How To Install Gutter Guards
Gutter guards are designed to be installed on an already existing gutter and drainage system and provide a barrier to keep out sticks and other debris from building up in your gutters. If detritus is allowed to build up in your gutters, it can allow for ice to build up along the edge of your roof. This means that water will be held up on your roof for longer periods of time, increasing the risk of water damage and mold development in your roof and attic. Thankfully, installing gutter guards is a fairly simple process that you can complete yourself in just a few minutes, and it will save you repair bills in the future.
Before You Begin
You'll need a ladder, a pair of gloves, tin snips, roofing nails, a hammer, a speed square, and the gutter guards, all of which are available at most hardware stores if you do not already own them. You may also want to have a helper spotting you while you're on the ladder to ensure your safety.
Installing Gutter Guards
Use the ladder to get up to the gutters and clean them out, throwing out all of the debris so that it does not get stuck underneath the guards. You should also check for any signs of damage in your gutters that may need to be repaired before you install the guards. You can check the integrity of your gutter system by running water through the gutters from a garden hose to find any holes or blockages.
Once the gutter is clear, go back to the start and begin installing the gutter guards. The guards have a clip on one end that fit over the outer edge of your gutters.
Slide the other end of the gutter guard underneath your shingles as far as it will go, and then use the hammer and roofing nails to secure it in place.
Once a single section of gutter guard has been installed, move on to the next one. Overlap the sections so that twigs and other narrow pieces of debris cannot find a seam to slip in through.
For any corners that may come about, measure that angle using the speed square, and then mark the angle along the gutter guard. Once you've marked the angle, use the tin snips to cut the guards appropriately. It may not be possible to overlap the guards that meet at a corner.
