Which type of gutter guard works best?

Micro-mesh

Works best for: pines, mixed trees, seeds and fine debris. Weak spot: pollen and grit can film the surface, and quality varies widely, so look for stainless mesh on a rigid frame.

Hood or reverse curve

Works best for: large hardwood leaves on low to moderate pitches. Weak spot: in heavy rain on steep roofs, water can overshoot the curve, and needles and small debris can follow water into the slot. They are also the most visible from the street.

Metal screens

Works best for: big, flat leaves on one-story homes, on a budget. Weak spot: needles, seeds and oak tassels slip through or stick in the openings.

Brush inserts

Works best for: light leaf loads where you want a no-tools install. Weak spot: needles and seeds tangle in the bristles, and the brushes must be pulled out and shaken to clean.

Foam inserts

Works best for: occasional light debris, short term. Weak spot: clogs with grit, sprouts seeds, holds moisture and breaks down in sun within a few years.

A quick picker

• Pines anywhere near the house: micro-mesh.
• Big leaves only, one story, tight budget: metal screen.
• Big leaves, moderate pitch, and you want a tidy look: hood or mesh.
• Few trees: probably no guard.

Whatever the type, it only works on a gutter that drains properly. See gutter sizing, seamless gutters and guards and trees and your roof.