Your gutter system plays a vital role in protecting the structural integrity and value of your Atlanta area home, but the gutters can’t work properly when they clog up with leaves, pine needles, twigs and other debris. Gutter guards are designed to keep the water troughs free of all kinds of debris, so they’re a wise investment whether you’re replacing an older system or planning a new gutter installation.

How Gutter Guards Work

There are many different types of gutter guards on the market, but here at Echols Home Improvements, we recommend the quality products offered by Leaf Off and Leaf Tech for installation on an existing gutter system or during a new gutter installation. Available in a range of attractive colors, these products effectively block debris while allowing rainwater to be carried away safely. They each have a unique design:

• Leaf Off gutter guards have a ribbed panel that fits over the roofing material integrated with an angled, curved-nose hood that covers the trough opening. As water comes off the roof and over the panel, surface tension adheres it to the cover so it flows over the nose and through a narrow channel into the gutter, while leaves and other debris fall off toward the ground. This design is recommended for steep-sloped roofs.
• Leaf Tech gutter guards employ an angled hood to cover the gutter troughs that’s equipped with built-in louvers to slow the flow of water off the roof. As rainwater goes over the nose of the gutter guard hood, it flows down into the trough through hidden holes in its contoured lower lip. Leaves, pine needles and other debris can’t get into the guttering so it goes tumbling to the ground. Leaf Tech is the ideal solution if you have a low-sloped roof.

Benefits of Installing Gutter Guards

Gutter guards can help prevent the numerous hazards that clogged and overflowing gutters can cause, including:

• Soil erosion and water pooling around your home’s foundation.
• Water backups under the roofing material damage the substrate and lead to interior leaks.
• Fascia and/or soffit board deterioration.
• Potential water infiltration and costly damage in a finished basement.
• The frequent expense of paying someone to come and clean out the gutters.
• The risk of fall injuries if you choose to clean the gutters yourself.

Contact us today at Echols Home Improvements in the Atlanta area for more information on how gutter guards can help protect your home.