So, you’ve finally decided that you’re done cleaning your gutters or tired of paying someone else to. Now, how do you choose the right gutter guard installers? Which product should you get? Although the term gutter guard and gutter cover are often used interchangeably, they have some differences. They are both supposed to do the same thing – keep leaves and other debris out of your gutters. However, who installs them can make a difference.
The Different Products
Most homeowners know that the goal of the product, whether your get a cover, guard or filter are all the same. How they go about doing so is slightly different. Different manufacturers may not completely agree with our definitions; however, this is how we look at the different products:
- Gutter covers are mostly solid and cover the gutter creating a surface for the leaves and other debris to run off the gutter while allowing the rainwater in.
- Gutter guards are usually plastic with holes that allow the rainwater in and block the leaves out. In theory, the rain stops, the leaves dry out and blow away due to their combined slope or curve design. That is, assuming that the rainwater didn’t already push them over the edge of the gutter.
- Gutter filters are mesh or screen-like with very small holes that are installed across the entire gutter like a gutter guard. These are most often self-installed and are most likely to allow small debris through them.
Which is best? That depends. They have different price points and do different things better. For example, homes with pine needles dropping in their gutters probably don’t want a filter system as the pine needles can fall though the mesh. Talk to your gutter guard installers about what type of system would be best for your home and budget.
Your Installer Should Inspect Your Gutters
Before gutter guard installers agree to do a job, they should inspect your gutters. Although gutter covers/guards can be installed on any type of gutter, you don’t want to spend money on the installation only to need to replace your gutters in the near future. It’s best to install new gutters with gutter covers. Doing so from the same company will also benefit you should there be any questions or issues in the future. The gutter guard installers should also look around your property and see what’s currently clogging your gutters. They can better make a recommendation based on your individual needs if they offer multiple products.
Cooley Roofing Can Be Your Gutter Guard Installers
As a trusted roofing and gutter company, we offer not only gutter guards, but also seamless aluminum gutters. We offer them in many colors to coordinate with your home’s exterior. Call us today for a free estimate for both new gutters and gutter guards or anything else you need regarding your roofing system. We offer financing and accept all insurance claims. Reach us at (336) 766-6488 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free estimate.
