Gutters are often the least thought-about feature of a home, but they serve an important purpose—they keep rain and snow runoff away from the walls and foundations of your house. This helps protect your home from damage caused by water collecting around the base of your home. To help in this important task, it is a good idea to invest in some quality gutter guards. Keep reading to learn more about different types of gutter guards, pros, cons and pricing, as well as companies that can help you get them installed.
What Are Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards act as a barrier between your gutters and anything that may be obstructing them, such as leaves and debris from trees. They can come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, and metal mesh. The type you choose will depend on the climate in which you live and your budget for the project.
When choosing the best gutter guard system for your home, there are several things you should consider. First, determine what type of debris typically collects in your gutters during different times of the year; this will help inform the material you select for your gutter guard. Aluminum is ideal for areas with warm winters, while plastic or metal meshwork is great for areas where snowfall is common throughout winter months.
Additionally, think about how much maintenance you want to do on your gutter guard over time; some materials require more frequent cleaning than others, so take that into consideration when making your choice.
Different Types of Gutter Guards
Gutter guards come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials designed to protect your gutters from debris like leaves, pine needles, and twigs. Some types of gutter guards for homeowners to consider include:
Mesh
Mesh gutter guards are constructed from metal mesh that fits over the top of gutters (like a mesh screen) and allows for water to pass through while stopping larger debris from entering.
- Pros: Durable, easy to install, allows water to flow freely while capturing debris.
- Cons: May need to be replaced after sustained winds or severe storms.
- Price range: $2-$6 per foot
Foam
Foam gutter guards contain foam inserts that fit into gutters and act as a barrier against small debris while allowing water to flow through the openings.
- Pros: Easy installation, cost-effective, works with most gutters, including older homes.
- Cons: Not as durable as other types of gutter guards, may not capture all debris.
- Price range: $1-$3 per foot
Brush
Brush gutter guard models feature bristles set in vertical strips that are installed atop gutters, which deflect leaves and other large particles while allowing rainwater to flow freely out the downspout.
- Pros: Keeps large debris out of gutters and is aesthetically pleasing when installed correctly.
- Cons: Relatively expensive and may need frequent cleaning depending on the amount of debris in your area.
- Price range: $6-$10 per foot
Nylon
Nylon gutter guards consist of nylon bristles or mesh membranes that are mounted onto existing or new sections of the gutter to deflect debris while providing superior runoff performance.
- Pros: Very durable and effective against small particles like pollen and dust.
- Cons: Prone to breakage in heavy winds or severe rainstorms due to its lightweight construction.
- Price range: $3-$7 per foot
Vinyl
Vinyl gutter guards feature thick vinyl strips set into grooves along the front edge of the troughs that prevent leaves from entering but still allow water flow.
- Pros: Lightweight yet strong enough for most climates, won’t rust or corrode over time.
- Cons: Cannot handle extremely large objects such as branches easily
- Price range: $4-$8 per foot
Aluminum
Aluminum gutter guards are covers made of aluminum and designed to fit over existing gutters. They are typically easy to install and provide effective protection from leaves and other debris.
- Pros: Low maintenance, Durable, Rust resistant, Affordable
- Cons: Can be noisy when it rains, Susceptible to damage from winds or ice buildup
- Price range: $2-$10 per foot
9 Factors to Consider When Choosing Gutter Guards
Before you make a decision about new gutter guards, here are some key factors to consider.
- Style: Different types of gutter guards have different styles, such as foam, mesh, and brush. Select the type that best meets your needs and matches your home’s aesthetics.
- Material: Gutter guards come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and PVC. Consider the pros and cons of each material to find the one that best fits your needs.
- Size: The size of the gutter guard will determine how well it fits onto the existing gutters. Measure accordingly to get a perfect fit.
- Cost: Different types of gutter guards can range from relatively inexpensive to quite costly. Do some comparison shopping before making a decision.
- Durability: Make sure the gutter guard is strong enough to withstand high winds and heavy rains in your area.
- Maintenance Requirements: Gutter guards need to be maintained periodically, such as cleaning and inspecting for damage. Make sure you understand the gutter maintenance requirements before making a purchase; you don’t want to deal with long-term debris buildup.
- Installation Options: Some gutter guards can be installed by do-it-yourselfers, while others require professional installation.
- Warranty: Many manufacturers offer warranties on their gutter guard products. Make sure to read the fine print of any warranty before making a purchase.
- Weather Resistance: Most gutter guards are designed to withstand a certain amount of rainfall and/or snowfall. Make sure the one you select is capable of standing up to the climate in your area.
If you have any doubts or concerns about what type of gutter covers might work best or even how to install it properly, don’t hesitate to contact professionals who specialize in this area – they can provide invaluable advice on how to make sure everything goes according to plan during installation and beyond!
Top Gutter Guard Companies
Now that you know all about the types of gutter guards out there and the factors to consider before installing anything onto your house. We will dive into the best companies to contact for gutter guard installation.
Gutterglove
Gutterglove offers a variety of gutter guard products designed for both residential and commercial use. Their guards are stainless steel mesh with a heavy-duty aluminum frame and feature a patented filter system that keeps out debris while allowing water to flow freely through your gutters.
Key Features:
- Patented filter system
- Stainless steel mesh and aluminum frame construction
- Residential and commercial applications
Gutter Helmet
Gutter Helmet is a manufacturer of gutter protection systems with a patented design that features a forward nose and ribbed texture. While you’ll have to find a certified dealer to install your Gutter Helmet, there’s a dealership in most states. The company also offers an extended lifetime warranty on all its products.
Key Features:
- Patented design features
- Extended lifetime warranty
LeafFilter
LeafFilter is a gutter protection company that provides effective solutions for eliminating clogged gutters. Their guards are made of durable stainless steel mesh and include ultrasonic welding technology to make sure they stay securely in place.
Key Features:
- Durable stainless steel mesh construction
- Ultrasonic welding technology for secure installation
Guttershell
Guttershell specializes in gutter protection products that are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and protect your home from water damage caused by clogged gutters. Guttershells help keep your home free from ice dams and come with a 25-year limited warranty.
Key Features:
- Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions
- 25-year limited warranty
Xtreme Gutter Guard
Xtreme Gutter Guard manufactures guards designed with maximum performance in mind. Their guards feature an advanced microfiltration system made of stainless steel and aluminum that are so effective that they can handle up to 60 gallons of water per minute.
Key Features:
- Advanced microfiltration system that can accommodate up to 60 gallons of water each minute
- Competitively priced
Are Gutter Guards Necessary?
Gutter guards can be a beneficial addition to your home’s gutter system, as they help keep out debris that can clog gutters and lead to water damage. However, depending on the size of your home and the amount of leaves or debris in your area, they may or may not be necessary. Contact a local expert to get their opinion.
Commonly Asked Questions
Still have a few more questions before deciding on gutter guards? We’ve got you covered.
What tools and supplies do I need to install gutter guards?
Generally, you will need a ladder, drill, screwdriver, plastic drop cloths (to protect the roof), gloves, and some kind of sealant or adhesive.
Are gutter guards hard to install?
It depends on the type of gutter guard you are installing. Some types can be more complex than others. It is best to consult with a professional if you’re unsure about how to properly install your gutter guards.
Do I need to do anything after installation?
Yes! It’s important to inspect the gutters regularly and make sure they are clean and free from debris. You should plan to clean your gutter guards regularly in order to maintain their effectiveness. Leaves, sticks, and other debris can build up on the gutter guard over time if they are not regularly cleaned off. This could potentially block water from entering the gutter and cause it to back up onto the roof or overflow into the ground below.
Do climate and location affect gutter guards?
Yes, climate and location can have a significant impact on the performance of gutter guards. Temperature extremes can cause some types of gutter guards to warp or degrade over time, while heavily wooded areas or regions prone to leaf buildup may require more durable gutter guards designed to better withstand debris and wind.
Do I have to worry about pests?
Unfortunately, yes. Pests such as rodents, birds, and insects can cause damage to gutter guards if they become trapped or build nests on them. Additionally, larger animals like squirrels have been known to chew through some types of gutter guards.
How long do gutter guards last?
Gutter guards typically last between 20-30 years with proper maintenance, although some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on their products.
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Gutters play an important role in keeping your home and roof functioning. By installing gutter guards, you will ensure long-lasting protection against rainwater runoff without worrying about major water damage down the road.
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