Regular gutter maintenance prevents debris from obstructing water flow. A common gutter obstacle is leaf accumulation. If your area has thick foliage, then gutters tend to collect debris such as twigs, leaves, and dust and dirt, frequently.
Gutter cleaning by yourself may seem an inexpensive option. But it is a time-consuming task. It may not always be possible for homeowners to spend the required time and effort to clean their gutters. You also face the risk of slip-and-fall accidents and injuries during gutter cleaning.
So, what is a safer alternative?
Leaf protection gutter guards.
What are the Pros of Leaf Gutter Protection Guards?
If you have a new home that has not yet been equipped with gutter guards, or if your old ones need repair, there are the main reasons why you should install them. Gutter guards are a simple and effective way to prevent leaves and debris from entering your guttering system.
By installing these gutter guards, you’ll be able to prevent leaves, debris, and other materials from building up in your gutters – which can cause them to overflow and potentially cause damage to your property. When you keep leaves, twigs, and other debris from collecting in your gutters, you avoid the need for constant maintenance.
Gutter guards are a low-cost investment with high-level benefits.
Below are more reasons why you need leaf gutter protection guards for your home.
- Leaf guards protect gutters from the damage caused by leaves and other tree debris. Leaves, twigs, dust and other tree debris, fall on unguarded gutters. Over time, the debris collects moisture and gets mushy.
- The accumulated mass forms a blockage and clogs gutters, restricting the free flow of water. The basic purpose of installing gutters is defeated.
When water is not directed away from the home, it starts seeping into walls, ceilings, and the foundation. Such seepage, over time, damages the structural integrity of the property. - Leaf protection guards reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning. Many homeowners face the need to clean their gutters every year. With a leaf protection guard, homeowners can have their gutters cleaned every 3 to 5 years.
- Leaf guards improve gutter life. Unprotected gutters collect wet debris, which over time gets rotten. Gutters can bend and get damaged as the rotten mass absorbs water and gains weight.
- If you are using wooden or metal gutters, then the water-laden mass of debris can wear out the gutter material quickly.
- Leaf protection guards prevent fire hazards. Dried up twigs and leaves are susceptible to fire sparks from flying embers.
What are the Cons of Leaf Protection Gutter Guards?
- Choosing the right leaf guard is crucial. Cheap guards are a waste of money as they are inefficient at keeping leaves away.
- Perforated mesh type guards can let in dirt particles, which makes manual cleaning necessary.
- Foam guards may lead to moss growth.
Installing leaf guards prevents gutter clogging, allows rainwater to flow freely, and extends your gutter’s life.
Many homeowners may prefer do-it-yourself gutters (DIY gutters) leaf guard installation. They can benefit from DIY guard models.
There are different types of gutter guards, including valor gutter guards, micro-mesh types, and reverse curve-type guards.
In Conclusion
Consider your gutter type, local climatic conditions, and budget, to choose a leaf guard that best fits your needs.
Whether you are installing new gutters, or upgrading to the latest models, adding gutter guards for leaf protection gives you the best value for money in the long run.
