Maintaining your home’s gutter system might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s crucial for protecting your property from water damage. Gutter guards are pivotal in this maintenance, preventing debris buildup and ensuring smooth water flow. However, with many available options, choosing the right gutter guard can be overwhelming. This guide will delve into the different types of gutter guards and their pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
Mesh Gutter Guards
Pros
- Mesh guards are usually made of stainless steel or aluminum, making them durable and rust-resistant.
- They effectively remove leaves, twigs, and other large debris while allowing water flow.
- Easy to install and relatively affordable.
- All micromesh guards are not created equally. Some are made of PVC, which will corrode over time, while the best consideration is ones made of aluminum. Also, the size of the micromesh matters significantly. A 30 mesh (30 x 30 holes/ square inch) is the most effective, not allowing the smallest particle, such as roof grit, to enter your gutter system. Southern Blend Property Solutions LLC offers an aluminum, 30 mesh for our Homeowners and Business owners to ensure they have the best protection possible. Â We do not even consider any other guard an option for our company. Â The reason for this is that spending money on any other type of guard that will eventually allow debris into your gutters does not justify the reason you installed your guards in the first place, which is to keep debris out. Â
Cons
- The fine mesh may get clogged on the top with small debris like pine needles, requiring occasional cleaning. Â A reputable, honest gutter company will tell you that no guard is maintenance-free as it is out in the elements of nature. Â While these guards do exactly as they say they will do and not allow debris into your gutters, they may sometimes allow debris to build up on top of them. Â This is why we include with our lifetime, one-time transferable, no-clog warranty a free service to blow off the top of the guards as our homeowners or business owners deem necessary. Â
- Installation is complex and requires professional installation.
Mesh Gutter Guards
Pros
- Designed to direct water into the gutter while deflecting leaves and debris away.
- They are typically made of durable materials like PVC or aluminum.
- Low maintenance as debris tends to slide off the surface.
Cons
- Installation can be complex, often requiring professional assistance.
- In heavy rain, water might overshoot the gutter, leading to potential water damage to the exterior walls.
Bottle Brush Gutter Guards
Pros
- Consists of bristles or brushes that sit inside the gutter, preventing debris from accumulating.
- Easy to install and relatively inexpensive.
- Suitable for areas with light to moderate debris buildup.
Cons
- May require frequent cleaning, as debris can get tangled in the brushes.
- In freezing temperatures, brushes can become stiff and less effective.
Foam Gutter Guards
Pros
- Made of porous foam that allows water to pass through while blocking debris.
- Easy to install and can be trimmed to fit any gutter size.
- Resistant to rust and corrosion.
Cons
- Requires occasional maintenance as leaves and debris can accumulate on the surface.
- Over time, foam may degrade due to exposure to sunlight and weather conditions.
Perforated Gutter Guards
Pros
- It consists of panels with small holes punched, allowing water to filter through.
- Durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Prevents leaves and debris from entering the gutter.
Cons
- Fine mesh can get clogged with small debris, necessitating periodic cleaning.
- Installation might be challenging for DIY enthusiasts.
Choosing the right gutter guard depends on various factors, such as the climate in your region, the type of debris prevalent, and your budget. Mesh gutter guards balance effectiveness and affordability, making them popular for many homeowners. However, if you’re willing to invest in a more sophisticated solution, micromesh guards provide superior performance with minimal maintenance, and with our LeafSlugger micromesh guards, we guarantee no maintenance. It’s no surprise that this is the best choice due to the quality of the product, the effectiveness of the product, and the maintenance-free warranty we offer.
Ultimately, whichever gutter guard you choose, regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure optimal functionality and protect your home from water damage. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure which option best suits your needs, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing your gutters are well-protected. Â The final decision should be considered as the reason you are purchasing a guard in the first place, which is to keep debris out of the gutter system. Â Â If there is a potential for debris to get in your system you have to ask why you are buying a product that is not giving you the end result you are trying to achieve. Regarding this, consider the cleaning cost you will incur each year. Â Add that cost for over 5 to 10 years, and you will be surprised just how much you are spending over the life of your home. Â Also, you may think you do not need guards because you have no trees. Â One might be surprised that during the fall, leaves from other houses surrounding you can transfer seeds through the wind that land into your gutter system and can sprout and grow. Â Also, exposed gutters can leave room for birds or rodents to build nests in downspout outlets and cause bug infestations that could cause the bugs or rodents to enter your roof and into your home. Â Â
