6 Best Types of Gutter Guards for Your Home in 2024

Gutters are a crucial part of your roof. They help channel rainwater properly and prevent the deterioration of other roofing materials. 

Cleaning the gutters regularly is important for maintaining their functionality. However, not many homeowners enjoy doing this task. This is where gutter guards come in. Gutter guards are installed throughout the gutters on your roof. They act as a shield for your gutters, preventing debris from clogging them.

At Miller Roofing and Renovations, we have been providing the best roofing services in Tennessee for years. We aim to inform homeowners about the important parts of their home or building so that they can make informed choices about repairs and remodeling projects. 

Today, we will be sharing six types of gutter guards that have been popular among property owners. We will also share some of the best-rated products that you can opt to protect your gutters. 

Let’s get started!

What Are The Different Types Of Gutter Guards?

Here are a few different types of gutter guards to protect your roof’s gutters from debris and other unwanted elements. 

#1 Mesh Gutter Guards

The mesh design of these gutter covers functions by creating a barrier that blocks leaves, twigs, and other larger debris from entering the gutter while allowing rainwater to pass through the openings. 

Pros

• They are effective at keeping out most debris.
• They offer an improved flow of water in the gutters.
• Generally affordable compared to other types of gutter guards.

Cons

• Depending on the size of the holes in the mesh, they may allow some tiny particles or debris to enter the gutter. 
• They require occasional maintenance, as they can get clogged over time. 
• Some mesh types may be less durable. 

#2 Screen Gutter Guards

Screen gutter guards feature large openings that are supposed to prevent large debris from entering your roof’s gutters. These are generally made of perforated metal and plastic. They are similar to mesh gutter guards but they feature larger openings. However, they’re not the most effective at reducing clogs and maintenance.

Pros 

• Screen gutter guards are an affordable choice to consider.
• They are a DIY-friendly option. 
• They do a good job of keeping out medium to large debris, like leaves, twigs, etc.

Cons

• Screen gutter guards struggle with small debris. Pine needles, pollen, and shingle granules can still sneak through the holes, potentially causing clogs over time.
• If you live in a windy area,  they can blow off in strong gusts, leaving your gutters exposed.
• While these guards reduce debris, you’ll still need to clean your gutters more frequently.
• Screen gutter guards have a relatively short lifespan. They last for 2-4 years.

#3 Micro-Mesh Gutter Guards

They are similar to mesh screen guards, but the mesh size is very small. These are metal screens with tiny holes that catch debris and leaves from clogging your roof’s gutter systems. This fine mash screen filters out even the smallest debris and allows the water to flow through. This design allows rainwater to pass through easily while blocking leaves, pine needles, seeds, and other common rooftop debris.

Pros 

• The tiny holes catch even the most minor debris.
• Depending on the metal chosen, these gutter guards resist rust and corrosion.
• They will function well for 2-7 years without any major problems.

Cons 

• Micro mesh gutter guards are harder to install on existing gutters. You will need a professional to install them. 
• The tiny holes will get blocked with time, so you must be attentive to prevent leakage. 
• The installation’s technicality increases the overall installation cost.

#4 Reserve Curve Gutter Guards

Another gutter guard on our list is the reverse curve gutter guard. These guards use surface tension to pull water into the gutters while allowing debris to flow over the edge. They are made from a curved sheet of plastic or metal and installed on your existing gutters. They are effective at keeping out large debris like leaves and twigs. 

Pros

• They generally come with a warranty because they offer a different design than other types of gutter guards. 
• The unique design helps in preventing ice dams in winter. 
• Because debris flows over the gutters, they need less maintenance and cleaning than mesh gutter guards.

Cons 

• In areas with heavy debris or trees near your roof, the curve can sometimes trap debris instead of shedding it. 
• They may not fit all roof pitches and gutter designs. 
• Once installed, it becomes difficult to access the gutter when required. 
• The space created by the curve can sometimes attract nesting animals.

#5 Brush Gutter Guards

Brush gutter guards are another best-rated gutter guard on our list. They look like pipe cleaners fitted inside the gutter system of your roof. The bristles stick up and catch leaves and twigs. Water can still flow through the bristles into the gutter.

Pros

• Brush gutter guards are easy to install.
• They are not expensive and are comparatively more affordable than some other gutter guard types. 
• These gutter covers are easy to clean. Simply remove the visible debris and rinse the brush gutter guards with a garden hose, then place them back inside the gutters.

Cons

• Small bits can still get through.
• They need regular cleaning to function properly. 
• They are visible from the ground, which many homeowners may not like. 
• They have a relatively short lifespan. 

#6 Foam Gutter Guards

Foam gutter guards, as the name suggests, are long pieces of foam fitted into the gutters. They are at fifth on our list as they are not a very popular gutter guard type. They are sponge-like gutter guards that soak up the water and collect the debris on the top of the foam. 

Pros

• They are a really affordable and cost-effective choice if you are working on a tight budget and looking for a temporary solution.
• They block most of the debris from clogging the gutter. 
• Foam gutter guards are very easy to install

Cons

• You need to remove the collected debris from the top of the foam and it can be hard to clean them.
• Because of moisture buildup, there is a chance of mold growth inside the gutters. 
• They can freeze in cold weather. 
• They only last for 2 to 5 years. 

8 Best-Rated Gutter Guard Brands Of The Year

1. LeafFilter

LeafFilter has a micro-mesh design with 275 microns of fine openings, allowing water and nothing else to enter your gutter. This best-rated gutter guard is made from surgical stainless steel that can resist rust and corrosion. 

2. Gutterglove Pro

Gutterglove Pro is another popular choice. It is durable, high-performing, and suitable for various weather conditions. It is designed only for professional installation. It comes with a stainless steel micro-mesh design that prevents debris from clogging your gutters. 

3. HomeCraft Gutter Guard

HomeCraft gutter guards have a highly effective filtering system that provides excellent gutter protection. This gutter guard works with many gutter styles, as it offers a flexible design with no substructures underneath. HomeCraft gutter guards need professional installation and reinforced metal hangers for extra support. 

4. Raptor Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard

The Raptor Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard features a micro-mesh design to prevent clogging. It offers a Rator’s V-bend trough technology that improves filtration, prevents debris from sticking, and provides rigidity and strength. It also offers a quick and easy installation.

5. Atlas Gutter Guard®

Atlas Gutter Guard has a V-bend mesh design. This best-rated gutter guard prevents debris from sticking and allows great water infiltration. It also prevents insects and pests from entering your roof’s gutter system. 

6. GutterBrush

GutterBrush features a brush design for your gutters. Made from durable materials, this gutter cover offers great water filtration and prevents twigs, debris, insects, and other things from entering the gutters. 

7. Gutter Edge Shur-Flo

Gutter Edge Shur-Flo offers a mesh design that allows water to flow into the gutters from your roof. This best-rated gutter guard is made from high-strength .019 gauge aluminum.

8. LeafGuard

LeafGuard has a flawless design that is effective in heavy rainfall conditions. It features a reverse curve design that allows water to pass through and prevents debris from entering your roof’s gutters.  

Miller Roofing And Renovations Is Your Reliable Roofing and Gutters Contractor

At Miller Roofing and Renovations, we aim to provide the best roof and gutter services in Memphis, TN, and the surrounding areas. We provide complete gutter solutions including minor repairs and full replacement. We are among the best-rated contractors in Tennessee. 
Want to talk about your roof or gutters, learn more about what we offer, or get a custom quote for your project? Just give us a call at (901) 457-9405.