The Need For Gutter Guards in Charlotte
Gutter guards are an essential investment for homeowners in Charlotte NC and the surrounding areas. Anyone who lives here knows how plentiful North Carolina is with trees and other foliage.
Homeowners who want to keep their gutters functioning efficiently, without the hassle of constant cleaning, should consider gutter guards. Less gutter cleaning makes gutter maintenance less costly.
Gutter guards come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. We understand that choosing the right one for your home can be overwhelming. In this article, we will review different types of gutter guards available here in Charlotte.
Types of Gutter Guards
Mesh Gutter Guards
Mesh gutter guards are made of metal or plastic and are designed to keep debris from entering the gutter while allowing water to pass through. They are affordable and easy to install, making them a popular choice among homeowners. However, mesh gutter guards can become clogged with small debris like pine needles and pin oak pods, which will reduce their effectiveness. The plastic ones are too light to remain in place and often break quickly in our hot Charlotte summers baking them and making them brittle.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guards
Reverse curve gutter guards have a curved surface that allows water to flow into the gutter while keeping leaves and debris out. They are made of various materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and stainless steel. However, reverse curve gutter guards can be very expensive and difficult to install, especially on older homes with non-standard gutters. The cost should be carefully weighed against the long-term benefits.
Foam Gutter Guards
Foam gutter guards are made of porous foam that fit into the gutter trough. The goal is to prevent debris from clogging the water flow. However, we have found that they not only become clogged, but they also become a bacterial breeding ground. They are relatively affordable and easy to install, but they will become saturated with water and that creates a ripe breeding ground for mosquitos. We discourage customers from this type of gutter guard.
Brush Gutter Guards
Brush gutter guards are made of bristles that fit into the gutter trough and are meant to prevent debris from clogging them. They are easy to install and can be customized to fit any gutter size or shape. However, in our experience, they are more of a nuisance than a help. They often become clogged with debris, reducing their effectiveness and become a breeding ground for bacteria and mosquitos.
Choosing the Right Gutter Guard for Your Home
When selecting a gutter guard for your home gutter system, several factors should be considered, including the type of tree debris in your area, the pitch of your roof, and the size and shape of your gutters. The climate in our Charlotte NC region should also be taken into account. Extreme weather conditions like storms and hurricanes can affect the performance and longevity of your gutter guards.
Additionally, you should consider the cost and maintenance requirements for each type of gutter guard. While some options may be more expensive upfront, they may require less maintenance and last longer, saving you money in the long run.
Any gutter system is intended to guide roof water run-off away from your wooden trim, facias, and soffits. If the system is clogged, they cannot complete that goal, so gutter guards are a crucial investment for homeowners. They help protect homes from water damage and let homeowners avoid the hassle of constant gutter cleaning.