Phone:
(801) 829-7377
Email:
get@reelgoodgutters.com
Leaves, twigs, and mystery gunk in your gutters? We know the drill. Clogged gutters are more than just an annoyance – they can lead to costly water damage and, worse, eat up your valuable weekends.
At Reel Good Gutters, we’re always happy to help homeowners protect their investments and their time with the best in gutter guard technology.
Today, we’re comparing 3 of the most popular gutter guard solutions: traditional guards, micro-mesh guards, and gutter foam. Who wins the ultimate defense for your home? Let’s break it on down!
The Contenders
1. Traditional Gutter Guards
These are the tried-and-true shields: usually perforated aluminum metal screens that sit on top of your gutters. Most of the homes we install go this route.
Benefits:
– Reduces clogging: Significantly cuts down on blockage from larger debris.
– Budget-friendly: More affordable than some advanced options.
– Long-lasting: Quality materials can provide years of protection.
Negatives:
– Small debris can slip through: Fine particles and pine needles might still enter the gutters.
– Occasional maintenance needed: Screens may still need occasional brushing off to maintain effectiveness. But you can do this from the ground with a specialized broom, no need to get on the roof to scoop them out!
Expected Lifetime:
10-20 years depending on conditions.
2. Micromesh Gutter Guards
These high-tech guards use tightly-woven stainless steel mesh to allow only water through – keeping out even tiny bits of debris.
Benefits:
– Blocks almost everything: Ideal for homes near pine trees, pollen, roof gravel, etc.
– Durable: Stainless steel stands up to rain, snow, pests, and sun.
– Low maintenance: Little-to-no ongoing upkeep needed.
Negatives:
– “Water overshooting” on steep roofs: On roofs (usually metal) with a steep pitch or in heavy rain, water may flow too fast and run right over the mesh, missing the gutter entirely.
– Slightly higher cost: Usually these are a bigger investment than basic guards, but we still sell them for same price.
– Can require precision installation: Must be fitted perfectly for optimal performance.
Expected Lifetime:
15-25 years and sometimes longer when cared for properly.
3. Gutter Foam Inserts
Shaped like a dense sponge, these foam inserts fit snugly in your gutters, letting water through while blocking larger debris.
Benefits:
– Inexpensive: Among the lowest-cost options available.
– Quick to install: Provide instant protection.
– Good for short-term fixes: Effective in the short run for blocking leaves and twigs.
Negatives:
– Short lifespan: Foam can degrade, especially in harsh, ever changing climates like Utah.
– Algae and moss risk: Damp foam can be a breeding ground over time – but in Utah this is not as much of a problem.
– Not effective against very fine debris: Small particles may still enter gutters as the foam is very porous.
– Can occasionally harbor pests: Critters sometimes nest in the foam. But if you like your bird friends, this option is for you!
Expected Lifetime:
1-5 years (replacement is often necessary).
Showdown at a Glance
Here’s how these options stack up:
| Type | Benefits | Negatives | Expected Lifetime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Affordable, reliable, long-lasting | Small debris may enter, needs some upkeep | 10–20 years |
| Micromesh | Superior debris blocking, durable, only way to go if you have pine trees | Can overshoot on steep roofs (especially metal) or those with a huge amount of water flow | 15–25 years |
| Gutter Foam | Lowest cost, quick fix, installs very quickly | Short life, might attract a few new bird friends, less durable | 1–5 years |
Leave It to the Pros—Your Safety Matters!
While it might be tempting to take gutter maintenance into your own hands, climbing ladders and working on your roof is dangerous. Roofing related services rate in the top 3 most dangerous in the nation. If you don’t believe us, ask our workman’s comp insurance company. Every year, thousands of homeowners are injured falling from ladders while trying to clean or install gutter guards. Let the seasoned professionals at Reel Good Gutters handle it safely so you can stay firmly on the ground where you belong!
Plus: Every Reel Good Gutters gutter guard installation includes a full gutter clean-out at no additional cost. We want your new guards installed on clean, free-flowing gutters – right from day one.
The Reel Good Recommendation
- For maximum durability and minimal hassle, micro-mesh gutter guards are the gold standard – especially when expertly installed.
- Want a more traditional approach, or a really steep roof? Traditional gutter guards offer a reliable middle ground.
- Only looking for a quick, budget-friendly solution? Gutter foam can help, but expect to replace it more often.
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR HEAT TAPE USERS: All of these options will work with heat tape, but remember that you will be putting a “roof” over your gutters with gutter guard, so snow will sit on top of any gutter guard in the winter and the heat tape in the gutter will not melt it. But we have a solution! Talk to us about the option of weaving heat tape on top of the gutter guard to keep them free from snow and ice!
Whatever your needs, Reel Good Gutters has you covered with expert advice, safe installation, and a service that starts with a spotless, debris-free gutter.
Ready to enjoy clog-free gutters and reclaim your weekend? Contact us today!