A gutter protection system is designed to prevent gutters from getting clogged due to debris like falling leaves and pine needles. When gutters clog, water can leak through the shingles and compromise the roof, or it can spill down the sides of the home and pool near the foundation, potentially causing significant structural damage. For these reasons, contractors and home-improvement associations recommend installing some form of gutter protection. Home-owners are also drawn to the idea that gutter protection cuts down on the number of times they have to clean out their gutters.
Does gutter protection really work? Is it worth the cost?
According to Consumer Reports and home-improvement industry associations, gutter protection does work, but the type of material used and the level of quality will determine how effective and maintenance-free your gutter protection system will actually be. It’s important that homeowners research the different options for gutter protection in order to pick the most effective one for their home and area’s weather conditions
How do gutter protection systems work?
Gutter protection systems prevent clogs by allowing water to flow to the gutter while keeping debris out. There are three main categories of gutter protection systems (or gutter guards): screens, inserts and reverse curves.
Screens are the most common type of gutter protection and they work by covering your existing gutter with a porous material that allows water through, but not debris. The level of protection and longevity of the screen depends on the material and design. The larger the “holes” in the screen, the less effective they are. Generally, screens with several layers of fine mesh are effective at blocking even the smallest of particles.
Inserts are the least-expensive gutter protection option. Instead of fitting on top of a gutter, inserts go directly into the gutter. They are made of a porous material, usually foam, which allows water to filter through while blocking most debris. While they are the cheapest and easy-to-install, they need to be regularly removed and cleaned, and smaller pieces of debris may still collect in your gutter over time.
The reverse curve design of the gutter guard uses gravity to force debris to fall to the ground while the water is directed it into a small slit that flows into the gutter. The best reverse curve systems require little maintenance. While they’re efficient at keeping debris out, some can run into water collection issues during heavy storms.
Experts agree that any form of gutter protection will prevent clogs. For more information on gutters for your home or business, contact Cox Roofing today.
Cox Roofing:
Cox Roofing is a full-service, certified roofing contractor providing residential and commercial roofing services of the residents of the state of Maryland, with particular focus on Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford County and Howard County. We pride ourselves on our personalized service which transforms your property into the residence or business of your dreams. Get in touch for your free estimate today.
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