Do gutter guards actually work?

You know that elderly couple down the street? They're too old to climb a ladder for home maintenance tasks. Still, every season, they take turns cleaning the gutters of leaves, twigs, and other debris. You've made a promise to volunteer next time they bring out the ladder to clean their downspouts. But you're also wondering if a gutter guard would make their job easier. You've always wondered whether they actually work.

The truth is, there isn't a clear-cut answer. This could be both good and bad news.

Experts generally agree that gutter guards are not a guaranteed solution against all types of debris that can clog gutters. If you're hoping to never clean your downspouts again, gutter guards are not the answer. They won't make your gutters invulnerable or immune to seasonal debris.

That said, gutter guards have been shown to reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning. When installed properly, they can help reduce the number of times you'll need to clean your gutters.

It's advisable to inspect your gutters, especially in autumn when leaves are falling. Be sure to check them in winter as well to prevent snow and ice from causing clogs. In spring and summer, the type of vegetation around your house may also create additional challenges.

Unsure which type of gutter guard suits your house or your neighbor's? Continue to the next page to explore the various types of gutter guards and how each one works.

What are the different types of gutter guards?

Gutter guards can be categorized in many ways, ranging from broad to very specific classifications. There are six main types [source: Kraeutler]:

The reverse curve is designed to channel water into the gutter through a small slit, while encouraging leaves to fall off and land on the ground.

Mesh gutter guards are perforated sheets that cover the gutter and attach to the roof shingles. Smaller holes are preferable because they are less likely to clog, allowing water to flow into the gutter while filtering out debris.

Bottle brush gutter guards resemble the bristles that deter birds from landing on objects like statues. The bristles point upward, allowing debris to rest on top while water flows freely into the downspout.

Nylon gutter guards are particularly effective in winter, helping to prevent snow and ice buildup. They can be fitted into your gutter without needing to attach to the roof shingles.

Non-gutter covers replace your gutters entirely with a set of slender louvers that redirect rainwater off the roof.

The last type of gutter guard is the foam variety, made from a plastic material that fits directly inside the gutter. Its purpose is to block all debris from falling into the gutter.

Now that you're familiar with the different types of gutter guards, it's time to decide if your gutters—or those of your neighbors—could benefit from one!