After a rainy season in the fall, it’s common for gutters in homes and buildings across the US to experience blockages.
The drains can’t handle the excess plant material. It causes clogs and blockages that reduce the draining efficiency of your gutters, resulting in flooding. Nobody wants to spend their Saturday morning clearing the gutters – it’s back-breaking work that takes hours to complete.
Fortunately, there’s a solution to keeping leaves and other debris out of your gutters. Gutter guards offer your roof and home the protection it needs. Gutter guards fit your existing gutters, forming a physical barrier that prevents leaves and debris from entering the gutter.
It’s an affordable solution and saves you plenty of time and money clearing your gutters this season.
In this post, we’ll review the best gutter guards for your home. We have plenty of models to suit any gutter system.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Gutter Guards Reviews
- 2.1 Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard
- 2.2 Superior Gutter Guards
- 2.3 Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
- 2.4 Gutterglove Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard
- 2.5 Amerimax Home Products Titan 3000 Gutter Guards
- 2.6 Patio Eden Expandable Filter Strainer
- 2.7 Joylight Stainless Steel Filter Strainer
- 2.8 The Wedge Downspout Gutter Guard
- 2.9 Amerimax Gusher Guard
- 2.10 GutterStuff Downspout Foam Filter Insert
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Gutter Guards Buyer’s Guide
- 5 What are the Types of Gutter Guards?
- 6 Gutter Guards FAQs
- 7 Gutter Guards – The Verdict
We scoured internet listings to find the best gutter guards. All the models in this review are excellent choices. However, if you’re looking to grab-and-go without reading the rest of this review, check out our top picks.
These gutter guards offer you the best protection for your gutters at the best price. We have models to suit any style gutter or exterior home décor. Choose the gutter guard that meets your homeownership needs, and never worry about having to clean your gutters again.
Best Pick: Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard
- Compatible with 4", 5", and 6" metal (steel or aluminum) K-style gutters
- The tight expanded metal mesh pattern keeps out most debris, to keep your gutters flowing freely.
- Constructed of durable powder-coated steel for long life and protection from the elements, and neutral color blends seamlessly with roofline
- Easy "lock-in" installation, simply slide under the first row of shingles and lock the gutter guard to the front lip of the gutter
- Includes 10-year limited
Amerimax makes some of the best gutter guard systems available. This model fits 4″, 5″, and 6″ gutters, with a steel, powder-coated finish that suits K-style gutter systems. The powder-coating prevents corrosion of the gutter wire, providing a long service life for the guard. The fine mesh on this guard offers excellent protection for your gutters, and it won’t snag leaves or twigs thanks to the design. The neutral color blends in with your roofline, featuring easy “snap-in” installation for your gutters.
Premium Pick: Superior Gutter Guards
- Superior Protects your Gutters, Handles the Harshest of Weather conditions, Patented Raised Design Micro Mesh, Whooshes Debris Away, Redirecting Rainwater Down into the Gutter.
- Superior Gutter Guards Blocks Creepy-crawlies, Flying Insects, Pests, Birds, Debris, from getting into and clogging your Gutters and Downspouts.
- Made to protect your Family, Home, Foundation, Using Stainless Steel Mesh, Mill Finished Aluminum Rails, formed to fit any 5’ Gutter.
- Constructed to DIY, Installs Easily and Quick. Our Mission is to do it Right the First Time with Easy to Follow Instructions.
- A Trusted Company Engineered and Built in USA, Superior Gutter Guards has Your Back with a 20-Year Warranty and is WUI Compliant.
If you’re looking for the best premium gutter guard in this review, check out this Superior model. This gutter guard features design and construction with stainless steel mesh and a fine configuration with patented raised design mesh that prevents leaves and debris from snagging onto the mesh. The Superior gutter guard features an attractive design embossed in the surface, assisting with water flow and drainage. This system fits all 5″ gutters, featuring design and construction in the USA. You get a 20-year warranty with customer support included in your purchase.
Budget Pick: Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
- Keeps leaves and debris from clogging gutters
- Will not rust or corrode
- Cut to length with a Pair of ordinary scissors and quickly installed
- 6" x 0.185" x 20 Feet in Length flexible plastic mesh Gutter guard
- Can be easily unrolled
Homeowners looking for the best budget gutter guard get the most value out of this Frost King model. This Frost King Gutter guard comes in a 20-foot roll with a 6″ width. This mesh provides a universal fit for any gutter system. This system features easy installation with zip ties. You get a design with UV-resistant materials to prevent degradation of the plastic mesh. The plastic material does not rust or corrode, and you can expect a long service life from this gutter guard.
Gutter Guards Reviews
Now that you have an idea of the best gutter guards in this review, let’s unpack them in detail. We’ll also look at a few other gutter guard systems to protect your home this rainy season.
After reading through the reviews, check out our buyer’s guide. We offer you some helpful free tips for choosing and fitting the right gutter guards to your roof.
Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard
Amerimax makes the best gutter guards in the game. This model wins our top award for the best gutter guard in this review. You get a steel powder-coated design with a fine mesh and high-flow. This gutter guard is compatible with 4″, 5″, and 6″ gutters, giving it a universal fit to any gutter system.
You get simple installation, featuring Amerimax’s patented Lock-In system for fast fitment. Slide the one end of the gutter guard under your shingles and tiles, and then lock in the front of the guard to the gutter. There’s no need for a professional fitment that adds to the costs of the project.
The Amerimax gutter guard system is compatible with K-style gutters, which are common in many homes across America. You get a 10-year limited warranty with these gutter guards, featuring design and construction in the USA.
- Compatible with 4″, 6″, and 6″ gutters
- Suitable for K-style gutters
- Powder-coated steel design
- 10-year warranty
- Made in the USA
- 25-pieces included
- Easy lock-in installation
Superior Gutter Guards
Superior Gutter Guards are, in fact, superior to other brands. Superior make these premium gutter guards suit any modern or traditional home. Superior utilizes a patented micro-mesh technology for this gutter guard. The result is a high-flow surface that doesn’t snag on leaf stems.
These gutter guards prevent insects and garden debris from entering your gutters, keeping them clean all year. These gutter guards feature design and construction with stainless steel for a corrosion-resistant finish. They fit any 5″ gutter, which happens to be the most popular gutter size in most single-family homes across the country.
The mill-finished aluminum rails provide a secure fit and an attractive aesthetic, enhanced by the gutter guard’s embossed design. These gutter guards come with a 20-year warranty, featuring design and manufacture in the United States.
- Fits any 5″ gutter
- Attractive embossed pattern
- Patented micro-mesh
- Stainless steel design
- Mill-finished aluminum rails
- Easy installation
- Engineered and built in the USA
Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
If you’re looking for an affordable gutter guard, we recommend this Frost King model. You get a durable nylon plastic mesh designed to resist UV fading in the sun. This gutter guard wins our top award for the best budget model in this review, and it’s a great choice for the cost-conscious homeowner.
Many plastics turn brittle in UV glare, especially in hot environments. However, with this gutter guard, you get an advanced polymer formulation that resists fading and wear. The result is a durable and long-lasting gutter guard with an affordable price tag.
The wide mesh offers high water flow in storms, and you get 20-feet of mesh in each roll. The mesh features a 6-inch width for compatibility with all gutter systems. However, the wider mesh design on this model does encourage snagging.
- Affordable
- UV-resistant plastic
- Universal fit to any gutter
- Simple set up
- 6″ width by 20-foot length
- No rusting or corrosion
Gutterglove Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard
This Gutterglove model is another excellent, top-quality choice for protecting your home this season. This guard features a patented V-bend technology in its design, offering you easy and fast fitment to any gutter system.
The design allows for the fast filtration of rainwater, and the micro-mesh design ensures there are no hang-ups with the leaves as they fall from the gutter. This system comes with enough sections to cover 80-feet of guttering. Therefore, you’ll need two sets to cover the average home.
You don’t need any support system when fitting these gutter guards to your roof. You get a 5.5″ width, making it suitable for fitment on 4″ and 5″ gutters. The mesh design features construction with 304-grade stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
- Patented V-Bend Technology (VBT)
- No support mechanism required
- Stainless steel micro-mesh design
- 80-feet of coverage
- 5.5″ width for 5″ gutters
Amerimax Home Products Titan 3000 Gutter Guards
Amerimax gets another mention in this review for its Titan 3000 Gutter Guards. This system features design and construction with powder-coated aluminum for a long-lasting, durable guard. This model features a V-shape design in the guard, allowing for high-speed filtering of large water volumes.
These guards feature a neutral color, blending into the roofline of your home. They offer the same easy same-and-lock fitment system as the top Amerimax model in this review. You get prices included with your purchase and a 20-year warranty.
This system is the ideal choice for the modern home with contemporary exterior décor. You get easy fitment, and there’s no need to hire a professional for the installation. This model is the flagship guard in the Amerimax range and a great choice for your home.
- Low-profile design
- Neutral color to match your roofline
- Screws to the front of the gutter for easy installation
- 50-pieces included
- Perforated steel design
- 20-year warranty
Patio Eden Expandable Filter Strainer
If you’re looking for an affordable gutter guard, check out this downspout protector. This model slips into the downspout, preventing leaves and other debris from entering the pipes, causing a blockage. They’re a good choice if you don’t get that many leaves on your roof in the fall.
These downspout protectors are an affordable investment in your home maintenance schedule. You get six protectors included with your purchase, which is enough to cater to the average American home. These downspout guards feature a 3-inch expandable design to fit any downspout and stainless steel construction to prevent rusting.
You get a tool-free installation, and there’s no need to call a professional for help. Patio Eden offers you a money-back guarantee on your purchase if you’re not entirely satisfied with these downspout protectors.
- Stainless steel design
- Corrosion-resistant
- Six units included
- Simple tool-free installation
- Universal fit to most round gutters downspouts
Joylight Stainless Steel Filter Strainer
The JoyLight downspout protector is another excellent option for stopping debris from entering your downspouts. They make an affordable alternative to gutter guards or an extra safeguard for your existing gutter guard system.
We like the premium design of this product. You get a 304-stainless steel construction for an attractive finish and corrosion resistance. These downspout protectors have a universal fit for downspouts between 2.5″ to 3.7″ in size, making them suitable for use in any home gutter system.
The attractive chromium finish leaves an enhanced aesthetic on your gutters, making these units a good addition to your exterior décor. You get easy installation, with no tools required.
- Premium design
- 304 stainless steel construction
- Suits downspouts between 2.5″ to 3.7″
- Chromium finish for corrosion resistance
- Sturdy, thick wire design
The Wedge Downspout Gutter Guard
The Wedge is another downspout protector and an affordable alternative to straight gutter guards. With this model, you get a convenient collapsing carry handle at the top of the unit. These downspout protectors feature design and construction with UV-resistant plastic for long service life.
The mesh design of the filter guard stops large and small leaves from entering the downspout. You get a universal fitment to any size downspout, up to 3.5-inches in diameter. This model features design and construction in the USA with premium materials.
You get a 30-day trial period included with your purchase and a hassle-free return if you think it’s not the right solution for your roof. These filters are easy to install, with no tools required, and no professional assistance necessary.
- Suitable for 2″ to 3″ downspouts
- Tool-free installation
- Back-to-back connection
- Lifting handle for easy fitment and removal
- Made in the USA
Amerimax Gusher Guard
This Amerimax Gutter Gusher Guard is a great addition to your gutter system. When it rains hard, water funnels through the valleys in your roof. In heavy rainstorms, the volume of water running off the roof intensifies in the valley, causing overflow in the corner of the gutter system.
As a result, you end up with overflow landing on the floor from the gutter system’s corner. This Gutter Gusher Guard fits the bend in the gutter at the roof valley. The guard provides a raised edge that prevents overflow from the gutter during heavy rainstorms.
The Gusher Guard is an affordable way to improve your existing gutters and a great addition to any gutter guard system in this review. This model is suitable for all size aluminum gutters, with a universal fit for any system. It’s important to note that you don’t get fasteners included with your purchase.
- Stop overflows in corners
- Increase the size of the gutter where you need it most
- Suitable for aluminum gutters
- Universal fitment
- Easy installation
GutterStuff Downspout Foam Filter Insert
Stop clogged downpipes with this handy downspout filter. This model features design and construction with copolymer materials, providing a porous surface. You stuff this filter block into your gutter above the downspout. It filters the rainwater without hindering the flow in the gutter.
This model is an affordable alternative to a traditional gutter guard system, providing excellent results for your downspout. This filter block includes coating with an anti-microbial formula for bacteria and mold resistance, as well as protection from UV damage.
You get a universal fit to any gutter system, with a tool-free DIY installation. This filter block is an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget.
- Suitable for square downspouts
- 4.4″ width with universal fit to all size gutters
- Easy tool-free installation
- Infused with Germicide and UV protectant
- Made in the USA
Other Best Selling Options
- Stainless steel micro-mesh blocks leaves, pine needles and roof grit from entering your gutter.
- Heavy-duty materials withstand all the elements and will never rust or warp.
- Easy to install on any 5" wide or smaller gutter and won't void your roof warranty.
- Designed, Assembled and Packaged in the USA. Backed by 25-year warranty and a world-class, US-based support team.
- Includes self-tapping, corrosion-resistant screws, and a magnetic hex head driver.
- Compatible with 4", 5", and 6" metal (steel or aluminum) K-style gutters
- The tight expanded metal mesh pattern keeps out most debris, to keep your gutters flowing freely.
- Constructed of durable powder-coated steel for long life and protection from the elements, and neutral color blends seamlessly with roofline
- Easy "lock-in" installation, simply slide under the first row of shingles and lock the gutter guard to the front lip of the gutter
- Includes 10-year limited
- The Difference is In the Design. Heavy (Industrial) Gauge .018 100% Aluminum will not rust - Lifetime warranty covers no rust, rot or product self deterioration
- Designed specifically for hidden hangars but works with all hangars including K-style hangars
- Virtually invisible from the ground
- Designed to handle downpours with 380 holes per linear foot
- Easy to install with tabs for seamless joints. Requires 1/2" #8 Zip Screws - not included, Made in the USA!!!
- Compatible with 4", 5", and 6" metal (steel or aluminum) K-style gutters
- The mesh design helps to catch fine debris; MUST install with the filter facing the sky
- Constructed from high quality, rigid PVC for durability
- Snap-in style for easy installation and convenience
- One carton contains 25 pieces which will cover 75 ft. of gutter
- WHY MICROMESH? - 100% Manufactured in the USA, Heavy .027 gauge painted aluminum, Color-matched ½ zip screws included, Fits on top of gutter, Double banded for easy installation and no sharp edges or damage to your roof because it does not touch your roof or shingles, Innovative pressing technology like no other that secures stainless steel mesh into aluminum frame safely, Installation with 1” margin notching system that is pressed on top of each other, Will not gather rust or degrade over time.
- KEEPS EVERYTHING OUT - Micromesh keeps leaves, pine needles, shingle debris, dirt, pollen, seeds and furry friends from entering the roofline while handling the heaviest downpours and other harsh weather conditions. PLUS... it solves leakage problems, allowing absolutely no leak stains or marks. It also stops birds and squirrels from building nests in your gutters. SMALLER HOLES slow down heavy rain so that EXCESSIVE WATER WILL NOT OVERFLOW.
- EASY INSTALLATION – Micromesh is easy to install but professional installation is recommended. It has a MODERN DESIGN. The front drip edge requires only 3-4 screws and the back only needs 2 screws. Fits 5” residential or commercial gutters, K-Style hangers, half round, box type and existing metal, flat or shingle roofs. Comes in 5-foot sections. Heavy gauge ALUMINUM 0.27 INSTALLED NATIONWIDE. PROTECT YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET……YOUR HOME . FREE SHIPPING.
- PROVIDE ASSURANCE - Your days of climbing ladders to clean gunk out of your gutter system are over. Micromesh fits all gutter types, including K-Style and box gutter, comes in 5 foot sections, and fits right on top of your gutter. Available in 16 colors that will match your gutter color exactly. Micromesh is attached to the front & back of the gutter which strengthens the entire gutter system making it strong enough to handle snow and ice buildup.
- LIFETIME AND TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY – Domestic Painted Aluminum 0.27 Gauge & Stainless Steel Mesh Manufactured in the USA. Life time transferable 35 Year warranty 30 day MONEY BACK Guarantee insures your Micromesh guards purchase is absolutely 100% RISK FREE. Our installation process ensures no damage to your roof and no future leakages. The natural painted aluminum colors will not rust or degrade over the lifetime of its use.
Gutter Guards Buyer’s Guide
After reading through the best gutter guards’ reviews, it’s time to narrow down your choices. All the models in this review feature top-quality design with premium materials for long service life and durability. However, what else do you need to look for in the best gutter guard system?
This section unpacks the benefits and advantages of gutter guards and all the specifics you need to choose the right system for your home or business premises.
What are the Top Benefits of the Best Gutter Guards?
Why would you install gutter guards? Are they worth the money? Here are the top benefits of installing gutter guards on your roof.
Save Money and Time
How much time and money do you spend clearing out your gutters each year? When the fall starts, you know it’s only a few weeks till you have to grab the ladder from the garage and begin clearing the gutters.
If you’re not doing it yourself, then you’re hiring a gardening service to do it for you. By installing gutter guards, you save yourself time and money in doing basic seasonal maintenance on your home.
Prevent Insect and Rodent Infestations
Gutters are like superhighways for rodents and other pests. Rats and mice use gutters to move around your home, providing easy access to the roof where they can nest. By installing gutter guards, you prevent rodents from moving in your gutters and entering your home to breed.
Prevent Formation of Ice Dams
When the wintertime comes, and the freezing weather arrives, ice dams are a problem for many homes. Gutter guards prevent blockages from freezing in your gutters, causing the formation of ice dams. Ice dams are destructive, and if they get out of control, they tear down the gutters and damage the roof.
Prevent Corrosion and Rusting
Debris and leaves moving through your gutters can remove the coating on the aluminum or steel, causing the start of corrosion. Gutter guards keep the gutters clean, preventing the degradation of your gutter system.
Improve Rain Run-off and Gutter Flow
Gutter guards keep your gutters free from debris, ensuring that you always have free-flowing water moving through the system.
What are the Types of Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards come in a range of sizes to fit any system. From 4″ to 6″ gutters, there’s a model to suit your home or business premises. Gutter guards also feature different designs and lengths, adding functionality to the gutter system.
In this section, we’ll go over the different types of gutter guards to determine which is the better choice for your home or business premises.
Screened Gutter Guards
These gutter guards fit the top of the gutter. Some models feature easy setup with lock-in fitment, while others require the use of fasteners or zip ties to hold them in place. The screen features design and construction with a variety of materials, from plastics to stainless steel.
Advantages
- These gutter guards offer you high-flow and maximum protection for your gutters.
- They’re the most expensive option but offer easy fitment, saving you on contractor costs.
Disadvantages
- High winds might dislodge the guards
- Plastic guards eventually become brittle and break
Meshed Gutter Guards
Mesh gutter guards have a similar design to screen gutter guards. However, the mesh tens to be finer while still allowing for high water flow rates from the roof.
This design also offers excellent protection for your gutters. However, when choosing your gutter guards, make sure you use a fine mesh.
A wider mesh can cause leaves and twigs to catch in the opening, requiring removal by hand. Mesh guards also feature easy fitment, with snap-in systems.
Advantages
- Easy installation.
- Blocks all debris, even sand, and insects.
- Available in a variety of finishes and mesh types.
Disadvantages
- The most expensive option for gutter guards.
- Some flimsy models with fine mesh might tear if branches land on it.
Reverse-Curve Gutter Guards
Reverse curve gutter guards feature design and construction with lightweight materials like aluminum or plastic. The rainwater doesn’t flow through perforations or mesh but rather runs over the top and around a sloping curve before it drops into the gutter.
Advantages
- Leaves slide of the roof easily
- Affordable
- Universal fitment
Disadvantages
- Requires professional installation
- It requires the right angle for setup, or the water runs over the edge of the gutter.
- The most expensive type of gutter guards
Other Types of Gutter Guards
A few other gutter guard designs that focus on protecting the downspout of your gutter system from blockages.
Downspout Guards
Downspout guards fit into the connection between the gutter and the downspout. Most models feature a light-bulb-shaped design, with a cage protecting the downspout from sucking down leaves.
These models come with a universal fit for downspouts measuring between 2″ to 3.5″ in diameter. Some models come with plastic housing, while others feature a wire design with materials like stainless steel.
Downspout Filters
Downspout filters fit into the downspout, providing a permeable, porous surface that allows water to flow through. They have a sponged design, preventing debris from entering the downspout. Most models come with a universal design to fit any gutter system or downspout.
Corner Gusher Guards
When heavy rain hits your roof, it funnels down the valleys towards the gutter. However, in severe rainstorms, the volume of water hitting the gutter may be too much for it to handle.
Fitting a gusher guard to the corner of your gutter raises the surface area, preventing the water from spilling over the side of the gutter during a rainstorm.
How Do I Measure My Gutter Guards?
Butter guards come in a range of sizes to suit any gutter. 5″ is the most common gutter size in homes across America. However, depending on the state and the local development contractors, you might have a 4″ or 6″ gutter.
The wrong size guard results in a poor fit and inefficient operation when filtering rainwater. To find the right size guard, measure from the inside edge to the outside edge.
All listings will have the size of the gutter recommended for the guard. Some models have a universal fit, so check the product description before making your purchase.
Do I Need Professional Installation?
Some models of gutter guards require a professional fitment. If you have no handy skills, then climbing a ladder can be a dangerous experience. You might end up needing a trip to the emergency room if you fall. Hiring a professional to do the fitment is the best option.
Most contractors charge between $15 to $19 per foot for the installation of your gutter guards. Since the average American home has around 160-feet of gutters, you can expect to pay between $2,400 to $3,000 for professional fitment of your gutter guards.
In many cases, that’s far more than the cost of the gutter guard system. Going with a mesh panel design with easy fitment to your roof might have a higher price tag attached to the transaction. However, you’ll save thousands of dollars on the installation. These gutter guards offer easy installation, even for people that have no handy skills.
Gutter Guards FAQs
Do I need a full gutter guard system for my roof?
A: If you live in an area when there aren’t many trees, then you don’t have to worry about installing full-length gutter guards. Fitting a downspout protector to the gutter provides enough protection to prevent blockages in the gutter system.
Do I still need to clean my gutters if I use gutter guards?
If you install gutter guards, you shouldn’t have to worry about clearing out your gutters ever again. However, after the first season of use, take a few hours to check on your gutters’ status around your home. If everything looks in order, it should be fine to leave the gutters and never look at them again.
Will my gutters overflow in heavy rains if I install gutter guards?
All the gutter guard systems in this review feature high flow rates suitable for use in heavy rainstorms. However, the performance of your gutters also depends on the availability of downspouts in the gutter system. Too few downspouts result in backing up of water in the gutter during heavy downpours. Make sure you have enough downspouts installed at the right locations around your roof.
Where can I purchase the best gutter guards?
We recommend purchasing your gutter guards from Amazon. With free shipping for Prime members, the best prices, and a wide selection, Amazon is the world’s #1 retailer. You get buyer protection on your order and hassle-free returns if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.
Gutter Guards – The Verdict
By now, you should have an idea of the best gutter guards to suit your roof. Protecting your gutter system from blockages and flooding prevents unnecessary damage to your home, and the advantages of using gutter guards outweigh the cost of the system. For a few hundred dollars or less, you never have to deal with the hassle of clearing your gutters again.
If you’re having trouble settling in the right gutter system for your home or business, why not go with one of our top picks?
The Amerimax Home Products Lock-In Gutter Guard is our top choice for the best gutter guard system in this review. You get a powder-coated steel mesh offering high water flow while avoiding snagging of debris in the gaps. This model features universal compatibility with all 4″, 5″, and 6″ gutter systems. You get a user-friendly installation with lock-in functionality.
Superior Gutter Guards is our choice for the best premium model in this review. With Superior, you get a fine mesh design for no snagging and easy installation with mill aluminum rail slides. The stainless steel mesh provides high water flow into the gutter while successfully filtering out debris.
Homeowners looking for the most affordable model will get the best value from the Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard system. You get a copolymer design that’s UV-resistant and doesn’t degrade in the sun. The Frost King gutter guard comes in a 20-foot roll, with a 6-ich width to suit any gutter system.
