What are the best gutter guards out there?
Short answer. For most North Georgia homes, rigid stainless steel micro-mesh guards on an aluminum frame perform best, because they block pine needles, leaves and most seeds while handling heavy rain. Perforated metal and reverse curve guards come next, while basic screens, foam inserts and brush guards are the cheapest and the most likely to clog or need frequent cleaning.
The main types, roughly from best to worst
- Stainless micro-mesh on a rigid frame: fine mesh stops nearly everything larger than grit, including pine needles, and the frame keeps it from sagging. Needs an occasional brushing to clear pollen film. The best performer under pines and oaks.
- Perforated aluminum: a sheet with many small holes. Durable and affordable, though small debris and some needles lodge in the holes.
- Reverse curve: water follows a curved nose into the gutter while debris slides off. Good with big leaves, but can overshoot in intense downpours and is visible from the street.
- Plastic or metal screens: large openings let needles and seeds through, and cheap plastic warps in the sun.
- Foam inserts: fill the gutter and let water soak through. Seeds and pollen sprout on top, and the foam breaks down.
- Brush guards: bristles in the gutter trap leaves; needles weave in, and the brushes have to be pulled and cleaned.
What separates good from great within a type
- Fine stainless mesh rather than aluminum mesh.
- A sturdy frame that attaches to the gutter lip and fascia, not under the shingles.
- A pitch that lets debris slide off.
- A fit sized to your gutter width, usually 5 or 6 inch.
- A clear warranty, and an installer who fixes gutter pitch and hangers first.
Match the guard to your trees
Under mostly hardwoods, several types work. Under pines, only fine mesh truly keeps needles out. See gutter sizing, seamless gutters and guards and pine needles and leaves on your roof.