Sofia Martinez
Gutter guards are an effective way to prevent fire and water damage to your home by reducing the amount of debris that clogs your gutter system. They are shields that go over your gutters, allowing rainwater to flow through while keeping out large debris such as leaves, twigs, and pine needles. There are several types of gutter guards available, including screen, micro-mesh, reverse-curve, brush, and foam guards, each with its own pros and cons in terms of effectiveness, ease of installation, and maintenance. Installing gutter guards can be a DIY project, but it's important to choose the right type of gutter guard for your needs and measure your gutters accurately to ensure a proper fit.
How to install plastic gutter guards
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Prevent fire and water damage by reducing debris in the gutter system |
| Types | Screen, Micro-mesh, Reverse-curve, Brush, Foam |
| Installation | Measure the gutter, clean and repair, then snap gutter guards into place or attach under roof shingles |
| Tools | Ladder, basic tools |
| DIY or Professional | DIY is more affordable but may depend on the type of gutter guard; professional installation ensures improved performance and safety |
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What You'll Learn
Measure your gutters
Before installing plastic gutter guards, it is important to measure your gutters to ensure a proper fit. Gutter guards come in various sizes, and some are even made to size, so having accurate measurements is crucial. Here is a detailed guide to help you measure your gutters accurately:
First, you need to measure the width, depth, and length of each gutter separately. Gutters can vary slightly in dimensions, so it is important to measure each one individually. Use a measuring tape to get accurate readings.
Next, consider the pitch or angle of your home's roof. Higher-pitched roofs tend to have faster runoff, which may miss a shallow gutter during a heavy downpour. Therefore, you should consider the roof's pitch when selecting the appropriate gutter guard type and size.
Additionally, if you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, you should factor this into your measurements. Consider how the gutter screens will be impacted by snow and ice buildup, as this can affect the overall performance of the gutter system.
Once you have measured the width, depth, and length of each gutter, you can take these measurements to a home improvement store, such as Lowe's, where an associate can assist you in selecting the appropriate gutter guards for your specific needs and budget.
Finally, before installing the gutter guards, it is essential to thoroughly clean and repair your gutters. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines on preparing your gutters for the installation of the guards.
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Choose the right gutter guard type
When choosing the right gutter guard type, it is important to consider your home's unique needs, your budget, and the debris your gutters will face. Here are some options to choose from:
Micro-mesh Gutter Guards
Micro-mesh gutter guards are considered the gold standard and are ideal for those living in wooded areas with lots of small debris, such as shingle grit, pine needles, and leaves. They are made of fine stainless steel or aluminum screens that block tiny debris while allowing water to flow through. While highly effective, they can be more expensive and may require professional installation. They are also less DIY-friendly and may not fit all roof fascia.
Screen Gutter Guards
Screen gutter guards are a perforated metal or plastic surface that blocks leaves from entering the gutter trough. They are an inexpensive option and offer a simple installation, often not requiring any tools. However, they may be dislodged by high winds or knocked out by falling branches, and prying up the lower row of roof shingles to install them may void certain roof warranties.
Reverse-Curve Gutter Guards
Reverse-curve gutter guards are made from lightweight metal or molded plastic. Water flows over the top and around a downward curve before dropping into the gutter, while leaves and debris slide off the edge. They are more expensive than mesh guards and screen options and must be attached at the correct angle to the roof's fascia. If not installed properly, water can run over the edge instead of following the curve into the gutter.
Brush Gutter Guards
Brush gutter guards are large, circular brushes that fit inside your gutters and capture debris while allowing water to flow through. They are typically made with a core of stainless steel or aluminum and bristles of polypropylene. They are easy to install, but you may need to cut them to size.
Foam Gutter Guards
Foam gutter guards are made of polyurethane and slide inside the gutter, allowing water to penetrate the foam and flow through while debris is blown away by the wind. However, they are not suitable for areas with high precipitation as heavy rains can quickly saturate the foam, causing gutters to overflow. They are also susceptible to mold growth and may require more frequent cleaning.
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Clean your gutters
Gutters are designed to carry water away from your home, but when they become clogged with leaves or debris, they can fail and dump water where you don't want it. Gutter guards are a great way to help your gutters perform properly, but they will still need to be cleaned occasionally.
The type of gutter guard you have will determine how often you need to clean them. Basic gutter screens generally require cleaning once or twice a year, while a micromesh screen can extend the time between cleanings to every two years. If you have trees near your roof, you will need to clean your gutters more frequently, especially if you have chicken-wire or colander-type gutter guards. Pine trees, in particular, can shed their needles and clog your gutters, so you may need to clean your gutters quarterly.
It is important to clean your gutters and gutter guards at least once a year, preferably after the fall when leaves and other debris have dropped. This will ensure that your gutter protection system works effectively. If you live in a wooded area with mature trees, you may need to clean your gutters more often, even with gutter guards in place.
To clean your gutters, you will need to remove the gutter guards first. This can be done with a screwdriver or a cordless drill, following the manufacturer's instructions. Once the guards are removed, you can start cleaning the gutters by clearing out any loose debris with gloved hands, a scoop, or a trowel. If the gutters are particularly dirty, a paint scraper can help remove built-up grime.
After the gutters are clean, you can inspect and clean the gutter guards. Clear away any waste from the guards using a water hose, a scraper, or a bristle brush. Replace any segments that show signs of cracking, splitting, warping, or breakage. Finally, reinstall the gutter guards, following the manufacturer's instructions, and check for any leaks or gaps using your water hose.
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Follow manufacturer's instructions
It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing plastic gutter guards. While there are some general guidelines that apply to most gutter guard installations, specific instructions may vary depending on the product and manufacturer. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
Before starting the installation, carefully read through the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials recommended by the manufacturer. This may include items such as a ladder, gloves, screws, or a drill.
Next, you will need to measure your gutters. Gutter guards often come in standard sizes, but it is crucial to ensure a proper fit. Measure the width, depth, and length of each gutter section. Also, consider the pitch or angle of your roof. Higher-pitched roofs have faster runoff, so you may need to adjust the placement of your gutter guards accordingly. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider the impact of snow and ice buildup on your gutter guards.
The manufacturer's instructions will provide specific guidance on preparing your gutters for the installation. It is generally recommended to clean and repair your gutters before installing the guards. This includes removing any debris, such as leaves, twigs, or pine needles, that may be present. Ensure that the gutters are dry and free of any obstructions.
Now, you can begin installing the gutter guards following the manufacturer's instructions. The process may vary depending on the type of gutter guard you have purchased. For example, some gutter guards simply snap into place, while others may require screws or other fasteners. Carefully align the gutter guard with the front lip of the gutter and secure it in place, working your way down the length of the gutter.
Finally, once the gutter guards are installed, review the manufacturer's instructions for any additional steps, such as testing the gutter system for proper water flow or performing any necessary maintenance. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure the optimal performance of your gutter guards and to maintain the warranty, if applicable.
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Consider professional installation
While installing plastic gutter guards can be a DIY job, there are several reasons why you may want to consider hiring a professional to do it for you.
The first thing to consider is your safety. If your roof is particularly high or steep, a professional installer can ensure your safety by handling the installation for you.
The next thing to consider is the type of gutter guard you want to be installed. Some types of gutter guards, such as micro-mesh and reverse-curve gutter guards, typically require professional installation. Micro-mesh gutter guards have nearly microscopic holes that help block out most debris, while reverse-curve gutter guards start beneath the shingles, extend over the gutter, and curve back slightly, allowing water to follow the curve into the gutter while debris rolls off.
Additionally, professional installation can provide improved performance and peace of mind. Professionals can help you select the most appropriate gutter guard product for your home and budget, taking into account factors such as the pitch of your roof, the type of debris that needs to be blocked, and the local climate. They can also ensure that the gutter guards are properly sized and installed correctly, reducing the risk of errors that could impact the effectiveness of the gutter guards.
Finally, the time required for installation should be considered. The installation process can vary in length, depending on the prep time, the size of your home, the complexity of your roof edges, and the type of gutter guards you choose. A professional installer can provide an estimate of the time required and efficiently complete the installation, potentially saving you time and effort.
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Frequently asked questions
Gutter guards are shields that go over your gutters to help reduce debris—such as leaves, pine needles, and twigs—from building up inside the gutters.
Gutter guards are important because they help prevent fire and water damage by reducing debris from clogging up your gutter system.
There are several types of gutter guards, including screen, micro-mesh, reverse-curve, brush, and foam gutter guards. Each type has its own pros and cons in terms of installation, performance, and price.
First, measure your gutters as certain gutter guards are made to size. Then, clean and repair your gutters. Finally, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the gutter guards.
You will need a ladder and some basic tools.
