Gutter Covers

Written By:  Michael Marchese

Gutters are narrow pipes and channels attached to the roof to keep rainwater from damaging walls, foundations or in some cases to harvest rainwater for domestic use. Unfortunately rain gutters get clogged with twigs, leaves and several other types of debris especially during the fall and spring seasons. When gutters get clogged the water fills and pours out onto the walls, windows and in some cases it stagnates creating a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Using covers helps in extending the gutter system’s durability and it is therefore vital to fit gutters with covers.  Many homeowners are happy that they finally have the solution to their gutter problems in the form of gutter covers since they no longer have to clean their gutters. However, most of them are not sure what to look for in a gutter cover to ensure that they get the best quality for money. They are of made of different material, have different designs and consequently, are not all equally effective. 

The major difference between gutter covers is what they are made of. For instance the mesh that makes most covers varies and some have mesh that is very closely woven, which does not allow even the smallest debris to pass through. Others on the other hand are poorly done and the mesh has too much space, which results in fine debris and particles going through. This does not serve the purpose and the home owners are forced to clean the gutters they were protecting in the first place. As a result, most homeowners are disappointed with their gutter covers and feel cheated since the covers never seem to perform as they supposed to. Another factor that determines the choice of cover one settles for is the cost. Some covers are more expensive than others depending on the type of material they have been made from and how effective they are.

If a cover performs the task effectively most homeowners do not see the need to spend more than necessary. However, some choose the type of gutter cover based on its design and its general aesthetic appeal. Owners with homes that are located in areas that are cooler, or are surrounded by tall trees should invest in these protective covers.  They should purchase a cover that is of higher quality guaranteeing the homeowner less work in relation to cleaning the gutter. For those who live in one story buildings and do not mind clearing the gutter or the smaller debris that pass through opting for a cheap chicken wire cover is adequate. Shopping for a gutter cover should therefore be based on the budget a person is working with, his needs, and preference. Many companies have come up with ways of making gutter covers that perfectly blend with different roofs by making available covers of different colors. Most of these companies can be requested to make a cover that suits the existing gutter but they can also install the cover on a new gutter depending on the homeowner’s preference.