First and foremost, gutter guards are not a failproof way to prevent leaf and debris buildup. Sometimes they end up being almost useless depending on the area you live and the types of trees you have. The idea to gutter guards is to prevent leaves and debris from getting into your gutters and clogging the downspouts and this is not always prevented. 

It is impossible to 100% prevent everything from getting into your gutters, however, installing gutter guards will prolong that process. Here are some of the benefits to getting gutter guards installed on your house:

1. Save Time & Money

Gutter guards slow down the accumulation of leaves and debris in your gutters and clogging up the downspouts. Which results in cleaning out your gutters more often. Leaves and debris may still gather on the top of your gutter guards, which would still need cleaning, but it is a lot easier than to clean the gutters, and will not need to be done as often. With the greater majority of the leaves and debris being deflected by the guards, it is less likely for your downspouts to get clogged. 

2. Prevent Pest Infestations

One of the major benefits to gutter guards is preventing unwanted animals from making their nests in your gutters. Larger varmints and insects such as mice, squirrels, bats, birds, mosquitoes and spiders love to breed in gutters which leads to infestations and damages.

3. Prevents Gutter Damage

When moisture ridden leaves and debris remain clogged in your gutters, it could lead to rust or corrosion of your gutters. Gutter guards can help extend the life of your gutters.

4. Stops Blockage

Gutter guards are designed to prevent a build up of leaves and debris in your gutters which would result in damages to your homes interior walls, foundations, and can cause exterior stains. 

• Mesh. Mesh guards are woven metal or plastic filters that sit on top of your gutters. Many mesh guards have curved lips that allow them to wedge into K-style gutters, making them easy and quick to install. Like screen guards, these are easy to install. But the negatives to these as well are the sharp edges, and they don't prevent smaller debris. 

• Micro-Mesh. Micro-mesh guards are basically mess guards but with smaller screens. These are very effective and can block smaller debris. Quality micro-mesh screens can filter debris while still allowing water to pass through. These guards are the most preferred due to their filtration, and overall effectiveness. 

• Screens. Screen guards are basically a flat sheet with holes. They’re typically made of metal or plastic. They slide on top of your gutters and are held in place by clips or screws. We like these guards because the are easy to install, provide a secure connection, and have a reliable filtration. The only downside to these is they tend to overflow during a heavy downpour, and doesn't fully prevent smaller debris such as pine needles.

• Brush. As one of the most inexpensive and easy options to install, brush guards feature stiff wire bristles that run across the entire gutter to block debris from entering.

• Foam Filters. Foam filters have a triangular design that sits inside the gutter and blocks larger debris while promoting water drainage and the flow of smaller debris.

• Reverse Curve. A more expensive option, reverse curve gutter guards work with gravity to guide rainwater into the gutter while sending debris directly off the house and onto the ground below. They are great for wooded areas, though they require expert installation.