Are Gutter Guards Really Worth It?

How Do Gutter Guards Work?

Gutter guards are devices installed on top of gutters to keep out leaves, branches, and other debris. The most common type of gutter guard is a mesh cover or screen. These screens are made of a wire mesh material that allows water to pass through while stopping larger pieces of debris, such as leaves, acorns, and twigs. Some gutter guards use a solid cover that provides a physical barrier between the gutter and the debris that accumulates on the roof. Other types of gutter guards include foam filters, brushes, and reverse-curve systems.

Gutter Guard Benefits

The number one benefit of gutter guards is that they keep your gutters functioning correctly. Without gutter guards, your gutters may become clogged with debris and leaves, preventing them from draining properly. This can cause water to back up and overflow, resulting in water damage to the surrounding area. Installing gutter guards can help protect your home by keeping your gutters clean and unclogged. Additionally, gutter guards reduce the amount of time and effort needed for gutter maintenance. Without gutter guards, you’ll need to regularly clean your gutters to prevent clogging. With gutter guards, you only need to inspect them every few months.

Is there a downside to gutter guards?

It’s important to note that while gutter guards can be helpful, they can also come with some drawbacks. For instance, foam gutter guards can be effective, but tend to wear out quickly and need to be replaced every few years. Additionally, some types of gutter guards may not be able to handle large amounts of debris. If your roof accumulates a lot of debris, you’ll need to choose the appropriately sized gutter guard to ensure that it can effectively keep your gutters clear.

How do gutter guards work in heavy rain?

Gutter guards do work in heavy rain, but they will still require some maintenance. Gutter guards work by creating a surface tension across the top of the gutter, which allows rainfall to flow through the guard and into the gutter. However, heavy rain can cause debris to become lodged in the guard, blocking the flow of water. To keep your gutters clear, you’ll need to regularly inspect your gutter guards and remove any debris that has become stuck.

A little maintenance makes a big difference

Gutter guards can be a great way to keep your gutters clear and reduce the amount of maintenance required. However, it’s important to remember that gutter guards still require regular maintenance to stay effective. Even if you have gutter guards installed, you should still perform regular checks to make sure they’re working correctly. In addition, removing debris from your roof is an important part of the gutter maintenance process. Keeping your roof free from debris will help reduce the risk of clogged gutters and water damage.

In conclusion, installing gutter guards can be beneficial, but they still require some regular maintenance. Gutter guards can help keep your gutters free from debris and reduce the amount of gutter maintenance needed, but they can’t do the job alone. By performing regular inspections and removing debris from your roof, you can help ensure that your gutter guards are doing their job.