The buildup of leaves, twigs, and other material that clogs gutters can be avoided using gutter guards. While these systems cannot eliminate all clogs, they can drastically reduce the need to climb ladders to clean your gutters.
The best gutter guards are inexpensive, easy to install for DIY homeowners, and can last years. They work well on most roofs and in a variety of conditions.
Choose a Style That Fits Your Home
Clogged gutters can cause soil erosion, foundation fissures, basement floods, mold, and mildew. Gutter guards can prevent this damage by keeping debris out of your gutter system and helping water drain properly.
Gutter guards come in a variety of forms and pricing points. Some are easy to install, while others may require top-rated gutter companies Lake Oswego.
Most gutter guards use a perforated cover or reverse-curve design to whisk away debris. Some are metal, some plastic. The latter tends to be less expensive but less durable or sturdy than more sturdier options. Wire mesh is another joint gutter protector, but it can quickly become clogged with twigs, pine needles, and other fine debris and rust. Then, gutter inserts sit inside the existing gutter and trap leaves, twigs, and other debris. These are inexpensive but must be cleaned more frequently than other gutter guards.
Consider Your Debris
Gutter guards can help reduce how often you need to clean your gutters by blocking small twigs, pine needles, animal nests, slimy freshwater algae, and other assorted debris. They can also help reduce the risk of clogs and improve water flow so your gutter system drains as it should.
Clogged gutters can cause many problems, from mold and mildew growth to rotted fascia and sagging gutters. Cleaning your gutters regularly helps keep them in good shape and protects your property from costly repairs.
Gutter cleaning is a labor-intensive and challenging task. Investing in gutter guards can save you from the hassle and risk of climbing up a ladder to your roof and can help to reduce how often you need to clean them. However, it’s important to remember that gutter guards do not eliminate the need for regular cleanings, and hiring a professional gutter cleaner at least twice per year is still necessary.
Consider Your Budget
Clogged gutters are a major hassle that can lead to expensive home repairs. They can overflow and cause soil erosion, foundation cracks, basement flooding, or water damage to your roof and ceiling. They can also allow water to seep into places where it shouldn’t be, such as the base of your home or soffit, leading to mold and mildew.
By keeping leaves, twigs, dirt, and other material out of the gutters, gutter guards aid in the prevention of clogs. Your choice of type depends on your roof, climate, and budget. Foam and brush guards are affordable but require frequent cleaning, while micro-mesh and reverse-curve guards cost more but are durable and come with a transferable lifetime warranty should you sell your home. Many homeowners choose professional installation for these types of guards. Depending on your chosen style, it may be visible from the ground or blend in with your existing aesthetic. Some are available in additional color options, allowing you to match your gutter protectors with your house or roof.
Consider Your Climate
Gutter guards can keep seeds, spores, and germs from sprouting inside clogged gutters. As a result, they reduce the need for homeowners to climb up a ladder and scoop out all that gunk regularly.
However, the best way to determine whether or not a homeowner needs gutter protection is to look at their climate. Areas with frequent rainy seasons or windy conditions can lead to more debris in the gutters and more clogs than those with milder weather patterns.
Gutters filled with dry leaves, pine needles, and twigs can also be a fire hazard in certain areas. It takes only one ember or sparks to set them ablaze and damage your home. Gutter guards can prevent this from happening by preventing the buildup of debris that could catch fire. They also provide a physical barrier between the debris and the wind-blown embers that can cause fires.