Keeping your roof gutters clean is one of the most critical parts of your home maintenance. Clogged rain gutters can wreak havoc on your beautiful home, bringing its overall market value down. The most common dangers of uncleaned and clogged rain gutters include:
- Foundation damage
- Roof damage
- Cracks and shifts in driveways and sidewalks
- Landscape erosion in your lawn, garden, or backyard
- Attract pests like ants, insects, and mosquitoes
The good news is that you can easily avoid these problems. Yes, we are talking about gutter leaf guards. This simple device will prevent your rain gutters from getting clogged, saving you a ton of money.
What Are Gutter Leaf Guards?
A leaf gutter guard, or simply gutter guard, is essentially a cap, cover, or liner that goes over your rain gutters. It allows only the rainwater to flow into the gutters. But keeps debris like leaves, pests, and other unwanted rubbish away. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials.
The most popular types of gutter leaf guards include:
- Screen gutter guards
- Micromesh gutter guards
- Brush gutter guards
- Foam gutter guards
- Reverse curve or surface tension gutter guards
Frequently Asked Questions about Gutter Leaf Guards
Like most homeowners, you may find it challenging to decide which gutter leaf guards offer the best protection. You may also want to know how they help protect your home, among other things. Let’s check out a few frequently asked questions about the leaf guard gutter system to help you make an informed decision.
1. How Long Do Gutter Leaf Guards Last?
The short answer is about 20 years. A leaf guard gutter system tends to last as it is designed to withstand weather elements like rain, snow, wind, and heat. Gutter guards made from metals like aluminum often last longer than foam and brush leaf guards. However, they also require regular maintenance. Only well-maintained gutter guards can last long.
Make sure to keep your gutter guards well maintained. Usually, routine cleanup (every fourth month or so) is more than enough. But this schedule may change depending on the type of leaf guards you install. For example, brush and foam gutter guards may require frequent cleaning as their design traps leaves and twigs readily.
2. Do I Need New Rain Gutters When Installing Gutter Guards?
It depends. There is no need to replace your rain gutters if they are in excellent condition. Sometimes, you may need minor repairs or even the replacement of a small section of the rain gutter. But generally, that’s about it.
Besides, when you hire a gutter service company, they will check your rain gutter system first. After making the necessary repairs, they will clean the rain gutters and seal the joints before installing leaf guards. However, if your rain gutters are old or damaged, the roofing pros will probably recommend you to have them replaced.
3. Do I Need Gutter Leaf Guards Although There Are No Trees around My House?
Absolutely yes. Gutter leaf guards protect your rain gutter system from more than just dead leaves. They also protect your gutters from sand granules (micromesh leaf guard gutter), twigs, and other debris. Besides, leaves falling from your neighbors’ trees may also end up in your rain gutters. So, it is best to have leaf guards installed as soon as possible.
4. Can Gutter Leaf Guards Keep Away Pine Needles?
Yes, all gutter leaf guards will keep pine needles, leaves, and other debris from entering your rain gutters. Your gutter system will get lifelong protection if you choose a leaf guard gutter by Leaf Sentry.
5. Can Gutter Leaf Guards Cause Ice Dams?
No! Gutter leaf guards have nothing to do with ice dam formation. Typically, poor attic ventilation and roof insulation result in ice dams. The snow on the roof will melt in areas with good insulation and ventilation as the temperature is above the freezing point.
But when this water reaches the roof areas (usually the edge of the roof) with poor ventilation and insulation, it freezes again. As the rainwater starts to accumulate, ice dams form. Ice dams can cause rainwater damage to your roof, ceiling, and other areas of your house.
6. Which Is the Best Leaf Guard Gutter?
There are different leaf guard manufacturers in the market. Your roofing solution provider will offer a solution based on your needs. It is necessary to understand:
- How it works
- How long it will last
- The maintenance it needs
Ace Gutter Inc. offers three tried-and-tested solutions, Bulldog, Leaf Blaster, and Leaf Sentry. All three are leading brands in the industry.
Bulldog is an aluminum insert leaf guard with a 25-year clog-free guarantee, while Leaf Blaster offers a 40-year guarantee.
On the other hand, Leaf Sentry comes with a lifetime clog-free guarantee. You can choose a solution depending on your needs and budget. We can help you with everything, from selection to installation.
7. How Much Does a Leaf Guard Gutter System Cost?
Leaf guard gutter cost will vary depending on:
- The size of your roof
- The type of leaf guard
- Your location
Usually, roofing companies will charge you per linear foot of gutter guards plus fees and labor. Ace Gutter Inc. offers three types of leaf guards that fit your budget and protect your rain gutter system. We always provide our customers with installation services. Please talk to our experts for details or request a free quote online.
8. Can I Install the Leaf Gutter Guard?
Technically yes! However, it is highly recommended to hire professionals for the job. Gutter guards installed by professional roofing companies will come with a warranty ranging from a minimum of 25 years or longer. Some companies also provide transferable lifetime warranties, offering an advantage when selling your home.
Besides, leaf guard installation requires you to climb a ladder and use power tools. You may risk falling off the ladder without proper safety gear and training. Professionals can take care of the task without worrying about anyone’s safety.
In Conclusion
Gutter leaf guards protect your rain gutter system from pine needles, leaves, twigs, and other debris. They also keep birds and insects from nesting in your gutters. In other words, installing leaf guards is a sensible investment for homeowners. Hopefully, after going through these FAQs, you will help you make an informed decision.
Do you need a leaf gutter guard installation? Or perhaps your chimney cap needs an upgrade? We can help you with these home exterior services. Call us at (801) 676-1048 or fill out our secure online contact form to schedule an appointment today!