Gutter guards are one of the most popular upgrades for homeowners looking to cut down on maintenance. But the big question we get all the time is:
“If I install gutter guards, will I still need to clean my gutters?”
The short answer? Yes—but way less often. Let’s break it down.
What Are Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards are protective covers or screens that sit on top of your gutters to keep out leaves, debris, and pests while still letting water flow through.
Types of Gutter Guards
- Mesh or screen guards – fine screens that block small debris
- Foam inserts – sit inside the gutter to block debris
- Surface tension covers – curved guards that use water flow physics
At J&A Exterior, we recommend systems that perform best with Michigan’s weather.
Do Gutter Guards Stop All Debris?
Not completely. While they dramatically reduce the amount of debris that gets in your gutters, small particles like pine needles, roof grit, and dirt can still make their way through over time.
What This Means for Cleaning
- You won’t need to clean them as often
- You may still need a yearly inspection or light rinse
- No more major clogs or overflowing gutters in most cases
Gutter Guards in Michigan: A Real-World Advantage
Michigan’s seasons are tough—leaves in fall, snow and ice in winter, and spring rain. Gutter guards help keep your system working year-round.
Benefits in Our Climate
- Reduce ice dams and blockages in winter
- Prevent spring overflow from compacted debris
- Cut back on risky ladder time in the fall
So… Do You Still Need to Clean?
Yes—but maybe only once every year or two, depending on your home and tree coverage. Gutter guards make your system way more efficient, and you’ll spend a lot less time (and money) on maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Gutter guards don’t make your gutters 100% maintenance-free—but they do make life a lot easier for Metro Detroit homeowners.
Want to know which gutter guard system works best for your home?
Reach out to J&A Exterior for a free estimate or gutter guard consultation.
📞 Call us at (248)-403-0281
📧 Email us at office@jaexterior.com
🌐 Visit our website at www.jaexterior.com
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