Are Gutter Guards a Worthwhile Investment for Your Home?

One of the first things you’re likely to learn as a homeowner is that cleaning gutters is no fun. It’s a necessary maintenance task to ensure your gutters can continue to do their jobs, but it’s generally a dirty and unpleasant endeavor. That’s why some homeowners choose to install guards on their gutter systems designed to prevent debris from accumulating in the gutters. But are these devices all they’re cracked up to be?

Not all Gutter Guards are Created Equal

First, it’s important to note that there are a number of different types of gutter guards. Some are metal mesh guards that attach to shingles. Others are bottle brush designs that rest in the gutter itself. Nylon gutter guards rest on top of the gutter, and are especially good at preventing snow and ice buildup during the winter. Each gutter guard design is different, and some are better at preventing gutter clogs than others.

While most gutter guards will prevent large pieces of debris like leaves and twigs from falling into your gutters, they may not be able to keep fine sediment out. Over time, this can lead to the buildup of thick, muddy dirt which is prone to clogging and difficult to clean. With or without gutter guards, sooner or later you’ll probably have to clean your gutters to remove the buildup of fine debris.

The decision of whether or not to install gutter guards depends largely on your choice of guards, and the location of your home. If you live in a densely wooded area, a set of gutter guards may well be worth your while. If, on the other hand, you live in a single-story home on a lot without many trees, it might actually be cheaper to just hire someone to clean out your gutters once your twice a year.

Interested in gutter installation, repair or any of the other services we offer at Deegan Roofing? Get your free estimate online, or contact us today to learn more.