When selecting a gutter guard, you need to keep these 10 considerations in mind to ensure the right materials are used on your build.

Strength

A standard strength gutter guard is sufficient for most domestic applications, but designs that include box gutters or parapets will need a stronger commercial grade gutter guard for additional strength.

ScreenTech’s Tuffmesh range has added strength.

Malleability

Gutter guards often require shaping to apply to specific areas and achieve the correct slope so that water does not sheet over the top of the gutter guard. Aluminium is a malleable material that can conform to the roof.

Lifespan

The lifespan of a gutter guard can vary. Essential gutter guards typically come with a 10-to-15 year warranty. A commercial solution will often have a warranty of up to 25 years. It is necessary to consider the guttering and roof warranty and whether the gutter guard warranty will match.

Colour

Gutter guards can be supplied in an array of colours, including ScreenTech’s 25 colours. ScreenTech can custom powdercoat some products to any colour on request.

Appearance

A gutter guard can vary in appearance depending on the mesh thickness and aperture size. It is ultimately up to personal preferences. ScreenTech encourages architects to use gutter guard photo guides to achieve the best aesthetics.  

Weather resistance

The location, climate and weather conditions will have a bearing on your choice of material. Areas prone to severe hailstorms require a thicker mesh. Similarly, gutter guards in tropical regions suit integrated mesh systems with larger hole sizes to minimise sheeting during storms and heavy downpours.

Rain harvesting

Gutter guards used in rain harvesting systems must have an AS4020 rating for potable water use.  Many property owners also like to use an AS4020 rated system for water used around children or pets.

BAL rating

Buildings in bushfire prone areas must use a BAL-rated gutter guard. Specific gutter guards and ember guards are suited to BAL12 and BAL29 areas. Check the local planning requirements to determine the ember guard category of your site and build requirements.

Pest control

In pest control situations, you must consider the kind of pest you are proofing against: For small birds, a standard thickness gutter guard is appropriate. However, proofing against larger pests such as possums, rats and bigger birds requires a thicker commercial-grade mesh to help ensure the property remains pest-free.

Arboreal factors

For leaf proofing, consider the property’s surrounding trees and vegetation, particularly seeds and leaves as well as the aperture size of the mesh. For example, pine tree debris suits an ember guard with a smaller sized hole. In contrast, a standard gutter guard will sufficiently proof eucalyptus trees’ larger pods and leaves.

If you are ever in doubt about the right gutter guard choice, please don’t hesitate to contact ScreenTech by phone or email. Architects’ information packs are available if you want more information on ScreenTech’s gutter guard selection.