Gutter Guards for 2021

Because of rainwater and other weather events, the roof of your home collects a lot of airborne debris and waste materials. Infestations are also liable to occur depending on the condition and age of your roof. You always want to protect your home, especially if you live in an area that experiences a lot of precipitation. That’s where gutter guards come into play.

What are gutter guards? They are a device that you install onto your home to prevent twigs, leaves, and other miscellaneous debris from entering your gutters. This way you properly drain away rainwater and keep your gutters clear of any obstructions. We want to provide you with a comprehensive guide on what you can expect when shopping for gutter guards.

They certainly do serve a purpose. They are responsible for sustaining a functional gutter system that keeps the water flowing away from your home. Any water or runoff that collects at or near the foundation of your home can cause a lot of structural damage. The covering is uniquely shaped to keep out airborne debris while allowing rainwater to pass through.

Many homeowners ask us the same question: Why do I need to install gutter guards? Here is the simplest answer: Without gutter guards, you are creating more work for yourself. It requires a lot of energy and effort to clear out your gutters. For many people, depending on where they live and their circumstances, gutter guards are well worth the investment. Here is what you need to know:

• Debris Prevention – Gutter guards essentially trap all the waste that collects on your roof so that it won’t enter your gutter system. When gutters become clogged, they will overflow with water and suffer major damage. Then, what happens next is water begins to puddle near the foundation of your home which will then lead to major structural issues. 
• Preventing Infestations – A dirty gutter system that contains a lot of waste is a hotbed for infestations. Pine cones and leaves tend to create buildup in your gutter system, creating an ideal environment for insects and rodents. Stagnant puddles of water also attract a lot of insects. Gutter guards are going to prevent this issue altogether. 
• Less Maintenance and House Work – Debris and waste will accumulate a lot quicker than you think. This means that you will spend a lot of time cleaning out your gutter system. Wouldn’t you rather spend your free time doing something that you enjoy? You will still need to clean your gutters, but not nearly as often as you would if you didn’t have gutter guards. 
• Protection Against Fires – Dry brush and winds are a recipe for fire risks. Twigs, leaves and other debris can easily ignite if they are near a fire source. Gutter guards will limit your fire risk, which will also go a long way in preventing house fires. Homeowners who live in dry and windy climates can benefit immensely from gutter guards in terms of fire protection.
• Feasibility – Although gutter guards won’t last forever, they are still incredibly durable and also easy to replace. Gutter guards can last for decades as long as you undergo regular maintenance. Many manufacturers also offer lifetime warranties for their gutter guards.

Gutter guards come in unique styles and configurations, and we want to explain those differences in greater detail. Each type also offers its own set of benefits, and we often advise people to choose a gutter guard based on certain factors. This includes your location, weather patterns, and your budget. Here is some more detailed information on the different types of gutter guards:

• Micro-Mesh – Also known as fine-mesh, micro-mesh consists of interwoven nylon or aluminum fibers that establish a mesh screen. The mesh allows water to pass through but prevents even the smallest debris from entering your gutter system. Most experts agree that micro-mesh gutters offer you the most protection, but they require a professional contractor to install them.
• Screens – Screens are similar to micro-mesh but the holes are larger, and they are typically made of aluminum, steel, or plastic. Screens are not as effective as micro-mesh, but they are much easier to clean and maintain. Screens are highly popular for home gutter systems. 
• Reverse Curve – This particular gutter guard utilizes a sloping surface to direct rainwater through a narrow passageway. The top portion of the guard extends over the edge of your roof so that debris is less likely to enter your gutter. Reverse curve gutter guards, however, have to be installed under the first row of the shingles, which can compromise the structural integrity of your roof. 
• Brush – Brush-style gutters have the appearance of a pipe cleaner: thick bristles that protrude from the gutter and catch any debris inside it. Bristles are an affordable option and you can purchase them in most hardware stores. Installations are extremely simple and you don’t need to hire a contractor to do it for you. You will likely need to clean a brush-style gutter guard a lot more often than other types of coverings.
• Foam – Foam guards usually come in a triangular shape and they easily fit into your gutter. Water is able to pass through the porous material, and most foam gutter guards aren’t visible from the street or nearby walkways. The downside of foam gutter guards is that they tend to collect a lot of moisture, which can lead to outbreaks of mold or mildew