Gutter Covering Systems: Which One Works Best For You?

Setting up covering solutions for your gutters may help reduce the strain on your house’s roofing system. By definition, they are set up over the gutter troughs and screen out materials that may pass down to the trough. However, given the high emphasis on protection, it is important to know the kinds of gutter covering systems out on the market for you to determine which will work best for you.

Screens are the most common type of cover solutions; they are simply laid atop the troughs and secured with special clips. However, they face the danger of the clips getting blown off in strong winds and warping under the weight of snow. Bracketed gutter covers work by reinforcing the covering sheets, but also face the same problems as standard screens.

There are so-called “one-piece” gutter systems that integrate the protection and the trough itself, along with multiple downspouts. However, complete replacement is needed if they’re damaged at certain locations. Some gutter protection systems are marketed as “in-the-gutter” models, meaning they have a filtration mechanism right in the trough itself. Constant exposure to the elements, however, can encourage mold growth, therefore requiring frequent maintenance. Replacement for them may be required between five to ten years after installation.