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If you live in the Greater Boston area, Southern New Hampshire, or parts of Rhode Island, you know that gutters can get clogged with leaves, twigs, and dirt. This build-up can cause water to spill over and harm your home’s walls, roof, and foundation. Gutter guards—also known as gutter screens, leaf filters, or leaf guards—are a way to keep your gutters clear so water can flow freely. This saves you time, money, and trouble in the long run.
Beyond simple clog prevention, gutter guards can also help with ice issues. In colder places like Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, ice dams can form when clogged gutters hold water that later freezes. Over time, ice dams can grow large and heavy, pulling at your gutters and causing damage to your home’s edge and roofline. By keeping gutters clear, gutter guards help reduce standing water and make it harder for ice to build up. This means you may have fewer ice dams, which leads to less damage and fewer winter headaches.
Read on to find answers to common questions that people have when asking, “Should I get gutter guards?”
Are Gutter Guards Really Necessary?
Gutter guards are not required, but they can make your life easier. Without them, leaves and other debris can block water flow. This often means costly gutter cleaning or risk of damage. With gutter guards, water moves freely, helping prevent leaks, rot, and even ice dams. In places like the Greater Boston area, where autumn leaves and snowy winters are common, gutter guards can save you both time and worry.
What Is the Downside of Gutter Guards?
While gutter guards have many upsides, there can be downsides. They cost money to buy and install. Some types may need repairs if they become loose or damaged. Also, very small dirt particles may still slip through. Yet, for most homeowners, the reduction in cleaning and damage easily makes up for these costs.
Do You Still Need to Clean Gutters With Gutter Guards?
Yes, but not nearly as often. Even the best gutter screens or leaf filters can let tiny debris inside. Still, you’ll find that with gutter guards, your gutters stay cleaner longer. In colder climates, this means less standing water that can freeze and cause ice dams. You might go from multiple cleanings a year down to one every other year or two.
How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?
Costs vary by the type and style you choose. Basic gutter screens may be cheaper, while sturdier leaf guards might cost more. Installing gutter guards is an investment, but one that often pays off when you consider the money saved on frequent cleaning, water damage repairs, and the stress of dealing with ice dams. Most companies will charge between $10- $15 per foot for installation.
Do Gutter Guards Work in Heavy Rain?
Yes, quality gutter guards are designed to handle heavy rain by letting water pass through while keeping leaves and other debris out. If you’re in an area with strong storms, pick guards that suit your local weather. Local experts in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or Rhode Island can help you choose the best type.
How Do Gutter Guards Help With Ice Dams?
Ice dams form when water gets trapped in a clogged gutter and then freezes. With gutter guards, you reduce clogging, which means water can flow away more easily. By cutting down on standing water, you lessen the chance for ice to build up. This can help prevent icicles, leaks, and damage to your gutters and roofline.
How Do You Know if You Need Gutter Guards?
If you spend a lot of time or money cleaning gutters, or if you deal with frequent clogs, gutter guards might help. If you see water spilling over the sides or large ice formations on the edges of your roof, it’s a good sign your gutters need help. For homes in New England, gutter guards can make a real difference in managing both leaves in the fall and ice in the winter.
ViewCrew Gutter Guard Installation
Gutter guards are a smart choice for homeowners in the Greater Boston area, Southern NH, and parts of Rhode Island. Located in North Andover, MA and Walpole, MA, ViewCrew services all of your gutter cleaning and guard installation needs. Our products keep out leaves and debris, reduce how often you need gutter cleaning, help prevent water damage, and can even lessen the risk of ice dams in colder months. By investing in leaf filters or gutter screens, you can protect your home, save yourself time, and enjoy the seasons without worrying about what’s in your gutters.
