Leaf gutters can be a real game-changer for those who tend to neglect their rain gutters until they can no longer serve their purpose. They can also save homeowners hours of work during spring cleaning.
But if you don’t already have a leaf filter on your gutters, you might be wondering if it’s really worth the cost of purchasing gutters and having them professionally installed.
Here’s a look at everything you need to know about various leaf solutions for your rain gutters, including the pros and the cons.
How Do Leaf Gutters Work?
Leaf gutters come in several different varieties, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep the leaves and debris out while still allowing water through. Most leaf solutions consist of a leaf filter that sits on top of or just inside your gutters and filters out the debris as the water runs off your roof.
There are five primary types of leaf guards: screen, micro-mesh, reverse curve or surface tension, brush, and foam. Screen guards are the cheapest and easiest to install, while reverse curve gutters tend to be the most popular.
The proper guards for your home will depend on your environment and the type of gutters you have installed in your home. Consult a professional before choosing a type of gutter guard, and have them install them for you.
Pros of Leaf Gutters
Gutter guards are a great addition to any home gutter system. Here’s a look at all of the pros of having leaf guards installed on your gutters.
- Clean gutters less frequently. Gutters need to be cleaned regularly in order to function properly, but ladders and cleaning equipment can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Gutter guards eliminate a significant amount of cleaning time by blocking leaves and other debris from entering your gutters.
However, remember that most leaf guards don’t wholly eliminate cleaning and maintenance. You’ll still need to get up there every now and again to remove the debris from the guards themselves. But it will significantly reduce your cleaning time and extend the amount of time between gutter cleanings. - Protect your home from water damage. The purpose of rain gutters is to collect the water that flows off of your roof and direct it away from your home. When gutters get clogged with leaves, dirt, branches, and other debris, the water can’t get where it’s supposed to go. This often results in water overflowing out of the gutters and running down the side of your house.
Over time, this can cause significant damage to your home’s siding and foundation. Leaf guards help keep gutters clear so water can get where it needs to go. This ultimately protects your home from water damage. - Extend the life of your gutters. Most rain gutters are made of sturdy and durable materials, but they can still be susceptible to damage. Gutters may wear out prematurely when excess debris gathers inside of them, gets wet, and ultimately rots. Leaf guards can prevent rotting debris, thereby extending the life of your rain gutters.
- They can be added to existing rain gutters. Many people believe that if they want gutter guards, they need to completely replace their rain gutters. But that’s one of the biggest benefits of leaf guards – they can be added to existing gutter systems.
Cons of Leaf Guards
Although leaf guards can be an excellent addition to any home gutter system, there are some things to consider before you take the plunge. Here’s a look at some of the less desirable parts of having gutter guards.
- Cheap options aren’t the best options. There are several options for gutter guards, and the prices can vary significantly. Many homeowners are drawn to less expensive guards, thinking they’ll get all the benefits without having to spend very much money.
Unfortunately, the cheapest options tend to be just that – cheap. They won’t last long or give you the ongoing benefits that well-made rain gutter guards will provide. Stick with high-quality options from an established gutter company with professional installation, and you’re much more likely to be satisfied with the results. - Small debris may still slip through. Since water still needs to be able to get through, it’s impossible for gutter guards to completely block out all debris. Small items like pine needles, seeds, and dirt may still slip through the cracks.
- They’re not maintenance-free. Gutter guards will significantly cut down on cleanings, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely maintenance-free. You should still expect to clean your gutters and guards every three to five years or more frequently for brush and foam gutter guards.
- DIY installation may void your roof’s warranty. Some gutter guards are installed in the fascia or underneath the shingles, which may void some roof warranties. We don’t recommend installing gutter guards yourself, but if you do, be sure to check with the shingle manufacturer before you start. Having your guards installed by a professional rain gutter company is much safer.
M & M Gutters & Exteriors Offers the Best Solutions For Your Gutters
Your home is one of the most significant purchases you will ever make, and it’s essential to protect it from rain and storm damage. That’s why M & M Gutters & Exteriors is here to help. A leaf filter can go a long way in protecting your home from water damage, and we offer several different types. These include wire mesh leaf gutters, Gutter RX leaf guards, and Leaf X leaf solutions.
We provide several options of superior rain gutters in addition to leaf guards, including copper, box round, k-style, and custom box gutters.
We have installed thousands of gutter systems on homes across Northern Utah, including Lehi, Salt Lake City, Park City, Ogden, and more. We offer superior service to new construction, remodels, apartments, and commercial buildings. We also provide siding installation and repair, leaf guards, and ice melt systems. Contact us today for an estimate!