Gutter Guards

The Importance of Clean Gutters

Homes are often the biggest investment a person makes. Often times, people rely on their homes to fund their retirement. Because homes are such an integral part of long-term financial security, their upkeep and maintenance is critical.

Gutters have a big impact on the physical condition of a home. Healthy gutters can prevent roof damage, water damage, wood rot and even basement flooding. No gutter system will perform as it should, however, if it is not clean and clear of leaves and debris.

The Dreaded Gutter Clean Out

Cleaning gutters is a dirty job. In the fall and winter, leaves fall from trees and clog eaves. In the spring, seeds, leaf buds and pollen accumulate and cause fungi to grow and attract bugs. Not only is clean out messy, it also dangerous.

In 2007, more than 400 people died from ladder accidents and another 125 died from roof falls according to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said ladders contributed to more than 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries in the U.S. in the same year. It's no wonder homeowners are so eager to buy into the idea of maintenance-free gutter guards.

The Truth About Gutter Guards

Gutter guards do cut down on the need to climb up a ladder and scoop debris from the eaves; but they do not eliminate it. Most guards are more effective against large leaves than they are against seeds and buds. At best, by installing guards, homeowners may be able to eliminate a fall clean out and switch to an annual maintenance routine in the spring.

In recent years, some manufacturers have added micromesh screens to their products. These aluminum screens cut down the amount of fine debris that would have previously ended up in the gutter. Less debris means less physical labor. Homeowners who install micromesh guards, can most likely just use a garden hose to rinse organic debris from the trenches. The tiny openings in the mesh let the water in easily.

While fewer clean-outs and easier maintenance may sound good, guard systems are not a necessary investment for every homeowner. They often cost as much as the gutters themselves. Therefore, if you are planning to sell your current home, it may be more cost effective to set up a maintenance contract and hire a professional to do the dirty work. A good rule of thumb is to divide the cost of guards by the number of years you expect to remain in your home. Compare that figure to the cost of a professional maintenance plan and then decide which option makes the most sense financially.

Choosing a Gutter Guard

If you decide gutter guards are right for your home, there are many options available. When choosing a guard, consider the climate, vegetation, and wind patterns where you live. The conditions near your home should dictate the type of guard you purchase. Here are some companies that offer guards.

• Flo Free guards come with a lifetime warranty. These guards are well suited for the Northeast because they stand up to strong winds and they prevent snow from accumulating in trenches
• Gutter Filler products comes with a 20 year "No clog" warranty. This company also says it can prevent mosquitoes from breeding by sealing the gutters so bugs can't get into the eaves.
• Leaf Filter guards claim to be self-cleaning. Using a proprietary technology, these guards siphon water that rinses debris from the guards.
• Leaf Defier guards have biocide and fungicide built in to prevent organic growth in the gutters. These guards are also UV stable making them ideal for hot, humid climates.
• Gutter Guardall is the gutter guard for do-it-yourself homeowners. The only tools needed to install this guard are a ladder, a pair of tin snips, and a pair of flat-nosed pliers.
• MasterShield Gutter Protection is a micromesh design. This system works well with very steep roof pitches.

Summary

Clean and well-functioning gutters are integral to the upkeep of your home. For that reason, gutter guards are usually a wise longer-term investment. Take the time to find the system that works best for your home and your budget.