Leaf Guards – Screens
– Helmets, etc.
The old rolled gutter screening that used to be the installed
over guttering proved to sag under the weight of wet foliage
and become more of a problem than a solution. The systems available
today to remedy the clogging issues experienced by homeowners
are more varied than the gutter systems themselves. These retrofit
systems range from screening to complete metal gutter coverings.
There has even been a guttering system that has incorporated
the covering design into the gutter in one configuration.
Some of these products have
a raised profile that can actually impede water run-off and
can promote dams and infiltration of water into the structure
of the building.
A roofing contractor should install
your gutter protection system. All too often homeowners are caught
in the middle of gutter covering companies and roofing contractors
pointing blame at each other for the demise of their respective systems.
Many of today’s roofing contractors
shy away from the whole topic of gutter protection systems. There
are sound reasons that roofers don’t want the trouble of maintaining
such systems. The reputable contractor intends on servicing a client
in the event of a complaint. Gutter protection installation is always
a serviceable item. No gutter protection system is without flaw. At
the very best, when 100% of the leaves are kept out of the system,
the bottom of the inside of the gutter develops an accumulation of
sludge. This sludge eventually will dry out and crack in the dry season.
When heavy rain brings water flow to the outlets, the sludge deposits
will clog the downspouts.
Rain gutters will always require cleaning,
unless they are in an environment that is absolutely devoid of organic
debris. These situations are very rare, so count on the maintenance
of your gutter systems.
A protective gutter covering is a
good idea, as long as:
1. It will not impede the function
of the gutter.
2. It is removable to enable access to the gutter for cleaning.
3. It does not damage your roofing system.
We have a couple of products
that we do endorse that are comparable in price and dependability.
We highly recommend the heavy
metal Gutter Shingle System that eliminates the expansion and
contraction problems of vinyl products. It installs without
the use of mechanical fasteners that would damage a roofing
system.
We have seen every type of gutter protection system on the market. Vinyl products expand and contract too much. Solid gutter covers do not allow for access when needed to clean out the sludge layer that builds up after several years. The solid coverings also are installed significantly farther under the roofing and they raise up the edge of the roof and impede water flow. Ice dams can be a major problem with the raising of the roof edge.
Gutter Shingle is the most versatile product on the market. The product is very rigid and remains straight. The pieces are three foot long and mechanically fastened to the gutter and tucked just under the shingles. Water flow is not impeded by Gutter Shingle. The screen is very effective and the unique design minimizes clogging issues.
Below is a brochure page for the Gutter Shingle: |
