Are your gutters clogged? Are you fed up with removing trash from your gutters? Feel like paying someone every year to clean your gutters is a waste of money… You’re not alone — many homeowners in New Jersey feel the same way.
Gutters are unsung heroes of any home. They perform a crucial role in keeping properties safe from flooding by moving large amounts of water away from the building. However, they can easily get clogged because they collect a lot of dirt, leaves, and other debris. A clogged gutter can cause damage to your roof, siding, and foundation.
Gutter guards solve this issue with their clean design that lets rainwater drain through but stops leaves and other debris from ruining your gutters.
What Are Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards are installed along the gutter line, making it easy for water to flow through them, preventing debris from getting into the gutters. When you have gutter guards installed on your home, you don’t need to worry about climbing a ladder to clean them.
Different types of gutter guards can protect your gutters. They all have similar designs in that they are fitted along the gutter line, but there are some differences in their construction and function. We will discuss different types of guards available for residential use.
Types Of Gutter Guards
Gutter guards come in a variety of shapes and sizes — as well as materials. Mesh screens, PVC covers, foam inserts, and surface tension helmets are the most common types of rain gutter guards.
Mesh Screens: You can fit these aluminum or PVC screens on top of your existing gutters. They let the water pass through large holes in the screen but stopped the leaves and debris from getting inside the gutters. The wind will blow away the leaves and debris later in some cases.
Foam Inserts: You insert these 4-foot long foam strips into your gutter. These foams keep leaves, pine needles, and other debris from causing clogs. When rain falls on your roof, it rapidly passes through the foam strips with a highly porous design. This lets the water sheet off the roof and right into your gutters — instead of slowing down and letting trash and debris get stuck inside.
Surface-Tension Guards: The best way to keep gutters clear of leaves, sticks, and other debris. They work by clinging to the front of your gutters’ rounded noses and then carrying the water right into the downspout. Since they’re made of metal, they’re quite durable and can last up to 15 years.
Brush Guards: Brush gutter guards are relatively easy to install, but they don’t block all types of debris. Smaller debris, such as maple spinners and pine needles can get caught in the bristles. To clean out your gutters and remove smaller debris, you have to take brush gutter guards out completely. Additionally, there is a chance that these guards can get clogged very easily.
Micro-Mesh Guards: Micro-Mesh gutter guards are made of a fine stainless-steel or plastic mesh that requires minimal keeping. It effectively filters water, keeping out leaves and other debris but allowing rainwater to pass through. In addition, these guards provide a permanent solution for repairing clogged gutters and have a warranty, so you can rest assured about the quality of your product.
Material Type For Gutter Guards
The material used to make gutter guards varies depending on the quality and type of the product. The most common material is aluminum, but some gutter guards are stainless steel and composite materials.
Stainless steel: Aesthetically pleasing and durable stainless steel gutter guards are popular for homeowners. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. They ensure your gutter guard won’t expand, warp, or crack — keeping your gutters safe from blockage and debris.
Copper: Copper screen & micro-mesh gutter guards are highly resistant to rusting and corrosion. Currently, few guards can truly compare to copper on the market when it comes to durability. Not only does copper last longer than other types of metal, but it also withstands harsh weather — like rain, snow, or sleet — better than any other option.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a cheaper, lighter metal than heavier metals like steel and copper, but it’s still sturdy enough to protect your gutters from falling branches and general wear and tear. A lightweight aluminum screen gutter guard offers the same sort of protection for people who don’t have overhanging tree branches or other hard objects in their yard.
Gutter guards are an excellent way to keep leaves, dust, and other elements out of your gutters. Northkit Roofing can help you find the right solution for any gutter situation as a local company serving homeowners. Our team will assess your home’s guttering and offer solutions. Contact us today to get started on the right gutter guard for your home!
