Cleaning gutters is a job most people avoid as it is never a pleasant task. However, if you don’t clear debris from your gutters, you risk the development of ice dams that can lead to leaks inside your home. Gutter guards are designed to keep debris from collecting, eliminating the need for regular cleaning and allowing water to flow freely through the gutter. The question is whether they actually work.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are many different types of gutter guards on the market. A bottle brush gutter guard has bristles pointing out to keep debris from accumulating while metal screens lock on the outside of the gutter. Micromesh guards are a frame and mesh filter that vary in size based on your needs while a nylon gutter guard prevents snow and ice accumulation. Reverse curve guards and slit gutter covers are made of vinyl or metal and block large debris from getting into your gutters. A sponge or foam guard is placed inside your gutter, allowing water to flow while blocking debris and a surface tension guard looks solid but allows water to track along the gutters and into the downspout without spilling.
Problems with Guards
Although each of these gutter guards allows water to flow freely, there are problems with each that may make them less useful. Metal screens, although easy to install, have small holes that allow small debris to accumulate. Micromesh allows a lot of water to flow but is very difficult to install. The reverse curve and slit-gutter covers do not handle large amounts of rainfall which can result in water overshooting the gutter and accumulating near the house. The sponge or foam gutter guards work well, but if seeds get caught in the sponge, they could begin to grow and create an even larger problem.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
No gutter guard will completely get rid of debris which means you will still need to clean your gutters periodically. A gutter guard will reduce how much debris ends up in your gutters, however. You can request that hinges be installed on your guard to allow for easier cleaning. The fact is, you will need to discuss with a qualified contractor whether a gutter guard will work for you.
If you are considering installing gutter guards, contact RGB Construction for more information. You can reach us by phone or give us a call. One of their friendly customer service representatives will walk you through the process and help you decide what gutter guards work best for your needs.
