Do Gutter Guards Really Work? Hear From Real Contractors

Yes! Many homeowners doubt the effectiveness of gutter guards but will pay for gutter cleaning every few weeks. Understanding how gutter guards work is the first step in keeping your home safe from water damage and saving on gutter maintenance costs. 

In this article, we will cover all about gutter guards and how they contribute to your home’s protection and functionality. 

What Are Gutter Guards And Do They Really Work?

As you might know, gutter guards are protective systems installed over your existing gutters to prevent leaves, twigs, and debris from causing clogs while allowing water to flow freely. 

Leaf gutter guards are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want to reduce gutter maintenance and prevent water damage to their homes.

Many homeowners and contractors have confirmed that gutter guards decrease the need for regular gutter cleaning. With gutter guards, the debris and twigs will stay on the top of your gutter system. Then you can easily clean them using a garden hose or by simply removing debris by hand.

However, the effectiveness of gutter guards depends on several factors:

👉 Type of debris in your area.

👉 Guard material and design.

👉 Proper installation.

👉 Regular maintenance.

While no gutter guard system is completely maintenance-free, quality guards can significantly reduce cleaning frequency and protect your home from water damage.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Gutter Guards?

Understanding the general pros and cons of gutter guards will help you decide if they’re right for your home. 

Pros	Cons
Gutter guards lower the need for frequent gutter cleaning, saving time and effort.	Some debris may still accumulate, making cleaning necessary and more complicated.
They reduce the risk of accidents that are associated with climbing ladders for gutter cleaning on a regular basis.	In colder climates, they can contribute to ice dam formation if not maintained properly.
By preventing debris buildup, they help maintain the integrity of gutters over time.	Some gutter guard types can become a hiding spot for pests if not cleaned regularly.

What Are The Different Types Of Gutter Guards?

Another important thing you need to consider is choosing the right type of rain gutter guard per your budget and home requirements. 

There are six common types of gutter guards that you can choose from. Each has its own qualities and limitations. Here, we will discuss them briefly.

#1 Micro Mesh Gutter Guards

As the name slightly describes their design, these gutter guards have a micro mesh-like design with the tiniest filtration available. These gutter guards can prevent small debris from entering your gutters. 

These are slightly hard to install, so it is recommended that you go with professional installation when choosing micro mesh gutter guards for your home. 

#2 Mesh Gutter Guards

Mesh gutter guards often come up as a popular choice among different types of gutter guards. These guards feature a mesh-like barrier that effectively blocks larger debris like leaves and twigs while letting water flow through.

While they work well for most situations, tiny particles can sometimes slip through depending on the mesh size. Though they need occasional maintenance to prevent clogging, they’re generally affordable compared to other options.

You might also like, 7 Signs You Have Clogged Gutters (With Quick Fixes)!

#3 Screen Gutter Guards

Among the various types of gutter leaf guards, screen guards are one of the most basic and affordable options. These guards feature larger openings than their mesh counterparts and are typically made from perforated metal or plastic. 

While they’re excellent at keeping out bigger items like leaves and twigs, they struggle with smaller debris like pine needles and pollen. Installing gutter guards of this type is relatively simple, making them popular for DIY projects. 

However, they have a shorter lifespan of 2 to 4 years and may need frequent maintenance. In windy areas, these guards can sometimes become dislodged, requiring regular checks and adjustments.

#4 Reverse Curve Gutter Guards

When exploring different types of gutter guards, reverse curve guards stand out for their unique design.

These guards use an innovative curved surface that guides water into your gutters while allowing debris to fall to the ground. Installing gutter guards of this curved style usually requires professional help, but they often come with strong warranties.

While they work effectively in most situations, they might not be suitable for all roof types, and their design can sometimes attract nesting animals. The curved structure can also make gutter access challenging when maintenance is needed.

#5 Brush Gutter Guards

Among the various types of gutter leaf guards, brush guards offer a simple yet effective solution. They look like giant pipe cleaners that sit inside your gutters. Their bristles catch leaves, sticks, and debris while allowing water to flow.

When considering if gutter guards are worth it, brush guards are appealing due to their easy installation and affordable price point. Installing gutter guards of this type is as simple as placing them into your existing gutters. 

While they do need regular cleaning to maintain effectiveness, the process is straightforward: just remove debris and rinse. However, their visible appearance from the ground and relatively short lifespan might be drawbacks for some homeowners.

#6 Foam Gutter Guards

When exploring different types of gutter guards, foam guards represent a unique approach to gutter protection. These sponge-like inserts fit directly into your gutters, acting like a filter that allows water to pass while blocking debris on top.

If you’re wondering, “Do gutter guards work,” foam guards are effective for basic protection but come with limitations. Installing gutter guards of this type is incredibly simple, making them attractive for DIY projects. 

While they’re one of the most affordable options available, they require frequent maintenance and can develop mold issues due to moisture retention. Their lifespan typically ranges from 2 to 5 years, and they may freeze in cold weather, making them better suited for temporary solutions or moderate climates.

How To Choose The Right Gutter Guards For Your Home?

To choose the right gutter guards for your home, you need to first specify your requirements. If you need heavy tree coverage, then you can consider screen gutter guards.

If there are pine trees around the perimeter of your home, then micro-mesh gutter guards are a good option. 

For large leaves, standard mesh screens and reverse curve guards work well. 

How Much Does It Generally Cost To Install Gutter Guards?

Professional gutter guard installation can cost you anywhere between $4,000 and $6,000. On average, most homeowners pay around $4,800 to cover the rain gutters of their home.

Remember the actual cost to install gutter guards can vary based on the quality of material, installation method, size of your home, and the local labor rates.

If you are doing it yourself, the cost can be anywhere from $1 to $6 per linear foot. On the other hand, professional installation can cost around $6 to $20 per linear foot. 

⭐Bonus

Some Best-Rated Gutter Guard Options In 2024

Here are some of the popular gutter guard choices that you can also consider for your home in 2024.

#1 LeafFilter 

This system features ultra-fine mesh openings of 275 microns that let water flow while blocking everything else. The surgical-grade stainless steel construction ensures it won’t rust or corrode over time, making it a reliable choice for long-term gutter protection.

#2 Gutterglove® Pro 

This is built for professional installation and combines durability with high performance. It works well in various weather conditions and uses stainless steel micro-mesh to keep debris from building up. Many contractors prefer this system for its reliable results.

#3 HomeCraft Gutter Guard

These guards stand out for their versatile design that works with many gutter styles. They don’t need underlying support structures but do require professional installation. The system uses reinforced metal hangers for extra stability and includes an effective filtering system.

#4 Raptor Gutter Guard® 

The Raptor Gutter Guard is known for its special V-bend trough technology and it offers good filtration. The design helps prevent debris from sticking while adding strength to the overall structure. Many homeowners appreciate that it’s designed for easier installation.

#5 Atlas Gutter Guard®

This guard uses an innovative mesh design that’s effective at keeping debris away while allowing excellent water flow. It’s particularly good at preventing insects and other small pests from getting into your gutter system, making it a solid choice for complete protection.

Get Professional Rain Gutter Installation Services In Mayville, WI

Don’t let clogged gutters put your home at risk. Here in Wisconsin, where weather can be particularly harsh, maintaining your gutter system isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your home’s foundation and structural integrity.

At BRH Enterprises LLC, we understand your concerns about gutter maintenance. As Wisconsin’s trusted gutter specialists, we’ve helped countless homeowners just like you solve their gutter problems with professional installations and repairs. Our seamless aluminum gutter systems are specifically designed to handle our region’s unique weather challenges, from heavy rains to winter ice.

Ready to stop worrying about gutter maintenance? Our expert team is just a phone call away. We’ll help you explore the best gutter options for your home, including our premium seamless gutters that offer:

• Up to 40% more water-carrying capacity
• Enhanced durability with hidden fasteners
• Superior protection against Wisconsin weather

Take the first step toward protecting your home. Call BRH Enterprises LLC at (920) 249-4228 for a professional consultation. Our friendly experts will help you understand your options and find the perfect solution for your home’s needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Gutter Guards