Gutter guards keep debris out of gutters, saving homeowners from clogged gutters and water damage to their homes. However, not all gutter guards are equal.
Some, like wire mesh guards, rust or become clogged easily. Others, such as reverse-curve guards, encourage ice dams in cold weather. The right gutter guards can make your home more energy-efficient and safer from pests.
Gutter Type
Gutter guards Gresham save homeowners time, money, and frustration by preventing gutter clogs. They also help prevent foundation damage and other costly home repairs caused by water and debris accumulation. Gutter guards also reduce the risk of fire. Dry leaves, twigs, and other debris collected in your gutter system can create an easy fire starter that spreads quickly to your home.
Several types of gutter guards are available on the market, each with different pros and cons. The best option depends on your home, needs, and budget.
Some gutter guards are designed to be invisible from the ground or come in various colors that match your roof and home. If curb appeal is a major concern, choose a natural gutter guard that complements your home’s aesthetic. Otherwise, your gutter cover will stand out like a sore thumb. This is especially true if you opt for a metal or steel gutter cover that rusts over time.
Gutter Material
The material of your gutters and the type of gutter guard you choose will greatly impact how long they last and how well they work. Some materials are less prone to damage and clogs than others. Some add a distinct architectural element to your home’s look. Some, like copper and stainless steel, may have a higher initial cost but are more resistant to rust and corrosion than vinyl and aluminum.
Metal mesh guards, which slide under the bottom row of shingles or snap directly on top of the fascia, have small holes that filter water and block debris. However, they can lift shingles and void your roof warranty over time, and they may need to be replaced or removed after a snowstorm.
Other gutter guards have perforated holes that allow water to enter but block tree seeds and dirt. Seeds and dirt can clog unprotected gutters, leading to water overflow that can cause soil erosion, basement flooding, foundation cracks or mold, and mildew around your house.
Gutter Style
Gutter guards protect gutters from clogging with leaves, debris, and snow. They also help improve water flow so that melted snow can drain properly and avoid refreezing on your home’s roof.
Choosing the right gutter guards can save you from cleaning your gutters, which can be time-consuming and tedious. You’ll want to choose a gutter guard that can be installed easily and will last long enough to reduce your need for cleaning.
Fortunately, many gutter guards are available for homeowners who want to cut out the hassle of cleaning. Some options require professional installation, while others are DIY-friendly. If you prefer a gutter guard that won’t change the aesthetic of your home, look for one that can be hidden from view or comes in a color that matches your siding.
Installation Location
Gutter guards can prevent clogging and water damage by keeping debris away from gutters, including leaves, twigs, and pine needles. They can also keep rodents, squirrels, and birds from building nests inside clogged gutters.
The type of gutter guard you choose will impact the difficulty of the installation. The best option is a snap-on style that fits over your existing gutters and doesn’t require screws, tacks, or nails.
Most gutter guards come in 4 to 6 ft (1.2 to 1.8 m) sections that snap together or overlap. Some products have self-tapping screws that drill their hole, making pre-drilling unnecessary. Others have a 45-degree slant on each end that helps them snap into place and align with adjoining sections. Some manufacturers call for miter cuts, such as those made with tin snips, on the ends of adjacent sections to ensure they don’t overlap. These corners can also be sealed with a silicone caulk.