Gutter guards reduce cleaning frequency from twice-yearly to every 2-3 years. Product choice matters a lot.
Aluminium ember mesh (BAL zones)
1.8-2mm aperture aluminium. AS3959-compatible. Cost: $45-$80/m supplied and installed. The standard for Adelaide Hills and bushfire-prone properties.
Steel mesh (suburban)
Larger aperture (4-5mm), powder-coated. Good for moderate tree cover in non-bushfire zones. Cost: $30-$50/m. Colour can fade over time.
Aluminium mesh (suburban)
Similar to steel but won't rust. Cost: $35-$55/m. Lighter weight.
Plastic mesh - avoid
Cheap roll-on plastic clogs and degrades in UV within 3-7 years. Not bushfire-rated. False economy.
Do they actually work?
Honestly? They reduce cleaning frequency dramatically but don't eliminate it. Leaves rot on top, debris collects under valley folds. Expect every 2-3 years suburban, every 18-24 months Hills.