Gutter guards prevent your gutters from clogging by keeping leaves,
trash, and dirt out. Depending on where you live, what trees surround
your house, and how much work you’re willing to perform, you can
pick a type that suits your needs. The following are the most common
types of gutter guards, with their advantages and disadvantages.
Micro-Mesh Gutter Guards – Best Overall
Micro-mesh guards are often seen as the best choice for most homes.
They have a fine screen that blocks even small debris like pine needles,
seeds, and shingle grit. Made from stainless steel or aluminium,
these guards are very strong and long-lasting. They let water flow
through easily while keeping the gutters clean.
Pros: Very effective, durable, and low maintenance.
Cons: More expensive than other types and usually needs
professional installation.
Do Gutter Guards Work in Snowy Climates?
If you are located in a cold or snowy region, such as Calgary, you need
gutter guards that can deal with ice and snow. Micro-mesh and
surface tension guards are the best to be used in such locations. They
avoid ice formation by keeping gutters free from wet leaves and
debris that can freeze. There are even guards with heated options
to melt snow and prevent ice dams.
Gutter Guard Tips for Maintenance
Even the best gutter guards need some TLC. Inspect them at least twice
a year once after fall and once after spring. Clear off any leaves that
are resting on top and give them a garden hose rinse. If you have
foam or brush guards, clean or replace them more frequently
because they can clog with material inside the gutter.
Can Gutter Guards Endure Heavy Rain?
Yes, depending on the type. Micro-mesh and reverse curve guards
work well in rainy areas. They allow for huge volumes of water to
flow through without spilling over. Standard screen or foam guards
might not clear as quickly and may spill over during a storm.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Most gutter guards are easy to install by homeowners, but some
function optimally with professional installation. Micro-mesh and
reverse curve systems typically need accurate fitting and sealing to
function effectively. If improperly installed, water will circumvent
the gutter completely. Professional installation will provide
improved performance and longer-term outcomes.
Screen Gutter Guards – Simple and Inexpensive
Screen gutter guards are metal or plastic with holes that allow water
to pass through but keep larger particles out. These would be a suitable
choice if you get leaves dropping into your gutters but don’t
experience small particles like pine needles.
Advantages: Simple to install and inexpensive.
Disadvantages: Will clog with small particles and might
need cleaning frequently.
Foam Gutter Guards – Quick DIY Fix
Foam gutter guards are molded to sit inside your gutters. Water passes
through the foam and leaves rest on top and dry out. They are
simple to install on your own and don’t need a tool.
Advantages: Cheap and easy to use.
Disadvantages: Traps seeds, could grow plants or
moss, and don’t last long.
Brush Gutter Guards – Easy to Remove
These guards appear as large pipe cleaners that live in your gutters.
They are perfect for a short- or temporary-term fix and are easily
pulled out for cleaning.
Advantages: Low cost and easy installation or removal.
Disadvantages: Debris becomes trapped in the bristles
and needs frequent cleaning.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guards – Ideal for Heavy Rain
Also referred to as surface tension guards, these are meant to direct
rainwater into the gutter while allowing leaves and debris to drop off
the edge. They’re perfect if you live in a region where there is a
lot of rain and large leaves.
Pros: Keeps big debris out and performs great in heavy rain.
Cons: More visible from the ground and more difficult to install.
Final Thoughts
If you desire a gutter guard that functions with minimal maintenance,
micro-mesh gutter guards are the optimal choice. They are more
expensive initially but offer less maintenance and hassle over time.
For temporary or low-budget solutions, screen and brush guards can
be useful. Think about the weather in your region, the amount of
debris around your house, and how much time you are willing to
invest in maintenance before making a decision.
Call to Action
Need help with gutter cleaning in Calgary?
Call Straight Path Construction today to have a free gutter inspection.
We’ll clean your gutters and ensure your home remains safe,
dry, and damage-free.
