It seems like an easy shortcut or a cheap test before you invest in a gutter guard system, but the truth is less rosy. Pool noodles are great for backyard play, but they aren't impervious to outdoor weather. When used as “gutter covers,” they'll rot, clog your gutters, and can lead to major roof damage.
So, you saw it on social and thought it was a cool idea? Think again. The short answer: NO. And here’s why.
Why Pool Noodles Don’t Belong in Gutters
"Sure, it looks clever and cheap — like duct tape for your gutters — but it’s really more like stuffing a sponge in your drain," explains Jordan Lee, owner of Superior Gutter Company.
"Pool noodles degrade, go moldy, and trap dirt, which means water still goes everywhere it shouldn’t. In the long run, the ‘hack’ is way more hassle than help."
Noodles are made of foam that quickly breaks down when exposed to sun and rain. Instead of keeping gutters clear, they hold water, collect grime, and block flow. Once winter hits, trapped water freezes and expands, putting extra stress on gutter seams and brackets.
Real-Life Costs of the Pool Noodle Hack
What looks like a cheap fix can turn into a very expensive mistake. Broken gutter systems are a leading cause of water damage in and around the home, and Lee has seen the fallout firsthand. He shared a few examples with us:
- A Boise homeowner tried the pool noodle trick before winter and ended up with frozen blockages that split the gutter seams. The repair and repainting bill was $3,100.
- In Nampa, a family discovered water had backed up into the roof cavity after the noodles clogged. Replacing soaked insulation and drywall set them back $6,800.
- A Meridian rental property owner used the hack to save money, only to face mold spreading down interior walls. The cleanup and repainting cost around $4,200.
Better Ways to Keep Your Gutters Clear
The good news? There are better ways to protect gutters without resorting to pool toys. Lee shares three smart tips:
- Go for proper guards. "Mesh or foam guards are designed for gutters. They let water in, keep leaves out, and don’t turn into a science experiment after a few weeks."
- Trim overhanging branches. It'll reduce how many leaves and seeds fill your gutters. And, if you tell your homeowner's insurance you took the initiative, they might even cut you a break on your next bill as a thank you for your home maintenance.
- Clean your gutters more often (a.k.a. Don't be lazy, be amazey). “A quick clean each season works better than a TikTok fad. Your house deserves more than pool toys.” It's also worth highlighting that roof debris can wash into your gutters over time, so even if you live in an area with minimal trees, you should still do a visual inspection and cleaning twice a year.
Can Pool Noodles Work as Temporary Gutter Covers?
Some wonder if noodles are fine for a short-term fix. The answer is still NO. Why risk it? Even a few weeks of wet weather can turn them slimy, moldy, and useless. And once they start breaking down, little foam bits can clog downspouts, break gutter brackets, cause gutter overflowing, and cause foundation damage, mold growth, or roof leaks.
What’s the Easiest Way to Keep Gutters Clear Without Gadgets?
If you don’t want to install gutter screens, a seasonal clean is the simplest option. Clear leaves in the fall, check for nests or debris in the spring, and flush with water to confirm everything flows freely. This routine beats gimmicks and keeps your gutters working the way they should.
