Gutter Guards - Installation & Maintenance
Are gutter guards useful?
Gutter guards are a cost-effective way to keep your gutters and downpipes debris free. However, if you have large trees near your property, then your gutters will be clogged up in no time. But remember that even though gutter guards help minimise the number of times you need your gutters cleaned, you will still need to clean them, and Brisbane gutter cleaning specialists are here to help!
The rain and wind sometimes clear up some of the leaves and branches on your gutter guard, but most end up in the gutter and downpipe. The reality is that there is no such thing as a maintenance-free gutter guard. The first person to design one will be a millionaire! Over time, even the most expensive gutter guard systems become covered with leaves, twigs, and other debris. If left long enough, moss will eventually grow and cover the gutter guard.
There are lots of reviews and articles on the net about gutter guards. The best one we’ve found is the GuttaFilta™ gutter guard. The site claims it is an easily installed DIY style product and is ‘UV stable, fire retardant (self-extinguishing rating 10 – refer disclaimer)’. In addition, it says it is ‘environmentally friendly and comes with a 7-year warranty….is easy to handle and won’t dent or crack.’
We have installed many different gutter guards in Brisbane over the years, but GuttaFilta is the one we keep coming back to.
Are all gutter guards the same?
The simple answer to that is no. There are different types of gutter guards such as,
Screen guards
Micromesh
Reverse curve
Brush
Foam
When choosing a gutter guard in Brisbane, you need to consider some things such as what type of material, the size, how visible, and how easy to install. Many of these variables depend on the type of property you are trying to protect and its location. Therefore, we always recommend a professional Brisbane gutter guard installer when attempting gutter guard installation.
Professional gutter guard installers are trained to work at heights and have the necessary safety equipment to get the job done safely. This gives peace of mind to you as you know not only are they safe but also your family, neighbours or staff too.
Another thing to consider when choosing your gutter guard is the material. Gutter guard materials vary depending on the type and quality. Here are some common gutter guard material types:
Copper
Aluminium
Stainless Steel
Plastic
Foam
Are foam gutter guards any good?
Foam gutter guards are increasingly becoming the gutter guard of choice. They last for a long time and are easy to install, making them perfect for DIYers. One of the best foam gutter guards we’ve found is the GuttaFilta™ one. It is made from an open-cell (reticulated) polyether polyurethane foam.
The GuttaFilta™ website claims, ‘Whilst very porous and pliable, it is also highly resistant to physical stress and UV deterioration. In addition, it is formulated to perform in sub-zero or high temperatures, making it suitable for all Australian conditions.’ It goes on to say, ‘It also has an anti-microbial additive which prevents algae and moulds developing.’
If you would like the GuttaFilta™ gutter guard installed in the Brisbane area, then contact us on today for a professional and qualified Brisbane gutter guard installation.
Why is Gutter Cleaning so Important?
Gutter cleaning is one of the least glamorous jobs you can do around the house. You never know what you’re going to find up there. A bird’s nest, insects, a dead possum! If you are going to clean your gutters yourself, make sure you have the necessary safety gear. We still recommend you employ a gutter cleaning Brisbane professional.
Why is regular gutter cleaning so important? Well, apart from the obvious – blocked gutters, there is more to it than you might think. Gutters are usually only cleaned when there is a problem. This is because gutters can not only be challenging to reach, but gutter cleaning can be dangerous. Every year people die from falls from heights. Between 2015 and 2019, there were 122 fatalities from falls from heights, according to Safe Work Australia. Most of those deaths were caused by workers falling from buildings or other structures. A company was recently fined $75,000 over a 2017 incident in Toowoomba.
What happens if gutters are not cleaned regularly?
Leaks and minor damage on roofs and in gutters or downpipes can go unnoticed for a long time. A 0.3 centimetre crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day! Imagine all that water in your structure, walls or foundations; this can cause 1000’s of dollars of damage.
Water flowing down your wall can go into your wall cavity, which usually leads to dampness and mould. Mould is a serious health hazard that can lead to all kinds of health problems. It’s not worth putting the safety of your family or staff at risk for the sake of a couple of dollars.
Another danger caused by dirty gutters is a potential fire. Brisbane gets 280+ days of sunshine a year, which can lead to fires when dry twigs or leaves catch fire. According to The New South Wales Rural Fire Service, ‘A well-prepared home is more likely to survive a bushfire’.
Did you know that your home insurance might be invalid if your roof and gutters are not maintained and cleaned regularly? Some companies don’t pay out if you can’t prove a regular maintenance schedule for your roof and gutter cleaning in Brisbane. Brisbane River Gutter Clean offer a free gutter cleaning reminder service to prevent this. Call Allen today on for a FREE quote.
How often should you get your gutters cleaned in Brisbane?
Professionals say you should clean your gutters between 2-4 times a year. This can be reduced if you have a good quality gutter guard fitted and varies depending on where your property is located. Homes that are surrounded by or close to large trees, such as leopard trees, gum trees and jacarandas, may need more regular gutter cleaning.
What is the best way to clean your gutters?
Firstly, we recommend using a gutter guard device on your ladders to prevent damage to your gutters. Next, gutters can be cleaned out using your hand (wear strong gloves), a scooper, or a gutter vacuum. Then use a hose to flush the gutters and downpipes to clear out any remaining gunk and check if the water flows freely through the gutters and down the downpipes. This is also a good time to check for any leaks or damage.
Again, we must take the time to warn you when undertaking gutter cleaning on your own: around 30 people die each year in Australia from falls from heights. Half of these involved distances of three metres or less! It is no joking business; make sure you have appropriate safety gear and take care.
If you would rather leave Brisbane gutter guard installation or gutter cleaning in Brisbane to a professional, call us today on for a free quote.