The Best Leaf Guards
Having trees in your backyard can create comfortable shadows and mesmerizing private landscape, but also can generate a lot of work.
In the fall, the cleaning leaves can be exhausting.
The leaves can clog your gutters, which can cause issues in the rain season.
Cleaning gutter regularly is a way to keep your house safe from water damage, but you can make things easier.
The leaf guards are helpful when it comes to the prevention of the leaves holding in the gutters alongside other trash.
To get you prepared for the next fall season, here is the list of top ten leaf guards.
Highest Rated Leaf Guards (by Customer Reviews)
- 1A-M Aluminum Gutter Guard 5″ – 200 feet
- 2GutterStuff EZ 5-Inch K Style Foam Gutter Filter Insert
- 3E-Z-GUTTER GUARD EZ-Shield-10 Solid Aluminum Gutter Guards
- 4FlexxPoint 30 Year Gutter Cover System
- 55″ x 4′ Armour Screen-25pk
- 6Gutter Pro Foam 32-linear Feet Gutter Guard
- 7GutterBrush Leaf Gutter Guard for Standard 5 Inch Rain Gutters
- 8Frost King VX620 6″x20′ Plastic Gutter Guard
- 9EasyOn Gutter Guard 24′
- 10E-Z-GUTTER GUARD EZ-Quick-10 Aluminum Mesh Gutter Guards
1
A-M Aluminum Gutter Guard 5″ – 200 feet
This A-M gutter guard is suitable for use on 5″ gutters and can cover a space of 200 feet.
It comes with the 25 years manufacturer’s warranty.
The guard is safe to use for downpours and many years because it features 100% aluminum.
The product won’t rust or deteriorate for long times.
You can use it with all types of hangars, including k-style hangars and hidden hangars.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- 100% aluminum made
- 200 feet covering the perimeter
- Compatible with all style hangars
- Excellent performance during heavy rains
Cons
- Complex installation with spike and ferrule style mounted gutters
Jake's TakeIf you often experience heavy rains during fall, check this leaf guard.
It will help you to have effortless gutters protection and no more manual gutter cleaning after each storm.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
GutterStuff EZ 5-Inch K Style Foam Gutter Filter Insert
The package of these filter-foam inserts for gutters consists of 32 linear feet of covers.
The product will be enough to provide a whole-house shield.
The foam features UV protection, germicide and fire retardants product for improved security and protection.
It is straightforward to install and you can remove it quickly in case of gutter replacement.
The product comes with a 3-year warranty.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Simple setup
- Affordable price
- Invisible from the ground
Cons
- Pine needles can get stuck on the surface of the foam
Jake's TakeIf you are looking for a leaf guard at an affordable price, you might choose this one.
The foam is a high-quality, easy to install, and practical solution for leaves and debris.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
E-Z-GUTTER GUARD EZ-Shield-10 Solid Aluminum Gutter Guards
This E-Z gutter guard you can apply with standard 5″ gutters.
The installment process is simple, and you will need no screws or any tools.
The covers are easy to set up and detach if you need to replace them.
The aluminum-made covers are safe from rust and any deterioration, which ensures that this product lasts for long.
The specific design of reversed louvers ensures maximum water-flow, but keep the leaves out.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Reversed louvers design
- Aluminium-made
- Easy installment
- Works excellent with pine needles
Cons
- Sharp edges
Jake's TakeIf you have issues with pine needles, like many people out there, the specific design of this leaf guard can help.
It will keep your gutters free of pine needles and can last for long.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
FlexxPoint 30 Year Gutter Cover System
The Flexx Point system for gutter guarding comes in four different styles – black, brown, matte and white to match all standard gutters.
The system comes with the stainless steel fasteners for easy installment.
This gutter cover system doesn’t void roof warranties and you can install it to provide permanent protection.
The package includes four-foot sections for easier setup.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Four colors available
- Easy setup
- Permanent protections
Cons
- Complex installment on the hidden gutter hangers
Jake's TakeWith this FlexxPoint gutter protection system, you are getting permanent protection.
It will save you trouble from cleaning your gutters in a very long time.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
5″ x 4′ Armour Screen-25pk
This gutter guard from Spectra Metal is available in three size packages and can cover the space of 75 or 100 feet.
The aluminum covers have a corrosion-resistant coat so they will do their function for a long time.
The mesh is suitable for high-volume water flow.
At the same time, the mesh keeps the gutters free of leaves, pine needles, or anything else that can clog your gutters.
The product comes with the self-locking C-clips.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Simple, 3-steep installation
- Suitable for high-volume water flow
- Study and durable guard
Cons
- In some places, you have to bend the end of the gutter to make them fit closely
Jake's TakeThis gutter guard from Spectra metal is a safe and reliable way of keeping your gutters clean.
They are easy to install, they keep the high-volume water flow, and they work with the standard gutter size and pine needles perfectly.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Gutter Pro Foam 32-linear Feet Gutter Guard
This foam insert for gutters come as 4” long pieces, which can cover 32 feet of gutter space.
The foam is compatible with the 5” k-style gutters and easy to install.
It is a simple and effortless way to keep your gutters clean.
It blocks pine needles, leaves, maple leaf helicopters and other trash that can clog your gutters.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Affordable price
- An effortless way of guarding gutters
- Easy installment process
Cons
- Can seem looser at the sides
Jake's TakeIf you are looking for a budget-friendly way to keep your gutters clean, this foam is a perfect solution.
It is easy to install and it lasts for many fall seasons.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
GutterBrush Leaf Gutter Guard for Standard 5 Inch Rain Gutters
This gutter guard system consists of cylinder-shaped brushes with durable bristles.
The system also features a galvanized steel core for maximum efficiency.
You can use it in standard size gutters.
The package comes with a simple manual and DIY instructions.
The brush material is UV resistant and suitable for use in extreme weather conditions.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Simple setup
- Five sizes available
- Cylinder-shaped bristles keep your gutters safe from clogging
- No tools, no screws or cutting and bending gutter
Cons
- Can attract mosquitos
Jake's TakeForget about gutter manual cleaning with these brushes.
It is a simple and effective way to prevent clogging, just make sure to know what size will work for you.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Frost King VX620 6″x20′ Plastic Gutter Guard
The package of this gutter guard comes as a 6″ wide and 20′ roll.
It is easy to install and it provides great gutter protection from leaves and debris.
The roll is plastic-made and it won’t corrode or deteriorate over time.
The price is affordable and it comes only in black color.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- A simple way to keep the leaves out the gutter
- Affordable price
- Simple setup
Cons
- Not suitable for pine needles because of the larger hole
Jake's TakeThis gutter guard system from Frost King is by far the most affordable way to keep your gutters clean.
On top of everything, you can easily unroll it when you wish.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
EasyOn Gutter Guard 24′
This gutter guard system can be installed in two ways – tapping it on and or screwing it on.
One package includes 24 Feet long gutter protection.
The system is made of surgical grade stainless mesh to keep the leaves and pine needles away from your gutter, but not affect the water flow.
For best performance, install it within a slight angle to ensure natural leaves fall.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Simple two-way setup
- Made of stainless steel
- Comes with all necessary tools
Cons
- A bit pricier
Jake's TakeIf you want to invest in the simple system that will keep you free of the manual gutter cleaning, this EasyOn Gutter Guard is suitable for you.
We recommend the screwing setup, just to improve durability.
The system can last through many seasons and weather conditions.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
E-Z-GUTTER GUARD EZ-Quick-10 Aluminum Mesh Gutter Guards
The package of this system for gutter protection consists of ten sections, each 4′ long.
Therefore, it can protect 40 feet of gutters, but if you need more, you can purchase the covers separately in different sizes.
The material is non-rusting aluminum and the holes in the mesh are convenient, not to affect water flow, but to provide suitable protection.
For non-standard gutters, you can cut the mesh using tin snips.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Adjustable mesh
- Tight mesh for ultimate gutter protection
- Suitable for pine needles
Cons
- May form ice during the winter
Jake's TakeIf you prefer your gutter guard to sits up, this system is a practical solution to meet your needs.
It is somewhat easy to install, and the long-lasting aluminum will provide you with many seasons of effortless gutter protection.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Leaf Guards Buying Guide
The trees around your house may be helpful for shadows and relief during warm days, but the leaves can clog your gutters.
Water cannot flow through the clogged gutters, so the risk of damaging your house is higher.
Therefore, regular gutter cleaning is vital for damage prevention, especially after storms and before the fall season.
The minimum frequency of cleaning is twice a year.
You can also hire a professional to clean your gutters, and it will cost you around100$ for 2500 sq feet of a house.
However, gutter guards are simple gutter shields, and they come at an affordable price.
Usually, the gutter guards vary in style, the material, size, and the installment process.
Before you rush and buy gutter guards, let’s go quickly through things you should know before shopping.
Gutter Guards Types
There are different gutter guards on the market, but we can divide it into several basic categories.
Different Types of Screen
The screens are the most common type of gutter guards.
They come in various materials and different mesh tightness.
The price also varies, the mesh can be high-quality and durable.
You can also find cheaper meshes, which can do a decent job.
Solid Gutter Covers
The solid gutter covers come as panels that you place above the gutter to keep it clean and safe.
The panels don’t interrupt the water flow, because of small holes.
Gutter Inserts
The gutter inserts are foam or brushes that you can easily put in the gutter. It will retain the leaves, needles, and debris out of the water channel.
However, the lifespan of gutter brushes isn’t as long as of some solid panels or meshes.
The brushes can become a nest for some insects type, so make sure that the brushes are hostile for animals.
When it comes to foam inserts, they are very effective because the foam only lets water go through.
The foam keeps everything else at the top of the surface.
Gutter Guards with the Reverse Curve
The reverse-curve guards are more reliable than inserts, and more durable.
The design is convenient so the leaves and trash go to the ground, while the water goes through its channel.
The reverse-curve type is more complex to install, so you better hire a professional.
Also, unlike prior types, you can see them from the ground.
The installment of reverse-curve guards can void with the roof warranties, so check if your roof supports it.
Gutter Style
When looking for a gutter guard, you should first consider your gutter style.
The gutters come as K-style and U-style gutters.
The difference is the shape because K-style gutters are trough-shaped, while U-style gutters are half-round.
K-style gutters are modern and you can see them on the majority of younger houses, but they do the same job as U-style.
When looking for a gutter shield, make sure to check the compatibility with gutter-style.
Even though most of the guards come as compatible with all gutter styles, some are designed specifically for individual styles.
To make sure you are getting the right one, double-check the compatibility.
Size
The standard gutters are 4”-8” wide, and K-style are usually 5″ and 6″.
People who live in the climate with heavier rains and some extreme weather should bigger gutters.
So, you don’t have to replace the gutters.
Buy gutter guards instead.
They are straightforward to install and do a proper job saving the water flow intact, and debris and leaves out of the gutter.
Extreme Weather Conditions
If you live in an area known for often storms or occasional hurricanes, you need a sturdy guard that can stay firm during the wind.
Similar to that, check whether the material the guard uses is UV sensitive.
Look for something similar to aluminum, as it won’t get damaged after long sunny hours, nor will it form ice in the wintertime.
The Guard Material
Nowadays, the guards come from various materials.
The most typical are metal, plastic, and mesh.
Each has its advantages.
For example, metal guards are durable and sturdy, but more challenging to install.
Also, if you decide to get metal guards, make sure it is a no-rust material, or at least that has the coating for rust prevention.
The plastic guards are straightforward to set up and clean, and mesh guards are easily adjustable.
Pine Needles
Many people struggle with keeping their gutters clean of pine needles.
If that is the case with you, you should now that no every gutter guard is equally efficient in dealing with needles.
First of all, reverse-curve and large screens guards aren’t a fitting choice.
They have large openings, so the needles can quickly get in the gutter.
For dealing with pine needles, we recommend purchasing a micromesh.
It will show high performance keeping the needles away, and it works excellent with all types of leaves and debris.
The installment of some micromesh goes under your first shingles row, which will void your roof warranty.
That kind of location can disturb the natural water steep.
So if it’s possible to try to find a micro-mesh guard that doesn’t go under the roof, such as Leaf Guard micromesh.
On top of everything, some micromesh guards can be a bit more expensive.
Therefore, if you don’t have pines around the house, you can choose any other guard type.
The Benefits of Gutter Guards
If you think that no-more gutter cleaning is the only advantage of the gutter guards, you would be wrong.
The gutter guards protect your gutters, reduce the frequency of cleaning, extending the lifespan of gutters, and more.
Over time, gutters can rot due to a large amount of water, improper maintenance, growth of mold and insect hests, etc.
Rotted gutters are as dangerous as the leaking roof.
The water can damage your facade too.
Ending Thoughts
The gutter guards are highly useful if you choose, install, and maintain it well.
When choosing a guard, make sure to know your gutter style, size, and needs.
Most of them are very easy to install, just with the screwer, but some like gutter inserts need no tools for installment.
Conclusion
The gutter is one house parts that require regular maintenance to keep the excellent performance.
Luckily, if you install gutter guards, you don’t have to clean it so often and they keep the excellent work for longer.
There are many gutter guards types on the market.
Some feature micromesh, solid panels or brushes inserts.
For example, the inserts are budget-friendly but are not suitable for more extended use and pine needles.
Other types are more complicated to install, but they last longer and provide perfect protection.
What's your take on Leaf Guards? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
