Gutter guards are a widely-used, cost-effective option for protecting your home from water damage due to clogged gutters. While having gutter guards installed can be an expensive investment upfront, they may save you time and money in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, drawbacks, and maintenance tips for installing gutter guards.
Benefits of Gutter Guards
Keeps Leaves and Debris Out
One of the biggest advantages of gutter guards is that they keep leaves and debris from clogging your gutters. Gutter guards act as a barrier to keep out debris without blocking water flow during rain and snow. This prevents water damage to your roof and foundation caused by overflowing gutters.
Minimizes Maintenance
Installing gutter guards significantly reduces the amount of maintenance necessary to keep your gutters clean. Without gutter guards, it can be difficult and dangerous to remove leaves and debris from inside the gutters. Plus, it’s a time-consuming task that has to be done at least twice a year.
Increase Home Value
Since gutters are part of the exterior of your home, installing gutter guards can make your home more attractive to potential homebuyers. When potential buyers see that your home has been outfitted with gutter guards, it’ll make them more confident in their purchase decision.
Drawbacks of Gutter Guards
Cost
The main drawback of gutter guards is the cost. Gutter guards can be quite expensive, depending on the type and size of your gutters. Installing gutter guards also requires a significant amount of labor, which adds to the cost. However, if you take into account the time and money saved from not having to frequently hire professionals to clean out your gutters, the cost of gutter guards is well worth it.
Environment
Another potential downside of gutter guards is that it can limit water drainage into the environment. Gutter guards keep out large debris in order to protect your home from water damage, but that debris is important for providing nutrients in the environment. It’s important to research the different types of gutter guards before installation and make sure that the kind you install is not detrimental to the environment.
Maintenance Tips for Gutter Guards
Inspect Regularly
Even though gutter guards make maintenance much easier, you should still check them at least twice a year to make sure the guards are in good condition. Check for any clogging, holes, or other damage that may be affecting their ability to keep out debris and allow water to pass through.
Clean Carefully
If you do need to clean your gutter guards, use gentle soap and water to avoid any damage to the guards. Also make sure to use a soft-bristle brush to avoid scraping or scratching the guards.
Replace Damaged Guards
If you notice any signs of damage on your gutter guards, such as holes or discoloration, you should consider replacing them. As gutter guards age, the material starts to break down and may no longer be effective.
People Also Ask Questions
How often should I clean my gutter guards?
You should inspect your gutter guards at least twice a year, but you may need to clean them more if you get a lot of debris in them. If you find yourself regularly needing to clean your gutter guards, you may need to switch to a better type of guard or opt for a gutter protection system.
Do gutter guards really work?
Yes, gutter guards definitely work. Gutter guards act as a physical barrier between your gutters and the leaves and debris that often get stuck in them. This saves you the time and money you’d have to spend on gutter cleaning.
How much do gutter guards cost?
The cost of gutter guards depends on the size of your gutters and the type of guard you choose. On average, a basic gutter guard can cost anywhere from $7-20/foot, while more advanced gutter protection systems cost up to $20-30/foot.
Should I DIY or hire a professional?
It’s best to hire a professional to install your gutter guards, as it can be an involved process. Professionals have the experience and equipment needed to make sure your gutter guards are properly secured and won’t leak or fail in any way.
Final Words
Gutter guards can be a great investment for your home, as they provide added protection from water damage. Although installing gutter guards can be expensive and labor-intensive, the cost and time saved from not needing to clean or repair your gutters makes it well worth the money. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, your gutter guards should last for many years.