If you’ve ever spent a weekend climbing up a ladder to clean out your gutters, you’ve probably wondered if gutter guards are worth it. As someone who’s been around gutters for years here in Metro Detroit, I can tell you — the right gutter guards are worth the investment when installed properly. But let’s break down why.

What Gutter Guards Actually Do
Gutter guards are designed to keep leaves, twigs, and debris from clogging your gutters while still allowing water to flow through. They don’t make your gutters 100% maintenance-free, but they greatly reduce how often you need to clean them.
Here in Michigan, where we deal with heavy rain in spring and plenty of leaves in the fall, clogged gutters can quickly lead to overflow, sagging, and even foundation damage. Gutter guards act as a protective layer to stop that buildup before it starts.
The Real Cost of Clogged Gutters
Cleaning gutters a few times a year might not sound like a big deal, but the costs add up — especially if you’re paying someone else to do it. A professional cleaning can run $150 to $250 each visit, and skipping it can lead to much bigger issues:
- Water damage to your fascia and siding
- Mold and rot around the roofline
- Foundation cracks or basement leaks
- Ice dams forming in winter
With gutter guards, you avoid most of those problems and extend the lifespan of your gutter system.

The Long-Term Value
High-quality gutter guards can last 10–20 years or more. That means you’re saving hundreds of dollars in cleanings and avoiding thousands in possible repairs. On top of that, they help your gutters perform better year-round, which means fewer service calls and less hassle.
And let’s be honest — your time has value, too. The less time you spend on a ladder, the better.
Choosing the Right Gutter Guard
Not all guards are created equal. Cheap plastic ones often warp or break, while some metal screens can get clogged easily. The best options for Michigan homes are micro-mesh or aluminum gutter guards. They handle heavy rain, snow, and debris without bending or rusting.
At J&A Exterior, we install professional-grade gutter guards designed for long-term performance — the same ones we’d use on our own homes.
So, Are They Worth It?
In short — yes, when installed right. Gutter guards are a one-time investment that saves you time, money, and future headaches. They protect your home, your gutters, and your weekends.
If you’re ready to stop climbing ladders and worrying about clogs, reach out to us at J&A Exterior for a free quote. We’ll walk you through your options and make sure you get the perfect setup for your home.
📞 Call us at (248)-403-0281
📧 Email us at office@jaexterior.com
🌐 Visit our website at www.jaexterior.com
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