What You Should Consider Before Buying Gutter Guards

What is the best leaf guard system for gutters? Well, that depends. With so many gutter guard companies vying for your attention, you may be left wondering what makes them better than others. It really depends on what you need for your home. Here are a few things we recommend you consider for your new leaf gutter guards. Then, when you’re ready for your gutter guard installation, you can make a decision with confidence.

The Construction of Your Gutter Guard

Size and shape should be one of the first things you look for when buying new gutter covers as you’d like them to be compatible with your existing gutter system. You’ll want to think about how the gutter guards keep debris out – the best gutter covers repel solid debris while allowing water to easily stream down the surface and into the gutters.

Also consider that the materials used may affect compatibility: some leaf gutter guards are made out of plastic or soft metals; others use sturdier metals such as aluminum or steel.

Consider the Environment Around You

Because gutters play such an important role in rerouting precipitation and protecting your foundation from water damage, you’ll want to consider potential obstacles. Take a look around your property. Do you live in a more spacious area or are you surrounded by trees and other plants?

If your surroundings look like the latter, you will want to choose leaf gutter guards that keep twigs and leaves out. Think of the time and energy you’ll save not having to clean your gutters out yourself!

Lifespan of the Gutter Guards

Even the best gutter guards require maintenance from time to time, no matter which kind you choose. The next step is to decide how often you expect to maintain or replace them, depending on their expected lifespan.

So how long do gutter guards last? The main factor determining your gutter covers’ longevity is whether you opt for a store-bought guards or a comprehensive leaf gutter guard system. Many consumers are attracted to the store-bought kind as they are not as expensive as comprehensive gutter guard products. However, these will require gutter guard repairs more often and need to be replaced every few years. On the other hand, the comprehensive option lasts anywhere from 10 to 25 years or even longer, which may be worth the investment to you.

Types of Gutter Guards

Leaf gutter guards not only keep the gutters clear of debris, but they also make maintenance simple. They do this in a variety of ways, depending on the types of gutter guards you’re looking at.

For example, gutter guards with screens are increasingly prevalent and come in a variety of designs and sizes. The best gutter screens for your home are ones with holes small enough to keep out both the animals and natural debris common to your area. If you live in an area with pine needles, dust, or other fine debris, consider clean mesh gutter guards instead.

Foam insert and brush gutter guard types are less durable and need to be maintained more frequently. But, they can still get the job done for homes across the country at a lower initial price.

Surface tension gutter guards (also known as reverse curve guards) are angled down and have a textured top surface. This increases the surface tension of the water to cling to the guard as it runs over the top surface and into the narrow groove to the gutter. They are also the best professionally installed gutter guards and pay off with their increased durability, maximum effectiveness, and little maintenance.

Talking with professional gutter guard companies can help you assess and determine the best gutter guards for your home. 

What is Your Budget?

The consideration that’s most often top of mind is, of course, gutter guard cost. Remember that as with most things, the amount you’re willing to spend will likely indicate the level of quality you’ll receive. So, the cheapest gutter guards may end up costing you more in the long run (as we discussed regarding lifespan).

For example, foam or brush inserts cost about half as much per linear foot compared to mesh or surface tension gutter guards. Those higher prices take into account increased durability and strong warranty protection.

Again, talk to some professionals and do research based on what your roof and gutter system need as well as your budget for a gutter guard system that can pay for itself.

Consult the Experts at Quality Seamless Gutters

When you need gutter guard installation, think of Quality Seamless Gutters first. With exceptional gutter service and expert craftsmanship, we provide the best gutter guards Bluffton, SC, and the surrounding areas have to offer.

We pride ourselves on being the most reputable of local gutter guard companies and have worked with both residential and commercial properties for many years. Our consultation specialists at Quality Seamless Gutters are always a call away from offering their services.

Give us a call at 843-846-3333, and let’s find the optimal solution and best gutter guard prices for you!