Gutter guards are an affordable home improvement project that prevents clogged gutters and reduces the frequency of gutter cleaning. Plus, homeowners save themselves the trouble of climbing a ladder and paying for professional services.
Gutter mesh is a guard that allows water to pass through small holes while blocking debris. This style of guard comes in flat or slanted styles.
Material
Gutter guard mesh can be made out of a variety of materials. Aluminium, plastic and copper are some of the more popular choices; stainless steel and uPVC are also viable.
Gutter guard mesh is a fine mesh that filters out granules and other debris that could lead to clogging or water damage. It usually features a sturdy metal frame for extra support.
Micro-mesh gutter guards typically feature aluminium or stainless steel frames to withstand weather conditions. In addition, depending on the model, some models come with protective coatings to shield against UV exposure and mould growth.
Another option is a mesh to prevent embers from entering the gutter and starting a fire. This type of protection is especially essential for homeowners living in bushfire-prone regions where embers can cause up to 70% of home damage.
These gutter protections are more costly than other options but provide excellent long-term security for your home and family. Plus, they help you avoid needing expensive repairs or replacements in the future.
They’re an effective way to prevent clogging and ensure your gutters don’t overflow during heavy downpours. Furthermore, they keep your shingles from deteriorating and your yard free of pests that could wreak havoc with your gutters or lead to flooding in your basement.
Some gutter guards are made from polypropylene, an affordable and environmentally friendly material. But, unfortunately, it can crack or bend over time.
Micro-mesh and screen gutter guards made of stainless steel are an ideal choice due to their durability and corrosion resistance. While not as strong as aluminium, stainless steel can withstand high temperatures and heavy rainfall.
When selecting a wire mesh gutter guard or traditional solid gutter cover, looking for a product with a lifetime warranty is wise. Furthermore, ensure the guard you choose is easy to install and maintain; having an experienced installer inspect your system beforehand can guarantee its suitability for your home.
Design
Gutter guard mesh is designed to keep leaves, seeds and other debris out of rain gutters. Not only that, but they can also prevent clogs in the system and help prevent ice dams from forming during wintertime. Available in various materials like aluminium, plastic and stainless steel, gutter guard mesh is vital in keeping water out.
Most gutter guards are designed to fit beneath roof shingles or attach to fascia boards on your home. Although designs vary between manufacturers, a high-quality product should have no gaps or perforations between its screen and frame.
They should also be installed at a pitch that matches your roof’s slope. It determines where water will enter your gutter system, making them perfect for homes with steep hills or poorly-maintained roofs.
Micro-mesh gutter guards made of stainless steel are the best available. These durable screens can be used with various roof and gutter types.
Stainless steel gutter screens boast a fine, surgical-grade mesh filtering out even small leaves, pine needles and seeds. In addition, they are rust and corrosion-resistant and robust enough to handle heavy rainfall or ice without issue, making them an ideal choice for homeowners in bushfire-prone regions as they’re non-combustible and act as an ember guard.
Different roof and gutter types require different-sized guards, but they usually come in lengths between 3-8 feet. To ensure you get the correct size for your gutters, measure them against the measurements of the guards provided and compare them.
Micro-mesh gutter guards can be easily installed by slipping them underneath the first row of shingles or snapping them onto the gutter’s top. You may also attach a flange to your fascia board – that vertical strip of wood that runs just above and below the gutter – for additional support and stability.
Micro-mesh gutter screens with an offset vertical slant deliver cohesive water filtration, keeping out leaves and other debris. Furthermore, these screens block tiny particles like shingle stone which could clog gutters or cause ice dams.
Installation
Gutter mesh is an efficient way to safeguard your gutters and ensure they drain correctly. It should be part of any homeowner’s home maintenance strategy, especially in areas with frequent heavy rainfall.
Clogged gutters can lead to water seeping over your roof and foundation, potentially leading to costly damage. Furthermore, insects attracted by an unclean channel may find a home in your system – leading to expensive pest control bills in the long run.
When selecting a quality product with an impressive frame and fine-mesh design, make sure it’s made from stainless steel, aluminium or plastic.
Micro-mesh style gutters are a popular option and help keep out smaller leaves and particles. But unfortunately, these products cannot guarantee complete debris removal from your gutters.
These products are often touted as ‘no-maintenance’ solutions, yet they require regular cleaning to function optimally. For example, without regular maintenance, your roofing iron could rust, and lichen growth can develop on the roof.
Installing guards requires a ladder, measuring tape, and cordless power drill. Hiring an expert may be best for the job unless you have extensive experience working at heights or are comfortable with them.