5 Types of Leaf Protection for Gutters

There are five main types of leaf protection for gutters. Gutters need to be protected to keep out leaves and debris in order for them to work correctly. Most guards come in aluminum or plastic and in many colors. The aluminum is much more durable and will last longer than plastic.

Mesh or Screen

The mesh or screen is caulked inside the gutter. Any types of tiny debris that is small enough to get through it will easily flow down the downspout. The mesh comes in different shapes and sizes. This is one of the cheapest ways to protect your gutter from leaves and big debris that can clog up your downspout.

Solid Cover

Solid covers are just what they sound like, and they fit and work really well. These covers fit inside the gutter and only water can flow into the gutter from the sides. All leaves and other debris will go right off the side and will not get stuck in the gutter. These types of guards work really well, and you will hardly have to clean your gutters at all.

Gutter Guard Installed under Shingles

Another option is gutter guards that are installed under your house shingles. These guards slide up under your shingles and are very durable. These are a little more expensive, but they are more durable than most of your other options. The only downside to these is that although manufacturers of most of this type of gutter guards make claims that there is no maintenance needed, several studies show that there is some basic maintenance necessary. You will still have to check your gutters to make sure there is no blockage and that your downspouts are working correctly.

Guards that Lay on Shingles

These gutter guards lay flat on top of the gutters and shingles. They can be hinged or locked on so that they do not shift.  These will keep all debris out, but at the same time allow water in. These guards are one of the hardest ones to install but at clean up time they are the easiest. The covers of this type of guards just flip open, so they will be easy to check on and clean out.

Gutter Filters

Gutter filters are a great option for protecting your gutters from leaves and other debris. These filters are much like foam, and are installed over the gutter to fill it in. This allows only water to enter in the gutter. Leaves will flow over the top or dry up and blow away.

Overview

Gutter guards are a great investment and will save you a lot of time. Most gutter guard systems can easily be installed without professional help.