Gutter guards and cover systems prevent clogged downspouts, which minimize water damage to your roof and home. They also make it easier to clean out your gutters, and they can repel pests like mice, wasps, and birds.

The curved design of these covers directs water through the front while forcing debris to slide off. They require professional installation. Contact Gutter Guard Charleston now!

There are a number of different types of gutter guards on the market. Some, like micro-mesh gutter covers, are designed to prevent clogs by preventing large debris from entering the gutter system while allowing water to flow freely. Others are designed to reduce the need for cleaning by reducing the amount of debris that enters the gutter system. Some even help to alleviate ice dams by preventing water from flowing into the gutter system where it could freeze and potentially cause damage to the home’s foundation or roof.

Gutter guards can also be used to prevent pest infestations by keeping rodents and other small animals out of the gutter system. Uncovered gutters are often a gathering place for squirrels, birds, mice, and other pests, which can cause serious damage to the gutter system and house itself. Using a gutter guard that is able to keep out these pests can save homeowners the headache and expense of dealing with an infestation.

One of the most common types of gutter guard is a metal gutter screen, which features a mesh-like material that allows water to flow into the gutters while keeping debris out. These are available in both metal and plastic variations, and are a good choice for many homeowners. They can be more expensive than other options, but they offer superior protection against clogs and are able to withstand heavy rainfall.

Another type of gutter guard is a foam insert, which is inserted directly into the gutters to block out debris. These are a cheaper option than other types of gutter guards, but they do require regular maintenance. Despite the fact that they can easily be removed with a ladder, homeowners should inspect them semi-regularly and after big storms to ensure that no debris is accumulating on top of them.

Finally, there are also gutter covers that are installed on a home’s existing gutters. These are a great option for people who want to avoid the hassle and expense of having their gutters cleaned, but don’t want to spend the money on high-end options. Some of these are made of durable aluminum and can withstand a variety of weather conditions, including heavy rainfall.

Installation

Gutter guards help prevent clogs, which are a major problem for gutter systems. They also direct water away from your home’s foundation, which protects it against damage. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow from your roof and seep into your home, which leads to costly repairs and unsightly stains. Gutter guards can also reduce the risk of ice dams by keeping out debris that can form on top of your gutter system during cold weather.

Installing gutter guards yourself is possible for homeowners with the right skills and tools. The first step is to clean out your gutters before installing the guards. Then, choose the right type of guards for your home and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install them. It is important to make sure that the guards are securely fastened, as unsecured or loose guards can fall and become a safety hazard. Finally, be sure to use a ladder that is stable and extends at least 3 feet above your house’s roofline.

You can also hire a professional to install gutter guards for you. A professional installer will have the proper tools, equipment, and ladder safety measures. They can also ensure that the guards are properly placed, so they don’t block water flow or clog the gutters. In addition, gutter guards should be easy to remove for future maintenance and cleaning.

One of the most popular types of gutter guards is metal screens, which are typically made of aluminum or another durable material. They work much like traditional screens, but are more durable and do a better job of keeping out small debris, such as pine needles, that can clog gutters. Metal screens should be cleaned at least twice a year, but can last for years with regular maintenance.

Another option is mesh gutter guards, which are made of a fine micro-mesh that is designed to keep out most debris. These guards are inserted beneath the shingles and sit tightly against the gutter opening. They can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer, but are not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as metal screens.

Maintenance

Gutter guards reduce the amount of time homeowners need to spend cleaning their gutters. However, it is important to remember that they do not eliminate the need for regular maintenance and cleaning. This is because gutters can become clogged even with high-quality gutter covers, and cleaning them is crucial to preventing water damage to the house.

Gutter cleaning can be a messy job, but it is necessary to prevent water damage to the house and the roof. It is also important to keep in mind that gutters can get dirty quickly and may require more frequent cleaning than usual, especially after a storm.

Most gutter guards require regular maintenance, but the type of maintenance depends on the type of cover and the environment where you live. For example, foam block guards are easy to clean and just need to be rinsed thoroughly with a hose. Other types of guards, such as mesh or screen, are more complicated and may require regular brushing and removal of debris.

When cleaning your gutters, be sure to wear rubber gloves and a face mask to protect yourself from the dirt and debris. You should also use a ladder that is secure and well-positioned to ensure your safety. If you don’t feel comfortable climbing a ladder, consider hiring a professional to do the work for you. People have been injured and even killed when falling from ladders while cleaning their gutters.

Keeping up with the maintenance process can help you avoid costly repairs and improve the longevity of your gutter system. This is particularly important because it can be hard to know when you need to clean your gutters if they have gutter guards in place.

Having gutter guards can add weight to the gutter system, which can cause them to strain the fascia or the roof shingles. This can lead to bending, warping, and even detachment from the roof. It is important to periodically remove the gutter guards and check for clogs. Also, be sure to test the flow of water through the system to ensure that it is unobstructed.

Cost

Gutter guards can save homeowners money in the long run by reducing the frequency of gutter cleanings and preventing costly water damage to their home. They can also reduce the risk of clogging from leaves and debris that can lead to overflowing gutters. However, the cost of installing gutter covers can be expensive depending on a variety of factors.

The type of gutter cover you choose and the installation method can affect the cost. Some types, like foam and plastic, are cheaper but need to be replaced regularly, while metal gutter covers can last for years with minimal maintenance. Professional installation is typically more expensive but can offer warranties on both the materials and labor, which may offset the initial investment.

Another factor that affects the cost of gutter guards is the materials used to make them. The most common materials are plastic, aluminum, and stainless steel. Stainless steel is more durable and resistant to corrosion than aluminum, but it can be more expensive. Other options include copper, which is more durable but can be more difficult to find.

There are also many different types of gutter guards available, including micro-mesh, standard screens, and perforated aluminum. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs before choosing a style. A micro-mesh gutter guard is an excellent option for keeping out large debris, such as twigs and larger seeds, while still allowing small debris to pass through. These types of gutter guards are easy to install, durable, and not visible from the ground.

A standard screen gutter guard is similar to a micro-mesh, but it has larger holes. This allows small debris to pass through, such as leafs and seed pods, while still blocking larger twigs and seeds. These types of gutter guards are often more affordable than micro-mesh.

The final cost of gutter guards can vary depending on the size and length of the gutters, the type of foliage surrounding your house, and local weather conditions. However, the average cost is $2 to $6 per linear foot of gutter, not including installation.