Guide to Installing Gutter Guards

Is there a more unappealing household task than cleaning gutters? It involves climbing a ladder or, in some cases, maneuvering around on the roof. Once you're up there, you're greeted with clumps of soggy leaves, twigs, and debris that have accumulated over time.

So, why should you bother? Rain gutters are vital for maintaining the integrity of your home by keeping it dry and safe. Their role is to channel rainwater off the roof and away from your foundation, preventing water buildup that could lead to flooding in your basement. But gutters only work effectively when they're kept free from debris, allowing water to flow smoothly through them and into the downspout (hopefully leading to a gray water storage system) [source: Gurskis].

If left unchecked, gutters can accumulate twigs and leaves, creating the perfect environment for weeds and fungi. When gutters get clogged with branches, leaves, and other debris, they lose their ability to function properly. In fact, neglected gutters may cause more harm than having no gutters at all, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage to your roof and fascia board (the molding beneath the edge of the roof). When gutters become weighed down with decaying organic matter and water, they can become so heavy that they may even pull away from the house.

To avoid damage, experts recommend cleaning your gutters twice a year—once in the fall and again in the spring. You may need to clean them more often if your home is surrounded by trees that shed large amounts of leaves and branches. However, many people overlook this essential maintenance. The debris in our gutters is out of sight, out of mind—both literally and figuratively—and it often gets pushed down the priority list along with other yard work and home maintenance tasks.

Struggling to keep up with your gutters (and who isn't)? Maybe it's time to consider installing gutter guards, a solution that prevents debris from clogging your gutters. Gutter guards or covers keep leaves, twigs, and other debris from blocking your gutters, while directing rainwater to the downspouts and away from your home. Since your home is likely your biggest investment, as the saying goes, it's worth taking simple steps to protect it—starting at the top [source: Hageman].

Selecting the Ideal Gutter Guard

When it comes to choosing the right type of gutter guard for your home, there are three main options: mesh or plastic screens, gutter filters that sit inside the gutter, and surface tension units that fit over the top of existing gutters. The type of gutter guard you decide to install will depend on how much you're willing to invest in your gutters.

Mesh gutter screens are usually in the middle price range for gutter guards; they cost more than gutter filters but are typically less expensive than surface tension-style models. More affordable versions made from plastic, which you can install yourself, can cost as little as 50 cents per foot. However, these options don't always completely block debris, meaning you may still need to clean them periodically [source: Hageman].

At the higher end of the screen spectrum, you'll find products like Gutterglove, a high-tech system composed of two parts: a perforated aluminum channel and a fine stainless steel mesh fitted into grooves on each side of the channel. The mesh keeps out leaves and other debris, allowing rainwater to flow smoothly. Gutterglove also offers an "Icebreaker" model that melts icicles and snow. However, this high-tech option comes with a hefty price tag, as installing Gutterglove can cost as much as $2,500 [source: Gutterglove].

For those on a budget, the Gutter Brush may be a more affordable choice. Its design features a cylindrical brush that fits inside your existing gutters. The simplicity of the brush allows it to filter out larger debris while still letting water flow through. It's one of the most budget-friendly options, priced as low as $3.25 per foot, and installation is so easy that you likely won't need professional help [source: Gutter Brush]. A similar but slightly pricier option is the Gutter Filler, a porous polyurethane material designed to fit inside gutters. This product claims to handle up to 10 times your normal rainfall [source: Gutter Filler].

Finally, there are surface-tension gutter guards, which fit over the gutters and are designed to guide water into them while letting debris slide off the roof. The Gutter Helmet, a popular model conceived by MIT alum Bob Demartini in the 1960s, falls into this category. Its curved shape directs leaves and debris off the roof, while a narrow slit—measuring three-eighths of an inch (0.95 centimeters)—channels rainwater into the gutters. The Gutter Helmet also features a textured surface that supposedly causes the rain to cling as it flows down [source: Gutter Helmet].

Getting Ready to Install Gutter Guards

Whether you're tackling the installation of gutter guards yourself or hiring professionals to handle it, the first step is to clear out any debris from your gutters and ensure that they are functioning properly. From experience, the best way to confirm that your gutters are working effectively is to test them with water. This means taking a garden hose up to the roof and running water through the gutters. During this process, also check for leaks that could prevent water from flowing into the downspout.

Before you order your gutter guards, you'll need to measure the length of the gutters on your home. Even if you're confident with a tape measure, it's always wise to measure twice—just to be sure. If you order a gutter guard that’s a bit too long, you’ll likely have to cut it to fit. Depending on the type of gutter guard and the material it’s made from, you may need tools like a circular saw, chop saw, or metal snips to make the cuts.

Next, gather all the necessary tools for installing your gutter guards. If you’re opting for simpler models that fit inside the gutters, you might not need any tools at all. However, if you're installing guards that sit over the gutters, you’ll probably need screws, nails, or pop rivets to secure them. In that case, a power drill and screwdriver will likely be required. Each design has its own method of attachment, so make sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for details.

Installation Tips for Gutter Guards

Now comes the exciting part: installing your new gutter guards. Before grabbing your tools, take the time to carefully read through the installation instructions to ensure it’s a task you’re prepared for. Some gutter protection systems can only be installed by professionals because they are custom-fitted to each home. Make sure you’re confident in your ability to install the guards before you climb the ladder.

One of the simplest gutter guards to install is the snap-on, universal-fit type. These guards are compatible with nearly every type of gutter and are fairly affordable, making them a popular choice. For DIY enthusiasts, snap-on guards are convenient because they don’t require a power drill or screwdriver, but because they’re not tailored specifically for your gutters, they may not offer the best performance.

For an even simpler installation process, consider gutter guards that rest directly inside the gutters. With these, you don’t need to snap them in place; all you need to do is measure, cut, and place them inside your gutters (after cleaning them thoroughly, of course). It’s hard to beat the ease of that!

Another popular type of gutter guard is one that is held in place by roof shingles and fastened to the front edge of the gutter. The Gutterglove, a high-tech stainless steel mesh system mentioned earlier, uses this design. The back of the Gutterglove stays secured by the shingles, but the front must be screwed into the gutter’s edge. Additionally, the Gutterglove requires finger fasteners to join sections, which are sealed with a thin layer of caulk.

Of course, if the idea of getting up on the roof and dealing with screws, fasteners, and caulk feels overwhelming, you can always hire professionals to handle the installation. Whether you choose to install them yourself or hire someone else, make sure to ask how the gutter guards are installed before you commit to a purchase.

Ensure Proper Safety Measures

There are many reasons people opt to install gutter guards, but safety should be a top priority. As mentioned earlier, the only way to clear clogged gutters is by climbing a ladder and removing the debris (unless you hire a professional to do it). When working correctly, gutter guards can reduce the number of times you need to climb up to the roof or prevent the need to clean gutters altogether.

That being said, practicing proper ladder safety while installing gutter guards is crucial. Every year, thousands of people are injured in ladder accidents, many of which could be avoided. To minimize the risk of falling, avoid working alone on a ladder. Having a partner nearby to pass you tools like a hose or bucket is a smart safety measure. When cleaning gutters, use an S-hook to hang your bucket, freeing up both hands and helping you maintain balance.

When setting up your ladder, avoid leaning it against the gutters, as the weight of the ladder and person could dent or even crack them. If you can't find a spot to place the ladder safely without damaging the gutters, consider using an A-frame or articulating ladder that bends over the gutter without causing harm [source: DIY Network]. Also, when you're moving the ladder around the house, remember to always set it up securely each time you reposition it!