When it comes to protecting your gutters from debris and clogs, LeafFilter is often touted as the top solution. With its micro mesh technology and lifetime warranty, it's no wonder that many homeowners turn to this product for peace of mind. However, as an expert in the home improvement industry, I have seen firsthand the downside of LeafFilter that is often overlooked.
The Promise of LeafFilter
Before we dive into the downside, let's first understand what LeafFilter promises to deliver. The product claims to keep out all types of debris, including leaves, pine needles, and even shingle grit.It also boasts a no-clog guarantee and a lifetime transferable warranty. These promises are certainly appealing to any homeowner looking to protect their gutters. LeafFilter achieves its claims through its micro mesh technology, which is designed to allow water to flow through while keeping out debris. The product is also installed at an angle to ensure that leaves and other debris slide off instead of getting stuck on top.
The Hidden Downside
While LeafFilter may seem like the perfect solution for gutter protection, there is a hidden downside that many homeowners are not aware of. The micro mesh technology that makes LeafFilter so effective at keeping out debris can also cause issues with water flow. As water flows through the mesh, it can create a surface tension effect, causing the water to cling to the mesh instead of flowing into the gutter.This can result in water overflowing or spilling over the sides of the gutter, causing potential damage to your home's foundation and landscaping. In addition, the angle at which LeafFilter is installed can also contribute to water flow issues. If not installed at the correct angle, leaves and debris can get stuck on top of the mesh, preventing water from flowing through and defeating the purpose of the product.
The Cost of LeafFilter
Another downside of LeafFilter is its cost. While the product may seem like a one-time investment, it comes with a hefty price tag. The average cost of LeafFilter installation is around $20 per foot, making it one of the most expensive gutter protection options on the market. Furthermore, the lifetime warranty that LeafFilter offers may not be as beneficial as it seems.The warranty only covers the product itself and not any potential damage caused by water flow issues or improper installation. This means that if you do experience any issues with your gutters, you may still end up paying out of pocket for repairs.
The Maintenance Factor
One of the main selling points of LeafFilter is its promise of no maintenance. However, this is not entirely true. While the product may keep out debris, it can still collect dirt and other small particles on top of the mesh.Over time, this can create a layer of buildup that can affect water flow and require cleaning. In addition, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or high winds, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently to prevent overflow or clogs. This means that while LeafFilter may reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, it does not eliminate it entirely.
Alternatives to LeafFilter
So what are the alternatives to LeafFilter? As an expert in the home improvement industry, I have seen many different gutter protection options and have found that a combination of products often works best. One option is to install gutter guards that cover the entire gutter instead of just the top like LeafFilter. These guards are designed to allow water to flow through while keeping out debris. However, they may still require occasional cleaning to remove any buildup. Another option is to install a gutter helmet, which is a cover that sits on top of the gutter and allows water to flow through while keeping out debris.This option may be more expensive than gutter guards, but it also offers better protection against water flow issues.
