Installing gutter guards provides a defense against clogged gutters, primarily by creating a barrier that keeps out leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other debris that can obstruct water flow.
Blocked gutters can lead to serious issues, including water overflow that saturates the surrounding soil at ground level, damages landscaping, and creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes. When choosing gutter guards, the flat ski-slope style is highly recommended as it allows almost all debris to simply slide off.
In this article we discuss the main reasons why you should install gutter guards; so read on!
Proactive Mitigation of Water Damage
By ensuring unobstructed water flow, gutter guards prevent water from backing up and seeping into vulnerable areas of your home. This protection also prevents roof damage, because water can infiltrate under roof edges leading to gradual mould build up and other leaks. Gutter guards also safeguard against fascia and soffit rot, critical components of your roofline that are susceptible to water damage from overflowing gutters. Furthermore, gutter guards help prevent foundation problems by directing water away from the foundation, thereby avoiding cracks, settling, and even basement or crawl space flooding. They also protect against wall damage, which can manifest as paint damage when water runs down internal and exterior walls.
Significant Reduction in Maintenance Burden
Gutter cleaning is a time-consuming and often hazardous task. Gutter guards drastically reduce the frequency of this chore, freeing up valuable time and minimising the risk of falls from ladders.
This reduction in maintenance is especially beneficial for homeowners with multi-storey homes or those who are physically unable to perform gutter cleaning. Enjoy your days off and retirement better with leaf gutter guards!
Effective Pest Deterrent
Clogged gutters are ideal nesting sites for various pests. Birds can build nests inside the roof via unchecked entry points and even in debris-filled gutters, leading to bird mites, droppings buildup and potential damage. Rodents like rats and possums can use gutters as pathways to access wall cavities or other areas of your home. Insects, particularly mosquitoes, breed in stagnant water, and other insects can thrive in damp, debris-filled gutters. Gutter guards create a barrier that denies pests access to these sheltered areas.
Enhanced Fire Protection in Vulnerable Regions
In areas prone to wildfires, dry leaves and debris in gutters can act as tinder, significantly increasing the risk of fire spreading to your home. Fire-rated gutter guards, made of metal mesh, provide another line of defense against embers and flames. But please be aware that most Ember Guards are aluminium and basically anything will melt under enough extreme heat.
Extended Gutter System Longevity
By preventing debris buildup and water stagnation, gutter guards help prolong the lifespan of your gutters and the connecting parts of your roof structure. This reduces the need for costly gutter and fascia board replacements, saving you money in the long run!
Optimised Rainwater Harvesting Efficiency
For homeowners who collect rainwater for gardening or other purposes, gutter guards act as a pre-filtration system, removing leaves and debris and ensuring cleaner water collection. Yes, my friends, you will have cleaner rainwater tanks!
Ice Dam Prevention and Hail Stones
In colder climates such as in Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges, snow and ice can build up in gutters, forming ice dams that prevent melting snow from draining. This can cause water to back up, leading to leaks and damage.
Gutter guards can help prevent ice dam formation by allowing frozen hail stones and snow to slide off the roof and preventing debris from creating blockages. It is important to note that to protect your system from ice damming issues, clearing the gutters before winter sets in is recommended.
Aesthetic Improvement and Curb Appeal
The best gutter guard systems are designed to blend seamlessly with the existing roofline, enhancing the overall appearance of the home. This can contribute to increased curb appeal and property value.
Prevention of Soil Erosion and Reduced Mold and Mildew Growth
Uncontrolled rainwater runoff can erode soil around the foundation of your home, leading to landscaping damage and potential structural problems. Gutter guards help direct water away from the foundation, preventing soil erosion. Additionally, excess moisture near the foundation can create ideal conditions for mould and mildew growth, which can pose health risks and damage building materials. Gutter guards help prevent water pooling and reduce the risk of mould and mildew.
Choose Leafshield
Melbourne home owners, you can say goodbye to blocked gutters and pesky birds! Leafshield gutter guards deliver year-round protection, keeping your property safe and beautiful. Invest in lasting peace of mind today.
If you’re tired of climbing ladders to clear out soggy leaves and debris or worried about birds nesting in your roof and causing damage, Leafshield offers a durable and effective solution designed specifically for Melbourne’s unique climate and leafy suburbs. Our gutter guards fit seamlessly onto all roof types!
Call 1300 LEAFSHIELD (1300 532 374) today!