The Best Way to Maintain Your Gutters
This article will tell you everything you need to know about leaf guards for gutters. There are various benefits to using leaf guards, but you should also be aware of the numerous disadvantages that come attached too.
This guide will instruct you on buying, using, and maintaining leaf guards, as well as some benefits and drawbacks so you can make the right choice for your house.
What Are Leaf Guards?
Leaf guards or gutter guards prevent debris, such as leaves, dirt, fallen branches, and miscellaneous objects. Leaf guards are very efficient and cleverly divert debris so that water can move through the hood of the gutter and drain efficiently.
They typically look like long metal mesh guards that sit on top of your gutters. They have drainage holes so that water can still find its way into the gutter and prevent accumulation of debris in your gutters which can lead to a variety of issues.
Why Should You Consider Getting Leaf Guards?
If you live in an area surrounded by trees and vegetation, leaf guards will be particularly useful. Especially during autumn and winter, when leaves fall regularly and the level of rainfall increases, leaf guards can significantly reduce the strain on your gutters and prevent major issues from occurring.
Here are some of the benefits and disadvantages of owning leaf guards, so you can make an informed decision that suits your house and needs.
Advantages
- Reduce the number of gutter cleanings – Whether you clean your gutters or hire professionals, gutter cleanings can be a hassle. They take hours and often involve standing on ladders for large amounts of time. Using leaf guards will reduce the number of gutter cleanings you need and make cleaning easier and quicker.
- Drains water more efficiently – Because there is no build-up of leaves, dirt, or other objects, water can easily make its way out of your gutters.
- Reduces risk of water damage – Having an accumulation of water on your rooftop can be dangerous and can lead to major issues, including roof collapse, internal dampness, and even mold growth.
- Reduces pressure on gutters – The weight of leaves, branches, and objects can put pressure on your gutters and cause them to work inefficiently.
- Prolongs the lifespan of your gutters – Avoiding pressure, debris build-up, and waterlogging can help your gutters last longer, so you don’t need to be as concerned with repairs or replacements.
Disadvantages
- They can be expensive – Installation costs can mount up high, and the cost of leaf guards themselves vary depending on what type you get.
- They are not guaranteed to keep all debris out of your gutters.
- They can be too heavy for your house – Consult a professional before buying and installing leaf gutters. Some houses are not strong enough to support their weight, and this can cause major external damage.
- They can increase the price of professional gutter cleans.
There are a variety of things to consider when contemplating installing leaf guards, many of which center around the type of house you have, its support systems, and your budget. So, make sure you take note of the different types of leaf guards and choose the one that best suits your house and your gutter’s needs.
Types of Leaf Guards for Gutters
There are many kinds of leaf guards for gutters, all of which have different uses, looks, and prices.
Mesh Gutter Guards
Mesh gutter guards are long, thin metallic guards that sit on top of your gutter and prevent debris from entering your gutter. It is equipped with drainage holes, so water can still drain efficiently.
These guards are long-lasting and will not need maintaining or cleaning as frequently as other leaf guards or naked gutters. These are, however, on the more expensive side, so perhaps not the best option if you’re on a budget.
Micro-Mesh Gutter Guards
These are a type of mesh guards, but they use smaller holes, ensuring that even small bits of debris are kept out of the gutter.
These are often recognized as the most efficient gutter guard types, but the installation prices can be quite high.
Brush Gutter Guards
These gutter guards sit inside your gutter with bristles sticking out to catch any debris before they fall and accumulate in the gutter.
These are easy to install, and you won’t need professional help, but they are not as efficient and will need large amounts of maintenance.
Foam Gutter Guards
These are a much cheaper option, and they are lightweight, meaning they can be installed even if the foundations on your house are weaker than average.
Quite simply, foam guards look very similar to mesh guards and likewise create a barrier between the top of the gutter and the falling debris. These options are not as durable and easy to clean, but they are ideal for the customer on a budget.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guards
Reverse curve gutter guards are attached to the bottom of your roof and curve into your gutter, leaving a small space for water to drain into. Your gutter will look fully covered, allowing debris to slide down and out of the way of your gutter.
These are very efficient forms of debris guards, but they are expensive and can be seen from the ground, potentially declining the aesthetic value of your house.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand how leaf guards work and why they may be a good addition to your house. Choosing a leaf guard type depends entirely on your house structure, needs, and budget.