Any homeowner will be able to tell you that a good roof can last around 15 to 20 years. However, poorly designed roofs can see their lifespan significantly reduced, or even see their owner having to head to the next roofing job before they had planned.
This is why it’s so important to know how to look after the gutter installation. Installing gutter guards can be a great way to keep your roof in the best condition, but they need to be installed correctly to get the best out of them.
If you’re thinking of installing gutter guards under shingles in your home, but aren’t quite sure how to go about it, here’s a guide.
Read on.
Measure and Snip
Before you start, it’s important to measure your home gutters. Use special measuring tape to figure out how long the gutter guards need to be. Once you know the length, carefully cut the guard material to match.
This way, the guards will fit right in and keep your gutters safe. Proper measurement and cutting are like making sure your shoes fit perfectly so you can walk comfortably. When you’re done snipping, you’ll have guards that are the right size for your home gutters, and this helps them do their job well.
So, take your time with this step to set the right foundation for the rest of the process.
Lift the Shingles
Now, let’s gently lift the shingles that are above where the guards will go. Imagine you’re lifting a corner of a blanket. This step is like making a small roof flap.
Be careful not to harm the shingles while you do this. Lifting the shingles creates a nice space for you to place the guards without disturbing the roof’s parts. It’s like making a cozy little home for the guards.
By doing this, you make sure everything fits well and the guards can sit comfortably without causing any trouble. Just remember, take it easy and be gentle, just like handling delicate things. This prepares the way for the next important steps in our gutter guard adventure.
Clip or Bracket
Now, let’s talk about an interesting option to make things even easier. You can think of getting new gutters that come with something cool called “built-in brackets.” These brackets are like helpful hooks that are already there.
They make putting the guards in place simpler, like connecting pieces of a puzzle. Imagine if your gutters already have these friendly hooks waiting for the guards to come in. It’s like having a set of hands that hold things steady for you.
So, if you’re thinking about installing new gutters, keep an eye out for these brackets. They can be your little helpers and make the whole guard installation smoother. It’s a bonus that can make your gutter journey even better.
Apply Adhesive
The fourth step in installing gutter guards under shingles is to apply adhesive. This will help secure the gutter guard and ensure it is fully supported while in use. Before applying the adhesive, it is important to make sure that the shingles are clean and dry.
Additionally, the gutter guard should be cut to fit the particular area or gutter system. Once the gutter guard has been properly cut, it is time to apply the adhesive. Depending on the type of gutter guard, it can be attached either directly to the shingle or to the edge of the gutter itself.
If the gutter guard is going directly onto the shingle, a strong powder adhesive should be used. Once the adhesive has been evenly applied, the gutter guard should be securely fitted and allowed to fully dry before being used. This simple step ensures that the guard stays put and does its job well.
Seal the Edges
To seal the edges of your gutter guards properly, you’ll need to use a silicone-based caulk or rubber sealing strip. Start by applying the sealant along the bottom edge of the guard. Once the base is secure, hold the guard in place and make sure it’s properly aligned with the roofline.
Once satisfied, apply sealant along the top edge of the guard and press firmly against the shingles. Wipe away any excess sealant. Make sure you use a long-lasting sealant that is designed to withstand temperatures and weather conditions in your area.
To prevent water from accumulating on the roof and leaking into your home, apply additional sealant along the sides of the gutter guards and individual shingles. This will create an extra waterproof layer and help keep your gutters in tip-top shape for years to come.
Repeat the Process
Now that you’ve got the hang of it, it’s time to do the same thing for the other parts of your gutters. Remember, it’s like following a recipe more than once. Just take each step again.
Measure and snip the guard, lift the shingles gently and attach them with adhesive. Think of it as making a row of little houses for the guards along your gutters. Each step is like building a new house, and you want them all to be cozy and snug.
Keep going until you’ve done this for all the sections. Following the same simple steps again ensures that all your gutter guards are in their proper places, keeping your home safe and dry.
Give It a Test Run
Once you’ve installed all the gutter guards, step back and inspect your work. Look for any loose edges, gaps, or areas that might need extra attention. It’s better to catch and fix any issues now rather than deal with them later.
Now that your best gutter guards are in place, it’s time for a quick test run. Wait for the next rainstorm and observe how the water flows through the gutters. Check for any signs of blockages or overflowing water.
Properly installed gutter guards should keep the water flowing, protecting your home from potential water damage.
Installing Gutter Guards Under Shingles
In conclusion, installing gutter guards under shingles can be an effective tool in protecting your home and preventing water from getting into the shingles, eaves, and gutters. They can be a cost-effective solution and easy to install, with the right tools and supplies.
Take your time today to make sure you have the proper gutter guards installed and start protecting your home from water damage now.
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