Let's talk about the interesting world of gutter guard.
For those who don't know, gutter guard is a protective covering which can be installed over your current gutters which prevents most leaves and falling objects from accumulating in them.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
From years of experience with gutters, Frontline Roofing doesn't officially recommend the use of any gutter guards, period; as the cost of installing and maintaining them in the long run actually outweighs the cost of simply cleaning them regularly.
With that in mind, here's an overview of common types of gutter guards available.
WHAT TYPES OF GUTTER GUARD ARE THERE? DIY Options:
These are typically available for purchase over-the-counter at Bunnings and other home and trades warehouses and can be installed without much difficulty or assistance by the homeowner themselves.
Brush Called brush or Bottlebrush gutter guard because of its resemblance to the plant of the same name, this is essentially a long bushy cylinder which sits INSIDE your gutter and fills the space completely so that only water can filtrate through it and most other objects will get caught in the brush.
Cheap
Easy to install
Probably the least attractive looking of all gutter guards, especially once leaves and other objects start to accumulate not just on it but in it as well.
Eventually may CAUSE gutter blockages rather prevent them once it starts to deteriorate.
Foam Similar to brush in that it plugs your gutters with a material which only liquids can penetrate through. This long length of triangular foam filters water and collects everything else on top.
Affordable
Easy to install
Easy to remove
Starts deteriorating after about 6-12 months.
PVC Mesh The entry-level budget mesh gutter guard solution. This is a plastic netting which sits on top of the gutters to catch objects while letting water through.
Affordable
Moderate difficulty to install
Catches large objects such as leaves but not smaller debris
Not a long-term solution as material will eventually deteriorate.
Professional Installations:
Aluminium Mesh This is a durable fine metal mesh is professionally installed and screwed down onto the gutter for long-term protection and visually complimentary.
Relatively expensive
Requires professional installation
Catches most debris except for fine dust and dirt particles
Doesn't rust or degrade
Metal "Cheese Grater" For something more solid and less pliable than mesh then this is a flat sheet-like cover for your gutters with a variety of small drilled holes which makes it look visually like a cheese grater.
Relatively expensive
Visually appealing
Depending on style, may not catch smaller objects
Long-term durability
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