Gutter Protection Systems
New rain gutter technology is constantly being researched and invented to help keep dirt and debris out of gutters. Several years ago there were only one or two gutter protection systems for household gutters, but today there are several types. Three of the most popular types include LeafLock Gutters, Gutter Brush and Leaf Relief.
Leaflock Gutters
LeafLock Gutter protection systems fit over existing household gutters. This gutter protection system is great because it is installed over and above the existing gutter and includes a forward curve that extends past the gutter to help with the removal of dirt, twigs, leaves and other debris. It can also handle severe storms and filters up to 22 inches of water an hour. The custom bracket system requires no screws and fits securely and easily behind the existing gutters and under the edge of the roof.
Most companies have a tiered pricing system that allows the home owner to choose an installation cost that fits within their budget, and the installation of LeafLock can be completed within a day by a professional installation company.
Gutter Brush
This leaf protection system consists of a long wire brush that looks like a giant pipe cleaner. It fits inside existing gutters and under the gutter screws. The wires on the brush prevent dirt and debris from entering the gutters and clogging the gutters and downspouts.
This leaf protection system is sold in three foot sections and can be installed by the home owner using just a ladder. There’s no need to use any type of tool as there are no brackets or screws to install. The wire brush simply slides into the existing gutters. It can be purchased at chain and local hardware stores for $9.79 per three foot section.
Leaf Relief
Leaf relief is a perforated aluminum shield that fits over existing gutters. One side slides under the edge of the roof while the other side is screwed into the top of the gutter. The perforated aluminum stops leaves and debris from entering the gutters and is 97 percent to 100 percent effective. However, this system requires wind speeds of six miles per hour to remove dry leaves, twigs and pine needles from the screens and wind speeds of 23 miles per hour to remove wet leaves and debris.
This system allows for almost 30 inches of rain flow an hour with unblocked screens and 19 inches of water per hour if the system is blocked by leaves, twigs and other debris.
This gutter protection system should be installed by a professional in order to get a good fit with minimal screws, and costs between $5 and $7 per square foot.
What Protection System is Best
All three of these gutter protection systems keep leaves and debris out of household gutters. However, the LeafLock Gutter protection system is the best. It’s the most affordable with three pricing tiers and the most effective because dirt, leaves and debris automatically fall off the house and onto the lawn.
The worst leaf protection system is the Gutter Brush because dirt, debris, leaves and trigs can get caught in the wire tines of the brush. It has the potential to create more of a mess than if the gutters were left alone. So, if you’re looking for the best new rain gutter technology, LeafLock Gutters is the best choice.