DIY gutter guards allowed us to evaluate every major type of gutter guard. We found that micro-mesh systems outperformed the rest by a wide margin. These screens are also the easiest to clean, as their smooth surface allows debris to slide off easily. LeafFilter’s micro-mesh system stood out as one of the best we’ve reviewed, featuring expert construction and blocking both large and small debris without causing overflows.
Reverse-curve gutter guards, like Gutter Helmet, can keep most debris out of a gutter system. Reverse-curve guards use a solid helmet-like cap that blocks debris but has a small opening along the front where water can pass through. As the water rolls off your roof shingles onto the guard, it carries debris and pushes it to the ground. This design makes reverse-curve guards among the most efficient for self-cleaning and preventing debris buildup.
While we didn’t test Gutter Helmet firsthand, we tested two DIY reverse-curve gutter guards and noted that this type of guard can be prone to overflowing. Small debris, such as pine needles, can get caught inside the opening.
Homeowner Reviews of LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet
For this review, we read hundreds of customer reviews on independent review sites, including Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot. Analyzing customer reviews gave us greater insight into how these companies treat their customers and what you can expect when working with them.
LeafFilter Reviews
LeafFilter has generally positive reviews across multiple platforms. On its BBB page, it has almost 7,000 reviews with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars, while its Trustpilot page boasts 4.3 out of 5 stars with over 126,000 reviews. Many customers commend the professionalism of LeafFilter’s sales representatives, installation teams, and customer service. Others highlight the product’s effectiveness and ease of cleaning. However, some negative reviews mention leftover debris after installation, the guard freezing over in winter, and high-pressure sales tactics.
Here’s a sample of its positive and negative reviews:
“WE have had LeafFilter installed on our rather complex roof for approximately two years. During that time, we have had a new roof installed. A few comments: 1. The LeafFilter system has worked very well through two fall seasons with lots of leaves. 2. It was easy to install a new roof. The roofing contactor removed and reinstalled the LeafFilter easily, and then LeafFilter came out and did a system inspection to ensure continuity on the warranty. No problems. Excellent system that continues to work flawlessly.” —R. Mark via Trustpilot, January 2025
“After installation, it rained and I identified several areas where water was dripping from behind the gutter. I sent videos via text and email to the salesperson and left a message on the office line, but have not heard back. So, Im not real happy with customer service right now.” —Terry W. via BBB, February 2025
Gutter Helmet Reviews
As a smaller company, Gutter Helmet has far fewer reviews than LeafFilter. Across Trustpilot and BBB, Gutter Helmet has 56 reviews as of the time of writing this article. It has 2.8 out of 5 stars on the BBB page for its parent company, Lednor Home Solutions, and 2.9 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. Customers praise Gutter Helmet for the professionalism of its sales representatives and for the promptness of its installation crews. Unfavorable reviews highlight the dispatch fee charged by the company and leaking and clogging issues, including clogs caused by pine needles and tree leaves. Another consistent complaint is unresponsive customer service.
Here are some reviews that highlight these positive and negative themes:
“Gutter Helment is a wonderful company. I have two homes and I’ve used them for both. To not have to worry from season to season about leaves and debris is one stress off my mind. After several years I’ve had to have tree sap removed, which they were only a free call away. One house had to bird nest under the Helment and again they were only one free call away to come and remove the nests. I highly recommend the product and on going service they provide.” —Debra J via BBB., May 2024
“Had Gutter Helmet installed Dec 2009. After a year I had to call twice a year to have the system cleaned because of clogging, the water would flow over the gutters like a water fall. Every year they would come out and check and clean. A couple of times the person who performed the cleaning said I need some extra parts installed to stop the clogging and water fall. After time has passed I still have the same problem. No one called to fix the problems. I called again and was told it would cost $50 to have a service performed to clean the gutters. How is this possible if the warranty states never clean your gutters again, and this is part of the lifetime warranty. Absolutely no help for customers after installation.” — Chris R. via BBB, December 2024
After reading available Gutter Helmet customer reviews, we believe it offers a well-built product that performs better than the DIY reverse-curve guards we’ve tested. However, customer reviews indicate it clogs with pine and tree leaves.
The “dispatch fee” it charges customers isn’t standard practice in the gutter guard industry, especially if the damage is covered under the warranty. Many gutter guard providers, including LeafFilter, offer “no clog guarantees” that promise to fix issues at no cost to the customer.
Should You Choose LeafFilter or Gutter Helmet?
While LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet are both reliable gutter guard installers offering high-end gutter protection systems, LeafFilter comes out on top. Based on our research and firsthand testing, LeafFilter’s gutter protection system blocks more debris than Gutter Helmet. LeafFilter offers a more generous warranty and has higher average customer review scores than Gutter Helmet. The major benefit of Gutter Helmet is its additional service offerings, which can be purchased independently from a professional installation, unlike LeafFilter.
FAQs About LeafFilter and Gutter Helmet
Is LeafFilter better than Gutter Helmet for pine needles?
LeafFilter is better than Gutter Helmet for pine needles. During our firsthand testing, we found that LeafFilter’s guard blocked 100% of the pine needles we applied. Reverse-curve systems like those used by Gutter Helmet typically have difficulty protecting against pine needles. Learn more about the best gutter guards for pine needles.
Can LeafFilter handle heavy rain?
Yes, LeafFilter can handle heavy rain without overflowing. We applied water at varying speeds during our testing to determine how well LeafFilter performed in heavy rain. We found that it withstood heavy downpour conditions before overflowing.
What are the downsides of LeafFilter?
The downsides of LeafFilter are its high price, pushy sales tactics, and tendency to freeze over in the winter. While ice dams are a common problem for micro-mesh gutter guards, installing heat tape can counteract this issue.
What are the downsides of Gutter Helmet?
The downsides of Gutter Helmet are its inability to stop small debris, its high price tag, and its non-standard service fee for warranty-covered repairs.
How We Evaluated Gutter Guard Brands
To provide fair and accurate comparisons of the top gutter guard installers, we developed a comprehensive review methodology to measure and score brands. Our review standards were developed based on interviews with industry experts, consumer reviews and surveys, and the factors that guide homeowners as they make buying decisions, including material and design, warranty coverage, value, services offered, and effectiveness.
Our Rating System
Our rating system was derived from thorough research and hands-on experience. We analyzed gutter guard installers’ websites, tracked third-party ratings, and gauged consumer sentiment to complete our understanding of each gutter guard company. We reinforced this research with firsthand data by purchasing, installing, and testing gutter guard systems.
Here are a few details about our research methodology:
- First-party research: We comprehensively research each provider’s website to learn about its products, services, warranty, payment options, and more. We also collect proprietary data by surveying homeowners who have had gutter guards installed.
- Third-party ratings: We read and analyze consumer reviews and ratings on reputable third-party sites such as the BBB, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Yelp. This reveals potential patterns of customer complaints and favorable outcomes.
- Hands-on testing: For DIY gutter guard products, we order and test for filtration effectiveness, durability, and more. For installation companies, we request a showroom floor and perform a series of tests to determine performance and quality.
