Do Gutter Guards Work: What You Need to Know
Tired of hauling out the ladder every time your gutters fill up with leaves? I’ve been there, and luckily, there might be a better way. If you’ve ever asked yourself, Do gutter guards work, this guide is for you.
I’ll cover what gutter guards are, how they function, and whether they’re worth the investment. You’ll learn about the different types, how much they cost, installation options, and the pros and cons of doing it yourself vs. hiring a pro.
By the end, you’ll have everything you need to decide if gutter guards are right for your home. Let’s save you time, money, and weekend hassle.
How Do Gutter Guards Work?
Gutter guards are designed to prevent debris like leaves and twigs from clogging your gutters while still allowing rainwater to flow through. They work by covering your gutters with a material that blocks debris but lets water through.
They allow water to enter while blocking larger debris like leaves and twigs. This keeps the gutters clean and reduces the need for frequent cleaning.
Benefits of Gutter Guards
Gutter guards offer several key benefits that make them a worthwhile investment for homeowners. They help reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, protect your home from water damage, and extend the life of your gutters. Here’s how:
- Reduced Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance: Gutter guards prevent debris from clogging your gutters, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. This saves you time and effort, especially if your home is surrounded by trees.
- Protect Your Home from Water Damage: By ensuring water flows freely through the gutters, guards prevent water from overflowing and causing damage to your home’s foundation, walls, and landscaping.
- Extended Gutter Lifespan: Keeping gutters clear of debris prevents rust and corrosion, which can shorten the life of your gutters. Gutter guards help protect your investment and reduce the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
Gutter guards provide long-term benefits that go beyond just reducing cleaning time. They help protect your home and increase the longevity of your gutters.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Gutter Guards
Follow these steps to install gutter guards effectively and ensure long-term protection for your home:
Tools Required
Before you start, gather all necessary tools to make the process easier and more efficient:
- Gutter Guards
- Drill and Hex Head Driver (1/4-inch)
- Metal Cutters
- Screws
- Tool Belt
- Gloves (Nitro-coated for protection)
- Bucket
- Cougar Paws
Step 1: Clean the Gutters
Use a leaf blower to clear out all debris from the gutters. For stubborn clogs, use a gutter scoop. A clean gutter ensures the guards will perform properly and prevents any blockages from affecting the water flow.
Step 2: Check the Gutter System
Inspect the gutters for any cracks, loose sections, or weak spots. Seal any damage with silicone to prevent leaks. Make sure the gutter system is in good condition before installing the guards to avoid future issues.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Gutter Guards
Measure the length of your gutters and cut the guards to fit. For corners, cut at a 45° angle for a clean, tight fit. This ensures that the guards fit properly and cover the entire gutter system.
Step 4: Install the Gutter Guards
Start at the back of the gutter and slide the guard under the shingles, sticking it to the gutter with the adhesive strip. Secure the ends with screws if necessary, especially if the adhesive isn’t enough to keep the guard in place.
Step 5: Handle Special Sections
If you have a rain diverter or splash guard, remove it temporarily while installing the guards. Once the guards are in place, reattach the diverter to ensure water flows properly.
Pros and Cons of Gutter Guards
Gutter guards offer several benefits, but they also come with some potential downsides. It’s important to weigh these factors when deciding if they’re the right investment for your home.
Here’s a quick comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of gutter guards:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduced Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance: Gutter guards reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning by blocking debris. | Not Fully Maintenance-Free: Small debris may still accumulate, requiring occasional cleaning. |
| Protect Your Home from Water Damage: Ensures proper water flow, preventing water overflow and damage to the home. | Limited Effectiveness with Small Debris: Smaller items like pine needles or shingle grit may still clog gutters. |
| Extended Gutter Lifespan: Keeps gutters clear of debris, preventing rust and corrosion and extending their lifespan. | Potential High Initial Costs: Gutter guards can be expensive upfront, especially for high-quality or professionally installed systems. |
While gutter guards can save time and protect your home, they also come with maintenance requirements and higher initial costs. It’s essential to evaluate these factors to decide if they’re the right fit for your needs.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are several types of gutter guards, each offering different benefits based on performance, price, and suitability for various climates. Understanding these types will help you choose the best option for your home.
1. Mesh Gutter Guards
Mesh gutter guards are made of a fine metal mesh that blocks small debris, like pine needles and seeds, from entering the gutters. They are effective at keeping gutters clear, especially in areas with heavy tree coverage. While they are durable, they can be more expensive, especially if professionally installed.
2. Screen Gutter Guards
Screen gutter guards are made from a perforated metal or plastic material that lets water flow through while blocking larger debris. These guards are generally affordable and easy to install. However, they may not work as well with smaller debris like shingle grit or seeds, which can still cause blockages.
3. Reverse-Curl Gutter Guards
Reverse-curl gutter guards have a unique design where water flows over the edge of the guard, and debris is pushed off the side. These guards are highly effective during heavy rain, as they can handle large amounts of water. However, they can be more expensive and may require professional installation.
4. Brush Gutter Guards
Brush gutter guards consist of large bristles that sit inside the gutter, preventing debris from collecting while allowing water to flow through. They are easy to install and inexpensive, but can require more frequent maintenance as the brushes may catch leaves and twigs, leading to occasional clogging.
5. Foam Gutter Guards
Foam gutter guards fit directly into the gutter, acting as a barrier for leaves while letting water pass through the foam. They are easy to install and affordable, but are less durable than other options. They can also be more prone to damage from wind or heavy rain and may need to be replaced sooner.
6. Hooded Gutter Guards
Hooded gutter guards have a covering or “hood” that keeps large debris out while allowing water to flow in. These guards are very effective in preventing leaves and twigs from clogging the gutters and are suitable for areas with heavy leaf fall.
7. Aluminum Gutter Guards
Aluminum gutter guards are durable, rust-resistant, and effective at blocking large debris. They come in various designs, like mesh and reverse-curve, and are ideal for areas with heavy rain or trees. Although long-lasting, they can be more expensive, especially with professional installation.
The best type of gutter guard for you depends on factors like your budget, the type of debris in your area, and whether you need a solution that handles heavy rainfall.
Gutter Guard Installation: DIY or Hire a Professional
When it comes to installing gutter guards, you have two main options: do it yourself or hire a professional. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of both to help you make the right decision for your home.
Pros and Cons of DIY Installation
DIY installation has its benefits, including being cost-effective, as you avoid paying for professional labor.
You also have full control over the project, working at your own pace without needing to coordinate with a contractor. Completing the task yourself provides a sense of satisfaction and ownership.
However, DIY also comes with challenges. It can be time-consuming if you lack the experience or tools.
There are safety risks when working on ladders or roofs without proper gear. Additionally, improper installation can lead to potential mistakes, causing future issues or additional costs.
When to Call a Professional
There are times when it’s better to hire a professional instead of attempting a DIY installation. If you’re unfamiliar with gutter systems or lack the right tools, a professional can get the job done faster and with fewer risks.
Professionals are also better equipped for handling complex or high gutter systems, especially on steep roofs. Additionally, hiring an expert ensures proper installation, often with a warranty for peace of mind.
If your gutters are large, intricate, or you simply want to avoid safety risks, calling a professional might be the best choice.
DIY installation is a good option for homeowners with basic skills and the right tools, but when it comes to safety or complex systems, hiring a professional ensures peace of mind and quality results.
How Much Do DIY Gutter Guards Cost?
Prices for gutter guards can range widely. The cost depends on the type of guard, the length of your gutters, and whether you install them yourself or hire a pro. Here’s what you can expect:
- Most basic plastic or foam gutter guards cost $1 to $4 per linear foot.
- Mesh and screen styles cost $2 to $5 per foot.
- For a typical home (150 to 200 feet of gutters), DIY materials run $150 to $1,000.
You’ll also need to buy some basic tools if you don’t already own them.
Professional Installation Cost
- Professional installation typically costs $7 to $15 per linear foot for most options.
- High-end or custom gutter guards, like micro-mesh or solid aluminum, can go up to $20 per foot.
- For an average-sized home, expect total costs between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the guard type and gutter length.
This price usually includes materials, labor, and sometimes a warranty.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Installing DIY Gutter Guards
While installing gutter guards, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect their performance. To ensure a successful installation, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not Cleaning Gutters Thoroughly: Failing to fully clean the gutters before installation can leave debris behind, preventing the guards from working properly and causing clogs down the line.
- Ignoring Gutter Damage: Skipping the inspection and repair of cracked or loose gutters can lead to leaks and water damage, negating the effectiveness of the gutter guards.
- Incorrect Measurements: Not measuring the gutters properly can result in poorly fitting guards, requiring extra cuts and adjustments that could have been avoided with accurate measurements.
- Over-tightening Screws: Tightening screws too much can damage the gutter or guard, causing them to loosen or fail over time. Tighten screws just enough to secure the guards without damaging the material.
- Not Securing the Guards Properly: Relying solely on adhesive without using screws in areas where needed can cause the guards to shift or come loose, leading to gaps and potential debris buildup.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother installation and a more effective gutter guard system. Taking your time and following each step carefully will help you get the best results.
Conclusion
Gutter guards are a smart way to keep gutters clear and reduce how often you have to clean them. In this post, you’ve learned how they work, the different types available, and what to expect whether you install them yourself or hire a pro.
Now that you’ve got the facts, take a moment to think about whether gutter guards make sense for your home, yard, and budget. They’re not totally maintenance-free, but they do offer solid protection and save you time in the long run.
Still asking yourself, do gutter guards work for your setup? Check out other blogs for reviews, cost comparisons, and practical tips to help you decide with confidence.
