Best DIY Gutter Guards

Starting my project to install DIY gutter guards was a decision fueled by the need to tackle the constant clog in my gutters. Living in a heavily wooded area meant that every fall, my gutters would be filled with leaves, making them almost ineffective. I did some research, talked to a few handy friends, and decided it was something I could take on. It seemed like a practical way to protect my home and possibly save some money.

The process wasn't as straightforward as I'd hoped, but it was a learning experience. I measured my gutters, picked out the right materials, and set aside a weekend for the project. There were moments of frustration, especially when things didn't fit as they should, but also a great sense of accomplishment with each section completed. By the end, I had not only improved the functionality of my home's gutters but also gained new skills.

I'm sharing this to help you see that tackling your own DIY gutter guards project can be doable and rewarding. With some patience and the right approach, you'll protect your home and feel proud of what you've accomplished. Remember, starting is the most important step.

Why Use Gutter Guards?

Gutter guards, also known as gutter covers or leaf guards, play a vital role in home maintenance. They provide several benefits that can save homeowners time, effort, and money in the long run.

Prevent Clogging

The primary purpose of gutter guards is to prevent clogging. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in your gutters over time, causing blockages. These blockages can lead to water overflow, which can damage your home's exterior or even seep into the interior. Gutter guards keep this debris out, ensuring that water flows freely through your gutters.

Reduce Gutter Maintenance

Without gutter guards, you may find yourself cleaning out your gutters several times a year. This can be a time-consuming and potentially dangerous task, especially if your home is more than one story. By preventing debris from entering your gutters, gutter guards can reduce the need for regular cleaning.

Protect Against Damage

By preventing clogs and reducing the need for cleaning, gutter guards can also protect your home from damage. Overflowing water can lead to a variety of problems, including foundation damage, basement flooding, and landscape erosion. In winter, clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause significant roof damage.

Gutter guards are a good investment for homeowners. They save time, protect the home, and extend gutter life. Prevent problems by installing gutter guards for a safe, low-maintenance home.

Types of Gutter Guards

When it comes to protecting your gutters, there are several types of gutter guards available on the market. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision about the best option for your home.

Mesh Gutter Guards

Mesh gutter guards are made of metal sheets filled with tiny holes. They are designed to allow water to pass through while blocking debris. Mesh guards are durable and effective at keeping out leaves and larger debris, but smaller particles like pine needles and roof grit may still get through.

Reverse Curve Gutter Guards

Reverse curve gutter guards, also known as surface tension gutter guards, are designed to direct water into the gutter while guiding leaves and debris to fall to the ground. While they are effective at handling heavy rainfall, they may have issues with larger leaves and debris, which can get caught on the curve.

Bottle Brush Gutter Guards

Bottle brush gutter guards are cylindrical brushes that fit inside the gutter, preventing debris from settling while allowing water to flow freely. They are easy to install and inexpensive, but may require more frequent cleaning as small debris can accumulate in the bristles.

Foam Gutter Guards

Foam gutter guards are made from a plastic foam that fits directly into your gutter. They are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. However, they may deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements, and small particles can get trapped in the foam.

Micro Mesh Gutter Guards

Micro mesh gutter guards are similar to mesh guards but feature much smaller holes. They are extremely effective at keeping out all types of debris, but they are also the most expensive option.

Choose the right gutter guard for your home based on debris, budget, and maintenance.

How to Make and Install Gutter Guards

Learn how to make and install gutter guards with this comprehensive guide. Protect your gutters from debris and improve water flow efficiency.

Step by Step Instructions

Upgrade your home with our $35 guide for installing gutter guards below:

Understanding Your Gutter Size

First, determine the size of your gutters. Most residential homes have either 5-inch or 6-inch gutters. Measure from the back to the front edge to find out which size you have. Approximately 90% of homes use 5-inch gutters.

Selecting the Right Gutter Guards

There are many types of gutter guards on the market, ranging from foam inserts to high-end aluminum guards with fine mesh. Here are the main options:

Foam Inserts: These are easy to install by just pressing them into your gutters. However, they tend to get clogged with shingle granules and debris over time, requiring almost as much maintenance as unguttered gutters.
High-End Aluminum Guards: These feature perforations and a fine mesh, offering high-quality protection but at a significantly higher cost. They're durable but may not provide enough value for the price to the average DIYer.
Plastic Guards with Large Openings: These are affordable and easy to install but can catch sticks and debris, leading to clogs.
Plastic Guards with Mesh: This is the recommended option. It combines affordability with effectiveness, preventing debris from entering while allowing water to flow freely. At roughly $2.50 to $2.75 per 3-foot section, it offers great value for your investment.

How to Install Gutter Guards

Clean Your Gutters: Begin by removing all debris from your gutters. Use a bucket to collect the debris and a hose to wash away any remnants.
Measure Your Gutters: Knowing your gutter length will help you purchase the correct amount of gutter guards.
Install Gutter Guards: Start at the downspout end and install full sections. Butt each section against the previous one without overlapping (unless necessary).
Trim If Necessary: You might only need to trim the gutter guards at the end of your gutter run for a perfect fit.
Check Your Roof Warranty: Before installing, verify that adding gutter guards won't void your roof's warranty.

This process should take you no more than a Saturday afternoon to complete for an average-sized home.

Maintaining Your Gutter Guards

An additional tip for maintenance is to modify a broomstick to sweep debris off the gutter guards from the ground, saving you from having to climb a ladder.

Video Tutorial

For a step-by-step video tutorial on selecting and installing gutter guards, watch this YouTube video: Selecting And Installing Gutter Guards | $35 Project!.

It pairs well with this written guide, offering a visual complement to the techniques outlined here in an approachable and easy-to-understand style.

By following these steps, you can protect your home from water damage due to clogged gutters and reduce the amount of time spent on ladder-based maintenance.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Gutter Guards

When considering the installation of gutter guards, it's important to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This involves comparing the upfront costs of purchasing and installing the guards with the potential savings from reduced maintenance and damage prevention.

Upfront Costs

The initial cost of gutter guards can vary widely depending on the type and quality of the guard, the size of your home, and whether you install them yourself or hire a professional. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $3600 for professional installation. DIY installation can save money but requires time and effort.

Potential Savings

The potential savings from gutter guards come in several forms:

Reduced Maintenance Costs: Without gutter guards, gutters need to be cleaned multiple times a year, which can be a costly service if you hire a professional. With gutter guards, the frequency of cleaning is significantly reduced, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
Prevention of Home Damage: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage in your home, including foundation damage, landscape erosion, and roof damage. The costs of repairing these damages can be substantial. By preventing clogs, gutter guards can help avoid these costs.
Increased Lifespan of Gutters: By preventing the accumulation of debris, gutter guards can extend the lifespan of your gutters. This can delay the need for costly gutter replacement.

While gutter guards are initially costly, they can lead to long-term savings. Cost-effectiveness depends on factors like rainfall and nearby trees. Consider these when deciding.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Even with the best gutter guards, you may encounter some common problems. Here's a guide to help you troubleshoot these issues:

Guard Detachment

Over time, gutter guards may become detached due to harsh weather conditions or the weight of accumulated debris. If you notice your gutter guard is loose or has fallen off, it's important to reattach or replace it promptly to continue protecting your gutters.

Small Debris Accumulation

While gutter guards are effective at keeping out larger debris like leaves and twigs, smaller particles like pine needles or roof grit may still get through. If you notice water overflowing from your gutters, it could be due to small debris accumulation. In this case, you may need to clean your gutters and guards more frequently.

Ice Dams in Winter

In colder climates, ice dams can be a common issue. When snow melts and refreezes on your roof, it can form ice dams that block your gutters. To prevent this, consider installing heated gutter guards that can melt ice and snow.

Water Overflow

If water is overflowing from your gutters during heavy rain, it could be due to improper installation or the wrong type of gutter guard for your area's rainfall intensity. You may need to reinstall the guards properly or consider a different type of gutter guard.

Regular maintenance can prevent problems. If unsure, hire a professional. Safety first with home maintenance.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Gutter Guards

Even with the best gutter guards installed, some maintenance is necessary to ensure they function effectively. Here are some tips to help you maintain and clean your gutter guards:

Regular Inspection

Regular inspection is key to maintaining your gutter guards. Check your gutters and guards at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or detachment, and make sure the guards are still securely in place.

Gentle Cleaning

When cleaning your gutter guards, be gentle to avoid causing any damage. Use a soft brush to remove any debris on the surface of the guards. For stubborn dirt, a gentle spray from a garden hose should do the trick.

Check for Small Debris

While gutter guards are designed to keep out larger debris like leaves and twigs, smaller particles like pine needles or roof grit may still get through. If you notice small debris accumulating, you may need to clean your gutters and guards more frequently.

Professional Cleaning

If you're uncomfortable cleaning your gutters and guards yourself, consider hiring a professional. They have the necessary tools and experience to do the job safely and effectively.

The goal of gutter guards is to reduce maintenance, not eliminate it completely. Regular care will ensure your gutter guards last longer and perform better, protecting your home from potential water damage.

FAQs About DIY Gutter Guards

Get answers to all your DIY gutter guard questions in this comprehensive FAQ guide. Learn how to install, maintain, and choose the right guard for your home.

What are Gutter Guards?

Gutter guards are devices that help prevent gutters from clogging by keeping out leaves, twigs, and other debris. They allow water to flow into the gutter while keeping debris out.

How Do Gutter Guards Work?

Gutter guards work by covering the top of the gutters so that only water can get in. They use the principle of surface tension to direct rainwater into the gutter while leaves and other debris fall off the edge.

Are Gutter Guards Worth It?

Yes, gutter guards can be a worthwhile investment. They can save you time and effort on gutter cleaning, prevent water damage to your home, and even extend the lifespan of your gutters.

Can I Install Gutter Guards Myself?

Yes, many types of gutter guards are designed for DIY installation. However, if you're not comfortable working on a ladder or if your house is more than one story, you might want to hire a professional.

How Often Should I Clean My Gutter Guards?

Even with gutter guards, you should inspect your gutters at least twice a year. You may need to clean them more frequently if you have a lot of trees near your home.

Do Gutter Guards Prevent Ice Dams?

Gutter guards can help reduce the risk of ice dams by keeping gutters clear of debris. However, they can't prevent ice dams entirely. Other measures, like proper attic insulation and ventilation, are also important.

Can Gutter Guards Handle Heavy Rainfall?

Yes, most gutter guards are designed to handle heavy rainfall. However, in extremely heavy downpours, some water may overshoot the gutters.

Do Gutter Guards Fit All Types of Gutters?

Most gutter guards are designed to fit standard gutter sizes. However, you should always check the specifications before purchasing to make sure they will fit your gutters.

How Long Do Gutter Guards Last?

The lifespan of gutter guards depends on the material and quality of the product, as well as the weather conditions in your area. On average, you can expect them to last anywhere from 10 to 25 years.

Are There Different Types of Gutter Guards?

Yes, there are several types of gutter guards available, including mesh, reverse curve, bottle brush, foam, and micro mesh. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Conclusion:

Wrapping up, our article on the best DIY gutter guards provides valuable insights into choosing the right one for your home. Keeping your gutters clean and functional is essential for protecting your property from water damage.