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Imagine your gutters as the raincoat for your house. They divert rainwater away to prevent damage. Gutter guards are like a superhero sidekick for your gutters. They work by blocking debris like leaves, twigs, and even tennis balls from clogging up your gutters. Most gutter guards have a clever design that lets water flow through while keeping debris out. Some have small holes that only allow water to pass, while others use a mesh or solid surface to keep larger items away.
By doing this, gutter guards ensure that rainwater can smoothly move through your gutters, preventing clogs and potential water damage to your home. If you have been planning to change your existing gutter guards or buy new gutter guards for your newly built house or office, then you can check out the reviews of best gutter guards consumer reports followed by a comprehensive buying guide.
Best Gutter Guards Consumer Ratings & Reports
- 1. Raptor Gutter Guard – Contractor Grade Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard AMZ48
- 2. A-M Gutter Guard - AM5100
- 3. FlowGuard Premium 50-Year Gutter Cover System RESW-125
- 4. LeafTek DIY Gutter Guards GED7
- 5. FlowGuard Premium 50-Year Gutter Cover System RESBN-102
How to Clean Gutter Guards?
Sum Up
Reviewing Top 5 Gutter Guards
1. Raptor Gutter Guard – Contractor Grade Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard AMZ48
This is arguably the most reliable gutter guard you will find in the market. Made of stainless-steel micro-mesh, the surface of the gutter guard will last for years, safeguarding the gutter from leaves, debris, and whatnot.
The rails of this gutter guard are made of aluminum, which further adds to the durability. Installing this gutter guard will help protect your home from a number of issues like landscape erosion, water damage, infestation of pests, and fire hazards.
The use of quality material makes the gutter guard resistant to rust and warping. The company has incorporated V-Bend Technology in the gutter guard that allows efficient filtration of rainwater, which ensures free-flowing gutters.
The company also provides a 25-year warranty on the product that covers all manufacturing defects along with a dedicated support team to handle all the issues befalling the gutter guard.
2. A-M Gutter Guard - AM5100
Have a look at this gutter guard, which works efficiently with hidden hangars, but you can use it with all the hangars including K-style hangars.
The gutter guard is made of aluminum, which makes it durable and long-lasting. The gutter guard is 47 inches long and 5 inches wide, and you can install it at 46.5 inches with an overlap tab.
With this gutter guard, you can easily handle downpours with 380 – 1/8 inches diameter holes per linear foot. This is going to be a long box measuring 100 feet and would contain 26 pieces.
Installing this gutter guard is a breeze, as it comes with tabs that ensure seamless joints. You just need to get 8 zip screws of ½ inch to install the gutter guard, which isn’t included in the package. Overall, a solid product that delivers everything that it promises.
3. FlowGuard Premium 50-Year Gutter Cover System RESW-125
Flowguard is a top name when it comes to gutter guards, and this particular model is very popular among the masses. This gutter guard boasts a 3-point design that allows airflow and prevents leaves and debris from sticking to the surface of the gutters.
As the rain stops, the debris dries out and blows away with the light wind. The 3-point design acts as a dam and prevents overflowing of water to let full drainage despite being covered by wet leaves and debris.
Coming to the installation of the gutter guard, then it’s pretty simple. You can use a pair of metal shears or tin snips to cut the gutter guard to its length.
The gutter guard features twin thread pierce point zip screws made of stainless steel, which you can easily install with the help of a 1/4-inch drill or driver. You will get 8 such screws in the package.
Another good thing about this gutter guard is that it is designed to perform in the most severe weather conditions, keeping all the debris and leaves out of your gutters. You will get a 50-year warranty on the product against all manufacturing defects.
4. LeafTek DIY Gutter Guards GED7
This is another highly reliable gutter guard that promises to keep everything out of the gutters, be it leaves, seeds, twigs, pine needles, and more.
The gutter guard has 404 – 1/8 inches holes per square foot that ensure no sediment clogging, unlike micro hole systems. Talking about the construction of the gutter guard, then it is made of premium quality 0.19 gauge aluminum with stainless steel screws that allow fast and easy installation.
The gutter guard is divided into 4-inch sections, which are very easy to install. The company has used a very innovative vented raised ridge design, which allows proper airflow to prevent foul smells from accumulating inside the gutters.
If you have installed gutter guards before then you might have faced difficulties installing the corners, but not with this gutter guard, as corners are installed seamlessly.
You should not install the gutter guard under the shingles to avoid any warranty-related issues to the roof. As far as the support is concerned, then the company offers comprehensive support for all the issues befalling the gutter guard.
They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on the product along with a 35-year warranty for all manufacturing defects arising in the gutter guard.
5. FlowGuard Premium 50-Year Gutter Cover System RESBN-102
Ending our list with yet another top-class gutter guard. This is made from 0.018 heavy gauge painted aluminum that adds durability to the product and makes it rust-free.
The thickness of the gutter guard is increased by the full front and rear hem allowing this gutter guard to be installed in high-stress mounting areas to withstand extreme rainfall, winds, and snow loads.
Installing this gutter guard will help keep the leaves and debris from sneaking into the gutters and blocking the water flow. The company has implemented a three-point design, functioning as a barrier, to enhance airflow.
This design elevates wet leaves and debris off the cover surface, preventing them from adhering to it and ensuring improved air circulation.
The same design also slows down the water flow to allow full drainage despite being covered with wet leaves and debris. With time, dry leaves and debris are blown away by light winds.
The company has provided dual interlocking ends in the gutter guard that make installation a breeze. You can easily cut the gutter guard to its length using a pair of metal shears or tin snips.
You can use a ¼-inch driver or drill to install the zip screws with a thread pierce point. You won’t face any difficulties cutting the miter, thanks to the 45-degree drain hole pattern in the gutter guard.
You can install this gutter guard on all kinds of roofs. As far as the warranty goes, then the company offers a 50-year warranty on the product which gives confidence to customers regarding the efficiency of this gutter guard.
How to Install Gutter Guards?
Installing gutter guards is like giving your gutters a protective shield. Here’s a simple guide to help you do it yourself:
Materials Needed:
- Gutter guards
- Screwdriver or drill
- Screws or clips
Steps:
- Clean Your Gutters: Before installing, make sure your gutters are free of debris. It’s like preparing a clean canvas for your masterpiece.
- Measure and Cut: Measure the length of your gutters and cut the gutter guards accordingly. Most guards are adjustable and can be easily trimmed.
- Position the Guards: Place the guards on top of your gutters, ensuring they cover the entire length. They usually slide under the first row of shingles for stability.
- Secure in Place: Use screws or clips to secure the gutter guards. Make sure they are snug but not overly tight, allowing for thermal expansion.
- Overlap Seams: If you have multiple sections of gutter guards, overlap them slightly to prevent debris from sneaking through the gaps.
Remember, safety first! If you’re not comfortable on a ladder or if your roof is too steep, it’s best to seek professional help.
How to Clean Gutter Guards?
Even with guards in place, some debris may find its way onto your gutter guards. Regular cleaning ensures they stay in tip-top shape. Here’s a straightforward guide:
Materials Needed:
- Garden hose
- Plastic scoop or trowel
- Bucket
Steps:
- Inspect First: Check for any visible debris or clogs. Remove larger items by hand.
- Flush with Water: Use a garden hose to flush out smaller debris. Start from one end and work your way to the other.
- Scrub if Needed: For stubborn dirt or mildew, gently scrub the gutter guards with a soft brush or cloth.
- Use a Scoop: If there’s compacted debris, use a plastic scoop or trowel to scoop it out. Be gentle to avoid damaging the guards.
- Check Downspouts: Ensure that downspouts are clear by flushing water through them. This ensures proper drainage.
Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your gutter guards effective. Aim for regular cleanings, especially during the fall when leaves are falling like confetti.
Sum Up
Safeguarding your home against the perils of clogged gutters becomes a breeze with the right gutter guard. We’ve explored and reviewed five top-notch options, each with its unique features and benefits. Remember, a well-maintained gutter system not only protects your home’s foundation but also saves you from the hassle of frequent clean-ups.
Investing in a reliable gutter guard is akin to giving your home an added layer of defense against the elements. Choose the best gutter guards consumer reports, install them with care, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a free-flowing and efficient gutter system. Your home will thank you for the care and attention invested in keeping it dry and damage-free.