Best Gutter Guards: 5 Things to Look For
Effective gutter guards can be a great addition to your home, preventing expensive damages associated with clogged gutters, and the dangerous task of gutter cleaning! However, the key word is ‘effective.’ it is important to note that not all leaf guards are created equal. Before you invest in leaf guards, or any other major home improvement product, it is important to do your research. Here are some thing to consider while searching for the best gutter guards on the market.
Does this gutter cover have holes, gaps, or openings?
When looking for the best gutter guards, you’ll want to take note of the design of each product.
If a leaf guard product features holes, gaps, or openings – debris will still enter and clog your gutters. Louver or metal screen gutter covers happen to feature openings, and can create even more headaches. As debris enters your gutters, your gutters will still clog, and you’ll have to remove the leaf guard product in order to clean the gutters out.
The LeafFilter Difference:
LeafFilter features a micromesh gutter shield that is made out of surgical grade stainless steel – the same materials as a heart stent. This ensures that no organic material clings to it and our product will never rust or corrode. The openings are 50 microns fine, so not even sand will get through!
What type of Warranty is Included?
If you are deciding between a DIY product and a professionally installed gutter cover, one noticeable difference is the warranty that is included. Many times, DIY gutter toppers will not include a warranty or guarantee. This is because DIY gutter covers are temporary solutions, lasting only a few years before they need to be replaced.
Professionally installed gutter guard systems offer some type of warranty or guarantee. When reviewing leaf guards, here are some questions to ask yourself:
- How long is the coverage? 10 years, 20 years, lifetime?
- Is the warranty transferable if I happen to sell my home?
- Will anything void my warranty?
- Does it guarantee that my gutter won’t clog or that the company will clean my gutters?
The last question is of particular importance. If a gutter guard company guarantees that they will clean your gutters if they clog, they are acknowledging that your gutters will clog. Products that offer this type of guarantee are aware of their system’s inefficiency.
The LeafFilter Difference:
LeafFilter offers the best leaf guard warranty on the market. Our industry leading, lifetime warranty is the best in the business – and it is transferable to homeowners! LeafFilter stands behind their product, making it the best gutter guard on the market.
Does LeafFilter Require New Gutter Systems?
Some leaf guards require you to purchase all new guttering – even if you have brand new gutter systems! This can cost thousands of extra, unnecessary dollars, and can be the difference between the best gutter guards.
The LeafFilter Difference:
The great thing about LeafFilter is that we install on your existing gutters, which can save you thousands. If you do happen to need new guttering, we can install new gutters at the same time LeafFilter is installed on your home. At the time of your consultation, we’ll inspect the condition of your gutters and determine a solution that is right for you and your home.
Will It Disturb My Roof or Shingles?
Many gutter covers require installation under your first row of shingles. This creates three important problems that can prove to be an expensive mistake down the road.
- Roof Leaks: If your gutter guard is installed under your first row of shingles, the shingle is less secure, and moisture is more likely to find its way into areas that are meant to be left dry.
- It voids your roof warranty: Many shingle manufacturers have wording in their warranties warning against disturbing your shingles after installation.
- It can create a very steep slope to your gutter protection: Because other gutter shields must be installed under your first row of shingles, the angle of your gutter protection will depend on the plane or slope of your roof, causing water runoff since the angle of installation may be too steep.
The LeafFilter Difference:
LeafFilter eliminates all of these issues. We install our product on top of existing gutter systems, with absolutely no impact to your roof or shingles in any way. And, our product is manufactured with an 11-degree pitch, proven to be the best angle for maximum water collection and to ensure you do not experience any water runoff.
Is the Dealer Separate from the Company?
Many gutter cover companies are dealers or separate entities. If you need service or support, it may be a confusing process when trying to figure out who to contact.
The LeafFilter Difference:
We are the only installer of LeafFilter in the Canada, providing homeowners with one single point of contact for sales and services. By not relying on an independent dealer network, we are able to maintain a high level of quality control and service. And, since there is no middle man, we pass the savings on to you.
