Blocked gutters can lead to serious structural damage to your home, as well as damp problems and potential health issues for your family. Leaves, moss and even dead animals creating a blockage in the gutters themselves, or in the downpipes, means that water running off the roof is able to reach the sides of the house and over time can penetrate the structure. Of course, there’s no substitute for proper maintenance, and you should inspect and clean your guttering at least once a year, but prevention is still better than cure and these 4 products are designed to keep the water flowing all year round.
Gutter Brush
A gutter brush consists of a long, wire core interwoven with plastic bristles to create a barrier against all kinds of debris. Because the bristles are tightly packed, leaves and moss will get caught and stopped, and will either rot harmlessly or dry and be blown away. It’s easy to install by simply sliding it into place, making it a great option for a simple, DIY fix. Be sure to secure it in place with clips or cable ties in case there’s a strong wind though – the gutter brush catches the wind easily and can be blown down if it isn’t installed properly.
Foam Filter
Gutter foam is a bit like a sponge sitting inside your guttering, filtering out leaves and other debris while allowing water to penetrate through to the gutter channel underneath and drain away. The foam is easy to install by simply pushing it into place, so most DIY-ers shouldn’t have a problem, but be aware that large quantities of debris can settle on top of the foam itself, creating a barrier to water, so check the drainage at regular intervals and clean the foam as necessary.
Mesh Filter
Plastic mesh offers a cheap solution and is a very popular option. It forms a barrier above the guttering, catching large objects such as leaves and clumps of moss while allowing water to pass through and drain away. However, silt and seeds can still fall through the holes in the mesh, which can lead to plants growing in your gutter, and less substantial meshes can easily collapse under a lot of weight. DIY installation should be simple, but you’ll need scissors or a knife to cut the mesh to the right size.
Reverse Curve
Reverse curve guards sit above your guttering and extend right over so that debris falls harmlessly to the ground below, while the guard curves gently back on itself. Because of the surface tension of the rainwater, it is able to flow back with the curve, and is guided into the gutter channel below. Incorrect installation of these guards can cause problems rather than solving them, so think carefully about whether your DIY skills are up to the job and consult a professional if necessary. Reverse curves can also gather dirt on the sides and underneath, so you’ll still need to clean them regularly.
