Clogged gutters are a disaster that no one wants to deal with. Luckily, gutter guards can prevent this predicament. Gutter guards offer protection from debris that can impair the roof and cause water damage. Setting up gutter guards with minimal experience is entirely possible. The trick is to know all the common mistakes to avoid when installing gutter guards for excellent long-lasting results.
Wearing Little or No Protective Gear
Home improvement enthusiasts often overlook safety for the sake of getting a project completed swiftly. However, safety gear and practices are essential, especially when installing gutter guards.
First, put on a pair of thick, waterproof gloves. These will shield your hands from sharp edges and abrasive materials as well as provide a better grip when handling tools. Next, make sure you have a good pair of safety glasses to prevent dirt, leaves, and other debris from getting into your eyes. Lastly, wear close-toed, non-slip footwear. Since you'll be maneuvering on the ladder and the roof, these tough shoes will ensure you have traction to prevent slips and falls.
Standing Unsteadily on a Ladder
Don’t underestimate the safety risk associated with working from heights. Use a sturdy ladder to bolster your safety. Set the ladder on a solid, level surface to prevent wobbling. If the ground is uneven, use ladder levelers to adjust the ladder height accordingly. Always maintain three points of contact, two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, to keep stable. Additionally, never rush up and down the ladder. Take your time with each step and avoid making sudden movements that can throw off your balance.
Failing to Prep the Gutters Before Installation
Don't let the excitement of the project get the better of you. Work with patience and ensure your gutters are in good shape before adding gutter guards.
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the gutters. This step is critical because any remaining material can cause blockages even after the guards are installed. Use a gutter scoop or a high-pressure hose to ensure your gutters are spotless.
Next, check your gutters for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, rust spots, or loose brackets. Address these issues before installing the guards to ensure a secure fit.
Ignoring the Downspouts
In addition to your gutters, address your downspouts before installing gutter guards.
Always ensure downspouts are free of debris, as leaves, twigs, and other materials can accumulate and cause blockages. Clogged downspouts result in water backing up in the system, causing overflow and potential damage to your home's exterior and foundation.
Additionally, regularly check the condition of your downspouts. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or dents. Damaged downspouts cannot effectively channel water away from your home, increasing the risk of water damage. Replacing or repairing them ensures the effectiveness of your gutter guards.
Purchasing the Wrong Gutter Guard Size
The wrong size gutter guards will result in poor performance and roof damage. Therefore, you’ll want to take your time and accurately measure the gutters.
Measure the width of the top of your gutter from edge to edge. Be sure to measure twice to ensure accuracy and avoid errors. Jot down the measurements and compare them with the specifications provided by the gutter guard manufacturer to select the right fit.
Forgetting to Evaluate the Gutter Pitch
The pitch of your gutters, or the angle at which they are installed, plays a significant role in how well water flows through them. Gutters installed at the correct angle ensures that water flows toward the downspouts and away from your home.
If the pitch is too flat, water can pool and overflow. Determine your gutter's pitch by observing the water flow during a rainstorm or using a level tool.
Once you understand your gutter's pitch, choose gutter guards that complement it. Some guards are designed for steep pitches, while others work better with flatter angles. Ignoring the gutter pitch can compromise the effectiveness of the gutter guards.
Working Aggressively and Quickly
A common mistake homeowners should avoid when installing gutter guards is rushing the process. After all, good things take time. A meticulous approach will save you from future complications. Working at a slower pace gives you time to examine the pieces, ensure they fit, and safely install each component for a functional system. Rushing through the installation process could leave you with a messy end result that does more harm than good.
Pulling Up Shingles During Installation
Some gutter guards demand lifting the edges of your roof shingles to secure the guard underneath. However, this step can become problematic.
Pulling up shingles often leads to roof leaks in the future. To avoid this issue, start by ensuring you know whether your gutter guard system requires lifting shingles or not. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding. If you encounter resistance, stop and reassess to avoid damaging the roofing materials.
Choosing a Cheap Gutter Guard System
Your home is an investment that deserves top-notch products. Therefore, choosing a low-quality gutter guard won’t do you any good. You need the best gutter guard system on the market!
Try the Gutter Shutter from Pacific Gutter Company today. With Gutter Shutter pulling up shingles won’t be a concern as the system is intended to be installed directly to the fascia board. This piece of trim is the component located directly below the roof line, so it eliminates the risk of roof damage.
Plus, you won’t have to worry about all the hassle that comes with installation as Gutter Shutter should only be installed by professionals. With a lifetime guarantee and its maintenance-free composition, you’ll adore this addition to your home.
Invest some time in planning and avoid these common mistakes to ensure a seamless gutter guard installation. With a properly functioning system in place, you'll be rewarded with years of clog-free gutters and peace of mind knowing your home is protected from water damage. Remember, a little preventative effort now can save you significant time and hassle in the long run.
