There are types of gutter guard available to suit any manner of gutter system. To understand which one is right for your needs, it’s useful to know how each option functions and the benefits they provide. Let’s look at why gutter guards are important and what solutions you can use.
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Types of gutter guard protection short list
Mesh Gutter Guard.
Micro Mesh Gutter Guard.
Brush Gutter Guard.
Foam Gutter Guard.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guard.
Why gutter guards matter
When there’s no protection, gutters can quickly get overwhelmed with leaves and other debris. Clogged gutters can lead to all kinds of issues. Problems can include:
Damage to roofing materials.
Fascia rot.
Damage to exterior and interior walls.
Weakening foundations and flooding basements.
Sagging issues.
Installing gutter guards can serve a number of purposes. By creating a barrier that keeps debris out and allows water flow, they can lower the risk of corrosion and other damage and prevent blocked gutters. It also means that you don’t have to spend as much time on gutter cleaning and general maintenance. This can be particularly important in bushfire-prone areas.
Getting a gutter guard installed can also help rainwater harvesting systems and produce cleaner water for households that rely on water tanks. Debris protection can also mean that pests are less likely to intrude.
Infinite Roofing partners with Blue Mountain Co. to provide our clients with premium fine mesh guards.
Mesh gutter guard
This is one of the most common gutter guard systems. It involves placing perforated sheets of metal or plastic over the gutter. They’re popular because it’s an affordable option while still being effective at keeping large debris out.
However, their design allows smaller particles like dirt and pine needles to get through. This can lead to gradual debris buildup. Leaves and other refuse will also gather on top, so periodic cleaning will be necessary.
Typical cost per lineal metre: $15 to $30.
Micro mesh gutter guard
Micro mesh guards take the gutter mesh solution to another level. Its metal or plastic mesh contains extremely small openings that block even small dirt particles, pollen, and bushfire ash. This can be very useful for homes surrounded by a lot of trees that shed fine debris.
Their one major drawback is cost. The materials are generally more expensive and require professional installation. If the gutter guard installation isn’t done properly, its effectiveness will be reduced over the long term.
Typical cost per lineal metre: $30 to $50.
Brush gutter guard
Brush guards involve a long brush that looks a bit like a pipe cleaner being placed inside the gutter. Their benefits include the fact that they’re a very cheap option and can be installed easily. This can appeal to people who are interested in DIY installation.
They can also have some problems. Instead of blocking debris, they trap waste that falls into the gutter. This means that they need frequent cleaning, or else they’ll contribute to blockages instead of preventing them. They also don’t deal with fine particles very well. Brush guards are generally considered a decent option if you need a cheap and short-term solution.
Typical cost per lineal metre: $10 to $20.
Foam gutter guard
Foam guards work similarly to brush guards, except with a porous foam material. A foam insert sits inside the gutter and prevents debris like leaves and twigs from getting into your downpipes. It also has similar advantages, like easy installation for DIY enthusiasts and low cost.
However, foam leaf guards tend to degrade over time. This reduces their effectiveness. They also trap moisture, which may lead to mould problems. That means they need to be replaced regularly. It’s recommended to use them as another short-term option.
Typical cost per lineal metre: $5 to $15.
Reverse curve gutter guard
Reverse curve gutter guards, sometimes called surface tension gutter guards, are a slightly more advanced option. They work differently from most gutter guard products that rely on letting rainwater flow freely through them but stop waste. Reverse curve guards have a non-porous surface that curves over the gutter. Due to surface tension, water flows around the curve and into the gutter. Detritus, like leaves and sticks, falls over the gutter edge. This lessens the need for cleaning while being able to handle a lot of loose debris.
This type of guard is expensive and requires a professional for proper installation. They can also struggle with heavy rain as water overshoots the gutter. They may also not work aesthetically for every homeowner.
Typical cost per lineal metre: $20 to $40.
What is the right gutter guard solution for your roof type?
The right gutter guard type for your needs will depend on a number of things. Here are some factors to consider:
Environment. If you have a lot of trees close to your house, you’re probably expecting to be impacted by a significant amount of debris. This makes a mesh or reverse curve guard a good option.
Roof profile. Sloped roofs provide the gravity necessary to guide rainwater into the gutter. But what if you have a flat roof? You’ll likely have box gutters that need protection. Integrated mesh guards provide a sloped barrier that allows water to flow while blocking larger debris. Steel or aluminium mesh is popular.
Cost effectiveness. Striking a balance between affordability and effectiveness means considering your circumstances and what role types of gutter guards play. If you want guards that will require less upkeep, mesh or reverse curve systems may suit you. If you’re prioritising a low budget and don’t mind a little extra work, foam or brush guards might suit you.
From our clients
Infinite Roofing were amazing from start to finish designing and installing our patio roof. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to install new or update a roof or patio. Small or large job nothing seemed to be too much trouble.
- Margaret Seeley
Austin was great to deal with from the start. Really professional and a high quality of workmanship. Would definitely recommend.
- Michael Kapatan
Conclusion
Gutter guards act to protect your house from water damage and pest infestations. There are many options to choose from, all of which come with their own benefits and drawbacks. Which system is right for you depends on a lot of different factors. Once you understand what works for your house, you can get the most effective and affordable types of gutter guard system.
Do you need advice about the best gutter guard kits?
Gutter guards significantly reduce damage to your house. Contact us for more information about which option is best for you.
If you need help choosing the right roofing solutions for your home, contact Infinite Roofing for a free quotation. We’re experts in all things roofing!
Frequently asked questions
Will guards reduce gutter maintenance?
Different options will require different levels of maintenance. The cheaper DIY guards that sit inside the gutter will need to be cleaned regularly. They will also likely need to be replaced on a more regular basis. More expensive guards that may require professional installation can generally last longer without intervention.
Will my roof material affect the suitability of certain types of gutter guards?
There are various ways that your roof’s material can affect how different gutter guard options perform. If you have a metal roof, you may face issues with galvanic corrosion. Galvanic corrosion is a form of metal degradation that occurs when two different metals are in electrical contact in a moist environment. For example, fastening aluminium mesh to steel gutters may result in the aluminium degrading faster.
Tile roofs are also popular in Australia. That state of the tiles may affect how gutter guards operate. Mesh guards are usually tucked under the bottom-most tiles. If those tiles are old and brittle, this may cause damage and make the guard less effective.
Can I install gutter guards myself?
Some options are easier to install than others. Brush and foam inserts are simple to put in and don’t require any specialised tools. However, they’re generally not recommended as a long-term solution. Other options, like integrated mesh systems, are best installed by professionals to ensure they’re most effective.
