It’s a common assumption among homeowners that gutter guards aren’t necessary. While not all homeowners will find them necessary, it’s important to understand how they function and which brands to look for should you decide that you do need them to complete your roofing system.
Below we’ll talk about why gutter guards are more essential than you think as well as give you an overview of what the four best gutter guards for pine needles and other debris are.
The Importance of Gutter Guards
As mentioned above, not everyone needs gutter guards. However, they serve a very important purpose — and that purpose can save you time, money, and the hassle that comes with backed-up or overflowing gutters.
To keep things simple, you should consider investing in gutter guards if:
- Your home is prone to pet infestations
- You live in an area with very cold winters that cause ice dams to form
- You live in an area that sees frequent brush fires, as gutters filled with dry debris and leaves can become a fire hazard
- Your gutters become blocked often, as blockages can lead to leaks and rust, water damage, and mold and bacteria growth
Essentially, gutter guards are designed to cover your gutters to prevent all of the above from occurring and causing unnecessary roof damage.
The 4 Best Gutter Guards For Pine Needles and Other Debris
If you’re new to the world of gutter guards, you may not know what to look for between brands and materials. Consider this your “short list” of the best brands out there so you don’t have to spend too much time searching for the right product.
1. LeafTek Gutter Guard
The LeafTek Gutter Guard is mostly known for its easy installation and super efficient design, which entails 35 holes per linear foot to allow for maximum water flow.
The other benefits of this brand include:
- They’re made from heavy-duty stainless steel, which means they’re rust-resistant and will last longer than most other gutter guards
- They come in widths of 5 or 6-inches, which means they’re guaranteed to fit your gutters
- They’re available in both white and black
- They’re made in the US and they come with a 35-year warranty
The only downside to these guards is that the installation process can be tricky and they don’t block 100% of the debris that come their way (specifically small debris).
2. Raptor Gutter Guard
The Raptor Gutter Guard uses steel micro-mesh to block debris of all sizes, including roof grit, which is the brand’s claim to fame. They’re also designed to handle heavy rainfall, which is a plus if you live in an area that sees a lot of storms.
Raptor Gutter Guards also:
- Are backed by a 25-year warranty
- Come with flexible installation options
- Are incredibly durable (as they’re made from stainless steel and aluminum)
- Are easy to install and remove
However, these gutter guards don’t come with pre-drilled holes and their durability can make creating those holes difficult.
3. Amerimax Home Lock-In Gutter Guard
The Amerimax Home Lock-In Gutter Guard system is among the most affordable gutter guards. They’re compatible with K-style gutter systems with 4, 5, and 6-inch options, and are designed with a fitted metal mesh pattern that will keep out most debris while allowing water to flow freely.
Amerimax’s gutter guards also feature:
- Durable, powder-coated steel
- Neutral color options
- Simple “lock-in” installation that’s hardware-free
The only downsides to these guards are that they won’t catch every single debris and they can be difficult to remove.
4. FlexxPoint Gutter Cover System
The FlexxPoint Gutter Cover System is designed to be a cost-effective solution to gutter protection without sacrificing functionality. Specifically, they’re made to handle a high volume of water and snow accumulation without sagging or collapsing.
The FlexxPoint gutter covers are also beneficial in that:
- They’re heavy-duty and can stand up against the elements
- They’re easy to install and come with fasteners
- They’re not difficult to cut, despite being heavy duty
One of the biggest downsides to the FlexxPoint gutter covers is that while they’re heavy-duty, they can end up clogged as they only catch large debris, which requires immediate attention. Therefore, they’ll need regular maintenance to ensure they don’t clog.
Are Gutter Guards Right For Your Home?
Gutter guards may be a simple and small addition to your roofing system, but they come with a host of benefits that can help keep your roof and home structural sound. If you’re unsure as to whether you should invest in them, it’s a good idea to pay close attention to the condition of your existing gutter system and whether it gets clogged often.
You can also contact the roofing experts at Tidds Roofing to see what they suggest and schedule a free roof inspection while you’re at it!
