If you’re considering adding gutter guards to your home’s gutter system, you’re probably wondering which ones to purchase for the best value and functionality. The first question to ask yourself is, “Do I even need gutter guards?” Unless you have trees in your yard or a neighbor’s yard that could shed its leaves or pine needles in your gutters, you probably don’t need gutter guards.
If you do need gutter guards, then it’s time to get familiar with the different types of gutter guards so you can make an informed decision on which type is best for your gutters. Let’s take a look at the most popular types of gutter guards on the market today.
Screen Gutter Guards
Screens are the most basic type of gutter guard, consisting of a metal or plastic screen installed over the top of the gutter, allowing water to pass through. Metal screen gutter guards are what we can install for our clients when installing our seamless gutters. Our gutter guards are powder coated, so debris easily slips off the surface, preventing clogs more efficiently than plastic. They are easy to install and don’t require screws, so you can easily remove them when it’s time to clean your gutters occasionally.
Bottle-Brush Gutter Guards
These gutter guards have large bristles restricting twigs, leaves, or other large debris from obstructing the gutter. While they are cost-effective and offer the flexibility needed to bend around corners effectively, they have a downside. Smaller debris, such as pine needles, can easily enter through the bristles, causing clogs and potentially damaging your gutters. They can also be a hassle to clean.
Foam Gutter Guards
Foam gutter guards act like porous sponges that let water pass through while keeping leaves and debris out of your gutters. They are inexpensive and simple to install, making them the perfect option for DIYers. However, many homeowners avoid foam gutter guards because they grow mold easily and must be replaced frequently. The upside is they are cheap enough to replace regularly but you’ll want to be sure the gutters are easily reachable since you’ll be replacing the foam inserts more frequently than any other type of gutter guard.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guards
Reverse curve systems use curved pieces of metal or plastic that fit inside the gutter. The curved pieces create a “reverse curve,” which forces water into the downspout while blocking leaves and other debris from entering the gutter. These systems are one of the more expensive options, but they require less maintenance as they do not become clogged as easily as bottle brush and foam inserts.
Mesh Gutter Guards
Mesh systems use a fine mesh material that fits over the top of the gutters themselves, allowing water to flow through while blocking leaves and other debris from entering the gutter. These systems require little maintenance as they do not become clogged easily. However, mesh systems can be more expensive than other options, and many homeowners find they are not worth the added investment.
Micro Mesh Gutter Guards
These covers use a fine wire mesh to keep leaves and debris out of your gutters, while still allowing rainwater to flow through. However, it’s important to note that micro-mesh gutter guards may not be the best choice for areas that experience heavy rainfall. These types of gutters guards can’t always keep up with the heavy rains so they can overflow.
Choosing the right gutter guard for your gutters can be overwhelming, but with careful consideration you can find one that balances style, form, functionality, and price. No system is entirely flawless, but don’t let that discourage you. Take the time to assess your needs and budget and you’ll be confident in your decision.