Best Gutter Guards Consumer Reports, Ratings, Reviews, Tips, and Guides in 2022-2023
Are you looking for the best gutter guards to keep your home protected from the rain? If so, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at some of the top gutter guards available on the market as rated by Consumer Reports. So, whether you’re in need of a new set of gutter guards or are just curious about what’s out there, read on for all the details.
Top 10 Best Gutter Guards to buy in 2022
Top 10 Best Gutter Guards that You can Buy in 2022 :
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating)
What is Gutter Guards ?
A gutter guard is a device that is installed on the roof to help keep debris from clogging gutters. There are many different types of gutter guards available, but they all serve the same purpose. Gutter guards help to keep leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the gutter and causing it to become clogged. This can prevent water from draining properly and can result in damage to the gutter and the surrounding area. Gutter guards are usually made of metal or plastic, and they can be installed by a professional or do-it-yourselfer.
How does Gutter Guards Work?
Gutter guards work by allowing water to flow through while keeping debris out. The water flows through the holes or slots in the gutter guard and into the gutter below. The debris is prevented from entering the gutter by the gutter guard’s surface, which can be sloped, curved, or flush with the gutter. Some types of gutter guards also have a lip that extends over the gutter’s edge, further preventing debris from entering.
Gutter guards are an important part of protecting your home from water damage. They’re especially important if you live in an area with a lot of trees, as leaves and twigs can quickly clog up your gutters. Gutter guards can also help to prevent ice dams from forming in your gutters in winter.
What are the different types of Gutter guards ?
There are many different types of gutter guards available on the market. Some of the most popular types include:
1. Screen gutter guards: Screen gutter guards have a mesh surface that lets water pass through while keeping out leaves and other debris. They’re available in a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, and stainless steel.
2. Foam gutter guards: Foam gutter guards have a porous surface that allows water to pass through while keeping out debris. They’re made of polyurethane or polyethylene foam and can be installed without removing your existing gutters.
3. Brush gutter guards: Brush gutter guards have bristles that allow water to pass through while keeping out debris. They’re available in a variety of materials, including plastic, nylon, and stainless steel.
4. Reverse-curve gutter guards: Reverse-curve gutter guards have a curved surface that allows water to flow into the gutter while preventing leaves and other debris from entering. They’re usually made of aluminum or stainless steel.
5. Solid gutter guards: Solid gutter guards have a smooth surface that allows water to pass through while keeping out debris. They can be made of a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, and stainless steel.
Benefits of Gutter Guards ?
There are many benefits to installing gutter guards, including:
1. Preventing clogs: Gutter guards help to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the gutter and causing it to become clogged. This can prevent water from draining properly and can result in damage to the gutter and the surrounding area.
2. Reducing maintenance: Gutter guards can reduce the amount of time you need to spend cleaning your gutters. They can also help to extend the life of your gutters by preventing them from becoming clogged with debris.
3. Preventing ice dams: Gutter guards can help to prevent ice dams from forming in your gutters in winter. Ice dams can cause water to back up into your roof and cause damage to your home.
4. Enhancing the appearance of your home: Gutter guards can enhance the appearance of your home by giving it a clean, finished look.
5. Increasing the value of your home: Gutter guards can increase the value of your home by making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Pros and Cons of gutter guards ?
Pros
1. Preventing clogs: Gutter guards help to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the gutter and causing it to become clogged. This can prevent water from draining properly and can result in damage to the gutter and the surrounding area.
2. Reducing maintenance: Gutter guards can reduce the amount of time you need to spend cleaning your gutters. They can also help to extend the life of your gutters by preventing them from becoming clogged with debris.
3. Preventing ice dams: Gutter guards can help to prevent ice dams from forming in your gutters in winter. Ice dams can cause water to back up into your roof and cause damage to your home.
4. Enhancing the appearance of your home: Gutter guards can enhance the appearance of your home by giving it a clean, finished look.
5. Increasing the value of your home: Gutter guards can increase the value of your home by making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Cons
1. Cost: Gutter guards can be costly to purchase and install.
2. Maintenance: Even with gutter guards, you may still need to occasionally clean your gutters to remove debris that has accumulated on the guard itself.
3. Compatibility: Gutter guards may not be compatible with all types of gutters. Be sure to check with the manufacturer before purchasing to ensure that the guards will work with your gutters.
4. Aesthetics: Some people feel that gutter guards can detract from the appearance of their home.
5. Effectiveness: Gutter guards are not 100% effective at keeping out all debris and may need to be replaced periodically.
How much do gutter guards cost ?
Gutter guards can range in price from $0.50 to $5.00 per foot, depending on the type and material of the guard. Installation costs will vary depending on the size and complexity of your gutters. Expect to pay around $200 to have gutter guards installed on a standard single-story home.
How to use gutter guards ?
Gutter guards can be installed in several different ways, depending on the type of guard you purchase. Some guards simply snap into place, while others need to be screwed or bolted into the gutter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Common mistakes when using gutter guards ?
There are a few common mistakes that homeowners make when using gutter guards. Be sure to avoid these mistakes to get the most out of your gutter guards:
1. Not cleaning the gutters first: It’s important to clean your gutters before installing gutter guards. Otherwise, you may end up trapping debris inside the gutters that could cause clogs.
2. Not checking for compatibility: Be sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure that the gutter guards you purchase are compatible with your gutters. Otherwise, you may not be able to install them properly or they may not work as intended.
3. Not following the manufacturer’s instructions: Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Otherwise, you may not get the full benefit of the gutter guards or you may damage your gutters.
4. Not maintaining the gutters: Even with gutter guards, it’s important to occasionally clean your gutters to remove debris that has accumulated on the guards themselves. Neglecting to do this can cause clogs that could lead to water damage.
5. Not replacing damaged guards: Gutter guards will eventually become damaged and will need to be replaced. Be sure to check them regularly for damage and replace them as needed.
Factors to consider before buying Gutter guards ?
There are a few factors you should consider before purchasing gutter guards:
1. The type of guard: There are several different types of gutter guards available on the market. Be sure to research the different types to find the one that’s right for you.
2. The material of the guard: Gutter guards are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and foam. Be sure to choose a material that will be durable and compatible with your gutters.
3. The cost: Gutter guards can range in price from $0.50 to $5.00 per foot, depending on the type and material of the guard. Installation costs will vary depending on the size and complexity of your gutters. Expect to pay around $200 to have gutter guards installed on a standard single-story home.
4. The effectiveness: Gutter guards are not 100% effective at keeping out all debris and may need to be replaced periodically. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if gutter guards are right for you.
5. The warranty: Be sure to check the warranty before purchasing gutter guards. Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties, while others only offer limited warranties.
6. The company: Be sure to research the company before purchasing gutter guards. Check for customer reviews and complaints to be sure you’re dealing with a reputable company.
7. The return policy: Be sure to check the company’s return policy before purchasing gutter guards. Some companies offer money-back guarantees, while others do not.
8. The installation: Gutter guards can be installed in several different ways, depending on the type of guard you purchase. Some guards simply snap into place, while others need to be screwed or bolted into the gutter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
9. The maintenance: Even with gutter guards, it’s important to occasionally clean your gutters to remove debris that has accumulated on the guards themselves. Neglecting to do this can cause clogs that could lead to water damage.
10. The bottom line: Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of gutter guards before purchasing them. Gutter guards can be a great way to reduce maintenance, but they’re not perfect and may need to be replaced periodically.
FAQs
1. Do gutter guards really work?
Gutter guards can be a great way to reduce the amount of maintenance required for your gutters. However, they’re not perfect and may need to be replaced periodically. Be sure to research the different types of gutter guards before purchasing them to find the one that’s right for you.
2. How much do gutter guards cost?
Gutter guards can range in price from $0.50 to $5.00 per foot, depending on the type and material of the guard. Installation costs will vary depending on the size and complexity of your gutters. Expect to pay around $200 to have gutter guards installed on a standard single-story home.
3. What are the different types of gutter guards?
There are several different types of gutter guards available on the market. Be sure to research the different types to find the one that’s right for you.
4. What is the best gutter guard?
There is no “best” gutter guard. The best gutter guard for you will depend on the type of gutters you have, the climate you live in, and your personal preference. Be sure to research the different types of gutter guards before purchasing them to find the one that’s right for you.
5. Do I need gutter guards?
Gutter guards are not necessary, but they can be a great way to reduce the amount of maintenance required for your gutters. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if gutter guards are right for you.
6. How do I install gutter guards?
Gutter guards can be installed in several different ways, depending on the type of guard you purchase. Some guards simply snap into place, while others need to be screwed or bolted into the gutter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
7. How do I clean gutter guards?
Even with gutter guards, it’s important to occasionally clean your gutters to remove debris that has accumulated on the guards themselves. Neglecting to do this can cause clogs that could lead to water damage. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your particular type of gutter guard.
8. Do gutter guards come in different colors?
Gutter guards are typically available in several different colors, such as white, black, and brown. Be sure to choose a color that will complement the exterior of your home.
9. What is the warranty on gutter guards?
Be sure to check the warranty before purchasing gutter guards. Some companies offer money-back guarantees, while others do not.
10. The bottom line: Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of gutter guards before purchasing them. Gutter guards can be a great way to reduce maintenance, but they’re not perfect and may need to be replaced periodically.
Conclusion
So, what’s the best gutter guard for your home? The answer to that question may not be as straightforward as you think. As with most things in life, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to gutters and guards. That’s why it’s important to do your research before making a purchase – and Consumer Reports can help. Our team of experts has tested all the major brands and models of gutter guards on the market, so we can give you the inside scoop on which ones are worth your money and which ones to avoid. In short, if you want maximum protection for your home from water damage, then invest in a good set of gutter guards – and don’t forget to shop around first!
I’m Georgie Barton, a reviewer for various magazines and consumer reports. I’ve been testing and writing about household products and electronics for years, and have become quite the authority on the subject. My goal is to help people make informed decisions when purchasing these items, so they can get the most value for their money.
My hope is that through my work, everyone will be able to find a quality and satisfactory product. Thank you for reading!