When it comes to home maintenance, few chores are as dreaded (or more annoying) as cleaning the eavestroughs. Climbing a ladder twice a year to scoop out leaves, pine needles, and sludge isn’t just unpleasant, but it can also be unsafe.
Maybe that’s why more and more people are searching “are gutter guards worth it?” every year. To answer quickly: yes, if you choose the right system and have it installed properly.
So, let’s dig into the truth about eavestrough protection, what makes it effective, and why it’s one of the easiest upgrades you can make for your home.
What Gutter Guards Actually Do
Gutter guards (AKA eavestrough protection systems) cover your eavestroughs with a perforated or layered surface that allows water to flow in while keeping debris out.
They’re designed to:
- Prevent clogs and overflows that can damage soffit, fascia, and foundations
- Keep roof-edge drainage working properly during heavy Ontario rain and melting snow
- Extend the life of your aluminum eavestroughs by protecting caulking and hangers from UV damage
Without gutter protection, debris buildup can cause water to back up under shingles, freeze into ice dams, and spill over into gardens and foundations. Over time, that is basically guaranteed to cause costly repairs, which is why you should consider quality eavestrough protection as an investment, not an expense.
Common Myths About Gutter Guards
Myth #1: “They make gutters maintenance-free.”
We wish this was true, but alas no man-made product on the market is truly maintenance-free (and that includes gutter guards).
BUT… with a proper system, cleaning becomes much easier and safer. Instead of climbing a ladder and bending down to scoop out debris, most homeowners only need a light seasonal sweep with a leaf blower, broom, or hose that can take a few minutes rather than hours of manual labour.
Myth #2: “All gutter guards are the same.”
Not even close. Big-box vinyl guards that you can get from Home Depot, Rona, or Canadian Tire tend to crack in cold weather and collapse under ice. Mesh screens can clog with pine needles and require frequent cleaning.
The best eavestrough guards are engineered aluminum systems, like Alu-Rex, which use advanced drainage technology to handle heavy rainfall while blocking even fine debris. That brings us to the next point…
The Technology Behind Modern Eavestrough Protection
Today’s systems go far beyond simple covers.
For example, Alu-Rex Gutter Clean Pro® uses a dual-layer design with micro-perforations and built-in water-flow technology:
- Vortex™ high-volume drainage pulls water through efficiently, even during record storms.
- Rollback+™ overflow control channels excess rain back into the gutter instead of over the edge.
- Eclipse™ fine-debris blocking stops small particles and pine needles from clogging the trough.
And because it’s made of heavy-gauge aluminum, it won’t rust, warp, or weaken under snow and ice.
Why Aluminum Systems Outperform Plastic and Mesh Guards
As you’ve probably experience yourself, Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable (from heavy rain and winds to deep freeze to sunny and 20 degrees, within days).
That’s where aluminum stands apart.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Strong, rust-resistant, holds shape in heat/cold, matches aluminum eavestroughs | Slightly higher cost upfront |
| Vinyl | Cheap and easy to find | Cracks, warps, and pulls away in cold |
| Steel | Very strong | Rusts and stains over time |
| Plastic mesh | Lightweight | Clogs quickly, limited lifespan |
When you factor in longevity, warranty, and appearance, aluminum guards deliver the best value for Ontario homes.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It? (The Real Answer)
If you live in a wooded area, near tall maples or pines, or just want to avoid climbing ladders every season, then…
… yes, gutter guards are absolutely worth it.
They:
- Prevent foundation erosion from overflowing water
- Reduce the risk of ice buildup and roof damage
- Extend eavestrough lifespan by preventing warping and corrosion
- Cut down on cleaning time and maintenance costs
Most homeowners see their investment pay off in a few short years through reduced maintenance and long-term protection.
Our Recommendation: Alu-Rex Gutter Clean Pro® and DoublePro™
We’ve seen nearly every system on the market over the years (good, great, okay, and terrible), and the Alu-Rex line continues to stand above the rest for Ontario weather.
Gutter Clean Pro® (Retrofit System)
- Dual-layer perforated aluminum guard for existing eavestroughs
- Lifetime transferable clog-free warranty
- Made in Quebec, built for Canadian winters
DoublePro™ (Continuous Hanger System)
- Ideal for new seamless aluminum eavestroughs
- Combines dual-membrane filtration with full-length hanger support
- Adds strength and eliminates weak points along the run
Both systems protect against heavy rainfall, ice, and debris, while maintaining smooth roof-edge drainage year-round.
How Eavestrough Protection Adds Curb Appeal, Too
Aside from function, seamless aluminum guards create a clean, finished look along the roof edge.
No more gaps, bulges, or visible joints. Aluminum protection blends neatly with your fascia and siding, especially when colour-matched to your home’s trim!
Get Professional Eavestrough Protection Installed in Southern Ontario
If you’ve been searching for “eavestrough protection near me” or “gutter guard installation near me,” and landed here… you’re in the right spot. Professional installation makes all the difference.
At The Eavestrough Company, we use Canadian-sourced aluminum from Gentek, Kaycan, and Royal Building Solutions, backed by strong manufacturer and workmanship warranties.
Our certified team installs Alu-Rex Gutter Clean Pro®, DoublePro™, and their other systems across:
Hamilton | Burlington | Oakville | Mississauga | Brantford | Cambridge | St. Catharines | and everywhere in between
Protect your home from clogs, overflow, and ice damage with a proper eavestrough guard system.
