Keeping your gutter system clear of debris is incredibly important. Clogs and other obstructions can cause serious problems like water damage and structural issues to your home. Trapped moisture behind fascia and soffit can eventually lead to mold, mildew, and even rot. Thankfully, you can do a handful of things to avoid these unpleasant problems, such as installing leaf guards to your gutters. 

 

But do leaf guards actually work? Continue reading below to find out more.

 

What is a Leaf Guard?

Whatever you call them, leaf guards, gutter guards, gutter screens, and gutter covers are pieces that attach to the top of your gutters and are designed to stop debris such as leaves, twigs, and pine needles from entering your gutter system. Their job is to protect your home from clogs and other build-ups in your gutters, which helps prevent more serious issues previously mentioned.

 

Types of Leaf Guards

There are a few options available, varying in price. Think, “Good, better, best.”

 

Wire Mesh — These mesh screens are an economical way to tackle clogging gutters. Wire mesh covers easily attach to existing gutter systems and are dome-shaped, which allows the breeze to help keep the tops of them clear.

 

GutterRx — This flat aluminum screen attaches to your existing gutters and is invisible once installed. It boasts little ridges to allow wind to clear off the filter once the leaves dry. They also prevent build-up and overflow by slowing down the water flow. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, and they will withstand the test of time because they are made of aluminum.

 

LeafX — These lifetime guaranteed covers install over your existing gutter system and can handle the heaviest of rain and snowstorms. LeafX features a nose-forward design that uses surface tension laws to keep your gutter leaf and debris-free. Water will naturally follow the curved hood and flow into the gutter, while leaves, sticks, and other particles will fall to the ground.

 

Do Leaf Guards Really Work?

Yes! Leaf guards actually work. Having leaf guards installed on your system does not mean you will never clean your gutters out again. Unfortunately, leaf guards are not 100% foolproof, but they work pretty well. It is still suggested that you clean your gutters twice each year (spring and fall). When a leaf guard is installed on your system, you’ll find the cleaning job to be much faster and easier. You can read more about how to clean leaf guards here.

 

Contact M & M Gutters & Exteriors

Protect your home with a quality gutter system from M & M Gutters. We are Utah’s rain gutter experts and want to help keep your home safe from Mother Nature’s elements with any of the leaf guards listed above. Whether your home needs new gutters, siding, leaf guard, or repairs, our team of specialists will take care of you. If you are in the Salt Lake City, Utah area, give the professionals at M & M Gutters a call today.