Gutter Guard Installation

Gutter guards are also known as screens, helmets or covers, and they are installed over the gutters to prevent leaves, branches and other debris from getting in – they also allow water to drain properly from your home. Ideally, these guards will save you time and money in the long run, reducing maintenance costs or, worse, the cost of major home repairs. Many homeowners realize too late that clogged gutters can cause serious and expensive problems for their property. 

Gutter guards seem like the perfect solution to prevent clogged gutters. Plus, with a cover installed, you’ll never have to clean your gutters again. Right? 

Not so fast. Gutter guards can be a great tool if installed and maintained correctly, but they are not carefree. Generally, it’s important to note that gutter guards do not provide foolproof protection from all debris. However, they do help you reduce your annual upkeep, cleaning and maintenance costs. 

Inserts 

Inserts are the most cost-effective option and are the easiest for almost anyone to install. They simply drop into the existing gutter. No additional installation, skills or tools are required. They are usually made of foam, wire mesh and are of a porous 

quality. While they are the least expensive option, they also require the highest maintenance because they need to be pulled out and cleaned or they will become clogged with small debris and lose their effectiveness. 

Of the three types of gutter guards, screens are the most popular. They cover the existing gutter with a mesh that allows water to pass through but blocks debris. Like all gutter guards, screens also need to be removed and cleaned regularly. Screens vary in cost and installation costs. 

Toppers are the most expensive option, but they are also the most effective and require the least maintenance. They are usually curved or domed and provide protection over the top of the gutter. They channel water around and into a small gap between the gutter and the top edge. Most top edges require maintenance, as do all gutter guards. 

There are different types of gutter guards. In terms of materials, they can be made of plastic or polyethylene, aluminum, stainless steel. To make sure you invest in the right gutter guard system, you need to consider several important factors. 

First, consider the material of your roof, the type of structure or building, the design of the roof, and your location. 

Then, you need to make sure that the system you choose is effective — it should keep out unwanted debris and pests, but still allow water to pass through the roof effectively. 

Gutter guards also need to be cleaned regularly. Make sure you choose a system that is easy to clean or that does not require maintenance. 

Finally, consider its price. It should fit your needs and budget. 

Gutter guard installation may be cost-effective if any of the following conditions apply to you or cause you concern: 

If you don’t have gutter guards, pests can take up residence in your gutters. They can be used as nesting sites by animals such as mice, squirrels, bats, and birds. Mosquitoes can take advantage of the damp conditions, and spiders can spin webs and lay eggs. In addition to any other problems they can cause, these pests can clog or damage your gutters. Gutter guards help by making your gutters harder to access and less attractive. 

Any water that doesn’t flow out of your gutters can freeze if you live in a cold climate. Ice dams can form in your gutters when snow on your roof melts, runs down your gutters, and then freezes again. By removing obstructions and improving water flow, installing gutter guards allows melting snow to drain away efficiently instead of refreezing. 

If you live in an area prone to brush fires, your gutters can catch fire if they become clogged with dry leaves and pine needles. The embers can become airborne, settle in your gutters, and ignite debris. By creating a physical barrier between the windblown embers and any debris that ends up in your gutters, gutter guards help prevent debris from building up. 

You may have to spend time, money, or both to clear your gutters before the problem gets worse. For example, the weight of standing water and wet debris can cause your gutters to sag or slide away from your home. They are also prone to leaks and rust. High-quality gutter guards can significantly reduce or even eliminate clogs, requiring less regular maintenance and repairs. 

Water damage from clogged gutters can take many forms. They can clog your roof and ceiling, causing water damage, or they can overflow, causing soil erosion, foundation cracks, and basement flooding. Water that gets into places it shouldn’t can start to produce mold and mildew. Even your landscaping can be damaged by runoff that creates channels through it. Installing gutter guards reduces water damage by keeping pests and debris out of your gutters, where they can cause clogs. 

There are basically three main types: inserts, screens, and toppers. Gutter guards go by many names, including the following: 

• Less maintenance 
• Prevent roof damage 
• Help save money 
• Prevent ice dams 
• Protect you and your loved ones 
• Prevent rust and corrosion 
• Block pest infestations 
• Reduce the risk of house fires 
• Improve water drainage 
• Extend the life of your gutters