When it comes to home maintenance, gutters might not be the most glamorous topic—but they’re one of the most important. Gutters help direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation, protecting your roof, walls and landscaping. When gutters get clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, they can become a costly problem.
Gutter guards can come to the rescue!
Gutter guards are protective coverings installed over your gutters to prevent debris from entering, but still allow water to flow through. They reduce how often you need to clean your gutters and can help extend the life of your home’s drainage system.
Let’s break down the most common types of gutter guards and help you choose the right fit for your local climate and maintenance preferences.
Material: Metal or plastic mesh
Best For: Areas with large leaves and light debris
These are among the most common and affordable options. Screen guards are easy to install and effectively block large debris like leaves. However, small debris like pine needles or seeds may still get through.
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Material: Fine metal or stainless steel mesh
Best For: Areas with lots of small debris (pine needles, roof grit)
Mesh guards have finer holes than screen guards, offering better filtration. They usually cost more but require less maintenance and offer better performance.
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Material: Metal or molded plastic
Best For: Heavy rainfall areas
These guards have a curved design that directs water into the gutter while forcing debris to fall off the edge. They’re very effective but need to be correctly installed to work well.
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Material: Cylindrical brush made of bristles
Best For: DIYers and short-term use
These look like big pipe cleaners that sit inside your gutters. Leaves get caught on top while water flows through the bristles. They’re easy to install but can collect debris and require frequent cleaning.
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Material: Porous polyurethane foam
Best For: Quick, temporary fixes
These guards sit inside the gutter and allow water to soak through while blocking debris. They’re low-cost and easy to install but not as durable as other options.
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Whether you’re trying to cut down on maintenance or protect your home from potential water damage, there’s a gutter guard option for every need and budget.
Need help deciding which type of gutter guard is right for you? Besroi Roofing & Siding is here! Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our gutter services.