Do Gutter Guards Work On Steep Roofs?

Gutters are an important part of any home’s exterior and interior drainage systems. They help protect a home from water damage by redirecting rainwater away from its foundation. However, when it comes to steep roofs, gutter guards can be more difficult to install and maintain. Do they really work on steep roofs? In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of using gutter guards on steep roofs in order to answer this question.

What are Gutter Guards?

Gutter guards, also known as gutter screens, gutter covers, and leaf guards, are a type of protective barrier placed around gutters in order to keep out debris such as leaves and twigs. They can be made from materials such as plastic mesh or metal expanded mesh, with some even featuring self-cleaning technology.

Pros of Using Gutter Guards on Steep Roofs

1. Prevents clogging: Gutter guards can help prevent debris from clogging your gutters, which is especially important when dealing with steep roofs that are difficult to access for cleaning and maintenance purposes.

2. Prevents water damage: By preventing clogs, gutter guards can also help reduce the potential for water damage as rainwater is more likely to flow freely away from your home’s foundation when gutters are kept clear.

3. Increased durability: Gutter guards can also provide additional protection and durability to your gutters, ensuring they last longer and require less maintenance.

Cons of Using Gutter Guards on Steep Roofs

1. Installation difficulty: Installing gutter guards on a steep roof can be difficult due to the limited space available for working, as well as the risk of climbing onto a slippery surface.

2. High cost: Gutter guards can also be expensive due to the added labour costs associated with installing them on steep roofs.

3. Reduced effectiveness: In some cases, gutter guards may not be as effective as expected due to their design or the type of debris they are trying to keep out.

Types of Gutter guards for Steep Roofs

Mesh or Screen Gutter Guards

Mesh or screen gutter guards are a popular choice for steep roofs as they provide effective protection while being easier and less expensive to install than other types of gutter guards. These gutter guard systems consist of mesh panels that fit snuggly onto the existing gutters, preventing leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering.

Gutter Filter Systems

Gutter filter systems are another type of gutter guard that can be used on steep roofs. These systems feature a filter material that is placed on top of the gutters which “traps” debris and prevents it from flowing into the gutter. They are easy to install and can be very effective in keeping debris out.

Also read : How Long Does It Take to Replace a Flat Roof?

Leaf Relief Gutter Guards

Leaf Relief gutter guards feature a unique design that allows leaves, twigs, and other debris to be washed away from the gutters by the rainwater. This helps reduce clogs and water damage while also being less difficult to install than other types of gutter guards.

Foam gutter

Foam gutter inserts are another popular option for steep roofs, offering protection against debris while being easier and less expensive to install than other types of gutter guards. These inserts consist of small foam pieces which are strategically placed within the existing gutters. The foam pieces act as an additional layer which helps trap debris and prevents it from entering and clogging the gutter system.

No matter which type of gutter guard is best for your home, it’s important to consult a professional to determine the best option for your roof and budget. Gutter guards can help reduce the need for costly maintenance and repairs while ensuring that rainwater is properly flowing away from your foundation.

Reverse Curve Gutter Guards

Reverse Curve Gutter Guards are a great choice for steep roofs as they provide excellent protection against debris while being relatively easy to install. These gutter guards feature a curved design that allows rainwater to flow into the gutter while deflecting leaves, twigs, and other debris away from the gutters. This helps reduce clogs and water damage while also being more affordable than other types of gutter guards.

Conclusion

Overall, installing gutter guards on a steep roof can help protect your home from water damage and reduce the need for costly maintenance and repairs. By choosing the right type of gutter guard for your roof and consulting with a professional, you’ll be able to maximize the effectiveness and longevity of your gutter system.