Gutter Topper or GutterFilter?

While there's certainly no shortage of gutter guard systems currently on the market, they're not all created equal. With similar names like gutter topper, gutter helmet and gutter filter and a nearly identical list of product benefits, how's an average homeowner supposed to know what to look for? We think the answer to topper vs. helmet vs. filter is good old-fashioned research and competitive analysis, and as experts in rain and leaf guard solutions, we're happy to help you start sorting it all out!

First up: gutter topper. Topper systems essentially extend directly from the roof edge across the top of your gutters and funnel water through a small, thin lip. Where water is designed to run into the lip, debris is supposed to continue out over the edge of the topper itself. Made of aluminum, the topper system is available in a variety of colors to match your home's exterior and is somewhat visible from the ground. Topper systems require professional installation by a contractor and roof penetration.

The GutterFilter system, on the other hand, is made of durable, pliable polyurethane and requires no roof penetration for installation, as it completely fills gutters, creating a "sieve-like" effect that allows water to flow through while blocking debris, large and small. GutterFilter is also completely invisible from the ground, so as not to alter the exterior appearance of your home.

What about Gutter Helmet?

So how does the gutter helmet system fare in comparison? Much like topper systems, helmet systems extend from your roof across the gutters where a small horizontal slit allows water to flow in as debris and leaves fall over the edge. Helmet systems are aslo made of aluminum and require roof penetration for installation. Unlike GutterFilter, gutter helmet systems are highly visible from the ground and do alter the exterior facade of the home.

Filter, helmet and topper systems come with a warranty.

Hopefully this information will be helpful as you begin to research rain and leaf gutter guard systems for your home. For more information about GutterFilter as compared to helmet and topper systems, please contact us by phone at 1-800-936-2166 or via our contact form.