Pine Needles, Hornet Nests, and Leaves Clog Gutters
This homeowner in Madison, WI, was frustrated. Their existing gutter guards weren't doing the job. They were seeking an effective solution to replace their solid cover gutter covers, which were proving ineffective against pine needles.
This homeowner in Madison, WI, was frustrated. Their existing gutter guards weren't doing the job. They were seeking an effective solution to replace their solid cover gutter covers, which were proving ineffective against pine needles.
Solid cover gutter guards often fail to prevent pine needles from entering. As you can see in the images, debris accumulated at the gutter opening, causing water to overflow and streak down the front of the gutters, creating an unsightly mess.
Debris collected along the front edge of the existing gutter cover, further obstructing water flow.
The back gutter was also completely full of debris, highlighting the ineffectiveness of the existing system.
Hornet nests were another unwelcome surprise. Hooded gutter cover systems can inadvertently provide an ideal nesting environment for hornets and bees, creating a potential hazard for homeowners.
The downspouts, connected to drain tiles, were completely clogged. The accumulated pine needles, leaves, and other debris formed a solid barrier, causing water to back up and leak from the downspout joints.
The decomposing debris had transformed into a thick sludge, which, while beneficial for a compost pile, was detrimental to the drainage system. The team manually removed the sludge and flushed the drains with a hose for several minutes to restore proper flow.
After removing the old gutter covers and thoroughly cleaning the gutters, downspouts, and drains, the installation of new gutter guards began. However, the steel roof presented a unique challenge.
Traditional gutter guard installation involves sliding the guard under the shingle edge. Without shingles, a custom installation was required. The team used a shear to precisely cut the back edge of the gutter guard. They then creatively inverted a piece of drip edge and mounted it to the fascia.
This meticulous process resulted in a visually appealing and highly functional solution. The installation was water-tested with a hose to ensure optimal performance.
From the ground, the new gutter guards were barely noticeable. Unlike the old, bulky guards that easily displayed dirt and grime, the new guards blended seamlessly with the roofline. To complete the project, the fascia (the area directly below the gutter) was washed, ensuring a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish.
