From DIY to Professionally installed systems -- there are endless options to gutter protection. If you have just started your research regarding gutter guards, you may have found that not all gutter protection systems are created equal. Let's take a look at what type of debris can get into your gutters with certain gutter protection systems: DIY gutter systems are relatively inexpensive systems that are installed by the homeowner. You can find them at the big home improvement stores. While cost-effective and convenient to purchase, homeowner solutions are mass produced and usually do not include any type of warranty. Usually, these types of systems will need to be replaced within a few years. Foam Gutter Guards: Foam gutter guards are a homeowner solution that is relatively inexpensive. Unfortunately, foam gutter guards will trap seeds, and with the abundance of moisture, weeds, plants and trees will begin to grow where they shouldn’t – in your gutters. Gutter Brush: Brush gutter guards are known to be an inexpensive short-term solution that homeowners can install themselves. The brush is placed into the gutters and is shaped like a giant pipe cleaner. These types of systems will eventually need to be removed and cleaned in order to prevent home damage. Metal Screen Guards: The DIY metal screen product is made out of steel or aluminum. These types of systems are relatively low cost and easy to install by the homeowner. It’s important to note that because of their larger openings, these types of gutter guards will not keep out smaller debris like pine needles, seeds, insects and shingle grit. Plastic Screen Guards: Plastic screen gutter guards are similar to metal screen options because they have wide openings. With the presence of larger openings, pine needles, leaves, seeds, dirt and insects will still enter and clog your gutters. Small Hole Gutter Guards: With small hole gutter guards, debris such as pine needles, shingle grit, seed pods, and dirt will enter your gutter, making these types of gutter guard inefficient. Professionally installed gutter guards are typically more of an investment than homeowner-installed options. These types of professional gutter protection systems have better clog protection and will last longer than the DIY options. Louver Gutter Guards: Although larger debris won’t find its way into your gutters, smaller items like leaves, pine needles, seed pods, pests, insects and shingle grit can enter and clog your gutters. Reverse Curve Gutter Guards: These type of systems feature a rounded hood that covers your gutters. With a large channel opening, small items will enter your gutter system. Micromesh Gutter Guards: Micromesh gutter guards are typically made of two main parts: an ultra-thin mesh material and a sturdy supporting frame. A micromesh filter is the best gutter guard on the market.