Gutter Guards Can Add One More Layer of Protection for Your Roofing

Even in sunny California, no roofing company would suggest skimping on your rain collection system. Rain and storm water runoff are adequately handled by gutters and downspouts that lead water away from your foundations and substructures. However, they can become clogged with debris, thereby requiring extra maintenance. One solution is to add a guard to keep debris out while allowing water to enter and drain freely.

What is a Gutter Guard?

A gutter guard, at its most basic, is made of some type of barrier that sits atop your gutters to allow moisture runoff without allowing twigs, leaves, and other objects to enter and create buildup. There are two basic kinds of guard: gutter covers and gutter screens. Of the two models, screens are the most cost-effective.

Gutter guards can snap onto the lip of the gutter, making it easy to remove and re-installed. It can also be attached directly the roof in a semi-permanent manner. More expensive, branded systems are crafted from lightweight aluminum with a surface structure and placement that enhances better drainage.

The five basic types of gutter guard are mesh or metal sheeting, bottle-brush, foam, nylon and reverse curve.

Benefits of Installing Gutter Guards

Having a gutter guard that’s properly installed by your roofing company won’t completely eliminate the need for maintenance, but it will decrease the frequency and time involved in seasonal cleaning. Usually, all it takes is clearing off the top of the guard and running a hose through the gutter system to rinse away any sand or dirt. Even in areas where rainfall is infrequent, that extra barrier can reduce cleaning time and avoid problems with water damming of clogs.

In addition to keeping out leaves and dirt, gutter guards also prevent small animals and birds from nesting in your gutter system. This is especially useful if your home or business building is located near a wooded area.

A new or replacement roof is a big investment, so anything your roofing company can do to provide extra protection from the elements is a good idea. However, not every home or commercial building needs one; it depends on how it is situated in relation to trees and the abundance of wildlife in your area. Your roofing contractor can tell you more about whether a gutter guard is a good option for you.

Sources:

Gutter guards. Good or bad idea?, sawmillcreek.org
Before You Buy Gutter Guards, Review These Pros & Cons Of Installing Gutter Covers, household-tips.thefuntimesguide.com