The experts of HGTV say you should always have gutter guards. Gutter guards are incredibly cost effective and useful. They eliminate the need for what can be a dangerous chore, while increasing property value. For these reasons it doesn't make any sense to not have them. Gutter guards fall into 2 categories: gutter covers and gutter screens. Screens are usually made of wire mesh, nylon or foam. Gutter screens are simpler and cheaper to install, but usually don’t last as long. Gutter covers sit on top of your gutters, so their appearance is often more pleasing. Also, gutter covers limit the water flow into your gutters because… well… they cover the gutters. They can be made out of a variety of materials, including copper, aluminum, plastic, wire mesh, nylon and foam.