Every homeowner should have a gutter system to direct rainwater and snow away from the foundation. Accumulation of debris in gutters reduces their effectiveness.

Luckily, gutter guards filter debris while allowing water through. They protect the gutters from clogs, bending or warping, flooding and damages.

Several gutter guard options have varying styles, materials, and installation methods. Learn the different types of gutter guards, pros and cons, and the most effective kind.

The main types of gutter guards include:
1.      Screen Guards
​Screen gutter guards have a plastic or wire grid that filters large debris. During installation, the guard goes under the last row of shingles. You can DIY by sliding the guard edges along the gutter, so the weight of the shingles keeps it in position.
Pros

• Affordable and easy to install
• They fit well; there’s no need for retrofitting

Cons

• They can get displaced by branches or strong winds
• Interfering with the shingles can nullify some roof warranties
• Smaller debris passes through
• Require cleaning and replacement at least once a year

1.      Foam Guards
Foam gutter guards are triangular foam blocks that fit in the gutter. Two flat sides rest on the back and the gutter’s top to block debris, while the third side is diagonal in the drain to let water through.

Pros

• Light and inexpensive
• Easy DIY installation

Cons

• Foam quickly saturates, causing an overflow
• Unsuitable for areas with high precipitation
• Allows accumulation of large debris on top, damaging the foam
• Clean up requires complete removal and replacement

2.      Brush Guards
Brush guards have a thick, flexible metallic core and stand inside the gutter as water passes through polypropylene bristles.
Pros

• Easy DIY installation
• Inexpensive
• Flexibility allows fitting around corners

Cons

• Small debris gets trapped in the bristles
• Difficult to clean
• Easily clog and block

3.      Micro-Mesh Guards
Micro-mesh guards are similar to screens, but the holes are tiny to filter even small debris like blowing sand. They have a stainless steel frame and tightly woven aluminum, stainless steel, or nylon mesh.

They have three installation methods; directly above the gutter, on the fascia’s flange, or under the first row of shingles.

Pros

• Adequate protection from all debris
• More durable than others
• High-quality materials
• Easy to remove debris and clean
• The design allows a more secure installation
• More efficient water management

Cons

• Require periodic maintenance to remove tiny debris
• Need expensive professional installation

4.      Reverse Curve Guards
Reverse curve guards allow water to flow on and around a reverse curve before entering the gutter. As the water flows, the debris remains outside and slides off to the ground.

Pros

• They are light and very effective
• Perfect for homes with many trees
• Available in various colors to match your home
• Have a warranty

Cons

• Require professional installation to get the right angle to the roof’s fascia
• More complex and expensive
• They are visible from the ground
• Installation can damage roof shingles

​Micromesh guards are by far the best and most effective gutter guard type. They filter all debris, providing the most protection against debris. Additionally, stainless steel has a longer lifespan and causes minimal damage to the home.

Gutters require proper maintenance for optimal efficiency. It’s essential to inspect and prioritize gutter repair in case of damages. Are you wondering where to start? Get in touch with a professional gutter repair company today and protect your home.