Feb 16
Gutter Guards 101
Gutter guards are protective coverings or screens that are installed on top or inside of a gutter system to prevent debris, such as leaves and twigs, from clogging the gutters and downspouts. They are designed to protect the gutters and your home from damage and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
There are various types of gutter guards, including wire mesh screens, foam inserts, brush-type guards, and micro-mesh type guards, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. They can be made from materials such as foam, aluminum, stainless steel, or plastic. The choice of the best gutter guard depends on factors such as the local climate, the type of trees surrounding the home, and the homeowner’s budget.
Gutter guards are designed to prevent debris from accumulating in your gutters while still allowing water to flow through. The exact mechanism by which gutter guards work can depend on the specific type of guard, but the general principle is to create a barrier that allows water to pass through but blocks leaves, twigs, and other debris from the roof and environment.
Gutter guards are protective coverings or screens that are installed on top or inside of a gutter system to prevent debris, such as leaves and twigs, from clogging the gutters and downspouts. They are designed to protect the gutters and your home from damage and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
There are various types of gutter guards, including wire mesh screens, foam inserts, brush-type guards, and micro-mesh type guards, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. They can be made from materials such as foam, aluminum, stainless steel, or plastic. The choice of the best gutter guard depends on factors such as the local climate, the type of trees surrounding the home, and the homeowner’s budget.
Gutter guards are designed to prevent debris from accumulating in your gutters while still allowing water to flow through. The exact mechanism by which gutter guards work can depend on the specific type of guard, but the general principle is to create a barrier that allows water to pass through but blocks leaves, twigs, and other debris from the roof and environment.
Here are some common types of gutter guards and how they work:
Screen gutter guards: These are mesh or screen-like covers that are placed over the top of the gutter to prevent debris from entering. They work by allowing water to pass through while blocking leaves and other large debris.
Helmet style gutter covers: These guards have a curved, downward-facing edge that directs water into the gutter while leaves and debris fall to the ground. They work by using the natural surface tension of water to direct it into the gutter while preventing debris from entering.
Foam gutter guards: These are foam inserts that are placed inside the gutter to block debris while allowing water to flow through. They work by using a porous foam material that traps debris on the surface while allowing water to pass through and into the gutter.
Micro-mesh gutter guards: These are similar to screen guards, but with much smaller holes that block even small debris like pine needles. They work by using a fine mesh that prevents debris from entering while allowing water to pass through.
Induraspring gutter guards: These are Induraspring inserts that are placed in side the gutter to block debris while allowing all water to flow through. The unique open structure of Induraspring allows water to flow through while not clogging to fine debris and roof granules like others may be prone to. These guards are exclusively available from Clear Exteriors.
Overall, gutter guards work by creating a physical barrier that prevents debris from entering the gutter while allowing water to flow through. The specific type of guard used can depend on the specific needs of the home and the surrounding environment.
Whether or not you should install gutter guards on your house depends on various factors. Here are some things to consider:
Local climate: If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or large amounts of debris from surrounding trees, gutter guards can be especially beneficial in preventing clogs and protecting your gutters from damage.
Maintenance requirements: If you prefer not to clean your gutters regularly or if you have difficulty accessing them, gutter guards can be a good option to reduce the frequency of cleaning and maintenance.
Cost: Gutter guards can range in price from relatively inexpensive options to more expensive, professionally installed systems. Consider your budget and the cost-benefit tradeoff before making a decision.
Effectiveness: Some types of gutter guards are more effective than others at preventing debris from clogging the gutters. Consider the types of debris you typically encounter and choose a gutter guard that will best meet your needs.
Professional installation: Some types of gutter guards can be easily installed by homeowners, while others may require professional installation. Consider your DIY skills and the complexity of the installation process before making a decision.
Installing gutter guards can be a good option for some homeowners, but it’s important to consider all of the factors listed above before making a decision. If you are unsure, it may be helpful to seek the advice of a professional gutter installer.