Gutters aren’t entirely element-proof. They eventually suffer the effects of continued exposure to wind, rain, and snow, but you can take action to protect them from some of the greener aspects of mother nature. Especially in the fall, leaves from deciduous trees wreak havoc on unprotected gutters, leading to aggregation of leaf matter and debris. As time progresses and the debris within gutters builds up, clogs will form, creating a major hazard to the health of your gutters. Leaf guards and regular cleanings are the best ways to keep your gutters safe!
What Are Leaf Guards?
Leaf Guards are covers or inserts which you can install on your gutters to reduce the risk of clogs and reduce the frequency of necessary cleanings. There are many kinds of leaf guards that come in a variety of price ranges and effectivity. Depending on the type of gutters you have, as well as the environment around your home or business, the best type of leaf guard may vary. Leaf guards can extend the longevity of your gutters, helping you save time and money. Thankfully, leaf guards generally have a long lifespan; they do not require frequent replacement.
The Best Kinds of Leaf Guards
There are four major types of leaf guards to know about: mesh, perforated, reverse curve, and brush/foam. These each have different mechanisms of defending your gutters from leaf matter and different levels of efficiency depending on the local conditions. Consulting with your local gutter expert can help you choose the right kind of leaf guard for your home or business.
Mesh and perforated leaf guards work very similarly to one another by blocking leaves and debris from entering the gutter system by acting like a permeable cover, allowing only water and small, non-threatening debris to flow through. Perforated guards are the most durable variety but may allow larger debris to pass through. Mesh filters almost all debris from entering your gutters. Brush and foam gutter guards work similarly to mesh and perforated guards except they form a solid barrier between your gutters and debris rather than simply covering them.
Reverse curve guards use a unique property of water to prevent leaves from entering your gutter system. This physical property is known as surface tension; as leaves and water fall onto the guard, the water clings to the curved surface as leaves are thrown off the sides of the guard to fall to the ground.
Should I Install Leaf Guards?
Leaf guard installation is a relatively simple process and a small investment compared with the costs of repairing or replacing your gutters because of separation or bursting caused by a freezing of leaf matter. If you live anywhere in the temperate zone of North America, especially near deciduous trees, you should consider investing in gutter guards to prevent clogs. You can install leaf guards yourself; however, if you don’t have time or would rather have a professional perform the task, you should contact your local gutter service agency for more information. If you need an experienced gutter service agency for your next leaf guard installation, gutter repair or replacement, or other service, contact GutterPros for a free consultation!