There are a variety of different leaf guard designs on the market in Calgary. However they all have the same purpose, and that is to help prevent the accumulation of leaves within an eavestrough system. But they are not all the same and the customer should take care to choose the best leaf guards for their situation.

• Some systems cover the tops of gutters, preventing leaves from entering but allowing water to pass through a matrix of perforations.
• Other designs are raised surfaces at the lower ends of roofs just above the gutters. These catch leaves but allow water to flow over.

Neither of these designs avoid the need for regular maintenance and cleaning. But with a bit of luck, and the right choices they may prevent eavestroughs overflowing during mild to moderate rain.

How to Ensure Your Leaf Guards Work Optimally

MAKE THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR SITUATION

Even the best leaf guards can only be as effective as their installation. If you opt for a cheap provider they are likely to fit the cheapest system they can find. Research your quotes carefully before you decide. You also have the option of clearing your gutters regularly.

COMMIT TO MAINTAINING YOUR LEAF GUARDS

Don’t believe the old sales gig ‘you’ll never need to clear your gutters again’.  You still have to remove the leaves that don’t blow away before they compost and clog the perforations. However, with decent leaf guards you may only need to do this twice a year.

APPRECIATE YOUR GUTTERS WILL STILL OVERFLOW

Quality leaf guards work well in mild-to-moderate rainfall if you remember the advice above. But your gutters will still overflow in heavy rain because they won’t have enough capacity to handle the large volume of water.

ACCEPT THE REALITY OF NATURE AROUND YOU

Gutter guards only work for as long as the perforations remain clear. Birds, bees, wasps etc. will still explore them as potential nesting sites. They naturally prefer curved surfaces because they provide a measure of protection. Compare gutter guard profiles if you decide to go ahead.

Speak to Valiant Exteriors First Before You Decide

You may not always be able to trust leaf guards, but you can rely on Valiant Exteriors in Calgary to quote fairly, and follow through with the decent job you expect.

Please call Calgary (403)829-1661 when convenient, or email business owner [email protected]. We’re a small, family owned business specializing in asphalt roofing, soffits, fascias, eavestroughs and sidings to waterproof your home.

More Information

It Pays to Have Eavestroughs in Calgary

The Water From Your Downspouts

Fall in Downtown Calgary in 2014 (Dave Bloggs 007 BY CC 2.0)