Last updated on October 18th, 2022 | By: Grady Galvez
By: ∣ Updated: 2024
Independent research is being carried by our expert team of editors to recommend the best and most preferred products. Our review process is right here!! To know more read more.
Prior to using a gutter guard I used to ponder…….
Should I clean a gutter with or without a gutter guard?
Gutters are in trouble when they are clogged!!!!
The bottom line is gutter guards will need minimum maintenance such as brushing off the debris occasionally from the top of the guard.
But when it is about open gutter systems, you will need yearly internal cleanings.
If you do not follow this cleaning regime, do you know how much damage this will cause to your home?
You will have to pay a heavy price for it. The commonest issues happen during season changes as the pollens build up in spring and the leaves fall leading to clogging your gutters.
So, if you seriously want to cut down the amount of necessary maintenance, prevent clogging, and keep the foundation of your home intact then have gutter guards installed on your system.
We have the best gutter guards consumer reports for you that will leave you with the following benefits:
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Prevent clogging
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Banishes interior gutter cleanings (mostly all)
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Handles high-capacity rainfall
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Minimizes risk of overflow, mildew, rotting fascia, or foundation damage
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When snow & ice are there, the gutter guards strengthen the system.
Leaf Guard Reviews - A Detailed Reviewed
1. FlexxPoint Gutter Cover System
Cleaning the gutters is truly messy, but you can say good bye to those old days as the FlexxPoint Gutter System is ready to do all that stuff. For around 30 years the brand is known to offer impressive services without bothering the user.
This is available in eight sizes with five-inch lengths. With the help of four-foot sections this is pretty easy-to-install. Without any obstacles you will be able to do the entire process. While installation there won’t be any damages, and need not worry about the extra cost or interfering with the shingles warranty.
This features a 3-point unique design that acts as a dam and tackles the water overflow wonderfully, eliminating the damages to your landscape and foundation. You can select from colors like black, brown, or matte in order to blend into your surroundings. This will surely give a nice view from the top.
This is a complete solution for many water problems as doesn’t let clogging happen, successfully stops any sort of blockages and lets a huge volume of water pass through. Henceforth, you are left with a hell lot of time for spending on other jobs as unblocking drains becomes a breeze.
PROS
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Premium-quality fasteners
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Comes in various sizes
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Super easy to install
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Not visible from the ground
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Light weight & durable (lasts for 3 – decades)
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Won’t void your roof warranty
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Affordable
CONS
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Not designed for old gutters
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Not the best for cold climate regions
2. Raptor Gutter Guard Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh
They are amazingly great to block almost everything, certainly the best gutter leaf guard. The Raptor gutter guard is one of the perfect choices when it comes to blocking leaves, insects, pests, debris, pine needles, and more. The extraordinary micro-mesh gutter guard comes with a stainless steel finish which successfully defends rusting, warping, chipping, etc.
One good thing about this micro-mesh leaf gutter guard is, its super easy to install. You just need to lift the roof panels and install as per directions. Screws and magnetic hex head drivers make the work all the more hassle-free.
The Raptor Gutter Guard is designed to work on any standard 5-inch gutter and this won’t void your warranty also. This is durable, sturdy, and looks stunning. Not only you have a great 25-year warranty with this gutter guard, but also a US – based support team that offers top-notch consumer services. A free cleaning brush will help you keep the gutter guards sparkling clean as if they are brand new.
PROS
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Feature a stainless steel micro-mesh
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Super easy to install (detailed manual)
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Doesn’t void roof warranty
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Impressive warranty of 25 years
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Appreciable services
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Heavy-duty material, do not warp or rust
CONS
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Not so great for snowy weathers
3. Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard
The Amerimax Gutter Guard is another top-notch product which makes your home maintenance and life much easier. This is durable, easy-to-install, and offers maximum protection.
The gutter guard is compatible with 4”, 5”, and 6” metal K- style gutters, and you can conveniently install it in your entire home. The gutter system is constructed of durable powder-coated steel for long-life and protection from the elements (all weather conditions), and neutral color blends seamlessly with the roofline.
Another good gutter guard manufactured in the United States which offers quality and a decade- long warranty. The aluminum gutter guard has easy lock-in installation as you can simply slide under the first row of shingles and lock the gutter guard to the front lip of the gutter. You can use your DIY instincts and quick-fix it for making it work for your roof-top.
PROS
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Powder – coated steel construction
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This blends with the roof
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No screws needed
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K-style gutter-compatibility
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Easy assembly
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Keeps out the debris
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Select a size that suits your gutter system
CONS
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Not so great for snowy places
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On certain gutters trimming is required
4. Gutter Cups Gutter Guards - 30 Feet Long
If you own a Gutter Cup Guard then you do not require any ladder for the removal of debris. These do not require a DIY expert also. Just purchase this and stay relaxed.
They possess a multiple-barrier system with an outer shell that’s perforated. They take care of pine needles, leaves, debris, and other things that threaten to block your gutters. The overflow of water is managed properly and the water flows freely through the spouting.
This is designed to fit all standard sized residential gutters. Effective low-cost gutter protection is offered by them as clogged gutters damage your house and promote mold. They are sturdy, flexible, need no installation clips or tools, as you can cut them to the size you need.
These Gutter cups are 1.5 ft. in length, 3.25” in diameter, and stacked end-to-end inside a gutter. The gutter cleaning frequency is minimized and o water damage to the walls, roof, and house foundation. These are scientifically tested, designed uniquely for acute debris and rain conditions.
PROS
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UV – Protected
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Perforated outer shell
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Multiple barrier protection systems
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Minimal efforts for installation
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Flexible and tough
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Polymer construction
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Economical to buy
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Suitable for all weather conditions
CONS
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Not the most effective in the list
5. Massca Gutter Guard Aluminum Filter Strainer
The Massca Gutter Balloon Guard works honestly to block any tree leaves and unwanted materials from your downpipe after every time it rains. You can consider it as a great investment for the downpipe.
You need not call an expert or a professional for installing it as you can yourself do it without using any tools. The gutter guard is a heavy-duty construction as made of non-corrosive, weatherproof and waterproof aluminum.
You get a convenient solution to your leaf clogging woes as this product is created to work well with a traditional gutter guard. This four-pack is reasonably priced and you can try it out for 30 days absolutely risk-free, if left dissatisfied then the prompt and full refund is promised. You can invest in both a gutter guard + balloon filters to experience an ultimate cleaning solution.
PROS
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A propylene construction
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Stops blockages in your downpipes
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Works seamlessly with gutter guards
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Weather proof and don’t rust
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Stops twigs, moss, leaf debris, and more
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Works effortlessly with gutter guards
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30 – day money-back guarantee
CONS
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Not suitable for a roof overhang
Some Alternative Products
A-M Aluminum Gutter Guard
[amazon box=”B071HSJBY3″ template=”horizontal”]
Massca Down Pipe Gutter Balloon Guard
[amazon box=”B01N9UYCUK” template=”horizontal”]
Superior Gutter Guards
[amazon box=”B085GLX925″ template=”horizontal”]
Do These Gutter Guards Really Work?
Many forms & types of gutter guards are available in the market these days. The prime purpose is to eliminate the chances of debris from getting into the gutter system with an assurance that the rainwater flows smoothly through it.
The right gutter guard will work well to keep away insects, twigs, leaves, pine needles, dirt, etc. They are effective to use as they work on a consistent basis to stop the over flow of water thereby saving your property form any damages.
Some important features to consider before investing in the best gutter guard are discussed in the next section.
Selecting the Best GUTTER GUARDS
You need to have a clear picture of your preferences + affordability. After this you should consider the installation process as to whether you will be hiring a professional or do the job yourself. In case your budget limit allows you then getting this done with the professional help is a great idea.
1. The Gutter Guard Type
Loads of gutter guards are at your disposal when you are on the go to buy them. You should pick one according to your property requirements.
Any superior quality gutter guard you choose come with durability and manufacturer warranty. You should select one that’s low in cost, absolutely meets your needs, and easy to install.
We have already discussed about this amazing collection in our write-up above. From the gutter guard styling to materials used by different brands, you should pay attention to the durability and content. Which one do you prefer? A micro mesh gutter guard, an aluminum gutter guard, leaf gutter guard, or a foam gutter guard, choose as per your gutter specifications.
As mentioned above aluminum is the commonest material used for gutter guards but not so fit for extreme winter weather conditions.
Though plastic is an economical and flexible option but is brittle by nature. You can choose foam too but chances of rotting are there.
Pro tip: Weigh the benefits and downsides of both before buying one.
2. Weather Condition of the Terrain
You need to be aware about the weather condition of the terrain you stay. You can understand it with an example: If you stay in a place which has a lot of snow with heavy rains then you will certainly require a superior-quality and a costly gutter guard.
3. Nature of Debris
This is another aspect as you will need to be aware of the debris nature as your guttering system should be able to face this.
Again An Example In Support Of This: Large sized debris such as twigs and leaves need a gutter guard that possesses big holes. You can also consider a foam gutter guard that will not allow any physical debris get into the gutter.
4. Compatibility
Generally, the homes have a spouting space of 3, 4, 5, or 6 inches. As this size will vary from home to home, so ensure that the guttering system you select fits your home.
Gutter guards play an essential role in maintenance and protection of your precious property. A wrong choice of gutter guard may lead to damages to your property’s foundation. This can turn out to be the reason for a huge loss in the long run.
It’s always a great idea to do some research for identifying all those particular needs. Consider the weather, location, debris type, and other things prior to your selection of the gutter system. We have tried our level best in the gutter guards’ consumer reports to make you aware of the best and superior – quality gutter guards that will fulfil your requirements.
Pro Tip:
According to experts, basic protection is offered by gutter guards but do not have this intention in mind that you will never need to clean the downspouts again. The gutter guards only offer basic protection against the garbage and debris that could have clogged the sewers. They are not something magic resistant or invisible ditch for the season.
One of the best credit is, gutter guards reduce the frequency of cleaning the gutters. You really get time reduction what could otherwise have been spent for cleaning the gutters.
Every season can cause varied problems, like the winter can have snow and ice leading to gutter clogging. Fall (leaves & twigs fall), spring, and summer season come with their set of problems depending on the foliage surrounding your property.
Leaf Guard VS Gutter Helmet?
Leaf guards are designed to replace your existing gutters and despite of their condition they install their own ‘seamless one-piece’ gutter.
On the other hand the gutter helmet is a hook-like cover that is made to install over your present gutter, generally under the 2nd row of shingles.
Normally, the gutter guards (all of them) are made to carry water away from your home. But the leaf guard is only one of its kind which does it with a patented debris-shedding design. This is probably better than any other gutter guard available in the market today.
Frequently Asked Question's
Q1. Are The Gutter Guards Worthy In Times Of Heavy Rainfall?
Ans1. During extremely heavy rainfall the gutter guards may not prove to be of great use. As the water tends to slip around the guard, the large debris can’t make it in. For a major down pour, ‘no’ they are not designed to deal with so much volume of water. In place of a cover the sponge guards can be used as they sit inside the gutter.
Q2. Does A Gutter Guard Exists That Really Works?
Ans2. Yes, the gutter covers or gutter guards depend on your choice as these are impressively effective at keeping downspouts and gutters clear and free of debris. If you get the right gutter guard screens or covers installed with the experienced re-modeling contractors, then your gutters will work properly and roofing will remain intact too.
Q3. How Can You Maintain Leaf Gutter Guards?
Ans3. Just follow the following easy steps to keep gutter guards clean:
Position your drop cloth
Secure your ladder
Use some hand protection and climb to the location
Remove the material off guards
If possible remove guard
Hose down
Replace and secure the guards
Q4. Are Gutter Covers Or Gutter Guards A Waste To Buy?
Ans4. If you want some real protection then an expensive gutter guard will be worth installing. A low-cost gutter guard will not be a good investment for future. Even if the gutter guards come from the top-line brands yet they may leave your gutters blocked due to heavy debris. The gutter guards do not eliminate the need of cleaning gutters as they do not work to prevent everything from getting in.
Conclusion:
After knowing all the advantages of various gutter guard of great brands, now it’s your time to select the best one that suits your house gutter.
Do follow the buying tips mentioned in the write-up above and make an educated decision for the benefit of your home.
So, just sit and relax when the leaves fall, rain drops pour, or if there is some heavy snow.