If you’re a homeowner who is tired of cleaning out your gutters every season, you’ve probably wondered if gutter guards are a good way of making things more manageable. These protective systems are fitted over gutters and are designed to keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of them while still allowing water to flow through. But are they really worth the investment? Here are some of the most common pros and cons to help you decide for yourself.
The Pros of Gutter Guards
One of the biggest advantages of gutter guards is reduced maintenance. While no system is completely maintenance-free, gutter guards can dramatically cut down on how often you need to clean out your gutters. Gutter guards also prevent most clogs and overflow, since they prevent the blockage of debris that would cause these types of issues.
This, in turn, protects your home’s foundation, roofline, and even your landscaping from water damage. This also helps to deter pests and critters from nesting in your gutters. Less debris and standing water means less rust, corrosion, and wear over time—meaning your gutter system can last longer and work more efficiently with gutter guards.
The Cons of Gutter Guards
Gutter guards do come with an upfront cost, and even though they can save you money in the long run, many homeowners are hesitant to invest extra money in their homes. If this leads to attempting to install them yourself, you also run the risk of poor installation that may lead to all kinds of issues, like water backing up under your roof or spilling over the edges of your gutters. Always have gutter guards installed professionally to prevent these risks.
Also, keep in mind that despite what some manufacturers may claim, gutter guards don’t eliminate cleaning altogether. Small debris like pine needles or shingle grit can still get through or build up on top of the guards, requiring occasional maintenance (homes surrounded by many pine trees or that experience heavy rainfall annually may not benefit from gutter guards for this reason). Aim to clean your gutters at least once every year, whether you opt for gutter guards or not.
Gutter guards can be a smart investment for many homeowners, offering convenience and protection for your home’s exterior. However, like any upgrade, it’s wise to weigh all the pros and cons first—but the best way to know for sure is to have a trusted professional come and evaluate your home’s needs. They can then handle the process themselves and give you the peace of mind of knowing your home is protected!
About Platinum Gutters
Our team here at Platinum Gutters has been helping homeowners all around the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering a wide range of gutter repair, maintenance, and installation services, including gutter guards to help you protect your investment. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule an estimate, please visit us online or call today for further information.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.