Smart Homeowners Choose Gutter Guards — Here’s Why You Should Too

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Gutters might not be the most exciting part of your home, but they’re crucial. They protect your foundation, siding and roof from water damage. Yet, keeping them clean is a never-ending chore — especially in the fall. That’s where gutter guards come in.

If you’re tired of hauling out the ladder or paying someone to clean your gutters every few months, gutter guards are a great option. They can save you time, money, and plenty of headaches.

The Benefits of Gutter Guard Installation

Gutter guards offer plenty of advantages, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to simplify maintenance and protect their property. Here’s what makes them a smart investment:

Say Goodbye to Clogged Gutters

Leaves, twigs and debris don’t stand a chance with gutter guards. They create a barrier that blocks most debris while still allowing water to flow freely. This means no more overflows during heavy rains or worrying about ice dams in winter.

Protect Your Home from Water Damage

Clogged gutters can cause serious problems. Water that can’t drain properly spills over the edges, pooling around your foundation and seeping into your basement. Gutter guards help prevent this by keeping your gutters clear and functional year-round. 

Save Time and Energy

Cleaning gutters is nobody’s favorite weekend project. It’s messy, time-consuming and potentially dangerous. Gutter guards drastically reduce the need for cleaning. While you may still need to check them occasionally, the days of scooping out gunk by hand are gone.

Avoid Pest Problems

Standing water with debris in gutters are magnets for pests — mosquitoes, rodents, termites and even birds. Gutter guards will keep your gutters clean and make your home less attractive to unwelcome guests. 

Increase the Life Span of Your Gutters

When gutters stay clean, they stay in better shape. Heavy debris and pooling water can cause sagging and rust over time. Gutter guards extend the life of your gutters by reducing wear and tear. 

Potential Downsides

While gutter guards are helpful, they’re not without their challenges. It’s essential to understand the potential downsides before deciding if they’re right for your home. For some homeowners, the cost or specific limitations may outweigh the benefits. Consider the following drawbacks:

There’s an Upfront Cost

The initial cost of gutter guards, especially for higher-quality or professionally installed systems, can be significant. While they save money on long-term maintenance, they may not fit everyone’s budget right away.

They’re Not Maintenance Free

Without gutter guards, you’ll likely need to clean your gutters two to three times during the fall due to leaf buildup. Gutter guards help reduce debris buildup, but they don’t eliminate the need for occasional maintenance. Small debris like seeds, granules from shingles or small leaves may still slip through or sit on top of the guards, requiring periodic cleaning. 

There’s Risks If You Install Them Incorrectly

Improper installation can cause issues like water overflowing the gutters or guards becoming detached. DIY installation can be tricky, and poor installation could end up being more trouble than it’s worth, especially if it leads to gutter damage.

They Have Limited Effectiveness in Certain Climates

In areas with heavy snowfall or ice, some gutter guards can cause ice dams. Water may freeze on top of the guard rather than draining, potentially damaging your roof or gutters. Specialized products can help mitigate this, but not all guards are designed for extreme weather.

They May Not Work With All Gutters

Not all gutter systems are compatible with gutter guards. If your gutters are older, damaged or poorly designed, you might need to replace them before adding guards — further increasing your costs. 

There Are Potential Warranty and Compatibility Issues

Some guard types might void your roof or gutter warranty if they interfere with water flow or attachment points. It’s important to check with your gutter manufacturer or roofing company before installation. 

They Can Wear Over Time

While most gutter guards are built to last, they can wear down over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. Plastic or mesh guards may degrade or rust, requiring replacement or repair. 

How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?

The cost of gutter guards can vary widely based on the material, type and whether you opt for professional installation. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $25 per linear foot for the materials alone. 

DIY options, like mesh or foam guards, tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, while professionally installed systems, such as micro-mesh or reverse curve designs, are more expensive. For a typical home, this could translate to a total cost between $200 and $2,500, depending on the size of your gutters and the product you choose.

Installation drives this price up. If you hire an expert, labor costs typically range from $3 to $10 per linear foot. While DIY installation may save you money upfront, it’s important to ensure the guards are installed correctly to avoid future issues. Some high-end products include installation in the price, so it’s worth comparing quotes to find the best fit for your budget and needs.

Are Gutter Guards Worth It?

For many homeowners, gutter guards are a worthwhile investment. They significantly reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning, saving both time and money over the long run. This is particularly beneficial if you live in an area with lots of trees or deal with heavy rain and debris throughout the year. Additionally, by preventing clogs, they help protect your home from water damage, which could lead to costly roof and siding repairs.

However, whether they’re worth it depends on your home’s needs. If your property doesn’t have many trees and your gutters rarely clog, the cost of installation might outweigh the benefits. On the other hand, if you regularly pay for professional gutter cleaning or risk injury by cleaning them yourself, gutter guards can provide peace of mind and long-term savings, making them a smart choice for many households. 

Final Word

Gutter guards are a great solution for many homeowners, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all fix. Weigh the benefits against the potential downsides, consider your budget and think about your home’s specific needs. If the pros outweigh the cons, gutter guards can still be a smart investment to protect your home in the long run.