Gutter Guard Installation in Chicago
If you're a homeowner looking to cut down on gutter cleaning or worried about clogs causing water damage, you've probably heard of gutter guards.
They promise less maintenance and longer lasting gutters. But are gutter guards actually worth it?
Let's get into what gutter guards really do, their pros and cons, and whether they make sense for your home.
What Gutter Guards Actually Do
Gutter guards, also known as gutter screens, covers, or helmets, are devices that cover the top of your gutter to keep out leaves, twigs, and other debris while still allowing water to flow through.
The goal of all these types is simple: reduce how often you need to clean your gutters and keep water flowing away from your foundation.
- Less frequent cleaningNo guard is perfect, but they cut down the debris entering your gutters a lot
- Protection from water damageFewer clogs means less overflow onto siding, fascia, and your foundation
- Longer gutter lifespanLess standing water means less rust and fewer opportunities for damage
Most folks looking into gutter guards already know they need them. If you are still on the fence, one question settles it.
Are there trees on your property or nearby?
That is the whole test. Trees drop leaves, twigs, and seed pods, and a good share of it lands in your gutters and stays there.
If nothing is close enough to reach your roof, there is not much for a guard to keep out.
Know your options
The Four Main Types of Gutter Guards
We install all kinds, and they can be added to your existing gutters. Here is how the four main types compare.
Foam Insert
- Inexpensive
- Quick install
- Works well at first
- Flammable
- Traps water and seeds
- Can mold
- Short term fix for a long term problem
Only go with foam if budget is the main concern. They are cheap, but they are not the best long term answer.
Screen Guards
- Easy to install
- Keeps large debris out
- Not visible from the ground
- Durable
- Larger seeds can get stuck in the holes
These are the type we recommend. The bigger holes block large debris and still let small debris pass through and out the downspout.
Micro Mesh
- Easy to install
- Keeps almost all debris out
- Not visible from the ground
- Durable
- Can clog, and tiny debris forms sludge
- May send water over the edge in heavy rain
- One of the more expensive types
Effective and durable overall. Micro mesh can clog with fine debris, which is why we lean toward guards with bigger openings.
Cover Guards
- Keeps out most debris
- Durable
- Water can overshoot the gutter
- Bulky design
- Hard to remove when it is time to clean
- Expensive
They work, but micro mesh and screen guards usually cost less and give you better value for the money.
So Which Type Is Really the Best?
Our professional opinion: pick the gutter guards that fit your needs and budget.
Every single type will require some level of maintenance to keep your gutters in top shape. The perfect gutter guard does not exist.
As a whole, we prefer the larger hole or more standard mesh screens as gutter guards. We find they offer a sleek look and do a great job of reducing clogs and required gutter maintenance.
They are a great mix of all of the above. They offer protection from larger debris like leaves and twigs that could clog your gutters, still allow rain to actually fall into the gutter, and are not the most expensive. Aluminum is our top choice because it's lightweight and extremely durable.
- Blocks large debrisLeaves and twigs stay out of the channel
- Lets small debris throughShingle granules keep moving down the downspout
- No overshootWater still lands in the gutter during heavy storms
Avoid overly fine mesh systems, as they tend to clog easily from dirt and dust, ironically creating the very problem you're trying to solve.
Just like with gutters themselves, the key to long term performance is proper installation. Seamless gutters installed by professionals already reduce leaks and sagging. Adding guards to a poor gutter system won't help.
Start with the right gutter setup first, then add guards as needed.See Our Seamless GuttersThe verdict
When Gutter Guards Are Worth It
Gutter guards aren’t right for everyone, but they can be a smart investment if your home or situation checks a few boxes.
When Guards Make Sense
- You're surrounded by trees. If you find yourself cleaning your gutters multiple times per season because of falling leaves, maple helicopters, or pine needles, guards can cut down your maintenance schedule a lot.
- You have a multi-story home. If your gutters are tough to reach, or dangerous to clean without a pro, guards can be a safer alternative to frequent climbs up a ladder.
- You travel often or own a second property. For homes that don't get checked often, having guards can provide extra protection against blockages while you're away.
- You've had water damage in the past. Clogged gutters can cause serious foundation or siding problems. Gutter guards help keep water flowing properly.
- You're already replacing your gutters. Adding guards during a new gutter installation is usually more affordable and gives you a better fit.
When You Can Skip Them
- You don't have trees nearby. No trees means no leaves, and likely no clogs. Your gutters probably stay clean with minimal effort.
- Your roof and gutters are easily accessible. If you're comfortable cleaning them a couple of times a year, adding guards might not be a worthwhile expense.
- You already clean them consistently. If you already stay on top of maintenance and have never had an issue with clogging or overflow, adding guards may not offer much added benefit.
- You're on a tight budget. While guards can save money in the long run, they do have a higher up-front cost. If you're already investing in seamless gutters, guards can always be added later when your budget allows.
Either way
How to Keep Your Gutters Performing Well
With guards or without them, a few habits keep the whole system working.
Clean Them On A Schedule
Clean your gutters at least twice a year, or more if you have lots of nearby trees.
Keep The Water Moving
Make sure downspouts are clear and directing water away from your home.
Match The Rainfall
Consider 5 inch vs 6 inch gutters to handle more water if you live in an area with heavy rainfall.
Catch It Early
Schedule regular inspections to catch issues before they become costly repairs.
Great experience with Gutter Pros. We have an old 1950's house in Lincolnwood, IL and they replaced them and got the Raindrop guards as well. Mason came out initially and was no pressure and very informative. Gutter team, led by Sergio, was very efficient and accommodating. Prices were competitive and we have a lifetime warranty.Patty Urban, Yelp Review
Common questions
Gutter Guard FAQs
Straight answers on cost, cleaning, and which type actually holds up.
Are gutter guards worth it?
Gutter guards can be worth it if your home is surrounded by trees or your gutters clog often. While there's an upfront cost, they can reduce maintenance, protect your home, and help avoid expensive water damage down the road.
Do gutter guards eliminate the need to clean gutters?
Not completely. While they reduce how often you need to clean your gutters, no system is 100% maintenance-free.
Small debris like dirt and shingle grit can still build up over time, so occasional checkups are still important.
How much do gutter guards cost to install?
The cost depends on the type of guard and your gutter system, but most homeowners can expect to pay between $7 and $15 per foot, including installation.
The most accurate way to get a number for your home is a free estimate.
Which gutter guards are best?
There really is no perfect gutter guard. While gutter guards do help keep bigger debris like leaves and twigs out, which helps prevent clogs, they still let smaller particles through, which is a good thing.
We believe the best type of gutter guards are those that prevent bigger pieces like leaves and twigs from getting in, but still allow smaller pieces like asphalt rock and dirt to go down the gutter and downspout.
If you install mesh gutter guards, these can get clogged by dirt and won't allow water to flow into the gutter, which defeats the main reason you have a gutter in the first place.
Can gutter guards be added to my existing gutters?
Yes. We install all kinds, and they can be added to your existing gutters.
We can help you evaluate your gutters and determine which gutter guard solution is the best one for you.
READY WHEN YOU ARE
Ready to Stop Thinking About Your Gutters?
Get a free estimate from Chicago’s top-rated seamless gutter company. No pressure. No obligation. Just a straight answer on what your home needs and what it’ll cost.
or call (866) GUTR-PRO
