Gutter Guard MT Pleasant can help homeowners save time and money by reducing the need for frequent gutter cleanings. They also protect gutters from clogs and damage.
However, many types of gutter guards require regular maintenance. A professional can help choose the right product for your home.
Clogged gutters overflow and cause water damage to your home’s roof, walls, and foundation. Gutter guards help prevent these issues by reducing the amount of debris that enters the gutter. They also redirect water away from your house, reducing the likelihood of foundation damage. Gutter guards are especially important if you have many trees surrounding your house.
Plastic and metal guards are the most popular options on the market, and they do an excellent job of preventing clogs by blocking leaves and other debris. They are available in a variety of styles and sizes to match the needs of your home. However, despite their best efforts, these types of guards may still allow small debris, such as pine needles and seeds, to enter the gutter. These can lead to a buildup of organic material, and they may need to be cleaned frequently.
Another type of gutter protection is foam inserts, which are designed to block the entrance of debris while allowing rainwater to flow freely through the opening. These are an inexpensive option that can be installed easily, but they do not offer the same level of protection as other types of guards. Additionally, they can deteriorate and lose their shape over time due to exposure to sunlight and other weather conditions.
Surface tension gutter protectors are an alternative to foam inserts and have a flat surface that prevents debris from entering the gutter while still allowing water to flow through. These guards are easy to install and can be a great option for homes with steeper roofs. However, they are not a good choice for homes in areas that experience heavy rainfall and large amounts of debris.
Prevents Damage
Gutters that are clogged or blocked can overflow, leading to soil erosion, foundation cracks, basement flooding and damage to landscaping. Gutter guards improve water flow and prevent clogs, which can save you money in the long run on costly repairs.
Regular cleaning of gutters is a critical home maintenance task that many homeowners overlook. While a gutter protection system reduces the need for cleaning, you should still check the guards periodically for any signs of clogging or other problems.
Even if you regularly clean your gutters, debris can still get trapped inside. This impedes water flow, which can damage the gutter and fascia board. In colder climates, this can also contribute to the formation of ice dams and damage to the roof.
Gutter guards prevent this buildup by keeping leaves, dirt, and other debris out of the gutter. The most premium gutter systems feature a durable micro-mesh cover that slips underneath the lower row of shingles to keep out windblown seeds and debris. They’re also designed to stay in place during heavy rainfall.
Depending on the type of gutter guard, some are visible from the ground while others are not. For example, brush and foam gutter guards are virtually invisible from the ground while reverse-curve, metal, and molded plastic guards have a more distinctive aesthetic. You should choose a guard that blends well with your home and matches its color scheme.
Although you may be tempted to install your own gutter guards, professional installation is recommended for most homes. This will ensure the job is done correctly and safely. A professional will have the proper tools, training and experience to install your gutter guards in a timely manner without any damages to your house.
Prevents Pest Infestation
Gutter guards limit the homeowner’s need for routine gutter cleaning and act as a first line of defense against harmful and intrusive pest infestations. Insects like mosquitoes, cockroaches, and rodents thrive in stagnant water, which can build up inside clogged gutters. When these insects and vermin enter the home through the roof or attic, they can cause structural damage and serious health issues.
Many types of gutter guards are available, each designed with a different level of protection against pests. For example, mesh gutter guards feature a fine mesh that keeps small insects out while allowing rainwater to pass through. They can also prevent rodents, birds, and squirrels from nesting in the gutters, which can cause clogs and blockages. For a more comprehensive solution, homeowners can choose foam inserts that create a flat barrier all the way down the gutter while still allowing water to flow freely.
Foam inserts are affordable and easy to install, requiring only a quick push into place. They are also durable and rust-resistant, ensuring long-lasting protection for the gutter system. They can be used to replace existing gutter systems, or they can be installed as a new guard system.
Having well-functioning gutters and guards helps reduce the need for routine maintenance, which frees up more time for other household chores and leisure activities. The reduced need for ladder ascents also makes the house safer, reducing the risk of falls or accidents that can be caused by working at heights. Gutter guards can also add value to the home, demonstrating to potential buyers that the property has been maintained with care and attention. This can encourage a faster sale and potentially higher offers.
Prevents Wildfires
Gutter guards prevent a number of fire hazards, making them an excellent investment for homeowners living in bushfire-prone areas. During a wildfire, flying embers can travel for miles and land on roofs or in clogged gutters, potentially igniting dry leaves and debris. A well-installed gutter system with a fire-resistant covering will prevent the accumulation of combustible material from these embers, protecting your home from potential fire damage.
Some types of gutter guards feature bristles that prevent large debris while allowing rain water to pass through. However, these systems are often prone to clogs and mildew buildup. Additionally, many of these brush-style systems require homeowners to climb ladders and manually remove any smaller tinder material that may have found its way through the bristles. Alternatively, some plastic gutter guards are available with perforated holes designed to allow water through while blocking larger debris. However, these systems can still become clogged during heavy rains and can be difficult to clean.
A more effective solution is a gutter cover that’s made from noncombustible materials, like metal or plastic. This type of gutter guard is typically more visually appealing than screens or mesh styles and can be installed on any style of home. Moreover, they can reduce maintenance needs by preventing the accumulation of debris.
Valor’s fire-resistant gutter coverings are a great choice for homeowners in fire-prone areas. Our WUI and Class A fire-compliant products provide added peace of mind by acting as a physical barrier between debris and flaming embers. In addition, our gutter covers also protect against ice dams in the winter by preventing snow from accumulating and blocking gutters. This helps ensure efficient water flow during and after a storm, reducing the risk of damage to your home’s foundation.
Increases Curb Appeal
Gutter guards can improve your home’s curb appeal by preventing unsightly overflows and stains. They also ensure that rainwater is properly channeled away from your property, which can prevent foundation problems and even mold growth. Additionally, by reducing the need for frequent cleaning, gutter guards can help you save time and money on maintenance.
The type of gutter guard you choose will depend on your budget and your comfort level with DIY projects. Professional installation may cost more upfront, but it can also provide a higher level of service and insurance coverage against damages. Additionally, a professional installer can offer guidance on which types of gutter guards will best suit your needs.
For example, brush-style gutter covers can be effective but need to be regularly cleaned to keep them functioning correctly. These systems feature a reverse curve design that encourages water to cling to the surface and enter the gutter while debris falls off. However, these systems are more visible from the ground and can be a tempting target for bees, wasps and hornets. Additionally, they may not be as effective in areas with high tree coverage and require regular maintenance to keep them unclogged.
Gutter guards can be purchased in a variety of styles, materials and finishes to complement your property’s aesthetics. Choose from different gutter colors to coordinate with your property’s siding, and add decorative brackets or hangers for a finished look. Gutter guards can also be adapted to suit specific rainfall conditions in your area, which will reduce the frequency with which you need to clean them and improve their longevity. Gutter guards are a worthwhile investment for any homeowner, and they can protect your property from water damage, extend its lifespan and enhance its curb appeal.