In modern roof drainage systems, gutter guards play a vital role in protecting your gutters. They prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging gutters and downspouts. These roof gutter systems are a very efficient way to boost roof drainage and reduce the need for frequent gutter cleanings. Also, properly installed gutter guards ensure that rainwater can effectively drain through the downspouts and away from your home, protecting its foundation and landscaping from water damage.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how to choose the right gutter guard for different roof types, as each roof type has specific characteristics that can influence which gutter guard is the best suited.
Understanding Different Roof Types and Their Characteristics
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are well known for their durability and long lifespan. They’re typically made from aluminum, steel, or copper and are fire-, rot-, and insect-resistant, making them a strong choice for roofing. The smooth surface of metal roofs can also be an advantage for gutter guard installations, as it allows debris to slide off with the water, reducing the likelihood of debris accumulating.
Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs are still the most popular roofing material in North America, and they’re known for their affordability and versatility. These shingles have a granule surface that provides UV protection to your roof and also adds to its aesthetic appeal. They’re flexible, making them easy to install and maintain, but this can also influence the type of gutter guard that is best suited for them.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs are most often made from clay or concrete and have a classic appearance often associated with Europe. They offer great durability and are generally heavy, which can also influence the type of gutter guard that can be installed safely. Tile roofs are known for their water-absorption properties and are a great option for hot and dry climates.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs have a minimal slope, which can often lead to issues with pooling water, especially during heavy rains. These roofs are most commonly found in commercial buildings, but they’re also fairly common in residential settings, especially in older buildings. The design of flat roofs requires specific gutter guards that can handle the water drainage effectively to prevent overflow or leaks.
Key Factors in Choosing Gutter Guards Based on Roof Types
The pitch, or angle, of a roof is a critical factor when determining the best type of gutter guard. The steeper the pitch, the better the water runoff and the bigger the water pressure. This makes certain types of gutter covers more suitable to prevent debris buildup and ensure efficient drainage.
One often overlooked factor is the material compatibility between the roofing materials and gutter guards. Metal roofs may require gutter guards specifically designed to handle metal surfaces to prevent corrosion, while asphalt shingle roofs might need guards that can work with the granule layer without causing damage.
Types of Gutter Guards and Their Suitability for Different Roof Types
Now, let’s have a look at different types of gutter guards and their suitability for different roof types.
Mesh Gutter Guards
Mesh gutter guards consist of a fine mesh screen placed on top of the gutters, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris. They are very durable and effective at preventing clogs.
Best Suited Roof Types: Mesh gutter guards are ideal for asphalt shingle and metal roofs, thanks to their versatility and easy installation.
Reverse Curve (Surface Tension) Gutter Guards
Reverse curve gutter guards, also known as surface tension gutter guards, use surface tension to direct water into the gutter while allowing leaves and debris to slide off the edge, effectively separating them. They’re very effective at keeping gutters clean without obstructing water flow.
Best Suited Roof Types: This type of gutter guard is best suited for metal and tile roofs, where they can effectively handle smooth surfaces and heavy debris load.
Brush Gutter Guards
As their name suggests, brush gutter guards consist of a series of bristles installed inside the gutter that allow water to flow through while trapping leaves and twigs. They are easy to install and maintain.
Best Suited Roof Types: Brush gutter guards are suitable for flat roofs and asphalt shingle roofs, where debris buildup can be a significant problem.
Foam Gutter Guards
Foam gutter guards are made of a porous foam that fits right inside the gutter. The foam allows water to flow through while trapping debris. This type of gutter guard is lightweight and easy to install.
Best Suited Roof Types: Foam gutter guards are ideal for metal and flat roofs, where you can benefit from their flexibility and easy installation.
Micromesh Gutter Guards
Micromesh guards are made of a fine mesh with small holes that block even the smallest debris while allowing water to flow freely. They are highly effective and low-maintenance.
Best Suited Roof Types: Micromesh gutter guards are perfect for all roof types, especially tile and metal roofs, due to their superior filtration capabilities and durability.
Installation Techniques for Gutter Guards Based on Roof Types
When installing gutter guards on metal roofs, choosing guards designed to handle the metal’s expansion and contraction is crucial. They will require proper sealing around screws and joints to prevent leaks and avoid corrosion.
For asphalt shingle roofs, ensure the gutter guards don’t interfere with the granule layer. Secure the guards with adhesive or clips to prevent them from penetrating and damaging the shingles.
Installing gutter guards on tile roofs can be tricky, as you must avoid damaging the tiles. To prevent them from cracking or breaking, use guards that can be fitted securely without exerting pressure on the tiles. Professional installation might be the best option for the best results.
Finally, flat roofs require gutter guards that can handle pooling water. Choose guards that allow for good water flow and prevent debris accumulation to ensure effective drainage.
Choose EavesArmour for Superior Gutter Protection
Choosing the right gutter guard based on your roof type is essential to maintaining an efficient roof drainage system. Between the roof pitch, material compatibility and specific characteristics of your roof, you have several factors to consider to ensure you get the best gutter protection for your home.
Ready to upgrade your gutter system? Contact EavesArmour today to schedule a consultation with our gutter guard specialists to learn more about our wide range of options. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your home with EavesArmour gutter guards today.
Say goodbye to the hassle of eavestrough cleaning and ice dam formation with EavesArmour Gutter Guard. Our all-season protection system ensures clog-free gutters for life, with a discreet and low-profile design that works on all roof and gutter systems. And with our lifetime transferable warranty, you can rest easy knowing your home is protected. Don’t wait any longer to upgrade your gutter system. Experience the peace of mind that comes with EavesArmour today.
EavesArmour also offers professional gutter cleaning to save you time and money and help prolong the life of your home’s gutters. With over ten years of professional experience, EavesArmour is your partner for gutter maintenance. Call today at 647-931-0441 or fill out our convenient online form to learn more about our services and how we can safeguard your home against gutter-related issues. Trust EavesArmour for professional gutter guard installation and all your gutter needs, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is well-protected.
