Our customers are often asked by THEIR customers whether gutter guards are effective. Our Chair and chief innovator Andy, gives his view.
Gutter guards are marketed as a convenient, maintenance-free solution to one of the least glamorous chores of homeownership: gutter cleaning. Promises of debris-free, low-maintenance gutters sound great, but the reality rarely lives up to expectation. From high costs to ongoing maintenance headaches, gutter guards can create more problems than they solve. Here’s a closer look at the drawbacks of gutter guards and why frequent gutter cleaning is a better option for many homeowners.
High cost with limited reward
Installing gutter guards can be a significant investment. The cost varies depending on the type of guards you choose, but even budget-friendly options can add up when factoring in installation fees. The premium price tag may lead you to believe you’re buying convenience and reduced maintenance, but in reality, gutter guards don’t eliminate the need for regular upkeep from an exterior cleaning professional.
You’ll still need to clean and maintain your gutters
Despite claims of being maintenance-free, gutter guards need regular attention. Over time, debris such as pine needles, twigs, and dirt can accumulate on top of the guards, with lots slipping through into the gutters themselves. This buildup means you’ll still need to get your gutters cleaned, and with gutter guards installed, the process becomes more labour-intensive for the cleaning professional you choose. Gutter cleaning often requires removing and reinstalling the gutter guards, which can be time-consuming and cost you more.
Gutter guards simply aren’t that effective
While gutter guards can block larger debris like leaves, they are less effective against smaller items like twigs, seeds, and pine needles. These smaller pieces can bypass the guards and clog the gutters over time. Instead of diverting debris, gutter guards actually trap it, creating a dam-like effect that blocks water flow and defeats their purpose entirely.
Gutter guards can make it tricky to spot and fix blockages
One major downside of gutter guards is they can hide blockages. Since they sit on top of your gutters, it’s harder to spot debris or water buildup. This hidden congestion can escalate into larger issues, such as overflowing gutters or water damage, before you even realise there’s a problem.
Growths in your gutters
A surprising yet common issue is the growth of vegetation in gutters, even with guards in place. Seeds carried by the wind or deposited by birds can settle in the debris that accumulates on top of or inside the guards. Add water and sunlight and your gutters can quickly become an unintended garden. Gutter guards won’t prevent this type of growth, leaving you with yet another maintenance headache.
They can’t always withstand storms
Heavy storms can dislodge gutter guards, making them useless or even damaging them. Strong winds and torrential rain can pull the guards out of place, leaving your gutters unprotected and potentially requiring costly repairs or replacements.
Winter weather woes
Winter brings its own set of challenges. Debris buildup in gutters can block water flow, which becomes a bigger problem in freezing temperatures. Ice can form in clogged gutters, adding significant weight that strains your fascia and roofline. Overflowing water can also form icicles, which pose safety hazards. Instead of investing in guards that can worsen winter issues, getting a gutter cleaning professional in to clear the gutters is a much more practical approach.
An alternative solution: Downpipe leaf protectors
For homeowners looking to prevent blockages, downpipe leaf protectors are an effective and straightforward solution. These devices prevent debris from clogging your downpipes and drains, reducing the likelihood of backups without the complications of full gutter guards.
The bottom line
While gutter guards might seem like a great idea, their cost, ongoing maintenance requirements and potential to cause blockages make them less-than-ideal solution for most homeowners. Regular gutter cleaning from a professional, coupled with downpipe leaf protectors, is often a more cost-effective and reliable way to keep your gutters clear and protect your home from damage. Before investing in gutter guards, weigh the long-term benefits and drawbacks carefully—your gutters, and your wallet, will thank you.
