Many homes don't have gutter guards right after they are built. One of the reasons for this is they are generally something that gets installed as an afterthought, once the home has been built and lived in. The homeowner may start to realize just how much work it is to keep the gutters clean. They may start looking for solutions once they've had enough of climbing on ladders to scoop out debris, or they notice the stains streaking down the side of their home from clogged gutters. When gutters don't have gutter guards on them, they can clog quickly, especially if there are trees close to the roof. This can cause some or all of these issues: 

  • Damage to the eaves, fascia, and soffit

  • Staining to the siding

  • Erosion of the ground

  • Foundation cracking and damage

  • Mosquito infestation

Different types of gutter guards

Brush guards - A brush gutter guard is one that has bristles that look like very large and long pipe cleaners. They set in the rain gutters, and they catch leaves, twigs, and other types of debris that would otherwise fall into the gutters. The rain will make its way right through the bristles, then follow the gutter system to the downspout where it is then drained away from the home. These gutter guards are easy to install and good if you don't have trees like pine trees or trees that have small berries. 

Screen guards - Screen gutter guards are strips of screen material that fit along the top of the rain gutters. The screen material these guards are made from is tough, so you don't have to worry about them being easily damaged. They prevent debris from getting in the gutters, even very small debris will have a very hard time getting into the gutter system. However, the holes in the screen allow the rainwater to go right into the gutters. Screens are affordable, easy to install, and very effective. 

Micro-mesh guards - Micro mesh gutter guards are similar in design to screen guards. However, instead of the screen, there is a mesh that prevents debris from falling into the gutters, while allowing the rainwater to flow right into them. 

Conclusion

Now that you know more about some of the rain gutters that are available and the ways they can help prevent problems, you will likely want to have rain gutter guards installed on your own gutter system.

For more information on gutter guards, contact a company near you.

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