Leaf guards (commonly called “gutter guards”) are the perfect solution to free your gutters from excessive debris. Cleaning gutters isn’t a particularly fun job to do, and it can even become obnoxious if there’s too much dirt built up there.
Even though installing gutter guards won’t save you from maintaining your gutters eventually, it makes the job much easier. If you want to install gutter guards easily, you came to the right place.
We’ll cover everything you need to install leaf guards safely. Our step-by-step process will ensure you have the perfect protection system for your gutters in no time.
Are Gutter Guards Useful?
Your gutters can get many kinds of debris. Whether it’s leaves, branches, pine needles, or even granules from your roof shingles, letting that debris build up over time can lead to a lot of damage to your property.
The gutter guard system is responsible for allowing water to flow while keeping these “elements” out. Thanks to that system, you can ensure the safety and integrity of your home’s foundation.
If you don’t install gutter guards, you risk your gutters getting clogged, which will eventually obstruct water flow. Once the water starts leaking into your property, you’ll have an expensive problem.
Thankfully, there are plenty of gutter guard systems you can get today. Once you find the perfect fit for your property, all you have to do is gather the right tools or schedule a professional installation and get to work.
Which Types of Gutter Guards Are Available?
As mentioned previously, there are different types of gutter guard systems on the market. Even though they all work toward the same purpose, a few options may be a better fit for your property.
Let’s review the different “guards” you can get for your gutters below!
Foam Gutter Guards
Foam guards are among the most popular options today, and it’s primarily because of how easy they are to install. When you install these guards, the water will flow through the foam while keeping debris out.
If you want DIY gutter guards, you may find many manufacturers at your local stores. Keep in mind, however, that foam guards aren’t as durable as other options. Your gutters will still be exposed to clogging, as some debris may still fall there.
We suggest you get this option if you can commit to cleaning your gutters frequently.
Brush Gutter Guards
Brush guards are also popular among homeowners, although they’re slightly more durable than foam systems. They use large bristles that prevent debris from entering your gutters.
We recommend this option if you are on a budget or don’t have such a large gutter system.
Gutter Screens
Screen gutter guards are made of different materials, including metal and plastic. The “screens” snap onto your gutters for easy installation.
The main benefit of screen guards is that they feature holes that let water flow while preventing debris from getting into your gutters.
Micro-Mesh Gutter Guards
These are similar to gutter screens, although micro-mesh products are known for being more compact. You should get this option if your goal is to block smaller debris.
Even though micro-mesh guards are considered one of the most durable options on the market, it can be complicated to install them yourself. We suggest you get a professional to help.
Reverse-Curve Gutter Guards
Also called “surface tension guards,” this system uses the rainwater flow (and surface tension) to push debris down to the ground instead of the gutters.
While reverse-curve guards work great, you may have to replace your current gutter system to get them installed. In other cases, you may have to move your roof shingles.
Easy Leaf Guard Installation – Step-by-Step Process
Now that you know everything about leaf guards, it’s time to install them!
We compiled everything you need to know in this six-step guide. As long as you follow everything correctly, you shouldn’t have any problems.
Step One – Buy Your Preferred Gutter Covers
Choose the gutter guards that feel the most appropriate for your current system. Remember that some options are better for larger debris, whereas others do a better job of keeping small objects out of your gutters.
Another thing you must consider is the ease of installation. If you want the most accessible options possible, brush, foam, and screen guards are perfect. Mesh and surface tension guards, on the other hand, will require professional installation.
If you want to save some time later, measure your gutter system. This will help you find the perfect size for your guards and avoid cutting them too much.
Step Two – Get the Right Ladder and Secure Your Footing
Getting a great ladder is the most crucial step of this guide. You should be able to find proper footing so that you don’t risk getting into an accident while working.
Regardless of which ladder you get, make sure you find at least a second person to help you stabilize. We don’t recommend you deal with the entire process alone, as not having someone to help you stabilize the ladder will increase the chances of it falling.
Something that many homeowners do to secure the ladder is to rest it against the roof’s shingles or gutters. If you do this, however, you risk damaging them. Try to rest your ladder somewhere safe where it won’t damage any part of your roof.
Step Three – Gather the Right Supplies
There are plenty of tools you must get before you install gutter guards. The installation process isn’t just about securing the guards and calling it a day. You must clean your entire system first to avoid problems with it.
Some of the items you should keep in mind include:
- Leaf blower or hose
- Heavy-duty gloves
- Tape measure
- Hammer
- Bucket
- S-hook
- Handsaw or circular saw
- Tin snips
- Screwdriver
You may need different supplies depending on the type of guard you’re installing. Check your guard manufacturer’s instructions for more information.
Step Four – Check Your Gutter System and Clean It
Examine your gutter systems, roof, and shingles. If you notice any damage, no matter how small, deal with it right away. You shouldn’t install gutter guards on damaged systems.
Your gutters should have a smooth water flow, so clean them before installing the guards. Depending on the case, you could use the leaf blower, the hose, or both.
Remember to address any leaks or damage you find before installing anything.
Step Five – Trim and Install Your Leaf Guards
Take your time to read the instructions of your gutter guards. Most of the time, the manufacturer includes detailed steps on how to do it. Each product may have a different attachment/support system.
You can also look at reviews online to get a better idea of what to do and what to avoid.
If needed, trim your guards with the saw to fit your gutters. Most gutter guards come in pre-cut sizes, so you may not be able to find one that fits perfectly at first.
Once you’re ready, install the leaf guards according to the instructions, and you shouldn’t have any problems.
Step Six – Test Your Gutter System
Finally, test your gutter system to see if it still works correctly. If it does, congratulations! You’re done.
Things You Should Keep in Mind During Your Gutter Guard Installation
A gutter guard installation doesn’t have to be complicated, but if you’re not careful, the process can quickly become overwhelming. If you want to ensure you’re doing everything correctly, consider the following tips:
- Try to get a toolbelt before going up your ladder. If you constantly go up and down to get different tools, you increase the chances of getting into an accident.
- When cleaning your gutters, use the s-hook to hang the bucket from the ladder. This can help you catch debris and store your tools.
- Consider getting an A-frame ladder. They provide much more stability than other options and ensure you’re not leaning the ladder against the gutters or shingles.
What If You’re Not Prepared for a DIY Gutter Guard Installation?
Even though installing guards isn’t hard, the project may seem complicated to some homeowners.
Making a mistake when installing gutter guards can lead to many problems in the future, so if you’re unsure if you can handle the process or don’t want to spend too much time looking for the right supplies, we suggest you schedule a professional installation.
Our team at Premium Seamless Gutters Austin can inspect your existing gutters and give you a quote for the perfect solution. You won’t have to worry about anything, as we’ll handle each step of the process.
Bottom Line – Get a Professional Gutter Guard Installation Today
Gutter guards are a must-have for many homeowners in Austin. If you haven’t installed yours yet, it may be time to do it.
Whether you want to take this process as a DIY project or prefer to leave it to a professional, remember to take your time to choose the appropriate product for your gutters. This will save you from a lot of headaches in the future
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, but you must first evaluate if you have the necessary skills to pull the job off. Otherwise, you risk yourself and your home to extensive damage.
If you’re unsure you can handle the project, consider hiring professional gutter guard installers.
Clean and test your gutter system before installing anything. Once you’re done, gather all the tools and supplies you need, including the guards, and get to work.
Make sure to install the leaf guards according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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