If you have a gutter guard installed, you already know how beneficial these systems are. They keep debris out of your gutters and help to ensure your gutters last longer throughout each and every season. Gutter guards are also beneficial to the environment and promote a healthy ecosystem by minimising water pollution.
But it’s also important to inspect and maintain your gutter guard at least once a year. Let’s look at how you can maintain yours. If you have the type of gutter guard Melbourne residents trust the quality of, here’s how you can keep it in working condition despite harsh climate conditions.
5 Steps to Maintaining Your Gutter Guard System
Inspect Your Gutter Guard Once a Year
Before you know whether you need to clean, repair, or replace your gutter guard, you’ll need to do a quick inspection. It’s important to know what to look for when doing this, so keep an eye out for the following:
- A build-up of small debris that has accumulated over the gutter guard
- Any loose attachments that may compromise the stability and function of the gutter guard
- Whether or not water flows seamlessly as it did when you first installed it (you can run water with a hose over your roof to test this)
- Any rust or cracks within the material of the gutter guard
- Mould that’s built-up over time
- Gaps that may hide small creatures like birds, bugs, or nest materials
Also consider the season you’re in and have been through over the past few months. Heavy rains, scorching heat, or hail may affect your gutter guard. Consider these climate conditions as you inspect your system.
DIY Cleaning of Your Gutter Guard
Now that you’ve done a quick inspection of your gutter guard, see if you can clean it yourself using a hose. You may also want to grab an old sponge or a soft brush to wipe off any build-up. Minor build-up can be easily cleaned off the gutter guard and don’t warrant any cause for concern. However, if the build-up is severe, you may want to consider replacing it with a new one.
Compare Components with Industry Standards
Get a few images of a newly installed gutter guard and check to see if yours looks the same. Some components to your system may be damaged, bent, or even rusted through. If this is the case, the whole system may be compromised and you need to have it replaced. If left unchecked, your damaged gutter guard could cause problems with gutter draining.
Check the Downspouts and Remove Any Obstructions
Downspouts can get blocked without you noticing. By simply looking at the gutter guard itself, you may miss some obstructions that have occurred to your downspouts. Check these thoroughly and get rid of anything that may be clocking your downspouts.
Contact a Professional
Repairs can be done on your gutter guard to get it working properly again. But if the damage is severe, a replacement will need to be made. Either way, calling a gutter guard professional that’s licensed and insured is a good way to get it working again.
How to Find a Good Gutter Guard Expert
When searching for a gutter guard expert, bear some important aspect in mind before choosing just any company. Make sure you choose a company that’s licensed and insured, as well as someone who has years of experience working with these systems.
No matter what type of gutter guard you have, work with a professional who’s familiar with all types of systems. This includes custom box gutters, mini-line gutters, and gutters that are concealed. A company that understands all gutter systems is the only way you can be sure they repair or replace yours properly.
Check to see if the company you’re considering has successfully installed a high number of gutter guards for other homeowners. Check reviews and testimonials online to see what other customers have said about the company.
Finally, choose a gutter guard expert that not only repairs but offers high quality replacement products and/or components. A true expert will avoid using cheap components and systems to replace your system, so opt for a professional that understands the importance of gutter guard longevity.
Final Thoughts
Remember, if you don’t feel like you have the ability to check and inspect your gutter guard yourself, experts are available to help you. They will have the equipment, safety measures, and know-how on what to look out for and how to clean, repair, or replace your gutter guard.
It’s important to keep this system in tip-top shape if you want to reap the full benefits of owning one. With Australia’s extreme climate variations and heavy rainfall, homeowners should be checking their gutters at least once a year to make sure they are functioning properly throughout all seasons. So, call an expert now and get your gutter guard system checked.
