Publication date: 10/15/2011

Gutter protection systems should fit your needs

Just as the autumn leaves begin turning, I start getting the calls from people wanting to know how they can keep leaves and other debris from clogging their gutters. Obviously, climbing a ladder and cleaning out the gutters a couple times a year is mandatory if you have a lot of trees on your property. But that job not only gets harder as you get older, but more dangerous. Especially if you have a two-story home.

That's why the discussion will usually turn to the many gutter protection systems that are available. While these systems will minimize the frequency with which you have to clean your gutters, all protectors do allow some dirt to enter the gutter. Eventually, the gutter system will have to be disassembled and cleaned. So it is important to do your homework and make sure you buy a system that fits both your needs and expectations.

When buying gutter protection, there are two types to consider; systems that are used with your existing gutters and Combo Gutters that replace them.

The other choice is whether you want to install it yourself or have it installed. While there is not one particular product I recommend for everyone, here are some to consider:

Do it yourself

If you are looking for a gutter protection system you could install yourself and is easy to clean when needed, consider Gutter Brush Gutter Guard, (888) 397-9433, www.gutterbrush.com; and Rain Flow, (800) 796-4476, www.rainflowusa.com. The Gutter Brush features a large bristle brush that fills the gutter, catches leaves and debris on top of the brush while allowing the water to run through it. You can easily remove the brush from the gutter to clean it when needed. The product comes in three-foot sections as well as 18-inch shorter spans, and can also be cut to ensure a perfect fit for any length gutter. It's available at Do-It Best stores or online at Gutter Brush's website.

The Rain Flow system is made of all-natural fibers coated with UV-stable premium acrylic latex, which fills the entire gutter opening so that nothing but water can get in.

It also comes in three-foot sections and can be cut to fit any length of gutter. It is available locally at John's Lumber, (586) 791-1200, www.johnslumber.com.

Professionally installed

If you want a system to be installed, there are a number of products to choose from. One system, Flo Free by DCI Products, (800) 622-4455, www.dciproducts.com, is a 3/4- inch thick nylon that covers the complete gutter opening and comes in standard and custom sizes to fit most gutters.

In addition, it is attached to the gutters, not the roof, so it won't void any shingle warranties. Kearns Brothers, (888) 355-6700, www.kearnsbrothers.com, sells and installs the system.

Other gutter protection systems available in our area include Gutter Helmet, (888) 4-HELMET, www.gutterhelmet.com, which installs over the gutters and is made of aluminum and has a textured surface and coating that the manufacturer claims will not chalk, crack or peel; and Gutter Glove, (877) 662-5644, www.gutterglove.com, which is also covers the gutters and is made from a perforated aluminum channel and stainless steel mesh. Both of these systems are attached under the shingles of the roof, so it is important to make sure the installation of these systems won't void your shingle manufacturer's warranty.

Combo gutter

If you are planning to completely replace your gutters, consider an integrated or Combo Gutter system, such as LeafGuard, (800) 532-3482, www.leafguard.com; or Kguard Leaf Free Gutter System, (800) 435-4356, www.kguard.com. Both of these manufacturers offer a one-piece gutter system with a built in "hood" to keep leaves and debris out. These would also be professionally installed by a contractor.

You can learn more about rain gutter products and services for yourself with the National Rain Gutter Contractors Association website at www.nrgca.org. So if you are tired of cleaning gutters, there are plenty of gutter protection systems available that can decrease the time you spend up on a ladder.

If you would like to suggest a question for this column, e-mail askglenn@masterhandyman.com. If you want to talk to Glenn Haege personally, call his Handyman Show on WJR-AM (760) at (866) ASK GLENN, (866) 275-4536 between noon and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Note: This article was accurate at the date of publication. However, information contained in it may have changed. If you plan to use the information contained herein for any purpose, verification of its continued accuracy is your responsibility.

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