Imagine standing on a ladder in the damp and cold, nervously trying to clean leaves out of the gutter. It is a common scenario for those that own a home, and one that is impossible to avoid. However, one can use a simple product to avoid having to do so very often. Gutter guards have become quite popular with homeowners throughout recent years, and can be a great deal of help with your regular maintenance duties when combined with seamless gutters.
What is a Gutter Guard?
Gutter guards are relatively simple devices made to fit over the top of one’s gutter. By blocking most of the available space, these products are able to keep the majority of lawn debris from flowing in along with rainwater. The devices are generally installed by professionals, those there are a number of models that can simply be fit over the top of existing gutters.
Types of Gutter Guards
Most basic models of the guards are those that feature a long, slim opening that runs horizontally along the side of the gutter. These models are excellent for water flow, as they do allow a great deal of rain runoff to run into the open space. Unfortunately, these models do still allow for a significant amount of debris to fall in as well. As such, maintenance is necessary a bit more often for this common model.
The other basic sort of guard features diamond shaped holes at regular intervals. These guards can block out all but the absolute smallest of bits of yard waste, while still allowing for some water flow. The biggest drawback to guards of this sort is the tendency for the openings to become blocked by larger debris, thus leading to the necessity of cleaning the guard itself.
Effect on Maintenance
In general, these products greatly reduce the amount of waste that can accrue in the gutter. While the process is not perfect, it can reduce maintenance significantly. No matter what model you purchase, there will still be buildup from time to time, and regular cleaning will be necessary. It will, however, be reduced from the usual bi-weekly cleaning schedule to a monthly or bi-monthly schedule of cleaning.
No matter what model you choose, gutter guards are a great way to reduce your work around the house. Available at a generally low cost from major retailers and roofing suppliers, these products can be installed in as little as one day. No matter what style you choose, you will greatly benefit from using these devices.
