Gutter Guards: Do They Work All Year?

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Homeowners know the frustration of dealing with clogged gutters and having to call professional gutter cleaning. Overflowing water, sagging gutters, and even potential property damage are all too common when gutters become obstructed with leaves, twigs, and other debris. Gutter guards promise to be the ultimate solution to this problem. But how effective are they throughout the year, especially in winter?

In this blog, we’ll explore how gutter guards perform across different seasons and whether they truly live up to their claims.

How Gutter Guards Work

Gutter guards are designed to prevent debris from entering your gutters while allowing water to flow freely. They act as a barrier that filters out leaves, twigs, and other debris, ensuring that your gutters remain clear and functional.

Here are the main types of gutter guards and their pros and cons:

Mesh Gutter Guards

Mesh gutter guards feature a fine screen that blocks debris while letting water pass through.

  • Pros: Highly effective at keeping out small debris like pine needles. Compatible with Colorbond gutters.
  • Cons: Can require regular cleaning to prevent clogs on the mesh itself.

Foam Gutter Guards

These are made of porous foam that fits inside the gutter, allowing water to pass through while blocking debris.

  • Pros: Easy to install and affordable.
  • Cons: Can trap small particles over time, leading to potential buildup and mold.

Brush/Bristle Gutter Guards

These consist of bristles that sit in the gutter, preventing debris from settling while water flows around them.

  • Pros: Effective against larger leaves and twigs. Easy to remove and clean.
  • Cons: May not block finer debris and can require frequent cleaning.

Gutter Guards in Different Seasons

Spring

In spring, gutters face challenges from pollen, blossoms, and small leaves. Gutter guards excel in preventing these smaller particles from accumulating, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. However, occasional checks are recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Summer

During summer, gutters may encounter larger leaves, twigs, and debris from summer storms. Gutter guards help minimize blockages, ensuring that heavy rainwater flows freely. However, intense storms might still push some debris through, so a mid-summer inspection is wise.

Autumn

Autumn is a critical season for gutters as falling leaves can quickly clog them. Gutter guards are particularly effective during this time, significantly reducing leaf buildup and the associated risks of overflow and damage.

Winter

Winter poses unique challenges for gutter guards, raising the question: do they work effectively in cold weather? The short answer is yes, but with caveats.

  • Snow and Ice Buildup: Certain types of gutter guards can accumulate snow and ice, potentially leading to blockages or added weight on the gutters. This is especially true for mesh and foam guards.
  • Pre-Winter Maintenance: It’s essential to clean your gutters thoroughly before winter, even if you have guards installed. This ensures they’re free of any debris that could freeze and exacerbate clogs.

Addressing Concerns About Winter Performance

Some homeowners wonder, “Are gutter guards bad in winter?” The answer is no, as long as you choose the right type for your climate and maintain them properly. High-quality guards designed for cold weather can handle snow and ice better, ensuring they remain effective year-round.

The Importance of Professional Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance

Even with gutter guards, regular maintenance is essential to ensure they perform effectively. Jim’s Mowing NZ offers professional gutter cleaning services to help homeowners keep their gutters in top condition.

Benefits of Professional Gutter Cleaning:

  1. Thorough Debris Removal: Professionals can remove debris that might sneak past the guards.
  2. Damage Inspection: They check for damage or wear that could compromise gutter performance.
  3. Ensuring Proper Water Flow: By clearing any blockages, they prevent potential water damage to your property.

Pre-Winter Preparation

Jim’s Mowing NZ also offers pre-winter gutter cleaning services, ensuring your gutters are clear before the first frost. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of winter-related issues and keeps your home protected from potential water damage.

Installing Gutter Guards

DIY Installation

For handy homeowners, installing gutter guards yourself can be a cost-effective option. However, it requires precise measurements and proper fitting to ensure they work as intended.

Professional Installation

Professional installation guarantees a perfect fit, optimal performance, and often includes a warranty. If Jim’s Mowing NZ provides installation services, their expertise ensures your gutter guards are installed to withstand all weather conditions.

In Summary

Gutter guards can be an effective solution to year-round gutter maintenance, significantly reducing the frequency of clogs and the associated risks. However, they’re not a set-it-and-forget-it solution. Regular maintenance, especially before winter, is crucial to keep your gutters functioning optimally.

Professional services like those offered by Jim’s Mowing NZ provide peace of mind, ensuring your gutters are clean, damage-free, and ready to handle any season. Don’t let clogged gutters become a headache – call Jim’s Mowing NZ at 0800 454 654 or visit our website to schedule your gutter cleaning or installation service today!

What is Gutter Flashing?

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A well-maintained home is a happy home. One often-overlooked component of home maintenance is gutter flashing. This seemingly simple metal strip plays a vital role in safeguarding your property from water damage. In this post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of  what is gutter flashing, exploring its purpose, types, and the importance of regular maintenance.

Understanding Gutter Flashing

Gutter flashing is a thin, metal strip typically made of aluminium or galvanised steel. It’s strategically installed at the intersection of your roof and gutter system. Its primary function is to divert rainwater into the gutters and away from your home’s vulnerable areas, such as the fascia boards and soffits.

Why is Gutter Flashing Important?

The consequences of neglecting gutter flashing can be severe. Without proper flashing, rainwater can seep into your home’s structure, leading to a cascade of problems:

  • Structural Damage: Water intrusion can weaken the roof, fascia boards, and soffits, compromising the overall structural integrity of your home.
  • Mould and Mildew Growth: Excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can pose health risks to your family and damage your home’s interior.
  • Rot and Decay: Wooden components exposed to moisture are susceptible to rot and decay, requiring costly repairs or replacements.
  • Foundation Issues: Water damage can affect your home’s foundation, leading to cracks, settling, and other serious issues.

before gutter flashing

Common Types of Gutter Flashing

To effectively protect your home, it’s essential to understand the different types of gutter flashing:

  1. Drip Edge Flashing: Installed along the roof’s edge, drip edge flashing prevents water from running behind the gutters and into the fascia.
  2. Kick-Out Flashing: This type of flashing is installed where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as a wall or chimney. It directs water away from the wall and into the gutter.
  3. Step Flashing: Step flashing is used to cover the vertical joints between the roof and a wall or chimney. It’s installed in overlapping layers, creating a watertight seal.

Signs of Gutter Flashing Issues

To prevent costly water damage, it’s crucial to regularly inspect your gutter flashing for signs of wear and tear. Here are some red flags to watch for:

  • Water Stains: Look for water stains on your ceilings, walls, or fascia boards.
  • Mould and Mildew Growth: These are clear indicators of moisture problems.
  • Sagging Gutters: Sagging gutters can be a sign of clogged gutters or damaged flashing.
  • Visible Gaps: Check for gaps between the roof and gutters, as these can allow water to seep in.
  • Rust and Corrosion: Rust and corrosion on your flashing can compromise its effectiveness.

after gutter flashing

Maintaining Your Gutter Flashing

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your gutter flashing. Here are some tips for maintaining your gutter flashing:

  • Clean Your Gutters: Regularly clean your gutters to remove debris that can clog them and prevent water from flowing properly.
  • Inspect Your Flashing: Conduct regular inspections to identify any damage or wear and tear.
  • Seal Gaps: Use high-quality sealant to seal any gaps or cracks in your flashing.
  • Replace Damaged Flashing: If you find damaged flashing, replace it immediately to prevent water damage.
  • Professional Installation and Repair: For complex installations or repairs, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor like Jim’s Mowing NZ.

Conclusion

Gutter flashing, though often overlooked, is a critical component of your home’s defence against water damage. By understanding its purpose, types, and maintenance requirements, you can protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your home. Don’t neglect this essential element of home maintenance. Regular inspections and timely repairs can save you from costly water damage and keep your home safe and dry for years to come.

For expert gutter cleaning and maintenance services in New Zealand, trust Jim’s Mowing NZ.

 

Have You Installed The Right Gutter System For Your Home?

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Half Round Gutter System

Rain will pour down on the roof and to the ground. If your home does not have a proper guttering system, the water will just flow down the roof in random patterns, and into the house — and this can pose a danger to people and the immediate surrounding landscaping and buildings.

An excellent gutter system will prevent house leaks and reduce erosion by minimising water exposure. Indeed, having the right gutter system properly installed in your home is very important.

A Guide to Choosing the Right Gutter

Determine which type of gutter best suits your property – You can choose from half round gutters, square fronted gutters, quad gutters, and box gutters. Say, for instance, you have a modern-style home; your best option would be the half round gutters since they have a high

Quad Gutter System

capacity and do not easily collect debris. But if you want to hide your gutters, then it’s best to opt for the boxed type.

Determine what colour is right for your home – Your gutters will be visible, so you must choose the right colour. Apart from picking a hue that matches the colour of your roof, it is also a great idea to find a colour that complements your door and windows well. This will definitely be visually appealing.

Check what the gutter is made of – Gutters can be made of zincalume, steel, copper, zinc aluminium alloys, PVC and Colorbond. Of course, you must opt for a gutter that is compatible with your roofing.

Box Gutter System

Consider the annual expected amount of rainfall in your area – In Adelaide, for instance, residents can expect an average of 540mm of rainfall every year. During the months of June and July, residents can expect high rainfall totals. The more rainfall you get, the bigger your gutters must be.

Seamless System Vs. Sectional System

Which provides more value to your money, a seamless system or a sectional system? Seamless gutters are often installed by professionals and are pre-cut to size. These are actually the top choice on the market nowadays. And since these have fewer sections, there will be fewer chances of springing a leak or a broken seam.

On the other hand, sectional gutters vary in lengths, which are patched together on site or upon installation.

If you are still confused as to which of the many gutter systems is best for your home, you can get expert help. A reliable gutter installer or supplier can assist you in making the right decision. For you to get an objective opinion, you need to go for a guttering service that offering all guttering types and has been in the business for decades.

For more garden and landscaping tips, tune in for more Jim’s Mowing NZ blogs.

Seamless Gutter System

Sectional Gutter System

Does Your Insurance Cover Damage From Blocked Gutters?

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Dirt build-up in the gutter system causes a myriad of problems when neglected. Not only does it cause roof and gutter damage, but it also leads to serious structural damage. This is why it is essential to have the gutter system cleared up at least twice a year.

Gutter cleaning and maintenance will help prevent significant damage to your home. Whether or not you have to spend to have your gutters regularly cleaned, in the long run, it actually helps prevent the need to spend on more expensive repair and renovation tasks. In addition, proper gutter maintenance done regularly is your ticket, should you need to claim your insurance.

Home insurance, also known as homeowner’s insurance, is a type of property insurance that aims to protect an individual’s house and other related assets against unwanted incidents. While most homeowners are aware of the extent of coverage of their insurance, some are just not well informed.

One of the most commonly asked questions about home insurance is, “Does it cover damages caused by blocked gutters?” The simple answer is yes. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are covered when you make a claim.

Hence, it is important that when you decide to pay for a homeowner’s insurance, make sure to go through and understand your policy’s Product Disclosure Statement. This document contains the details of your policy, inclusions, and exclusions.

The Extent of Coverage

Up to what extent do insurance providers cover damages caused by clogged gutters? They cover loss or damages that are outside your control. This means that any damage that could have been prevented through regular maintenance will not be covered.

If you have been regularly cleaning or maintaining your gutters and a loss or damage is incurred, then it will be easier for you to make a claim and get paid. But if your insurance provider finds that you have not been doing maintenance work, they can decide to reject your claim.

Protect Yourself and Your Investment

The best way to protect yourself and your investment is with regular gutter cleaning. If you are familiar or experienced with this kind of work, then this is something that you can do yourself. On the other hand, if this is something that you cannot do, it is always best to hire professionals to the job for you. They are trained and have the right tools to accomplish the job. The important thing is that your gutter system is regularly cleaned up and maintained.

For more garden and landscaping tips, tune in for more Jim’s Mowing NZ blogs.

Tips For Reducing Fire Hazards In Your Gutters

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Debri is Fuel for a Fire

The bushfire season of 2015-2016 is said to have been the most destructive in recent years. Statistics showed that 408 residential properties and at least 500 non-residential ones were lost or damaged during this season, costing locals millions of dollars. There were also a number of reported injuries and human fatalities. The states that suffered the most from the last bushfire season included Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia.

Keeping Your Home Safe From Bushfires

Although bushfires can be hard to prevent, you should still take the right steps to protect your home from being a statistic of this year’s bushfire season. This is especially true if you live in a place that is surrounded by a forest or vegetation including paddocks, bush, and grasslands.

The particular area of your home that you should pay attention to is your gutter system.

One of the main reasons why bushfires are so destructive is because they quickly escalate. As the fire moves or spreads, burning leaves and twigs are carried by the wind and get fresh oxygen for combustion. Because of this, embers and other burning materials can spread to dangerous and unpredictable lengths.

Embers can easily land on gutters. If your gutter is clogged with fallen leaves, twigs, and other types of debris, they can easily ignite if embers land on them. If this isn’t discovered and stopped immediately, the resulting fire can burn your house to the ground.

To prevent this dangerous situation from happening in your home, follow the useful tips below:

  • Install a gutter protection system that is fire-proof or has zero-flammability features. The right gutter guard product can effectively reduce the risk of embers starting spot fires around your home. Gutter guards will also ensure that flammable leaves do not remain on your roof and start a potential fire.
  • Getting a gutter protection system is just a start; proper installation is just as important, too. Aside from the gutters, the valleys must be covered with a non-combustible material as well. In addition, the gutter guards must be securely fixed with materials that can withstand extreme heat.
  • In case you do not opt to have gutter guards installed, make sure you clean the gutters thoroughly and regularly. Remove all debris completely so that embers won’t have anything to ignite if they land on the gutters.
  • Lastly, make sure your lawn, including all paths on the sides of your house, are free from flammable materials including dead branches, dry leaves, and twigs. If there are tree branches that are really close to your home or roof, have them removed or trimmed immediately.

Gutters are important features that help control water flow from the roof during the rainy season. But during bushfire season, they can easily become the part of your home where fire can ignite. By taking the necessary precautionary steps, you can reduce the risk of fire happening in your home.

For more garden and landscaping tips, tune in for more Jim’s Mowing NZ blogs.

Consequences of Not Cleaning Your Gutters

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A building’s gutters may not exactly be eye-catching, but these certainly perform a vital role.

What role is this?

The primary purpose of gutters is to move rainwater away from the roof and from the main structure. When water is allowed to fall closely to the main structure, the soil around it may erode. Eventually, the foundation can become compromised and this can lead to structural issues, especially if the building has a basement.

Apart from that, the rainwater can wind its way into your home via windows and doors. The risk for this issue is high if your roof does not have sufficient clearance.

Gutters use gravity to direct rainwater away from the roof and your home toward the downspout.

But just like any other part of a house, the gutters need to be cleaned and maintained in order to ensure their optimal performance. Over time, leaves, twigs and small branches, and other types of debris can collect in the gutters.

What are the consequences of not cleaning your gutters?

Leaks

One of the first signs that means the gutters need to be cleaned is a leak. Leaking gutters can easily be discovered through a visual inspection of the roof and can be remedied with a simple cleanup. However, if the issue is left unchecked, it can lead to other woes.

Blocked, dirty gutters can also cause leaks on the roof. When the gutters are blocked, the rainwater cannot fall to the ground and will instead accumulate on portions of the roof. Eventually, this can lead to damage, especially when the water turns into ice.

Rainwater can also leak into the basement if the gutters are not cleaned and therefore cannot function optimally. The excess water can get to the basement and lead to various problems like gas leaks and electrical shocks.


Moulds

When rainwater gets inside your home, moulds can invade your home. Mould spores float freely in the air and can grow inside a home when there is moisture present. Keep in mind that apart from being difficult to remove and being unsightly, moulds can also cause different health issues.

Pests

Insects and vermin are attracted to gutters filled with debris. For example, the water pooled inside the gutters and on the roof serve as a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Vermin that are attracted to the debris on the gutters can eventually invade your home.

Damaged gutters

It can take just a few weeks before gutters become damaged due to rotting. Nearby wooden structures like fascia can rot as well. And if the gutters continue to accumulate dirt and debris, these become too heavy and can get distorted and even fall off.

Damage to the landscape

Finally, when rainwater lands on sidewalks and driveways, it can make these slippery. Worse, rainwater can actually do damage to these. Apart from that, the plants in your garden can be drowned.

For more garden and landscaping tips, tune in for more Jim’s Mowing NZ blogs.

What Are Gutter Guards?

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Gutters play an important role in maintaining the structural integrity and longevity of roofs. They collect water that lands on the roofs from rains or storms and direct the collected water away from the house. A gutter system is crucial to help reduce water and moisture damage to one’s home.

Protecting Your Gutters

An easy way to provide protection to your gutter and to keep them intact and functional for a long time is to invest in gutter guards.

Gutter guards, also known as gutter protection systems, permit rain water to enter your gutter and, at the same time, keep leaves, pests, and other unwanted debris out. Without sufficient protection, leaves and debris can create a blockage I your gutter and, eventually, the downpipes.

To remove these blockages and prevent further damage on your gutter, you will need to clean them regularly as well. The right type of gutter guards can help you avoid these issues.

Gutter guards offer the following specific benefits:

  • They effectively keep out leaves, twigs, seeds, and other types of debris that fall from the trees.
  • They help prevent the fascias from rotting and the paint on your gutter from peeling.
  • They reduce the risk of mould and mildew growth, particularly in cities that have the highest average number of rainfall such as Darwin, Sydney, and Brisbane.
  • They protect your gutter and home from small pests such as rodents, birds, and even snakes that can nest in the gutter system.
  • They can provide protection to your home from bushfires – something that occurs regularly throughout Australia.

Another noteworthy reason why you should consider having gutter guards is to avoid the difficult chore of cleaning your gutter system. The need to clean gutters can often put your safety in serious jeopardy. Each year, hundreds of people fall from ladders while trying to clean their gutters. Unfortunately, some of these falls are fatal.

Choosing the Best Gutter Protection System for Your Home

Gutter guards come in different types. In terms of materials, they can be made of plastic or polyethylene, aluminium, stainless steel, and Colorbond.

To make sure you invest in the right gutter guard system, you have to consider some important factors.

First, consider your roof material, the type of structure or building you have, the roof’s design, and your location.

You should then make sure the system you will choose is effective – it should keep unwanted debris and pests out yet still allow water to flow through the roof’s channel efficiently.

Gutter guards have to be cleaned regularly as well. Make sure you choose a system that is easy to clean or maintenance-free.

Lastly, consider its price. It has to be one that suits your needs and budget.