Different Types of Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are all designed to do the same thing — keep debris and leaves out of your gutters and keep rainwater running swiftly along — but there are a number of different kinds of gutter guards. They all function a bit differently and some are more effective than others. Below, we break down some of the most common types of gutter guards.

Brush Guards

Brush gutter guards are pretty inexpensive and they somewhat resemble giant pipe cleaners that sit in your gutter trough. While they are simple to install, they are really only effective at keeping larger pieces of debris, such as branches, pinecones, and bigger leaves, from entering your gutters. Brush gutter guards will help prevent your gutters from getting clogged up, but you will probably still have to clean your gutters occasionally.

Foam Guards

Like brush guards, foam gutter guards are cost-effective and very easy to install. They’ll stop bigger pieces of debris from clogging up your gutters and are also better than brush guards at keeping out smaller pieces of debris. However, because foam is a porous material, you’ll have to occasionally pull out the foam guard and clean off small bits of debris that have collected on it. These foam guards also freeze solid in the winter months and can cause the gutter to pull away from your home.

Perforated Metal Guards

Perforated metal gutter guards are designed to fit underneath your shingles and cover your gutters, offering a sleek and low-profile appearance. This type of gutter guard is effective at keeping out leaves but is not the best at keeping out pine needles and seed pods.

Mesh Screen Guards

Mesh screen guards are one of the most common types of gutter guards found on homes today, and many homeowners consider them to be the best option in terms of cost and effectiveness. Generally, the finer the mesh screen on the guards, the more expensive they will be, with micro-mesh being the most costly, but this type of gutter guard is effective at keeping out debris both big and small.

Heavy-Gauge Aluminum

Heavy-Gauge aluminum gutter guards are supremely effective at preventing gutter channel clogs. These high-performance, long-lasting guards can handle the heaviest rainfall, keep gutters free of leaves and debris and available in a variety of colors. Most brands of aluminum gutter guards work with existing gutter systems.

Contact Frey Construction Today

For all your gutter guard-related needs, trust the home improvement experts at Frey Construction. We’ve served homeowners throughout Wisconsin since 1995, providing top-notch gutters, gutter guards, siding, roofing, and more. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at a time that is convenient for you.