Your Ultimate Guide to Gutter Guards with 15 FAQs Answered
Keeping your gutters clean and free-flowing is one of the most crucial aspects of home maintenance. At Leafbusters, we believe in empowering homeowners to make informed decisions. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about gutter guards. Here’s everything you need to know.
How Does the Leafbusters® Gutter Guard System Work?
The mud and sludge you find in your gutters are the result of accumulated leaves, airborne dust, and moisture. As leaves and other organic matter decompose, they create a compost-like mess. The Leafbusters® gutter guard system is expertly designed to prevent this from ever happening. Once installed, our system allows leaves and larger debris to simply slide off your roof. Only the finest dust or pollen can pass through the mesh. When it rains, this fine dust is easily flushed away through the downpipe, ensuring your gutters remain clear and functional 24/7. In essence, our system stops the problem at its source.
Why Did Leafbusters Use only Plastic Mesh Instead of Metal for Many Years?
From the 1990s till Leafbusters takeover in 2019 by Grayson’s Gutter Cleaning, only the high-quality, UV-stabilised 2G polyethylene mesh was used. This is because plastic is an inert material, meaning it won’t cause corrosion. When metal gutter guards are installed on a roof with dissimilar metals, a process called electrolysis can occur. Electrolysis is an electrical reaction that happens when water comes into contact with two different metals, leading to corrosion and rust. With Leafbusters plastic mesh, you can have peace of mind knowing that this destructive process is of zero concern.
Until more recent years, metal meshes were more rigid and didn’t conform perfectly to the unique contours of roofs. Fortunately metallic mesh technology has improved tremendously and the new owners of Leafbusters proudly offer these aluminium and stainless steel options.
How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost Per Metre?
The cost of a Leafbusters® gutter guard system is not a simple per-metre price. Unlike one-size-fits-all “band-aid” solutions, our system is a fully tailored installation designed to suit the specific needs of your property. To provide an accurate quote, one of our experienced consultants will visit your home to take precise measurements and offer expert advice. We are committed to providing a system that not only works effectively but also adds value to your home. We stand by our promise with a guarantee on our meshes.
How Do Gutter Guards Solve Pest and Bird Problems?
Leafbusters has an outstanding track record of preventing pests, possums, and birds from entering your roof space. Pests often gain access to your home through the gap between your gutters and your roof. Our gutter guard system is installed over the gutter and onto the roof, effectively sealing this entry point. This not only keeps leaves out but also creates a physical barrier against unwanted intruders.
Pests in your roof can cause a myriad of problems. They can be noisy at night, carry diseases, and their nesting materials can attract other vermin like rats. A more serious danger is the risk of a house fire, as pests have been known to chew on electrical wiring. By sealing your roofline, you can protect your home from these dangers.
Gutter Guards for Flat Roofs vs. Pitched Roofs. What’s the Difference?
The Leafbusters® system is highly effective on pitched roofs, where gravity helps leaves and debris to slide right off the mesh. Flat roofs present a different challenge, as debris can accumulate without the aid of a slope. Flat roofs are also notoriously prone to internal flooding when gutters become blocked.
We have special gutter guard systems that are suited to flat roofs (even those that are almost zero degrees). While you may need to occasionally sweep or blow debris off your flat roof and mesh, our system drastically reduces the difficult and often dangerous task of cleaning out gutters.
Do Gutter Guards Require Maintenance?
While gutter guards significantly reduce the need for gutter cleaning, they are not entirely maintenance-free. A high-quality system like Leafbusters will prevent the vast majority of debris from entering your gutters, but some fine silt and pollen may still wash through. We recommend a simple flush with a hose every few years to keep your gutters in optimal condition. For homes in areas with heavy foliage, a quick inspection and removal of any accumulated debris from the top of the mesh once or twice a year is a good practice.
Are Gutter Guards Worth the Investment?
For most homeowners, especially those with trees on their property, gutter guards are a very worthwhile investment. Consider the time, effort, and potential danger of climbing a ladder to clean your gutters multiple times a year. Furthermore, by preventing water damage, pest infestations, and even fire hazards, gutter guards can save you from costly repairs in the long run. They are a long-term solution that protects your most valuable asset – your home.
What Are the Different Types of Gutter Guards?
There are many types of gutter guards on the market, each with its pros and cons. These include:
- Mesh Screens These are a popular and effective option, and what we specialise in at Leafbusters.
- Brush Guards These resemble large pipe cleaners that sit inside your gutter. They can be prone to trapping debris and we generally don’t recommend them.
- Foam Inserts These fit directly into the gutter but can become clogged and may be a fire hazard in some areas. Most Gutter Guard Fitters agree that foam guards are your worst option.
- Reverse Curve Guards These are designed to let water in while directing leaves over the edge. They can sometimes be less effective in heavy rain. They are very popular in USA
- Rolled In These are plastic meshes that roll into the gutter, if the roof edge is straight enough, heavier duty meshes can be very effective when rolled in.
Can I Install Gutter Guards Myself?
While some gutter guard products are marketed for DIY installation, we highly recommend professional installation. A proper fit is crucial for the system to work effectively. An improperly installed gutter guard can lead to gaps where debris can enter, and it may even void your roof’s warranty. Our experienced installers ensure a perfect, custom fit for your home.
Will Leafbusters Gutter Guards Affect My Roof Warranty?
A professionally installed gutter guard system from Leafbusters should not void your roof warranty. Our installation methods are designed to be non-intrusive and to work in harmony with your existing roof and gutter system. We take great care to ensure the integrity of your roof is maintained. But if you’re very concerned or unsure, please ask your roof tiler or plumber who built your roof.
How Do Gutter Guards Perform in Heavy Rain?
The Leafbusters® gutter guard system is designed to handle heavy rainfall. The mesh allows water to flow freely into the gutters while deflecting leaves and debris. This prevents the blockages that can cause gutters to overflow during a downpour, protecting your home’s foundation and landscaping from water damage.
Are Gutter Guards Effective Against All Types of Debris?
Our gutter guards are effective against a wide range of debris, including leaves, gumnuts, twigs, and pine needles. The size of the mesh is carefully selected to find the perfect balance between allowing water to flow through and keeping debris out. Feel free to call us on 1300 GUTTER if you are experiencing unusual debris which you believe may be an issue.
Can Gutter Guards Be Installed on Any Type of Roof?
Yes, the Leafbusters® gutter guard system can be installed on a wide variety of roof types, including tiled, metal (corrugated, Trimdek, Kliplok), and flat roofs. Our experienced team will assess your roof and tailor the installation to ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance.
Do Gutter Guards Prevent Ice Dams in Winter?
Occasionally we get this question from those living in higher altitude regions where the gutters can freeze at night. Gutter guards are not specifically designed to prevent ice dams, they can help. Ice dams form when snow melts on your roof and then refreezes in the gutters. By keeping your gutters clear of debris, our system allows water from melting snow to drain away more effectively, reducing the likelihood of ice dams forming.
What is the Warranty on Leafbusters’ Gutter Guards?
We are confident in the quality and durability of our products. That’s why we offer a 10-year warranty on our gutter guard mesh and 5 years on our installation workmanship. This gives you the peace of mind that you are investing in a product that is built to last. (note that all of our products have an expected lifespan of at least 15-25+ years)
Ready to Protect Your Home?
We hope this comprehensive guide has answered your questions about gutter guards. If you’re ready to protect your home from the damage and hassle of clogged gutters, contact Leafbusters today for a free, no-obligation quote. Let us show you why we are Australia’s number one choice for gutter protection!
