Everything to Know About Gutter Guards
Gutter guards are designed to prevent dirt, debris, and leaves from clogging your roof plumbing. These products come in different shapes and materials, each offering a unique solution for rainwater clogging. Before you compare the best products and services and get quotes from professionals, you should understand the need and types of guards to keep gutters clog-free and cut down on gutter maintenance. So here is everything you need to know:
Importance of gutter guards
The product is a useful addition to your home, especially if you live in an area with heavy rainfall. So here are some common benefits that highlight the need for this product:
Low maintenance: Rain gutters can accumulate a lot of debris and even become a breeding ground for pests. Without proper and frequent cleaning, the build-up can increase the risk of fire, water clogging, and pooling, which can trigger forced leaks. Installing a gutter guard reduces the need for manual cleaning as these filters can catch and deflect all kinds of debris without regular intervention. It is also easier to wipe down the guard, saving time and effort.
Prevents structural damage: The guards filter rainwater and allow it to flow freely down the pipes. So, they prevent water clogging, especially in spaces you would not be able to access while cleaning. So, the risk of accumulated or stagnant water/moisture is lower. Excess moisture can dampen the roof foundations and make your home structurally unsafe. The water is also diverted away from the attic—one of the most commonly affected areas during heavy rainfall—to prevent major structural damage.
Pest, mildew, and mold control: As water, moisture, and exposure to weather elements are significantly reduced, guards actively prevent infestations where it is difficult for even exterminators to tackle the problem. Usually, these crawl spaces are infected with giant rodents, snakes, and even birds that build their nests here, blocking the water flow. The tools present a barrier that prevents large pests from getting comfortable in your gutters.
Lowers the risk of accidental fires: Leaves and debris that accumulate in these spaces can catch fire when temperatures suddenly soar, say in the summer or during a heatwave. Additionally, electrical shorts or malfunctions can accidentally send sparks into these gutters. Certain gutter guards can deflect flying embers that can land in the accumulated debris.
Types of guards
You should choose the type of gutter guard that meets your requirements and aligns with your budget. Most companies sell and install these five types of guards:
Reverse curve guards: These products have a straightforward design, are easy to install, and do not require excessive maintenance. The gutter spaces are protected with a curved piece of sheet metal that only allows rainwater to flow into the available space. Anything else that falls on the smooth, contoured metal will slide off due to its inverted curved surface, preventing the gutter from clogging. On the downside, you will need professional assistance to install these guards. Additionally, they are slightly more expensive than other options on the list.
Brush guards: This is one of the most affordable and easy-to-install products. Brush guards offer a simple cut, bend, and install mechanism. You can install them without professional assistance by cutting the brush to the appropriate length and simply placing it over the gutter. The pliable metal and flexible shape allow these guards to be folded and adjusted to fit the rain gutter perfectly.
Foam guards: Foam guards are the most inexpensive option here. You get a triangular foam guard wherein one side lets the debris slide off while the other lets the water flow into the rain gutter. The third side lies flat and provides a stable base for the guard. You can also easily move this product as it is not pinned down with nuts and bolts.
Screen guards: Screens are wired grids made using flexible metal or plastic to block leaves and debris from entering the rain gutter. They can be easily installed by lifting the side roof panels and placing the screen all over the rain gutter pipe—end to end. But as these screens are only weighed down by the panels, heavy winds and rainfall can easily dislodge the guards.
Mesh guards: Mesh guards are a premium alternative for screens and offer a more permanent solution once they are fastened with screws and pins. Micro mesh guards are also very effective in blocking and filtering out small debris, leaves, and dirt as it allows only liquids to flow filtered through the grid locking design. For instance, you can opt for LeafFilter gutter guards with a micromesh screen to filter leaves and debris. However, micro-mesh guards are the most expensive option on the list and require a professional to secure the product. So, you can check out LeafFilter gutter guards online and contact the company for assistance with installation.
If you are looking for top companies that offer gutter cleaning tools, check out LeafFilter. Ranked one of the best gutter protection services by users, LeafFilter offers affordable and premium guards and home installation services for its products. Its popular mesh guard system is made using 275 microns of steel and can withstand heavy wind force and rainwater impact. The surgical-grade steel is also not susceptible to rust or corrosion, making it the ideal choice for rain gutter protection. Additionally, the products come with structural hangers that secure the entire system using durable-grade materials. To buy the product, you can simply arrange for a home inspection to get LeafFilter gutter guard protection, and the company representatives will provide you with an estimate for their products and services. You should keep an eye out for the LeafFilter gutter guards sale to grab attractive discounts and coupon codes that can be redeemed at the time of payment.
