Hiring someone to clean gutter guards

Tell them what is installed

Screens, mesh covers, perforated hoods and foam inserts are all handled differently. Some lift off in sections in a minute, and others are screwed under the shingle edge. If you do not know the brand, a photo of the guard from the ground and a note on roughly when it went in is enough to start.

It is also helpful to say whether the guards were there when you bought the home. Previous owners rarely leave paperwork, and we need to know whether we are working with something fragile.

Ask about lifting, rinsing and manufacturer terms

• Will the guard be lifted to clear the trough underneath, or only rinsed on top?
• Can it be put back correctly?
• If the product comes with manufacturer terms, does lifting it affect them?

Some manufacturers are specific about who may handle the product. If you have paperwork, read it before the visit and mention it in your request.

What the quote should account for

Expect guards to take more time than an open trough, and expect an honest quote to say so. A flat figure with no mention of the guards may mean the question was not understood. Pollen and roof grit build up even where leaves are kept out, so a periodic rinse is normal rather than a sign the guards failed.

If your house is in an association, see the condo and HOA page before changing anything about the guards' appearance.