Gutter guards keep debris like twigs, pine needles, and leaves out of gutters to prevent clogging. They can be installed by a do-it-yourself homeowner, but they must have ladder safety skills and the proper tools.
Start by researching the products available. Compare features, warranties, and prices. Also, note any obstructions that could increase labor costs, such as a large tree or complex landscaping. Click here for more info.
Clean the Gutters
Gutter guards prevent clogs by blocking leaves, dirt, and debris while allowing water to flow into gutters and downspouts. The resulting water flow diverts away from the foundation and exterior of homes, preventing damage.
Clogged gutters can cause a variety of problems, including watermarks on home exteriors, flooding, mosquito infestation, and even foundation damage. Gutter guards cut down the need for regular cleaning, reducing maintenance from twice to once per year.
Before tackling gutter guard installation, homeowners should clean the gutters thoroughly. They should also gather all the tools and supplies needed to complete the project. It’s wise to thoroughly read the manufacturer’s instructions and recruit a partner to assist on the ladder.
Uncleaned gutters can attract pests like rodents and squirrels, which will build nests inside the accumulated debris. Moreover, uncovered gutters can easily catch fire, especially in bushfire-prone areas. Gutter guards spare gutters from these pests by blocking them, making the system a fire-safe and effective investment for homeowners.
Measure the Gutters
Gutter guards help to keep leaves, twigs, seeds, shingle grit, and other debris out of the gutter system. This reduces cleaning, repair, and replacement costs for homeowners and prevents clogs from developing that can cause overflowing water and attract pests to the home’s roof or walls.
Before purchasing gutter guards, it’s important to know how to measure the size of your gutters for accurate sizing. This will ensure you get the best product to fit your specific needs and eliminate the risk of ordering incorrectly sized materials that will not work as intended.
To measure your gutters, start at one end of the gutter section and extend your measuring tape or wheel to the other end. Take note of the measurement, making sure to add 10% to account for waste and overlap. A notepad and pencil will make it easy to record your measurements. Lastly, be sure to use a ladder that is stable and well-secured.
Purchase the Materials
The types of gutter guards available to homeowners vary in price and durability. Homeowners can purchase foam, brush, micro-mesh, and screen styles that fit into or over the gutter system. They can also buy copper, stainless steel, and aluminum versions. These options depend on the homeowner’s budget and aesthetics. Some homeowners also consider the weather in their geographic area. If the area frequently experiences high winds, for example, low-cost plastic screens might blow off during storms. The same is true for snowy areas, where ice dams may form and damage the roof or gutter system.
Gutter cover materials range in price from less than $100 to more than $300 per linear foot. Some professional installers offer discounts for multiple installations. Homeowners should read installation instructions carefully before starting this project. They should be comfortable working on ladders and the roof and should have the right tools, including a power drill, screwdriver, tin snips, and a circular saw.
Install the Gutters
Gutters are essential for directing rainwater away from the home’s foundation and preventing water damage. However, leaves, twigs, and other debris often clog gutters, creating a dangerous situation for the home. Gutter guards are designed to keep these items out of the gutter while allowing rainwater to flow through freely.
While many homeowners choose to install gutter guards themselves, these products do require some labor to be properly installed. Depending on the product and your roof, preparation time and installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
If you do decide to attempt a DIY installation, carefully follow the instructions and be sure to practice ladder safety. Ensure that your gutters are free from debris and that they are a suitable length for the type of guard you are using. For example, some guards that go under the shingles will need to be cut to size. Most manufacturers recommend overlapping your guard sections by about a half inch unless otherwise specified. Refer to This Web Page.
