MIND IN THE GUTTER: HOW A LEAF-FREE SYSTEM CAN SAVE YOU THE HASSLE OF CLEANING YOUR HOME'S GUTTERS AND POSSIBLY PREVENT ROOF AND PROPERTY DAMAGE. This article will investigate gutter shield/screen products that prevent leaves from collecting: their advantages and disadvantages, what features to look for, whether you should opt for professional installation or install yourself, and more. For this story, I’m looking to interview homeowners who have purchased a gutter shield/leaf screen product or system as well as industry experts who are familiar with these products and their pros and cons. I can either conduct a phone or email interview (with the latter, you can type up responses to my questions below and email them to me). My deadline to complete all interviews is Wednesday, July 22 by noon central time.

QUESTIONS:
1. (FOR HOMEOWNERS): When and why did you purchase a gutter shield / leaf screen product or system? What brand/model? What do you use it for? Are you satisfied with this purchase, or do you have regrets? What advice would you give others who are considering buying such a product or system? What is your full name, and city and state location? Are you a Costco member, and if so, for how many years?
2. (FOR INDUSTRY EXPERTS): How have gutter shield/leaf screen products or systems and the related technology improved in recent years? What new innovations, bells & whistles or materials are now included in today’s models?
3. What are the realistic benefits of these products and systems? What are the disadvantages or shortcomings? Are they truly “maintenance free?” what happens if a clog or leaf buildup occurs that requires someone to climb a ladder and fix the problem? What are realistic expectations consumers should have as to what a gutter shield/leaf screen product or system can do well vs. not do well?
4. What are the top selling and/or top-rated gutter shield/leaf screen products or systems today, and why? What are the best types of materials and features to look for?
5. What is the price range cost (low to high), including or not including installation, respectively? What features are included for the money?
6. Is it better to install these systems or products yourself, or hire a professional? What are the pros and cons of either approach?
7. What should shoppers consider carefully before purchasing a gutter shield/leaf screen product or system? What criteria/features should be considered?
8. Any other thoughts, comments, or tips you wanted to offer on this topic?
9. What is your full name, title/company (if you’re a business), and city/state location?
10. Are you a Costco member (not required), and if so, for how many years?