They may be undistinguished, easily ignored, and somewhat unattractive, but rain gutters are not insignificant. They provide a crucial service to the foundation of your home by collecting rainwater and directing it away from the base of the house. However, as they’re performing this crucial task, your gutters are frequently impeded by the presence of pesky debris like leaves, twigs, and tree seeds like pinecones and acorns. So, to ensure that your gutters can carry out their mission each time it rains, it is crucial that you keep your gutters clean. Some homeowners rely on a gutter guard to make this task less tiresome, but what is a gutter guard and how does it work?
What Is a Gutter Guard?
A gutter guard is an innovative product designed to prevent clogged gutters and reduce the need for frequent gutter cleanings. There are several different types of gutter guards, but all types are added onto the top of existing gutters. They allow rainwater to reach the gutters while keeping debris out.
What are the different types of gutter guards?
- A reverse curve gutter guard curves downward from the roof to the gutter, directing water downward through a tiny slit while allowing large debris (like leaves and twigs) to fall to the ground.
- A mesh gutter guard covers the entire gutter with a mesh sheet. Water can fall into the gutter through the small holes in the mesh, while debris is trapped on top of the mesh.
- A bottle brush gutter guard is literally a long brush with stiff bristles, which is placed into the gutter. The upright bristles allow debris to rest on top while water flows through the brush itself.
- A nylon gutter guard fits onto the top of the gutter without needing to be attached to the shingles. The guard’s slick surface helps leaves slip off the top, while the porous nylon swallows up the rain.
If I purchase a gutter guard, will I ever need to clean my gutters?
Unfortunately, yes. There are a variety of gutter guard types on the market and while they work in a number of different ways, no gutter guard can give your gutters absolute protection from debris. However, they can reduce the frequency of your cleanings and make the task far easier than it might have been otherwise.
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If you’re sick and tired of cleaning your gutters every few months, discuss the pros and cons of gutter guards with a roofing professional. They can help you decide which gutter guard will work best with your roof and gutters.
Would you like to add a gutter guard to your roof? If you live in southern Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!