Installing gutter guards can prevent expensive water damage to your home caused by clogged gutters. However, many homeowners make mistakes during installation that compromise the system’s effectiveness. That’s where Rain Storm Solutions comes in. We bring years of gutter installation and maintenance expertise, specializing in professional gutter guard installation that protects your home from debris and water damage year-round.
Our team knows exactly how to avoid the common pitfalls, ensuring your gutter guards are installed correctly and perform at their best. In this post, we’ll highlight the most common mistakes to avoid and how our expert services can help.
Prepping Before Installing Gutter Guards
Prepare your gutters properly before installing gutter guards. Skipping this step will make your gutter guards ineffective from the start.
Clean and Test Your Gutters
First, clear out all leaves, debris, and shingle grit from your gutters. Once they’re clean, run water through them to check the flow. If there are leaks or clogs, address them before installing the gutter guards.
Measure Accurately
Measure the total length of your gutters to ensure you buy the right size gutter guards. Most come in 5 or 6-inch sizes, but it’s essential to get the exact fit for your home. Buying a little extra is smart to account for mistakes or product issues during the installation process.
Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Gutter Guards
When installing gutter guards, making the right choices is key to ensuring they work effectively. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid to keep your gutter system functioning smoothly.
Installing Gutter Guards Under Shingles
Some gutter guards require you to lift your shingles to install them. Avoid this method. Lifting shingles can break the protective water barrier on your roof, leading to leaks and costly repairs down the road. Always opt for gutter guards that don’t require messing with your roof.
Nailing Into the Roof
Never nail gutter guards directly into your roof. This might seem secure, but it can damage your shingles and cause major problems. Once there’s a hole in your roof, water can easily seep in and cause interior damage. Look for products like One Gutter Guard™ that are guaranteed to never warp or crack due to extreme or sun exposure and Lock N Mesh gutters guards that are simple to install.
Choosing the Wrong Gutter Guard
Not all gutter guards are made equal. Low-quality guards with large openings or flimsy materials may still let in debris, forcing you to climb that ladder to clean your gutters again. Investing in a high-quality gutter guard system like One Gutter Guard™ saves you time and ensures effective protection. Lock N Mesh gutters guards are the econo brand of One Gutter Guard and are simple to install and highly effective
For more information on different options, check out our blog post: LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Are They Really the Best Options?.
Handling Gutters Incorrectly
Another common mistake is mishandling gutters during the installation process. Many homeowners accidentally change the pitch of their gutters, which disrupts water flow and reduces the system’s effectiveness. Make sure your gutters remain properly aligned and securely fastened to avoid issues.
The Cost of Installing Gutter Guards: DIY vs. Professional Help
When considering installing gutter guards, you may wonder whether to tackle the job yourself or hire a professional. While DIY installations can save you money upfront, they come with risks that could lead to long-term expenses if done incorrectly. Professional installation costs more initially but guarantees that the job is done right the first time, saving you from future repairs or maintenance issues.
The cost of installing gutter guards varies based on several factors, including the size of your home and the type of guards you choose. Depending on materials, DIY installations can range from $120 to $700, while professional installations typically cost between $2,000 and $7,000. At Rain Storm Solutions, we install high-quality systems like One Gutter Guard™ and Lock N Mesh, which protects your home against Florida’s heavy rainfall and debris.
Ultimately, the choice between DIY and professional installation depends on your budget, skill level, and how much maintenance you want to avoid in the future. To learn whether gutter guards are worth the investment, check out our detailed guide: Are Gutter Guards Worth It? Everything You Need to Know Before Installing.
Installing Gutter Guards FAQ
What is the Cost of Installing Gutter Guards?
The cost of installing gutter guards depends on the type you choose and whether you hire professionals. DIY options are less expensive upfront, but professional installation ensures a long-lasting, effective solution.
Is Installing Gutter Guards Under Shingles Safe?
No, installing gutter guards under shingles can cause roof damage. It breaks the roof’s water barrier, leading to leaks and expensive repairs. Always avoid products that require lifting shingles.
How Do I Clean My Gutters Before Installing Gutter Guards?
Remove all debris from your gutters and downspouts, then run water through them to check for clogs or leaks. Fix any issues before starting the installation.
Can I Install Christmas Lights with Gutter Guards?
Yes. Installing Christmas lights with gutter guards is easy with clips designed for gutters. This allows you to decorate without damaging your system.
Why Should I Choose Rain Storm Solutions for Gutter Installation?
Rain Storm Solutions offers professional installation of One Gutter Guard™ and Lock N Mesh, ensuring your system is installed correctly for optimal performance. We handle everything, from gutter cleaning to realigning and resealing before installation. Learn more about how we can help protect your home in our post: Gutter Guard Installation: Protect Your Home and Save Time.
What Gutter Guards Do You Install?
We install One Gutter Guard™ and Lock N Mesh, top-tier products that ensure long-lasting debris protection and durability. This system is designed to handle Florida’s unpredictable weather, keeping your gutters clear year-round.
For more tips on maintaining your gutter system and keeping your home safe from water damage, check out our other blog posts:
- Gutter Guard Installation: Protect Your Home and Save Time
- Are Gutter Guards Worth It? Everything You Need to Know Before Installing
- LeafFilter vs. LeafGuard: Are They Really the Best Options?
This guide will help you avoid the most common mistakes when installing gutter guards, ensuring your home stays protected. And remember, if you’re unsure about any step, contact Rain Storm Solutions, we’re here to help.
