Installing aluminium gutter guards can be a game-changer for homeowners, especially those who live in areas with heavy rainfall or fallen leaves.
The benefits of aluminium gutter guard installation are numerous, including reduced maintenance, improved water flow, and enhanced appearance.
One of the most significant advantages is that aluminium gutter guards are virtually maintenance-free, as they prevent debris from entering the gutters and downspouts.
They also improve water flow by allowing water to enter the gutters while keeping leaves and other debris out.
This results in reduced risk of gutter clogging, which can lead to costly repairs and water damage.
By choosing aluminium gutter guards, homeowners can enjoy a more streamlined and hassle-free gutter system.
Types of Aluminium Gutter Guards
Fine mesh guards are a great option for areas with pine needles, as they work well against these types of debris.
Solid covers are better suited for larger leaves, and can be a good choice depending on your location.
Some aluminium gutter guards have a slight curve to encourage debris to fall off the roof rather than into the gutter.
Corrugated
Corrugated aluminium gutter guards are a popular choice for many homeowners. They offer a durable and long-lasting solution to keep leaves and debris out of gutters.
To install a corrugated gutter guard, you'll need to roll out your mesh roll along the gutter line, cut away excess mesh, and secure it with trims. This will ensure a smooth and even fit.
Securing the mesh to the roof is a bit more involved. You'll need to use corrugated clips to attach it to the roof, and make sure to install it around the ridge caps if applicable.
When working with a tile roof valley, you'll need to measure the valley width and cut the mesh size accordingly. This will ensure the mesh covers the valley and is wide enough to be tucked under tiles.
Laying the mesh in a tile roof valley involves starting at the top and working your way down, tacking the mesh in place as needed. You'll also need to cut the mesh to fit around the tiles vertically and horizontally.
Tucking the mesh under the tiles is a crucial step to ensure a watertight seal. You'll also need to cut the mesh around the ridge cap and apply silicone to seal the mesh.
For a more secure fit, you can use saddles to secure the mesh to the roof. This involves measuring the valley width, laying the mesh, and placing a saddle on each corrugation, starting from the top and working your way down.
Eco-Friendly Option
Aluminium gutter guards are an eco-friendly option because they don't contribute to the plastic waste epidemic.
Unlike plastic varieties, aluminium gutter guards are a sustainable choice for your home or business.
Plastic can break down over time, releasing harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment.
You can feel good knowing you're making a sustainable choice with aluminium gutter guards.
Aluminium as an Affordable Option
Aluminium is an affordable Gutter Guard option. It's a win-win!
Aluminium gutter guards are a budget-friendly choice, won't break the bank like some other gutter guards out there. Home maintenance can sometimes feel like an endless drain to your bank account, but aluminium gutter guards are here to provide a more affordable solution.
You can rest easy knowing your gutters are effectively shielded from debris and leaves without emptying your savings account.
Installation and Maintenance
In most cases, the combination of the roof shape and gutter guard slope will encourage leaves and debris to fall to the ground in wind and rain.
You may need to gently sweep or blow the debris off the roof, especially if trees with heavy or finer debris overhang the gutter guard.
Gutter mesh is slippery on any roof type, so it's best not to walk on it to reduce the chance of damage and a fall.
If your gutters have a correct fall, dirt and small particles will flush out with water flow; if this is not the case, you may need to wash the gutters.
Aluminium gutter guards are low maintenance and can stay effective for longer than many plastic gutter protections out there.
They're a breeze to clean, ensuring your gutters stay unblocked and water flows smoothly.
Tiled
Installing a gutter guard on a tiled roof is a bit more involved than on other types of roofs. You'll need to roll out your mesh roll along the gutter line.
The first step is to roll out your mesh roll along the gutter line. This will give you a good starting point for the installation process. Make sure to get it flat and smooth, as wrinkles can cause problems down the line.
Next, cut away any excess mesh that's hanging over the edges of the gutter. This will give you a clean and tidy finish.
To secure the gutter mesh, you'll need to use trims. These come in various sizes and types, so choose the right one for your job. I've found that the right trims can make all the difference in a gutter guard installation.
After securing the mesh, tuck it under the second row of tiles. This will help to prevent leaves and debris from getting stuck in the mesh.
If you have ridge caps on your roof, you'll need to install the gutter guard around them. This is a bit trickier, but it's essential to get it right. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for this part of the installation.
If your roof has valleys, you'll need to install the gutter guard in these areas as well. This is where the water flows off the roof, so it's crucial to get it right.
Post-Installation Maintenance
After installing gutter guards, you'll likely find that leaves and debris fall to the ground in wind and rain due to the roof shape and gutter guard slope. This is a normal occurrence.
You may need to gently sweep or blow debris off the roof if trees with heavy or finer debris overhang the gutter guard. This is especially true if the trees are close to the gutters.
Gutter mesh can be slippery on any roof type, so it's essential to avoid walking on it to reduce the chance of damage and a fall.
If your gutters have a correct fall, dirt and small particles will flush out with water flow. This is a sign that your gutter guards are working as intended.
In some cases, you may need to wash the gutters if they don't have the correct fall. This is a simple maintenance task that can help keep your gutters flowing freely.
Not Suitable for Overhanging Trees & Small Debris
If you have trees that overhang your house, you're not out of luck, but you do need to consider a different type of gutter guard.
Perforated aluminum gutter guard panels are specifically designed for homes without overhanging trees or excessive plant debris nearby.
This type of gutter guard is not suitable for homes with trees that hang over the roof or with an abundance of pine needles, oak tassels, or locust flowers in close proximity to the gutter openings.
In fact, the manufacturer recommends avoiding these types of homes for this particular product.
If you do have overhanging trees or small plant debris, you'll want to consider a different type of gutter guard that can handle these conditions.
Low Maintenance
Aluminium gutter guards are a breeze to clean, ensuring your gutters stay unblocked and water flows smoothly.
You can enjoy the luxury of low maintenance gutter protection for your property with aluminium gutter guards. They are designed to be easy to maintain, so you can rest easy knowing your gutters are effectively shielded from debris and leaves.
Aluminium gutter guards are a low-maintenance option compared to other gutter guards, which can be high maintenance and require regular replacement. They can stay effective for longer than many of the plastic gutter protections out there.
Here are some benefits of low maintenance aluminium gutter guards:
- Easy to clean
- Long-lasting
- No need for regular replacement
With aluminium gutter guards, you can say goodbye to worrying about ugly rust stains spoiling the look of your home. They remain rust-free, ensuring your gutters stay safe and sound for years to come.
Create Proper Drainage Slope
Creating proper drainage slope is crucial for effective water flow and preventing clogs and damage. A pitch of about 1/4 inch per 10 feet of gutter length is recommended.
To find the right pitch, hold the L-shaped gutter assembly in place against the house fascia and position the high end using a level as a straightedge. The front edge of the gutter should not protrude above the roof plane.
Slip a gutter hanger into the high-end of the gutter, then drive a screw through the hanger and fascia and into a rafter tail. This is a crucial step to secure the gutter in place.
Adjust the gutter's pitch so that rainwater will drain down to where the downspout will be installed. This might require some trial and error to get just right.
To provide optimal support and prevent sagging or misalignment, place gutter hangers every 24 to 36 inches. This spacing is key to ensuring your gutters function properly.
Here's a quick rundown of the steps to create proper drainage slope:
- Hold the L-shaped gutter assembly in place against the house fascia.
- Position the high end of the gutter using a level as a straightedge.
- Slip a gutter hanger into the high-end of the gutter and secure it with a screw.
- Adjust the gutter's pitch for proper water flow.
- Place gutter hangers every 24 to 36 inches for optimal support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install gutter guards myself?
You can install some gutter guards yourself, but others may require professional installation. Check the type of gutter guard you're interested in to see if DIY installation is an option.
Do aluminum gutter guards work?
Yes, aluminum gutter guards are effective in keeping debris out and handling heavy rain. They are one of several options that can help prevent gutter overflow.
How much does it cost to install metal gutter guards?
The cost to install metal gutter guards typically ranges from $5 to $10 per linear foot of material, averaging around $1,400 for a standard home installation. This cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of your home's gutter system.
Sources
- https://aussiediysolutions.com/installation/
- https://www.gutterguardsdirect.com/gutter-guards/perforated-aluminum/
- https://leafbusters.com.au/blog/aluminium-gutter-guard/
- https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-install-gutter-guards/
- https://www.thisoldhouse.com/gutters/21016739/how-to-install-aluminum-gutters
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