Could Gutter Guards Eliminate Your Guttering Problems?
Guttering is one of the more important features of a home, yet it's one that's sometimes neglected. Its job is to channel rainwater away from the building, preventing damp getting into walls and waterlogged ground from weakening foundations, which is most certainly an essential function.
The main problem with gutters is that they can quite easily catch debris like moss and dead leaves. This doesn't cause any issues at first, but can soon build up and cause a blockage, then heavy rainfall arrives and damage can be caused to the building and the gutters themselves, leading to full replacements and repairs.
To limit the build-up of litter, some people choose to install gutter guards, which can help keep them clear and minimise the need for checks and cleaning sessions. Here's what you need to know if you're considering fitting some guards:
What are gutter guards?
Put simply, gutter guards are devices that fit in or over gutters and let rainwater through but stop solid matter from getting in and blocking the flow. Once they're in place, you're far less likely to experience blocked gutters and all the problems that go with it.
Are they all the same?
No. There are several different types, although they fit into two general categories. Some guards function as a sort of screen, which extends over the top of the gutter and covers it, with holes to let the water through while filtering out leaves and other objects. The second type of guard actually sits inside the gutter, blocking anything but water. The types that sit inside the gutter are easier to install, while you may need a professional to fit the other kind. If you're having new guttering, it's worth asking the company installing it if they can add guards at the same time.
Do they take care of everything for you?
Not quite. While gutter guards do stop a lot of debris getting through, they're not perfect and it's recommended that you still have fairly regular checks to make sure no blockages are forming. The guards may also need cleaning from time to time. However, they make the process of looking after guttering much easier.
Will they need to be replaced regularly?
They're fairly durable, but they won't last forever. Since the gutters need to be checked regularly for blockages and other problems, it's easy to keep an eye on the state of the guards at the same time, so you can recognise when they'll need to be replaced.
Contact a company like ACT Gutter Service for more information and assistance.
