If you are searching for the best gutter guards according to consumer reports in 2023 then this post is for you.
Your gutter is overflown. You are worried about the rainwater.
It can cause damage to your walls, and impact the foundation with all the overflow due to debris, twigs, and leaves.
You take a ladder, climb it up and clean the gutter.
This is what you do every time when it rains, and sometimes when it rains cats and guards you hire professionals too for cleaning those gutters because of the safety risk.
This time too, you are taking the risk, as again the gutters are blocked.
Do you think while climbing the ladders, is there any way you could prevent the gutters from blocking?
Luckily, you are at the right place. Gutters guards are there to help you, to make you prevent the gutters from getting blocked.
It is not like you would not have to maintain the gutters with the gutter guards installed. But, the frequency would be lessened around 90-times.
You can do the maintenance whenever you get free time, and when it rains the gutters will be as cleaned as your kitchen.
But, in the market, there are various types of gutter guards available. How would you decide the right one for you?
This is where we are going to help you. In this post, we are going to review the 7 best gutter guards. These gutter guards are tested by our team of experts and took help from consumer reports. So without further ado, let’s get started.
Best Overall: Raptor Designed Gutter Guard
Raptor-designed gutter guard is the best overall for its sturdy stainless steel mesh construction, v-bend and trough technology, and extrusion on the edges which not only makes the gutter guard hold its place but filters water swiftly without overflowing.
7 Best Gutter Guards Consumer Reports
I have compiled a list of the 7 best gutter guards based on consumer reports 2023.
1. Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh, Raptor Gutter Guard
- Stainless steel mesh
- 48-Foot length
- V-shaped construction
- Removable mesh
If you are looking for one of the sturdiest designed Gutter guards that protect your gutter even from the smallest wind-blown seeds, go with Stainless steel Micro Mesh guard from the raptors.
It is easier to install a gutter guard, the mesh cover can easily be installed under the lower row of roof shingles while the outer edge attaches to the gutter with the screws.
This stainless steel micro mesh guard with V-bend technology helps filter the water at enhanced efficiency.
Its self-cleaning and self-filtration capabilities are impressive, not only enhancing the lifespan of the mesh but withstanding heavier debris layers on it.
With Its Advanced Trough technology, the gutter guards provide maximized water filtration. It is not just blocking the twigs or leaves but making the water gets filtered swiftly so that rainwater could easily go into the gutter, with no over-flown.
On the edges, this gutter guard witness an extrusion. This portion of the gutter guards holds the durable mesh in place and provides superior strength and performance.
The most highlighted an important aspect is its universal installation. This raptor gutter cover fits most of the standard 5-inches gutters and can easily be installed in a 5-foot strip with a total length of 48 feet.
If you do it yourself, go get it installed using a nut drive and socket, or hire professionals to get it done.
In total, we appreciate the raptor gutter guard system and its DIY installation. It offers more than one method of installation, you can install it directly across the gutter or under the roof shingles.
Its stainless steel construction is what spells the magic and filters everything. It catches everything possible and is easier to remove as well for cleaning purposes.
Pros
- Stainless steel durable mesh
- Can follow more than one method of installation
- Easier to remove for cleaning purposes
- Can be mounted and installed on any design roof
Cons
- Difficult to cut
2. Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
- Plastic constructed
- No hardware used to hold them in place
- Can be cut with standard scissors
- Lightweight
For those of you who do not want to invest in expensive gutter guards, because you can’t afford one right now, and looking for an affordable but durable option, get your hands on Frost designed King Plastic Gutter guard.
It is an affordable plastic gutter guard system that protects your gutter from large debris, twigs, leaves, nuisance pets, mice, and birds.
Unlike the above-reviewed stainless steel mesh gutter guard, this one is easier to cut, and can easily be cut using standard scissors to custom fit the gutter.
I find this gutter guard easier to install. Yes, that’s the standout feature of it. It requires no nails, screws, or fasteners. Just place the guard in the gutter, ensuring that the center of the guard is bent up towards the opening of the gutter, and that’s it.
Don’t worry, it is made of plastic, so you would not have an issue with rust or corrosion. Plus, it withstands the extreme temperature range and protects your gutter all year long.
The only issue you may face is on hot summer days, the plastic can expand and the fittings might not be the same as before, so leave some space when installing.
We did the installation by ourselves and didn’t hire any professionals. The system proves one of the decent options, it was seamless to cut 4-foot to 5-foot lengths of the screens, and the plastic too was lightweight and easier to carry up on a ladder.
The only concern you may have the guards are a little finicky in installation, so be a little cautious.
Pros
- Durable plastic constructed
- Affordably priced
- Can easily cut into 4-foot and 5-foot lengths
- Fairly resistant to extreme temperature and changes
Cons
- Finicky in installation
3. Superior Gutter Guards
- Constructed to DIY
- The USA made
- Compatible with all types of roofs
- Stainless Steel mesh constructed
What is the most common reason for gutter guards clogging? I am sure you too would say the fine debris like pine or needles or shingle grit.
If that’s the case with you too, and you have tested more than one gutter guard but no one brought benefit for you, go with superior gutter guards.
Superior gutter guards share a premium stainless steel mesh construction that shares a unique design to capture the smallest particles. It is a USA-made product that is ensured to pass only the water through the filters.
It comes in 3-foot panels, each package comes with 16 pieces, and in other words, with one package received at your doorstep, it can easily cover 48-foot gutters.
If you have more length to cover, you may order two packages, each package will have 16 pieces, you can’t buy pieces, only the packages.
The most promising aspect of this gutter guard is its compatibility with all roof types and designs. You would not have to worry about the design of the rooting, just the right fitting of 5-inches and you are all set to install this guard.
One more thing, the Superior gutter guards are designed to be installed by DIY. Yes, you are not required to hire any professional and spend your hard-earned money, save your money and help yourself.
I am totally amazed at the price range of this gutter guard too. It is stainless steel constructed with a gutter guard, with a raised design that helps draw in rainwater leaving the leaves, and fine debris.
Pros
- Easily filters large and small debris
- Stainless steel mesh constructed
- Made for DIY installation
- The USA made
Cons
- Requires lots of screws
4. GutterBrush Gutter Guard for 5 Inch and 6 Inch Gutters
- Fits in 5-inch gutters
- Made of Stainless steel bristles
- UV resistant Polypropylene constructed
- Comes in 6 to 120-feet size
In case you don’t have money to buy an expensive gutter guard as well as professional expertise to install them, the GutterBrush gutter guard is a nice idea to protect your gutters from clogging due to leaves, debris, and many other contaminations.
These gutter guards are flexible stainless steel wire cores that can be bent on the corners of the gutters.
These brush bristles are made of UV-resistant Polypropylene and can easily be extended up to 4.5 inches. With that extension, you can easily secure and guard the gutter.
The standout aspect compare to the above-reviewed product which had only one package available, this one comes with lengths.
You can buy different lengths from 6 to 120 feet, and can easily be installed using fasteners. Just place the guards gently on the gutters and push them down gently until the guards are sitting on the bottom.
One more thing to clear, the tiny bristles would not stop water from flowing through the gutters. They will only stop and filter leaves, sticks, and other debris from entering and clogging your drainage system.
One more thing, a standout aspect, this gutter guard system is seamless to install. It is easier to install and can easily be installed on any design or type of rooting. This system can easily be installed with fascia-mounted brackets and shingle mounted.
One more thing we noticed using this gutter guard is ample water flow. Compare to other gutter guards, it allows ample water flowing, without clogging. Plus, the guard system is easier to clean, and you can easily remove the big pieces easily.
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Pros
- Easier to install
- Fits any type of roof and design
- Universal fit design
- Ample water-flow
Cons
- The fine debris though might block the gutter guards
5. Shur Flo X Leaf Guard Gutter
- Fits directly onto the gutter
- Choose from different design
- Perforated filtration system
- 25-years warranty
If you like a professionally constructed and designed gutter guard system that provides around-the-clock protection on rainy days, go with the Shur Flo-designed X leaf Guard gutter.
The standout aspect of having this gutter guard is its different installation. Unlike the above-reviewed product that stays on the gutter easily, this one fits directly onto the guard. In other words, it will require installation under the shingles.
Keep in mind, that it is the gutter guard designed to be installed by professionals. If you try to do it yourself, you may void the roof warranty.
So, it is always recommended to have professionals on board to get it installed. It is not just about the warranty of the roof, it is about secure mounting style and guards.
It is no doubt one of the expensive gutter guard systems that cost arms and legs. But, it is worth the spend and its perforated filtration system is designed in a way to let the rainwater pass through the surface of the guards, filtering debris, leaves, insects, and other things.
I am particularly impressed with the amount of water airflow it allows passing. In some gutter guards, I have witnessed that they provide superior filtration but slow down the water passing which in the end results in overflowing.
So, in other words, if you want a premium gutter guard installed that lets the water pass through the system with no debris and other contaminations, do invest in buying this gutter guard.
Pros
- Premium constructed design
- The unique designed perforated filtration system
- Lets an ample amount of water passes through
- 25-YEARS warranty
Cons
- Expensive
6. Amerimax Home Products Filter Gutter Guard
- Compatible with 4, 5, 6 inches gutters
- Made of rigid PVC
- The USA made
- Mesh surface
Why do you get your gutter guard clogged in most of the time? Obviously, it is because of those tiny particles that go unfiltered and make mud in the bottom.
Well in most cases, there is nothing you can do to come by these tiny particles, but we are happy to introduce you to Amerimax Home products designed Gutter guards.
The stand apart aspect of this gutter guard is its specialty to capture those tiny mud particles or debris which in the end results in making mud in the gutter.
It is a stainless steel type gutter guard that is designed for K-style gutters up to six inches. It got a fine mesh surface that is capable of trapping small as well as large debris, insects, leaves, and many other contaminations.
One more thing, as per consumer reports, and the manufacturers the installation can easily be done by a DIYer. You are not required to have a professional on board in case you can install it and knows how things roll on there.
This guard is made of rigid PVC, making it one of the most durable options in the long run. That’s the reason, manufacturers promise a life-long warranty, and ensure that if anything goes wrong, or if the gutter guard gets clogged, you can get free maintenance.
I am particularly inspired by the brand’s focus on providing an easier-to-follow manual or guide. Even though when you have never installed such things before, by simply following the written guide, you can install it.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Made of high-quality PVC material
- Captures fine debris easily
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Might not be compatible with the type of gutters you have installed
7. GutterStuff 5-Inch K Style Foam Gutter Filter
- Contains UV protection
- Self-installed gutter guard
- Withstands extreme temperature
- Good for Seed growing prevention
If moss and seeds are the biggest issues you get your gutter clogged time and again, probably you should invest in something that could filter these contaminations likes of GutterStuff-designed foam gutter filter.
This filter protects your gutter from moss and seeds growing and prevents from clogging for years.
It is a foam gutter, and most consumers might advise you against buying one. But our testing and many consumer reports also suggest it is one of the best solutions for clogged gutters. It can simply get inserted into the gutters, and keep away anything that could clog your gutters.
This foam gutter is lightweight, and seamless to install without voiding the warranty of your roofing. The most important thing, you can do it yourself, no need to pay for the installation.
Keep in mind, that it is a foam-constructed gutter guard that only allows water to pass through filtering any kind of contamination- debris, leaves, and anything.
They come in a variety of sizes, you can buy 4 inches to 6 inches, and provides supreme performance in extreme weather too.
They are made with UV protection which means, in hot climates, they can stay undamaged for a long period of time.
The only issue for them is a replacement. They act like a sponge, and with time you will have to manage to replace them with a newer one.
So if you can’t afford to buy expensive gutter guards and seeds growing is your biggest issue in the gutters, don’t overlook this gutter guard.
Pros
- Acts like a sponge allow only water to pass through
- UV protected
- Prevents seeds from growing in the gutter
- Easier to install
- Affordable
Cons
- Catches lots of debris due to sponge-like structure
Gutter Guards Buying Guide
Before you move out purchasing a gutter guard, we recommend you take into consideration some factors.
These factors will help you get the most out of your purchase, and prevent your gutters from clogging which results in overflow rainwater.
Types
Gutters guards come in various sizes, shapes, types, and installations. It is you who needs to decide the right type of gutter guards for your needs. If you choose the type right, the half battle is already won.
1. Screen
Screen guards are the most common and widely used gutter guards. They are installed by lifting the bottom of the roof shingles and sliding the edge of the gutter underneath.
Mostly they are installed to keep away large debris, leaves, and other contaminations.
2. Mesh
Same as the screen guards, the mesh guards are made of metal or plastic and come with tiny holes carved in the body to filter water running through.
They too share the same installation mechanism, by lifting the shingles of the roof and inserting the gutters underneath.
Compare to screen gutters, mesh gutter guards are more expensive and last longer. Here the holes too are smaller and tinier than screen guards and provide smoother filtration.
3. Brush Guards
Brush gutter guards act as pipe cleaners. They get into the gutters, and collect large debris, leaves, and other contaminations on the top, preventing clogging.
These types of gutter guards are usually easier to install and collect smaller debris and pine needles.
The only downside of using them is, that they require more maintenance and finer debris particles can easily get stuck.
4. Foam
Foam gutter guards are inexpensive, and easier to install. They don’t require any professional expertise to install, easier to install by yourself.
They prevent seeds and moose from growing inside of the gutters and act as a filter that only lets water pass through.
Now come to the other features or aspects one should look into a gutter guard.
Installation
For me, installation is the single most important factor, the deriving factor behind choosing the gutter guard.
Choose wisely, whether you want a permanent solution that may require professional expertise onboard or a DIY install that would not last long.
Size
Before you buy a gutter guard check the size or the width of the gutter installed on your roof. Most gutter guards’ widths are five, six, and seven inches.
Five and six are the most common width size, and seven inches gutter is only used in a location where it receives a lot of rain.
Appearance
If you care for your homes curb appeal and don’t want to ruin the aesthetics you have to spend for, don’t go with a gutter guard that looks from down or below.
Choose a gutter guard that comes in a wide range of color options so that you could pick the right color that matches your aesthetics.
Wrap Up
Choosing the right and qualitative gutter guard is all about spending time to find the product that suits your needs and requirements.
It is the right balance of construction and features along with the price that stands out a product from the rest.
In my experience, the right gutter guard is all about personal preference. Maybe one guard that does the job for your friend in the States might not work for you in Australia and vice versa.
In this long guide, we added lots of top products with their advantages and disadvantages. Have a bird’s eye view of these products and pick the right one that fits your needs.
FAQs
Are gutter guards worth the Money?
With time, your gutter may experience clogging due to pine needles, tree branches, leaves, and other debris. If you don’t clean the gutters, it can lead to roof leaking, insect infestation, and foundation damage.
It is not like the gutter guards will prevent your gutters from clogging, you will still have to maintain them. But the cleaning and maintenance will be occasional not like regular unclogging like the way you do it before installing gutter guards.
What are gutter guards made of?
The most common material used in the making of the gutter guards includes aluminum, metal, nylon mesh, and plastic. Aluminum-constructed guards are expensive and last longer than plastic or nylon.
Metal constructed are affordable and last long like aluminum. Plastic construction is lightweight and affordable, easier to install as well.
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