I’m right there with you on the foam inserts—mine basically turned into compost by the end of fall. I thought micro-mesh would be the answer, but pine needles just mat on top and block everything anyway. I’ve started doing a “gutter walk” every couple weeks, which is about as fun as it sounds. At least it’s cheaper than replacing gutters every few years... Still, if anyone invents a self-cleaning gutter, I’ll be first in line.
I thought micro-mesh would be the answer, but pine needles just mat on top and block everything anyway.
Yeah, I’ve seen that a lot—those fine needles are relentless. I’ve tried just about every guard out there for customers, and honestly, nothing’s totally maintenance-free. The ones with a bigger gap let in more junk, the fine mesh clogs on top. Around here (lots of pines), I tell folks to expect at least a couple clean-outs a year. Not fun, but beats water damage or sagging gutters down the line... Still waiting on that self-cleaning miracle too.
