Cleaning out your gutters every few months can be a tedious and dangerous task, especially if you have a multi-story home. Gutter guards are a great way to keep your gutters clean and eliminate some time on the ladder. But are they really worth the investment?
Gutter guards are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners as they promise to reduce the need for frequent cleanings. However, some people question whether they actually work as advertised. If you’re considering investing in gutter guards, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
How Do Gutter Guards Work?
Gutter guards are designed to keep debris, such as leaves and twigs, from entering your gutters. They work by covering the top of the gutter system with a material that allows water to pass through but prevents debris from entering. Depending on the type of gutter guard you choose, it can be made of metal mesh, plastic, or foam and is installed directly over the existing gutters.
Benefits Of Gutter Guards
Reduce the Need for Cleaning
The primary benefit of gutter guards is that they reduce the need for frequent cleanings. Without a guard, your gutters will eventually become clogged with debris and require regular maintenance to keep them flowing properly. With a gutter guard in place, however, clogged gutters can be avoided, saving you time and money in the long run.
Prevent Damage to Your Home
Additionally, gutter guards can help prevent damage to your roof and siding from backed-up water. If your gutters are clogged, the water has nowhere to go but over the edges of the gutter system, which can cause staining or even rotting of wood siding. Gutter guards can help protect against this by ensuring that water flows freely through the gutters and doesn’t accumulate on the roof or side of the house.
Minimize Mold & Mildew
Gutter guards can also help minimize mold and mildew growth in your gutters. When debris accumulates in the gutter system, it creates a damp environment that is perfect for mold and mildew to grow, which can eventually lead to health problems. By preventing debris from entering your gutter system with a guard, you can help reduce the chances of these pollutants growing in your gutters.
Prevent Pest Infestations
Finally, gutter guards can help prevent pests such as rats and mosquitoes from nesting in your gutters. Without a guard, these pests can easily find their way into the system and make a home there, which can lead to disease-carrying insects roaming around your yard. Installing a gutter guard can help keep these unwanted visitors out of your gutters for good.
Prevent Ice Dams
Gutter guards can also help prevent the formation of ice dams on your roof in the winter months. When snow and ice accumulate in gutters, it can form large chunks that, if not removed, will eventually melt and cause water to back up on the roof. This can lead to serious damage to your shingles and siding due to the pressure from the water. Gutter guards can help prevent this by allowing the snow and ice to melt and flow freely through the gutters.
How Much Maintenance Do Gutter Guards Need?
They’re designed to reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning, but they still require some degree of maintenance. The type of guard you install will dictate how often and what kind of maintenance is required. For example, metal mesh guards may need to be cleaned periodically to remove debris buildup on the surface.
Foam guards may need to be replaced over time as they become clogged and stop functioning properly. In general, gutter guards require less maintenance than traditional gutters, but it’s important to consider the type you install and how much maintenance it will need before making a decision.
Are There Different Types of Gutter Guards?
Yes, there are different types of gutter guards available to suit a variety of budgets and needs. The most common type of gutter guard is a metal mesh guard, which is designed to keep out leaves and other debris while allowing water to flow freely through the gutters. Plastic guards are also popular because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Foam guards are another option that
Are Gutter Guards Worth The Investment?
For many homeowners, gutter guards are a worthwhile investment. Not only do they reduce the need for frequent cleaning, but they can also help prevent damage to your home and minimize mold and mildew growth. Additionally, they can help keep pests out of your gutters. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to invest in a gutter guard will depend on your budget and how often you are willing to clean out your gutters.
Interested in Adding Gutter Guards to Your Home?
Contact Tristate Roofing & Remodeling today to get started!
