You’re spot on about the foam inserts—they tend to clog up fast, especially with heavy pollen or small debris. I’ve seen more water overflow issues from those than with mesh guards. Squirrels are relentless, but honestly, hardware cloth (1/4" galvanized mesh) over the guards can slow them down a bit more, though it’s not foolproof. Maintenance is always going to be part of the deal if you’ve got mature trees overhead. At least you’re cutting down on cleanings—that’s a win in my book.
I hear you on the foam inserts—honestly, I’ve pulled out some that looked like a science experiment after just one season. Mesh guards seem to handle the bigger stuff better, but yeah, squirrels are like little engineers when they want in. I’ve tried the hardware cloth trick too, but sometimes they just chew right through it. Maintenance is always gonna be a thing if you’ve got big trees, but I’ll take a couple cleanings a year over dealing with a flooded basement any day. Anyone ever try those solid surface guards with the tiny slots? Curious if they’re worth the extra cost or just another headache.
I’ve wondered about those solid guards too. My neighbor put them in last fall—he said they’re a pain to install if your gutters aren’t perfectly straight, but he hasn’t had to clean them yet. I’m skeptical about the tiny slots though. Around here, maple seeds and pine needles seem to find their way into anything. Plus, the price tag’s no joke. I’d hate to drop that kind of cash and still end up on a ladder twice a year. Anyone else notice they sometimes ice up in winter? That’s my other worry...
I’m skeptical about the tiny slots though. Around here, maple seeds and pine needles seem to find their way into anything.
That’s exactly what I noticed. I tried a section of those guards a couple years back—looked great at first, but by spring, those “helicopter” seeds from my big old maple had wedged themselves right in the slots. Ended up poking them out with a stick anyway. As for icing, yeah, they can turn into a mini skating rink if the snow melts and refreezes. Not sure if it’s better than scooping out sludge, but it’s definitely a tradeoff.
those “helicopter” seeds from my big old maple had wedged themselves right in the slots. Ended up poking them out with a stick anyway.
That’s exactly what I’m worried about with those guards. I just moved in last fall and was all excited to avoid gutter cleaning, but it feels like every kind of debris finds a way through. I’m curious—has anyone tried those foam inserts instead? Do they clog up less, or is it just trading one hassle for another?