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By Gutter Supply Chicago · 1816 S Trumbull Ave, Chicago, IL
Do gutter guards work? Homeowners ask contractors this all the time. The honest answer is yes, they reduce clogs, but they do not make gutters maintenance-free. This guide explains the main types and when they make sense.
Yes, gutter guards work: they keep most leaves and large debris out of the gutter and reduce clogs. They do not stop everything. Small debris such as pine needles and shingle grit can still collect, and guards need occasional cleaning. They make the most sense on homes with many trees nearby.
| Type | How it works | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | Wire or plastic mesh over the gutter | Large leaves | Small debris gets through |
| Micro-mesh | Fine mesh on a frame | Small debris and pine needles | Needs brushing off the top |
| Reverse curve | Water curls over a rounded edge into the gutter | Heavy leaf areas | Can overflow in very heavy rain |
| Foam or brush | Insert that fills the gutter | Quick, low-cost installs | Debris can get stuck in the insert |
Guards pay off on homes with mature trees, which describes many neighborhoods in the Chicago area, from Oak Park to Brookfield. They are also useful on tall or steep roofs where cleaning the gutter is difficult and risky.
Gutter guards do not fix gutters that are too small, sag, or have too few downspouts. Check the size first (see 5-inch vs 6-inch gutters) and make sure there are enough downspouts before adding guards.
Snow and ice can sit on top of guards just as they sit on an open gutter. Guards do not prevent ice dams. Read gutters and ice dams to understand why.
Guards are an easy add-on to quote with a new gutter install. Measure the total gutter length and match the guard to the gutter size. Gutter Supply Chicago supplies gutter guards with job-site delivery; call (312) 823-7355 to confirm sizes.
For roofing and drainage best practices, see the National Roofing Contractors Association.
Yes. They keep most leaves out and reduce clogs, but small debris can still collect and guards need occasional cleaning.
No. Ice dams are caused by heat escaping through the roof. Guards do not prevent them.
Micro-mesh guards stop the smallest debris. Screens are lower cost and work well for large leaves.
Gutter Supply Chicago supplies gutter guards with same-day quotes and job-site delivery. Call (312) 823-7355.
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