Gutter guards have many advantages. They keep your gutters from having to be cleaned as often, they protect your gutters from leaves, limbs and debris, and they also help your gutters to not become clogged, which causes its own set of issues. However, deciding which type of gutter guard you need can be a tough decision. There are several different types to choose from and it can be difficult to determine the pros and cons of each. Here are three of the most common types of gutter guards.
Plastic Screens
Drop-in screens are the most commonly used gutter guard. They are easy to install by cutting sections from the screen and placing them between the gutter and fascia with no fastening required. However, screens have large holes which can cause debris to get tangled in the screen or go right through to your gutter. They work great for large debris such as leaves, but not so great for smaller debris such as pine needles. If debris does get through to your gutters or caught in the screen, you will have to remove them in order to clean the debris out.
Surface Tension
Surface tension gutter guards need to be installed so that the slope of the guard is similar to the slope of the roof. These types of guards have a rounded edge, which water clings to and runs into the gutter, and all of the other debris runs off of the roof. Some small debris may enter the gutters as well, but are usually filtered out through the downspout. These types of gutter guards only work when installed at an angle like the slope of the roof, if not, it can cause larger pieces of debris to enter the gutter and can possibly clog it. They are long lasting and need little to no maintenance if installed properly.
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Fine Mesh
Fine mesh gutter guards work similar to screens, but the holes are so small that even the smallest debris can’t get through. They are easy to clean, and can be installed under shingles, or with the back bent upwards. They can also be installed to the fascia and the gutter for additional strength. If small pieces or dirt get into the mesh, they can be easily cleaned by blowing or brush cleaning, unlike screen gutter guards. They need very minimal maintenance when installed properly, and almost nothing gets through into your gutter system. If you need a product that can sustain snow, ice and tree branches, look for fine mesh gutter guards that are made with surgical grade stainless steel for the most strength.
Protecting your gutter system is important for protecting your roof, foundation and other areas of your home. Deciding which type of gutter guard based on your areas of concern, roof type and gutter type can be a tough decision. A local gutter company can suggest recommendations that will be the best fit for your home.
