Is the installation of an eavestrough guard effective?
The accumulation of debris in eavestroughs slows down the flow of rainwater and can even clog them, causing various problems for your home. The eavestrough guard is an accessory that can provide several advantages. If there are many hardwood trees above your roof, for example, the addition of a quality eavestrough guard will reduce eavestrough cleaning to a minimum and ensure optimal operation throughout the year. This may be the solution for birds that have chosen your eavestroughs to nest in. Certain models of particularly sturdy eavestrough guards can also reduce damage caused by snow and ice build-up, which makes eavestroughs considerably heavier.
However, there are different types of eavestrough guards, some with better performance than others, but each with its own strengths and drawbacks. No model is perfect, so it's a matter of choosing the one that best suits your needs.
Things to consider before buying
Quantity and size of debris
You will find on the market eavestrough guards with micro-wicks and others with large perforations. Houses with pine needles will require a finer mesh, while larger leaves will require a coarser mesh. The smaller the holes, the less debris will be able to pass through, but the slower the water will flow through your eavestroughs.
Water flow rate
If the roof of your home is steep, you will need to choose a model with larger holes to ensure good stormwater drainage capacity. It is also a good idea to choose an eavestrough guard designed to prevent overflow.
Accumulation of snow and ice
Ice that has accumulated on a gutter in Sherbrooke The shape and material of eavestrough guards affect their strength. Aluminum models are often stronger than plastic ones, and screwed models will hold up better than those simply placed on eavestroughs.
Installation
Depending on the product you choose, you may be able to install it yourself. However, many eavestrough guards require professional installation. Some can be installed without tools, while others must be screwed in place.
Some models of eavestrough guards
In wire brush
It is inserted in the gutter, under the hooks. The debris gets stuck in the peaks of the brush and the water flows freely. Designed for very large debris, it is not suitable for small leaves, conifer needles or samaras. This type of waste will continue to accumulate in the gutter.
In foam
It traps debris on its surface and water flows through it. Debris, on the other hand, tends to accumulate in large quantities and rot.
In rolls
Its main advantage is that it is the least expensive. However, it is also more difficult to install, less solid and less efficient. Debris passes through it rather easily, and snow and ice quickly sag it. It therefore requires adjustments every year.
Reverse curve
It works well when its surface is always kept clean. If debris sticks to it, the water is deflected and does not follow the curve well to land in the gutter.
In plastic or perforated metal
These models are suitable for medium to large debris, mainly leaves. They do not offer good protection against conifer needles, shingle seeds or pollen. Obviously, a metal gutter cover will be stronger and more durable than a plastic one, and will be preferable in areas with heavy snowfall.
In plastic or metal micro-drill
These types of eavestrough guards filter out debris of all sizes. Again, the metal will better resist the weight of snow and ice.
Given the harshness of our Quebec winters, aluminum models are generally to be preferred. They are very resistant, they prevent snow from penetrating and they are designed to support the weight of ice. Some systems are more solidly fixed than others, they do not rust, they are easy to remove if necessary and they are guaranteed for several decades. Ask our specialists which type of eavestrough guard is best for your situation! Inicio