Are you fed up with having to continuously clean out your gutters. The idea of risking a dangerous fall just to maintain the cleanliness and effectiveness of your home’s gutter systems can be frustrating. Fortunately, there is an easy way to help keep them clear and clutter-free investing in gutter guard installation.
Many homeowners are curious if they should invest in gutter guards since they come at an additional cost, so read on to discover exactly what makes this investment worthwhile.
Are Gutter Guards Worth the Cost?
Gutter guards are a type of gutter protection that prevent leaves and other debris from clogging up the system. While they may seem expensive when first installed, many homeowners find that the purchase pays off in the long run: in addition to saving time spent cleaning gutters, gutter guards also significantly reduce the risk of water damage.
Furthermore, high-quality gutter guard systems are designed to be durable, so you should expect them to last more than a decade. All in all, while they come with an initial cost, gutter guards can certainly be worth the investment.
Is there a Downside to Gutter Guards?
Homeowners often consider gutter guards as a way to protect against things like clogs, leakage, and injuries from cleaning out the gutters. While these shields provide some relief from typical maintenance, they have their drawbacks though they can keep larger debris like leaves and twigs out of the gutters, fine materials such as pollen and small particles may still find their way in and create blockages over time.
These guards may also reduce the amount of air that gets into the gutter leading to faster rusting, while heavy accumulation of debris can also cause damage to them when you try to clean them. Therefore, just like anything else in home maintenance, homeowners need to weigh their options before deciding if investing in gutter guards is worth the cost.
Do Gutter Guards Work in Heavy Rain?
Gutter guards can be a great addition to your home’s exterior and are often touted as an effective way of preventing clogs from accumulating in the gutters when heavy rains come. But the effectiveness of gutter guards in heavy rainfalls depends on how they are installed.
Due to their design, they will typically be effective against lightweight debris such as leaves and medium-sized twigs, however, if not properly secured on the roof per manufacturer’s instructions, larger objects like branches may pass through and settle into the gutters leading to potential clogging issues anyway.
It is always best to perform routine maintenance on your gutters even if you do install gutter guards since small particles such as fine dirt, dust, pine needles, and shingle grit can still find their way into your gutter system.
Do Gutter Guards Save Money?
Installing gutter guards can help homeowners save money in the long run by reducing the build-up of debris in gutters and downspouts. Inadequate debris removal can lead to clogged gutters and downspouts, resulting in erosion around the foundation of a house or other water drainage issues such as flooding. Repairing these issues can be expensive, so installing gutter covers and shields at the onset can result in considerable savings that would have been incurred due to repairs or replacement costs.
Additionally, regular maintenance of properly installed gutter guards is much cheaper than unprotected gutters that need replacement after every few years due to corrosion from blocked water running over them. So, investing in gutter guards is indeed worth considering if you want to avoid future repair costs related to your home’s rainwater management system.
How Long Does Gutter Guard Last?
Installing gutter guards in your home can offer the longevity of your current gutters while allowing you to avoid those regular cleanings. The lifespan of the gutter guard can vary greatly depending on what type you choose. For example, aluminum is a primary choice for a gutter guard due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, and it can last anywhere from five to fifteen years depending on if it’s properly installed and maintained.
Alternatively, stainless steel may last as far as over two decades. In either case, though, factors like weather exposure or poor installation will decrease how long your gutter guard lasts. Doing research ahead of time regarding materials, installation methods and maintenance tips is key to getting the most out of your investment for many years.
How much Should I Pay for Gutter Guards?
When it comes to choosing gutter guards, the cost may seem daunting at first. However, these products can ultimately save you a lot of time and money in the long run by protecting your gutters from clogs and keeping your home safe from potential water damage. You can expect to pay anywhere from $3-$10 per linear foot depending on the material and size of the guard.
Make sure to research product reviews before making any decisions, as this purchase is an important one don’t forget to factor in professional installation costs if you plan on having that done! Ultimately, gutter guards are a practical investment that can provide peace of mind for years to come.
Do Gutter Guards Cause Leaks?
Gutter guards are a controversial home improvement when it comes to their efficacy in preventing clogs and leaks. While gutter guards can help prevent leaves and debris from entering the gutters, they may not be suitable for all homeowners or all climates. Gutter guards can allow rainfall to flow into the gutters and away from the home but if installed incorrectly, they could cause backflow, resulting in leaks around the foundation and walls of the home.
Though gutter guards are designed to keep out large debris and limit maintenance issues, some experts suggest that for areas prone to strong winds or frequent heavy rains, homeowners would be better off foregoing gutter guards altogether in favor of regular cleanings. As with any home improvement project, make sure you consult with a professional on whether or not gutter guards are an appropriate investment for your particular home.
Conclusion:
In the end, only you can decide if gutter guards are worth the cost. Consider how much time and money you’re currently spending on maintaining your gutters and whether or not that’s something you’d like to continue doing.
Also, take into account the type of climate where you live if leaves and debris aren’t a big problem in your area, then gutter guards may not be necessary. But if you live in an area with lots of trees and windy weather, gutter guards could save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.
