Best Gutter Guards for Metal Roofs – A Buyers Guide

You’ve decided you need a gutter guard to finally resolve the issue of clogged gutters. Looking at your sleek metal roof, you wonder whether you can use any type of gutter guard. The answer is probably not. 

Metal roofs have unique characteristics that affect the performance of gutter guards, making it essential to choose the right one. In this guide, compiled for serious buyers, we’ll delve into what you need to make an informed decision.

If you’re ready to invest in gutter guards and get rid of gutter cleaning, then stick with us for this 5 minute read, and you’ll be glad you did. 

Do Metal Roofs Need Special Gutter Guards?

Unique aspects of metal roofs that affect gutter guard choice

Roof pitch and design

Metal roofs often have a steeper pitch than traditional shingle roofs. This steep pitch allows for faster water runoff, which can overwhelm standard gutter guard systems and gutter guards. In Kansas City, where the rainfall can be significant, you need the right size gutter and a gutter guard that is designed to withstand the volume of rain that the area receives. 

Additionally, metal roofs can feature complex designs with multiple angles and slopes, creating unique challenges for gutter guard installation. A suitable gutter guard system will be tailored to accommodate the specific pitch and design of your metal roof because this is essential for water management and debris control. 

Specialized designs such as screen gutter guards, micro mesh guards, and reverse curve guards are often recommended these will be compared below.

What about brush gutter guards? Yes, we know these are a popular choice among homeowners, but honesty is the best policy, and this type of guard isn’t the best for metal roofs. (see end of article)

Thermal expansion and contraction

Metal roofs expand and contract with temperature changes, a phenomenon known as thermal expansion and contraction. In climates that are very hot during the day and very cold at night, these changes can cause stress to the gutter system. Under this kind of strain most gutter guards get some kind of warping or distortion. 

It is advisable to choose materials that can handle temperature-induced movements without compromising the structural integrity of the gutters and the roof.  Proper gutter guard installation is also key, ensuring that gutter guards remain in place despite the metal roof’s natural movement.  

Smooth surface

The smooth surface of metal roofs facilitates the quick shedding of rainwater, snow and debris. This is advantageous in preventing the accumulation of water and debris. However, this is only effective when your gutters and gutter guards can handle the volume of water, snow, ice, and debris.

This unique attribute of metal roofs calls for a gutter guard that will guide water into the gutter while keeping debris out. It should also be able to carry the additional weight of snowfall. Surface tension gutter guards are the ideal solution for this feature of metal roofs. 

Solid-gauge gutter guard catalog

Aesthetic considerations

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their longevity and sleek modern appearance. Therefore, the gutter guard should complement this appearance and be compatible with the roof style instead of detracting from it. Every homeowner should ask themselves why they would spend money on a premium quality metal roof and then add cheap looking gutter guards. It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. 

With so many styles, designs, and colors available, there is no need for your gutter guard to stick out like a sore thumb. Besides, there’s something really satisfying about knowing that you’ve achieved a victory against gutter cleaning and haven’t had to ruin the aesthetics to do it!

Key Features to Look for in a Gutter Guard for Metal Roofs

All gutter guards have the same goal: Keep debris out of the gutter and water flowing freely in the gutter. However, they are not all created equally, so you need a list of key features that you can use to evaluate your shortlist.

Durability and weather resistance 

Choosing durable and weather-resistant gutter guards ensures long-lasting protection for your gutters. High quality materials like aluminum, galvalume and copper are resistant to rust and corrosion, which extends the lifespan of your gutter system. These materials can withstand heavy rainfall, snow, and high winds without deteriorating. This means fewer replacements and repairs over time, saving you money and hassle. Moreover, durable gutter guards maintain their effectiveness and appearance, providing consistent protection and adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of your home​.

Ease of installation and maintenance

Whether to choose a DIY or a professional installation is a decision that should be weighed carefully. 

Certain gutter guards, like screens and micromesh, are typically easy to install. This lends itself to DIY projects. However, solid surface designs should not be installed by anyone other than a professional. If it’s installed wrong, it can lead to significant problems.

Additionally, gutter guards that require very minimal maintenance keep your gutters operating as they should, without the need for frequent cleanings. This should be the goal of every gutter guard shopper. After all, if it doesn’t reduce your maintenance, then what’s the point?

Therefore, look for designs that allow debris to slide off or be easily rinsed away, reducing the time and effort spent on upkeep.

Compatibility with roof design

We’ve discussed this earlier in the article, but it is worth mentioning again. Gutter guards must be compatible with the roof design and material to avoid problems. The fit and functionality of the gutter guard should take preference over cost if you want a long term solution. Don’t be afraid (or reluctant) to get as many quotes as you want from gutter guard companies. 

When a consultant comes to your home, take note of whether they take roof design and materials into consideration. It’s usually the most professional and experienced that takes the time to properly assess your home. 

Now that you know what to look for, maybe you’re wondering if there is an ideal match out there. Finding the perfect gutter guard that meets all the unique needs of a metal roof might seem daunting, but there’s a standout option to consider. Advantage Gutter Guard® checks all the boxes and more. Let’s dive into why this product is a great fit for your metal roof and how it can provide the reliable protection you need.

The Best Choice for Metal Roofs – Advantage Gutter Guard®

For nearly 25 years, Gutter Cover KC® has had the time to observe what works and what doesn’t. This became the inspiration for our design of the premium quality gutter guard known as Advantage Gutter Guard®.

For metal roofs, it emerges as an outstanding choice and here’s why.

Technologically innovative design

This is a solid surface tension design, meaning debris falls off while the water goes in. It is also nose-forward, meaning it keeps out all clog-causing debris. 

Large volumes of water running off your metal roof’s steep pitch are no match for Advantage Gutter Guard® because it guides all water into the gutter using the scientific principle of surface tension. It has been 3rd party tested to handle 3x the volume of a typical midwestern rainstorm. 

Superior durability and weather resistance

Made from heavy-gauge aluminum, galvalume or copper – Advantage Gutter Guard ® is engineered for maximum durability and weather resistance. Its robust construction ensures it won’t rust, corrode, or deteriorate, even under harsh weather conditions. This longevity provides a lasting solution that minimizes the need for frequent replacements or repairs. No plastic – it won’t warp from high temperatures.

Advantage Gutter Guard® can handle ice and snow

Subject to rigorous third-party testing, it demonstrates the ability to withstand 122 lbs. of pressure per linear foot, effectively safeguarding gutters from the burden of ice and snow.

To provide some perspective, this equates to supporting 4 feet of solid ice or 12 feet of snow stacked on top of it.

In essence, Advantage Gutter Guard® not only shields your home and gutter system but also offers enduring protection, unlike plastic or flimsy metal alternatives that deteriorate over time. Our premium materials guarantee a long-lasting solution.

Aesthetic appeal

If you could describe a gutter guard as ‘sexy,’ we would definitely say that about Advantage Gutter Guard ®. Its perfectly rounded curves and smooth angular lines look pretty good with the metal roof. You might say it’s a match made in heaven, as it complements and rounds off the exterior of your home. 

It comes in 33 colors, galvalume and copper, complementing the most complex roof layout. 

Professional installation

We don’t do DIY kits of our product. This is because we care about how it operates and what it looks like on your home. Our in-house trained expert installers are the only ones that we trust to get the job done properly. Another reason for this is the lifetime no-clog warranty. To honor this warranty, we have to be sure we installed our product, that the gutters were clean, and that water was flowing freely in the gutters before we left the site. 

Once you make the decision that gutter guards are worth the investment, you want to go all the way and get them correctly installed. This way, you also know that your metal roof will not be damaged and your property will be left in the same way as we found it. 

Designed to Work Perfectly With Metal Roofs

A unique benefit of the Advantage Gutter Guard® to metal roofs is its installation. The Advantage Gutter Guard® was designed to be highly versatile and to install on virtually any roof style. Because of this, we can install with a metal roof in such a way that our product follows the roofline perfectly and functionally becomes an extension of the roofline. This means the water flows effortlessly from the metal roof into the gutter with no overflow. It is also installed with no damage to the roof, which cannot be said of all systems.

Lifetime NO CLOG warranty

Yes, we did mention this, but we thought we should say it twice. Unfortunately, it’s extremely rare nowadays to find a company that can honor a lifetime warranty. We are very sure of our product’s ability to keep debris out of your gutter because we’ve seen it in action for many years. However, if you do get a clogged gutter for any reason while our product is installed, we will send over a technician to remove it at no cost to you.

Advantage Gutter Guard ® is the top choice for metal roofs, but we understand that you might want to explore other gutter guards – we all love to have choices, after all. You can continue reading to discover how other gutter guards respond to the challenges of having a metal roof.

Other Gutter Guards for Metal Roofs – Pros and Cons

Micro mesh gutter guard

Pros

1. Can be a cheap option: Prices vary widely, but the design is functionally the same for all. Cost-effective forms are readily available.
2. Sometimes made of aluminum or stainless steel: If made from these materials, these guards are resistant to corrosion.
3. Keeps the inside of the gutters clean: This design is effective at keeping the inside of the gutters clean.

Cons

1. Can be expensive: Some versions of this design can be very expensive. Be mindful of the price tag.
2. Usually have plastic in them: Poly-made products have been known to expand in heat.
3. Water overflows: The mesh accumulates debris on top. If not cleaned off regularly, water will shoot over the gutter in heavy rains.

Foam gutter guard

Pros

1. Cost-effective: Probably the most cost-effective option in term of initial investment.
2. Great DIY option: Foam gutter guards are easy to install and can typically be fitted into the gutters without professional help.

Cons

1. Requires frequent cleaning: The foam materials clogs with small debris, requiring frequent cleaning for them to work properly.
2. Require periodic replacement: Over time, foam can degrade, especially under constant exposure to UV rays and extreme weather. Heavy snow and ice break down the material.

Brush gutter guard

Pros

1. Great DIY option: Brush gutter guards are simple to install and often do not require professional assistance. They fit directly into the gutters without any special tools.
2. Keep out larger debris: The bristles effectively trap larger debris like leaves and twigs.

Cons

1. Requires frequent cleaning: While they block larger debris, smaller debris gets stuck in the bristles, leading to blockages and clogs over time. This requires frequent cleaning.
2. Require periodic replacement: Over time, the bristles can become worn and less effective, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Screen gutter guard

Pros

1. Can be a cheap option: Prices vary widely, but the design is functionally the same for all. Cost-effective forms are readily available.
2. Sometimes made of aluminum: If they are made from aluminum, these guards are resistant to corrosion.
3. Often easily a DIY option

Cons

1. Can be expensive: Some versions of this design can be very expensive. Be mindful of the price tag.
2. Requires regular adjustment to installation: These systems do not typically attach well to the gutter, meaning they often require adjustment. Also, they attract birds and birds nests, so be conscious of maintenance.
3. Water overflows: The screen accumulates debris on top and the typically large openings in the screen allow debris through. If not cleaned off regularly, water will shoot over the gutter in heavy rains.
4. Screens are often plastic and won’t hold up to heat or the weight of snow and ice.

Feel like throwing in the towel?

Choosing the best gutter guard for metal roofs might feel like a daunting exercise right now, leaving you wondering if you really need gutter guards. We understand that sometimes it can be like that when you’re embarking on a new project. 

Most of the time, it’s the hassle of getting that first quote or estimate that causes homeowners to procrastinate. We’ve all been there. 

We’d like to make it easy for you. You can get a no-obligation, free estimate from Gutter Cover KC®. Once you do, all the hard work will be over. Take that first step now so that you show off your new gutter guards to the Jones’s who will be jealously watching you barbeque, while they’re stuck cleaning their gutters.