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Maintaining a home comes with many responsibilities, and one of the most crucial tasks is keeping the gutter clean and functional. Gutter systems are integral to any home, as they protect your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape from water damage.
However, gutters could easily get clogged with leaves, debris, and other unwanted particles, leading to water overflow and, ultimately, structural damage. Fortunately, gutter guards can help keep the gutters on your metal roof clean and free from debris.
Gutter guards are designed to provide gutter protection by keeping out leaves, twigs, and other debris while allowing water to flow freely. This article will discuss the best gutter guards for metal roofs. Read on!
Do you need gutter guards for your metal roof?
Before diving into the best gutter guards for metal roofs, let's first understand why gutter guards are necessary. As mentioned earlier, gutters are an essential part of any home's roofing system.
However, they can easily get clogged with debris, which could lead to a range of problems, including:
- Water damage: Clogged gutters could lead to water overflow, which could, in turn, damage your home's foundation, walls, and landscaping.
- Pest infestation: Debris-filled gutters can attract pests such as rodents, insects, and birds, which could cause further damage to your home.
- Fire hazard: Dried leaves and twigs in your gutters could be a fire hazard, especially during the dry season.
- Costly repairs: Fixing damaged gutters can be expensive, and installing gutter guards is best to avoid the problem altogether.
Best gutter guards for metal roofs
Now that we understand the importance of gutter guards, let's look at the best options for metal roofs.
Metal mesh gutter guards
Metal mesh gutter guards are one of the most popular options for metal roofs. These gutter guards are made of stainless steel or aluminium mesh, allowing water to flow freely while keeping out debris. They are easy to install and can fit over most types of gutters.
The advantage of metal mesh gutter guards is that they are durable and can withstand adverse weather conditions. They also come in different styles and designs, so you can choose one that matches your roof's colour and design.
However, metal mesh gutter guards can be expensive and require regular cleaning to ensure they function correctly. If not cleaned, the mesh could get clogged with debris, leading to water overflow.
Micro-mesh gutter guards
Micro-mesh gutter guards are similar to metal mesh gutter guards, but they have a finer mesh that prevents even tiny particles such as shingle grit and pine needles from entering the gutter. They are made of stainless steel or aluminium and are designed to fit over most types of gutters.
The advantage of micro-mesh gutter guards is that they offer superior protection against debris and are low-maintenance. They do not require frequent cleaning and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They are also easy to install and can fit over most types of gutters.
However, micro-mesh gutter guards can be expensive and are not as durable as metal mesh gutter guards. The fine mesh could get clogged with debris over time, leading to water overflow.
Foam gutter guards
Foam gutter guards are made of polyurethane foam that fits directly into the gutter. They allow water to flow freely while keeping out debris. They are easy to install and can fit over most types of gutters.
The advantage of foam gutter guards is that they are affordable and easy to install. They require less maintenance than other gutter guards and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
However, foam gutter guards might not work as well on metal roofs, as the foam could deteriorate over time due to sunlight exposure and other weather conditions. They also require periodic cleaning to prevent clogging.
Reverse-curve gutter guards
Reverse curve gutter guards are designed to curve upward, allowing water to flow freely while keeping out debris. They are made of aluminium or vinyl and are designed to fit over most types of gutters.
The advantage of reverse curve gutter guards is that they require less maintenance than other gutter guards. They are also durable and can withstand adverse weather conditions. They come in different colours, so you can choose one that matches your roof's colour and design.
However, reverse curve gutter guards can be expensive, and they might not work as well on metal roofs with steep slopes. The curved design might cause water to overshoot the gutter, leading to water overflow.
Brush gutter guards
Brush gutter guards are made of bristles that fit into the gutter. They allow water to flow freely while keeping out debris. They are easy to install and can fit over most types of gutters.
The advantage of brush gutter guards is that they are affordable and easy to install. They require lower levels of maintenance than other types of gutter guards and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
However, brush gutter guards may not work as well on metal roofs, as the bristles can deteriorate over time due to sunlight exposure and other weather conditions. They also require periodic cleaning to prevent clogging.
Screen gutter guards
Screen gutter guards are made from stainless steel or aluminium and have mesh screens that allow water to flow through while preventing debris from getting in. They are an affordable option for homeowners and can be installed on top of existing gutters. Screen gutter guards can be used for metal roofs; however, they might require frequent cleaning to ensure maximum efficiency.
Helmet gutter guards
Helmet gutter guards have a curved dome shape that helps deflect debris away from the gutter while allowing water to flow through. They are usually made from aluminium or PVC plastic and are easy to install. They might not be the best option for metal roofs, however, as they might cause water to pool and cause damage to your roof.
High-flow gutter guard
If your home is in an area with a lot of rainfall, then a high-flow gutter guard could be a good choice for you. These guards have large perforations that allow for high water flow, meaning they can handle a lot of water without clogging up.
They also have a sloping design that prevents debris from getting stuck in the guards. And, just like the other types of gutter guards, they are easy to install and maintain.
Picking the right gutter guard for your metal roof
Choosing the right gutter guard for your metal roof can seem overwhelming, with so many available options. However, with a few considerations in mind, you could make the right choice that suits your needs and budget.
Design
The design of the gutter guard is one of the most important factors to consider. There are two primary types of gutter guards: surface tension and mesh. Surface-tension gutter guards work by using the principle of surface tension to guide rainwater into the gutter while preventing any leaves and debris from entering.
On the other hand, mesh gutter guards are made of a porous material that allows water to pass through but filters out debris. Both designs could work well for metal roofs. However, it's essential to consider your area's specific weather and environmental conditions to determine which design best suits your needs.
Roof slope
The slope of your roof is another factor to consider when choosing a gutter guard. Reverse curve gutter guards work well on roofs with a gentle slope. On the other hand, metal mesh and micro-mesh gutter guards work well on roofs with steep slopes.
Debris
Consider the type and amount of debris that falls on your roof. If you live in an area with many trees and foliage, a gutter guard that could keep out small particles like leaves and twigs, such as metal mesh and micro-mesh gutter guards, would be ideal.
Material
Gutter guards are made from various materials, such as aluminium, steel, and plastic. When choosing a gutter guard for your metal roof, it's crucial to select one made from the same material as your roof to ensure compatibility.
For example, if your metal roof is made of aluminium, then it's best to choose a gutter guard that is also made of aluminium. This helps to prevent potential corrosion and ensures a seamless installation.
Durability
When investing in a gutter guard, you want to ensure it will last for a long time. The durability of a gutter guard mainly depends on the product's material, design, and quality.
Look for gutter guards that are rust-resistant, UV-protected, and sturdy enough to withstand extreme weather conditions. High-quality gutter guards might cost more initially, but they will save you money down the line by preventing costly repairs and replacements.
Installation
Gutter guard installations can range from DIY to professional. If you're handy and have the experience and training to work on your roof, you might be able to install the gutter guard yourself.
However, if you're uncomfortable with DIY projects or have a complex roof design, it might be best to hire an expert roofing contractor to install the gutter guard. Be sure to choose a contractor with experience installing gutter guards on metal roofs and who provides a warranty on their work.
Maintenance
Consider how much maintenance a gutter guard requires. Some gutter guards, like foam and brush gutter guards, require periodic cleaning to prevent clogging. On the other hand, metal mesh and micro-mesh gutter guards require minimal maintenance.
Price
Lastly, price is essential when choosing a gutter guard for your metal roof. Gutter guards could range in price from a few dollars per metre to hundreds per metre. It's crucial to balance the cost with the quality of the product and the potential savings in the long run. Don't be tempted to pick the cheapest option available, as it might cost you more in repairs and replacements in the future.
Expert gutter guard installation for metal roofs
As you have read in this post, gutter guards for metal roofs come in various designs and materials. With so many different gutter guard designs and materials, it can be overwhelming to know which is suitable for your needs. That's why it's always advisable to seek professional help from an expert gutter guard installer.
Contact a trusted roofing company today and get the guidance you need, whether you want to have new gutter guards installed or require repair services. With their expertise, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your home is protected from water damage and other issues.
