Leaf Guard Review 2021
Why Flo-Free Leaf Guards Are Top Rated
Do I Really Need A Leaf Guards?
Gutter protection that actually works! We've done our research to find out who has the best leaf guard reviews and Flo Free is our favorite... By far!!!
When it comes to gutter protection, gutter screens are the most common product used to prevent leaves and debris from entering your roof and guttering systems. However, gutter screens often fail due to clogging or damage during installation. This leads gutter owners to increased costs of maintenance and repair.
Flo-Free Leaf Guard gutter protection products are the perfect gutter guard because Flo-Free leaf guard gutter screens are immediately effective. Flo-Free Leaf Guard gutter screens are sized to fit your guttering system and require no tools for installation.
Flo-Free Leaf Guard gutter protection is affordable too, with one Flo-free gutter guard that costs less than gutter screens.
"Our gutter guards are the best gutter protection because Flo-Free leaf guard gutter screens prevent leaves and debris from clogging guttering systems," said a spokesperson for DCI Products Inc., the makers of Flo-Free gutter guard products. "We provide gutter protection at an affordable cost."
Where gutter screens must be installed by a guttering professional to ensure gutter screens don't fall into guttering systems, Flo-Free gutter guard products are manufactured to fit any guttering system. So installation is simple and inexpensive.
Flo-Free Leaf Guard gutter provides a seamless gutter protection system and gives gutter owners some peace of mind against gutter screens that fall into guttering systems or gutter screens that clog and damage guttering systems. With Flo-Free gutter guard gutter protection, there's no need to worry whether gutter screens will do their job.
Do leaf guards really work?
The answer is a resounding 'yes.' In this gutter guard review, I will describe how gutter guards work for you, and why gutter protection systems are beneficial to homeowners. Bonus - The Flo-Free leaf guard system works with your existing gutters or can be purchased to fit a new gutter solution you are considering for an upgrade.
Gutters protect your house from the weather elements by carrying rain water away from your home. However, gutter maintenance can be expensive, time-consuming, and difficult. Leaves, twigs, and other debris accumulation can block gutter systems, causing water to overflow into your gutter system and ultimately into your home.
Leaf guards are gutter protection systems that allow you to conduct gutter maintenance more efficiently by preventing leaves and debris from getting stuck in the guttering system of your house.
The Inspiration Behind Flo-Free Leaf Guards
Back in the 1980’s, the now President of DCI Products was a contractor who went on countless calls to customers who faced issues such as rotted wood on the fascia, foundation damage, internal water damage and clogged gutters. Understanding that all of these problems originated from a clogged gutter he searched for a long-term solution. Not satisfied with the gutter protection that was available on the market, he designed a flexible, durable and strong nylon matrix that would later be named Flo-Free Leaf Guard.
In 1989, Flo-Free became available to the public along with its LIFETIME WARRANTY. There are now hundreds of varieties of gutter guards on the market and there are also many that have also been discontinued, but for the past 30 YEARS, Flo-Free has remained the choice for a long lasting solution to keeping debris out of the gutter.
How Do Gutter Clogs Affect My Home?
A gutter blockage and debris buildup can cause a lot of damage to your existing gutters. You have to remove the gutter debris or risk water overflow when it rains. This will cause guttering systems to begin overflowing, and in some cases, may even result in roof damage, or worse, foundation damage. Replacing a gutter with a leaf guard is much easier than replacing the gutter system of your house.
Gutters are designed to carry away rainwater from your home, not to protect you from the weather elements. A guttering system that is clogged with debris can mean extra work when you are home and an increased risk of damage during a storm. Gutter leaf guards provide guttering systems with great gutter protection from the weather elements.
Will Flo-Free Leaf Guards Help Protect My Roof?
Yes! Flo-Free gutter guards help protect roofs because gutter leaf guards prevent debris clogs and gutter system damage. Gutter guards also help in increasing the life of your roof by preventing leaves and other debris from clogging up the gutter opening. Furthermore, guttering systems that are not obstructed by leaves and debris can function more efficiently to carry out rainwater from your home.
Best of all, your roof shingle warranty is not voided because, unlike other products that nail or screw into your roof, Flo-Free fits 100% into your gutter without attaching to your shingles and is 3/4" thick for superior strength and durability.
Are Flo-Free Leaf Guards Expensive?
Gutter guards are often perceived as expensive, but gutter protection system costs can be worth the time and money saved by preventing guttering blockages.
All gutter guard systems vary in price - for instance, gutter covers may be cheaper than gutter mesh grills - so it is up to you to determine which gutter guard best suits your guttering system and gutter protection needs. However, gutter protection systems should not be seen as an expense but as a long-term investment for your home. The exact cost is determined based on your gutter system preference and the overall size of the gutter project. For more information about your leaf guard cost...
Different Types of Gutter Guard Systems
Gutters with gutter guards installed keep water flowing smoothly, preventing gutter blockages that can lead to excess water leaking into your home. The following list includes the main types of gutter guards available:
Screens
Metal guttering guards with a large-holed pattern on one side and a decorative metal pattern on the other side. Leaves and small debris are pushed through the gutter guard by raindrops, but water flows smoothly through the holes in the gutter guards.
Flo-Free Leaf Guard Gutter Gaskets
Rubber guttering gasket systems that fit inside rain gutters downpipes and redirect gutter water through guttering tunnels. Leaves and debris are pushed away from gutter tunnels, but gutter water flows smoothly through the holes in guttering gasket systems.
Reverse Curve Gutter Guards
or surface tension gutter guards are designed to move rainwater down and over the curve and into your gutters. Surface tension gutter guards are supposed to push leaves and other debris over the curve and onto the ground, rather than collecting them in your gutters.
Other styles of gutter guard options are available.
Micro Mesh Gutter Guards
If you have friends or neighbors using a micro mesh gutter guard, chances are they’re not happy with the performance of the product. This is because debris frequently builds up on these guards or water deflects off the fine mesh, causing more problems than before it was installed. Micro mesh gutter guards are widely available for further gutter guard reviews.
Benefits Of Gutter Guards Include:
- Gutter guard systems prevent leaves and debris from blocking gutters of homes.
- All gutter protection system styles are available to purchase for varying budgets.
- Gutters that function smoothly can protect your gutter systems for years. With guttering guard systems, gutter maintenance is a thing of the past.
- Gutter guard gaskets prevent gutter blockages and gutter overflow, keeping water flowing away from the guttering system of your home.
- When you get involved with gutter guards such as Flo-Free Leaf Guard you get all these benefits and more. Choosing which gutter guard is best for your guttering system depends on personal preference, guttering type and guttering exposure. However, gutter guards can be a great gutter protection solution for many households.
- In conclusion, gutter leaf guard gives homeowners gutter protection from the elements by redirecting water flow smoothly through the holes in guttering grills. Guttering guard systems come in different styles to suit varying budgets.
Do I Have To Clean My Flo-Free Leaf Guards?
Generally, Flo-Free gutter leaf gutter gasket systems are designed to be left alone. They are made to keep gutter debris out of the guttering system, not capture gutter debris for frequent gutter cleaning.
Flo-Free does not usually need to be cleaned, however, depending on the surrounding conditions, it may make sense to make sure everything looks good about every 2-5 years. Sometimes in heavy tree areas, the roof and gutters may need a quick brush off. This can be done from the ground with a FF Shingle Brush.
The best way to prevent gutter blockages is to install Flo-Free gutter leaf gasket guards; these guttering systems will protection systems are less labor-intensive than traditional guttering methods because they are designed to keep guttering free of unnecessary buildup.
5 Easy Tips that Will Prevent Your Gutters from Getting Clogged
1. Inspect and Clean Your Downspouts Monthly (or more often as required)
Leaf clogs are one of the most frustrating problems for homeowners. They begin at your gutters, where they meet with downspouts from roofs on houses around you--even if an individual tree doesn't make its way into any gutter system orchardists' homes! All it takes is a small piece of debris blocking up those pipes to start things moving again...water will first build pressure until finally overflowing out onto nearby properties; this can be especially disastrous since water may go straight through foundation cracks without ever being absorbed by earth below them.
Autumn leaves are everywhere this time of year, so it's no wonder that once they fall off the trees into your gutters you'll want to take care of them. Pick a set day per month and make sure no 30 days pass without climbing up there yourself! But if a significant windstorm has just passed - don't forget about inspecting things after all those crazy winds have died down; maybe some debris made its way in during their passage through town?
2. Trim Trees and Tall Hedges Away from Your Roof’s Edge
Gutter cleaning is a necessary task for those who suffer from clogged gutters. The leaves, twigs, flora, pine needles, and other natural growth that builds up in the rain gutter can cause clogs that cause water to overflow over the front of the gutter, or even worse, water goes under the drip edge and into the fascia board causing major leaks.
To avoid this problem you should always have professionals clean out these obstructions so they don't pose any threat when it comes time to sell or buy property again!
3. Remove the Potential for Airborne Debris
Ever wonder why your gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other debris? The answer may surprise you. It's because of a natural phenomenon called leaf drop, which happens when trees shed their old leaves in preparation for the new one's oncoming autumn season. Heavy winds can carry these branches into gutters where they'll get stuck or jamming up parts ways down from rainwater runoff during heavy storms! So what should we do if this is an issue at our home too?! The best solution would be pruning away any unwanted growth near roofs as far back onto property lines possible - say six feet at least eight feet maximum every direction.
4. Install a Leaf (and Debris) Protection System
With your gutters clean and your surrounding property maintained it is time to put a literal cap on the solution. Install gutter covers/guards on the run of your entire system. This essential accessory will prevent anything (but rainwater) from entering your gutters. The Flo-Free Leaf Guard System, for example, is the best on the market and will make clogging a non-issue for your property for many years to come.
5. Install Premium Grade Gutters
Last but not least is the most important element in your mission to keep clogs at bay. Your entire existing gutter system may be a problem because regular maintenance can get expensive and painful, with yearly cleanings turning into emergencies when you need them most! But by making a relatively small investment (in comparison) on premium gutters such as Flo-Free, will obliterate all potential for blocked drains season after season.
Installing Flo-Free Leaf Guards
DCI Products Flo-Free Leaf Guards are installed with the gutter guard inside your gutter system. The gutter guards are made out of durable, high-quality materials that will last for years. They also come in a variety of gutter styles and sizes are available to match any style of home or business. Professional installation is not necessary for gutter guards, but you will want to make sure they are installed correctly.
You will want to install a gutter guard system to protect against debris clogs in your rain gutters. Clogs can lead to drainage issues, which can result in water damage or mold growth. Gutter guards also prevent gutter accidents including gutter leaks and gutter overflow. Gutter clogs are typically caused by leaves, small debris and small particles from bushes and trees, pine needles, and shingle grit. Most debris accumulation comes from windy conditions vs. heavy downpours or direct water.
Flo-Free Leaf Guards can prevent up to 98% of gutter blockage and improve gutter flow by 87%. Gutter guards are available for all gutter shapes and sizes, so you should have no problem finding one that fits your gutter system. manufacturer. You can easily get assistance from gutter experts. Gutter leaf gasket guards are easy to maintain, so you do not have to worry about gutter maintenance.
Do I Need to Have Flo-Free Leaf Guards Professionally Installed?
Professional installation is not necessary for gutter guards because Flo-Free Leaf Guards are easy to install. However, installation costs of professionally installed Fro-Free Leaf Guards are easily offset by the savings on gutter clogs and gutter damage later. Although some preventative service of your leaf guard system is recommended from time to time, periodic service does not typically require a professional. If you are unsure or incapable of performing the Flo-Free Leaf Guard Installation, we would recommend contacting a capable, insured remodeling contractor, roofing contractor, carpenter contractor or a gutter contractor to perform the Flo-Free Leaf Guard installation for you.
The Installation Process and Tips for Flo-Free Leaf Guard
Step 1: Ensure guttering is in good condition and not leaking.
Step 2: Clean guttering of existing debris
Step 3: Cover gutter grill with gutter guard material. You will want to ensure that the gutter guards are sealed tightly in place and that there is no debris in front of the gutter guards.
Step 4: Check regularly for any gutter clogs and gutter overflows. Clear the smallest debris from gutter with a gutter brush or broom. You can also use a hose to clean gutter guards, but make sure you do not damage guttering while using the hose.
What If My Gutters Freeze Or Have Ice Dams Form In The Winter?
Flo-Free helps eliminate winter ice dams caused by snow build-up in your gutters. Flo-Free only allows rainwater and melting water to penetrate through the protective layer and does not affect the roof shingles which allows the entire mouth of the gutter to accept rainwater.
What Is The Life Expectancy of Flo-Free Leaf Guard?
The life expectancy of gutter leaf guards is dependent on gutter size and gutter material. A gutter guard system should not require replacement for at least 5-10 years, but gutter guards do wear out over time due to weather damage, clogging, gutter wear and tear, and corrosion of gutter steel. After gutter leaf gasket guards wear out you can easily uninstall them and reinstall gutter leaf gasket guard system with new guttering materials without making any gutter changes.
Some Pros and Cons of Flo-Free Leaf Guards
Pros:
- Ultimate Gutter Protection with maximum rain flow
- Contractor and DYI friendly installation
- UV Protection & Lifetime Warranty
- Virtually invisible from the ground
- Proven protection since 1989
- Keeps almost everything out of the gutter.
- Holds up to branches, snow, ice, and strong winds.
- Can work with various roof types: shingles, shakes, steel, slate, tile, etc.
- A variety of gutter styles and sizes are available.
- Affordable.
- Easy to clean.
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons:
- May need occasional cleaning or maintenance to ensure optimal performance and life expectancy.
Gutter Shapes and Sizes
How do I know what size gutters are on my house?
To determine what size and style gutter will require you to have access to the gutter. (If you are uncomfortable climbing on ladders we suggest you call a professional)
The two most common style gutters are the K-style and Half-round as shown below:
To Determine The Size Of The Gutter...
...you will need to measure from the back to the front of the gutter mouth or opening. In most cases, your measurement will be 5 or 6 inches across.
Please see the images below:
In this example, the gutter mouth measures 6″ across. It is referred to as a 6″ K-style gutter.
Fascia gutters are similar in look to a K-style gutter. The face of the gutter is usually slanted, but may also have a concave appearance. In California and other Western states fascia gutters are becoming more common.
Custom Sizes will require measurements to be submitted and may change the leaf guard cost. Flo-Free is manufactured for 5K, 6K, 5R, 6R, and custom gutters.
What’s Your Next Step?
Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed by issues with your gutter system. We've done the homework on leaf guard reviews so you don't have to!
We’re confident that our is more effective than all the other options.
Our gutter guards provide solutions to your most common problems with leaf guards.
Flo-Free - Gutter Guard REVIEWS
If you are still uncertain, this is what customers say about Flo-Free leaf guards:
“I've had the gutter guards installed for about 6 months now, and am very impressed with how well they do their job. We have not had nearly as many incidents of clogging or gutter overflow, since there is no foliage around the house. It was a little more difficult to get the gutter guards in place, but once I got them in place, they have stayed put. They look good too! I would highly recommend these gutter leaf gasket guards”
- Katie
“Install on this gutter guard system was easy and took less than an hour total. This gutter leaf gasket guard system can be used on any roof type which is convenient, considering all of my neighbors have gutter guards installed on their homes. So far my gutter leaf gasket guard system is working great and these gutter gaskets have not moved from when I first installed them 5 months ago. Highly recommend”
- Peter
How to Purchase Flo-Free?
You can purchase Flo-Free directly through an ever-growing number of building supply & home improvement stores but the best way to find out where is to contact DCI Products directly so we can best serve you. Leaf guard cost does vary by the style and size of your home.
Please contact us via our toll-free number 800-622-4455
Our hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST
If you are calling after hours please leave a message with our service and we will return your call the following business day.
If you have detailed questions or would like to submit feedback please email us at:
Please include your name and telephone number so we may contact you.
Flo-Free Warranty Info. And Additional Benefits
“Ensuring Your Flo-Free Leaf Guard Stays in place is How We Can Offer You Our Lifetime Limited Warranty” - DCI Products
You may ask yourself, “Why Seal the Flo-Free into the gutter?”
Here are some of the benefits:
- Eliminates the worry of high winds ripping the material away from the gutter.
- By attaching the Flo-Free to the gutters makes this product an asset and is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy.
- Allows the Flo-Free Leaf Guard to withstand heavy snow loads without dislodging in the winter.