Introduction - The Competition

In terms of protecting your home, selecting the right "gutter protection" product is one of the most dangerous decisions you can make.

In this section, we have divided "gutter protection" products into four categories. We discuss some specific products in each category that hopefully will enable you to recognize the good, the bad, and the ugly, no matter what product you are considering.

In addition, you may want to consider the following when looking at a specific product:

1. Will your "gutter protection" allow your gutter system to carry most of your rainfall AWAY from your home, while protecting wood components, basement or crawl space, and foundation from the effects of water, dampness and moisture?

2.  Are too many trees, along with the debris they create, overloading your home's water handling capacity? 

3. Will the "gutter protection" system you select allow your gutters to collect and remove the water and be directed away from your house and its foundation without creating other problems?

4. Will your system allow the water to flow freely away from your house into the gutters, while shedding debris? Beware of slits, lips, edges, rough surfaces, or products that lie inside your gutters that will snag debris or allow it to accumulate. Also, stay away from vinyl or plastic products that will eventually warp in the sunlight.