How To Keep Leaves Out Of Gutters (We Have a Few Fixes)

Tiffany Nichols
by Tiffany Nichols

If your cutters snag too many leaves, they won’t work correctly. Then, you’ll have streams of water coming down the side of your house. And excess moisture can cause expensive damage. So, how do you keep leaves out of gutters in the first place?

Many people use gutter guards to keep leaves from clogging their lines. That’s because guarded gutters gather only rain and small debris. However, you still have to clean out gutters with guards. Over time, the waste can become just as disruptive as leaves.

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What Are Gutter Guards?

There are many different types of gutters. So, there are also many kinds of gutter guards. In general, though, you install guards on your gutters to keep out leaves, sticks, and other large debris. But putting guards on your channels isn’t just about protecting the lines.

Many homeowners install gutter guards to improve their home’s curb appeal. The reason is that guards create a more streamlined look on the house. Plus, they prevent large chunks of leaves and sticks from poking up or dropping to the ground.

DID YOU KNOW: Installing gutter guards on your home may help reduce the cost of your homeowner’s insurance.

The Pros and Cons of Gutter Guards

If you don’t use gutter guards, you’ll have to manually clean the leaves from the lines. But if you have guards on your gutters, you can skip a step. Guards help prevent standing water in your gutters and make it easier to maintain your house. However, that doesn’t mean they’re the perfect solution. Here’s what you should know:

Pros

  • Guarded gutters function better in bad weather than unguarded gutters.
  • Guards can help prolong the lifespan of your gutters and downspouts.
  • Preventative maintenance helps reduce the cost of homeownership.
  • Professionally installed gutter guards look great with most homes.

Cons

  • Installing guards on your gutters can be expensive.
  • You might have to hire a professional to do the work.
  • You may need to remove the guards for thorough cleaning.

Consider the pros and cons before you install guards on your gutters. And always check with your insurance company to make sure it’s okay. Then, hire professionals to do the work so you can rest easy knowing your home is protected.

4 Ways to Keep Leaves Out of Your Gutters

You can always live in a home with no gutters because there are several alternatives. However, most people have gutters on their houses. Meanwhile, not everyone can afford to have guards professionally installed on their property. So, then what?

Here are four surefire ways to keep the leaves out of your gutters whether you have guards installed or not:

#1. Trim Your Trees

If your trees don’t have a bunch of falling leaves, then there won’t be many leaves in your gutters. So, keep your foliage groomed as much as you can. Try to trim the trees at least once every year. And pay close attention to broken branches and dead stems because they could fall on your house.

#2. Use Gutter Screens

Gutter screens are an inexpensive alternative to guards. Screens are also more flexible and easier to install. You can put them on your gutters in any weather condition and take them off quickly. Plus, they catch more than just falling leaves. They stop twigs from gathering as well.

#3. Add a Leaf Catcher

Using a simple leaf catcher can help reduce the amount of debris that collects in your gutter lines. Meanwhile, leaf catchers are easy to install and one of the least expensive alternatives to gutters. So, look at your local hardware store for different models.

#4. Install an All-In-One Gutter System

All-in-one gutter systems feature everything a homeowner needs to maintain their gutters. That’s because the systems come with guards already installed. So, you don’t have to pay extra for it later. Then, your gutters stay clear all year long until you’re ready to clean them.

Remember, each type of gutter requires a different kind of leaf guard. That means you can’t just run out to the store and buy what you need. As always, talk to a gutter installer for more specific information. And have a home inspector check out your property before installation. That way, you can catch and fix any problems ahead of time.

Are Gutter Guards a Waste of Money?

Some homeowners think that gutter guards are a waste of money. But other homeowners believe they’re essential. Either way, make sure your gutters stay clear of falling debris. If you don’t, rainwater could do severe damage to your property.

Keep in mind that some homeowners insurance companies may offer a discount if you install guards on your gutters. It’s because gutter guards may help prevent damage to your property. Plus, they boost the curb appeal of your home. So, decide if they’re worth the money for yourself.

Guard Your Gutters

Your gutters play a critical role in the functionality of your home. They protect your roof and walls from the rain and help prevent water damage. But that means you have to give them special attention at least once per year. Over time, leaves and debris can clog the lines and cause standing water to collect inside.

That’s why many people install gutter guards in the first place. Homeowners want to prolong the lifespan of their properties while increasing the resale value. And adequately installed guards on gutters can do precisely that.

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Related Questions

Do Gutter Guards Add Value to Your Home?

You can add gutters to any house, but gutter guards aren’t always compatible with every structure. Meanwhile, installing them can help add some value to your property. But you have to do some research to find out exactly how it will affect your property value. That’s because each situation is different. Plus, you must install gutter guards correctly, or else they could reduce the asking price of your home.


Are Gutter Guards a Good Investment?

For most people, gutters guards are worth the money. They not only improve the curb appeal of their home, but guarded gutters are also easier to maintain. The only problem is that you must have them professionally installed or at least fitted to your existing gutter system. If not, they might look funny or malfunction when it rains.Remember, using gutter guards doesn’t save you from having to clean the lines. You still have to remove the guard and clear out any fallen debris inside of it. Plus, you must reinstall the gutter guards when you get done. So, make sure you choose a simple design to save some time.


Do You Need to Clean Gutters with Guards?

Cleaning gutters is not a pleasant task. So, a lot of people hire professionals to do the way. That way, they can be sure the lines are clear of leaves, sticks, and other debris. However, professional gutter cleaning can be expensive. So, try to weigh your options carefully.Meanwhile, remember that cleaning high gutters can be dangerous. You should use sturdy ladders and safety equipment if you can. And if all else fails, spray your gutters with a hose to remove stubborn debris. Or call in some help to reach difficult places.


Are Gutter Guards Bad for Your Roof?

Gutter guards are great for many reasons, but they could cause damage to your roof if you’re not careful. Correct installation is critical. Plus, gutter guards can’t keep debris from collecting on your rooftop. And if they get full, the extra materials can begin accumulating on your shingles.Furthermore, putting guards on gutters can tear your shingles if the gutter system gets too heavy with debris. Then, that damage can be expensive to fix. So, discuss the pros and cons of installing gutter guards and make sure you ask the insurance company what they think as well.

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Tiffany Nichols
Tiffany Nichols

Tiffany Nichols specializes in aesthetics, design, marketing, and manufacturing. She's a copywriter and editor for several home renovation companies in the U.S. and works alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Her hobbies include architecture, art, mental health, and fashion.

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