Are gutter guards worth it?
Updated: Feb 7
In general, in the Pacific NW, we don't think so. Gutter guards, also known as gutter covers or gutter screens, are designed to prevent debris, such as leaves and twigs, from clogging your gutters. While they can be effective in some situations, they can also have several disadvantages.
Disadvantages
Cost: Gutter guards can be expensive, and the cost of installation can add up, especially if you have a large or complex gutter system.
Maintenance: While gutter guards are designed to reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, they still require maintenance. For example, debris can still accumulate on top of the gutter guard, and the guard itself may need to be cleaned or replaced if it becomes damaged.
Ineffective: Some types of gutter guards are not effective at preventing debris from entering the gutter. For example, small debris, such as shingle granules, may still find its way into the gutter, even with a gutter guard in place.
Potential for damage: Some types of gutter guards can cause damage to the gutter system or roof if not installed correctly. For example, guards that attach directly to the roof or shingles can cause damage to the roof if they are not properly sealed or if they become dislodged during high winds.
in drier climates, gutter guards may be worth it but here in the rainy NW we regularly service full gutters with gutter guards. Needles pile up on top guards which keeps gutters from working properly. If you're going to have to clean the guards yourself or pay someone else, what's the point? From our experience, regular maintenance is the best way to take care of your gutters and home.