Gutter guard prevents any unwanted materials from entering, usually those unwanted materials are leaves, branches, and other outdoor debris. By keeping those materials out, gutter guards go a long way in preventing clogs and water over flow in your gutters.
The goal of the gutter guard is simple: protect and fortify the home against nature’s assailants.
There are different types of gutter guards available, either in plastic or metal aluminium. Some of these are:
- Brush (DIY)
- Foam (DIY)
- Nylon Reverse Curve or Surface Tension (DIY)
- Metal Screens
- Micro Mesh
Gutters can function without gutter guards. They just can’t function efficiently for very long. Before gutter guards, a gutter system could successfully corral water only if leaves and debris weren’t a threat. The absence of gutter guards leaves the gutter system susceptible to clogging.
When that happens, the homeowner has two options: get up on the ladder and unclog them manually, or leave them alone and risk water build up during a rainstorm.
Most are add-on devices that fit over, or into, existing or new open gutters. Some will completely cover the gutter but contain holes for water to pass through, while others will leave a small opening between the gutter and gutter guard.
Main Benefits of Gutter Guards?
- Protection from the elements
- No clogs (leaves, twigs, debris and pests)
- Free flow of water
- Less wear and tear on gutters
- Lower chance of cracks from pressure
- Prevents overflow of water back into the ceiling causing internal property damage
A gutter guard is any piece that protects the exposed top portion of a gutter by preventing anything other than water from entering.