What is the best DIY leaf guard for gutters?

Clogged gutters can cause a myriad of problems, from water damage to your home’s foundation and landscape to attracting pests like mosquitoes. Leaves and debris easily accumulate in gutters, blocking proper drainage and overflowing when it rains. Installing gutter guards is an effective way to prevent clogs and damage. While you can hire a professional to install guards, doing it yourself is often much more affordable. With the right materials and some simple tools, you can add DIY gutter leaf guards to protect your home.

What are gutter leaf guards?

Gutter leaf guards, also called gutter covers, are protective barriers designed to keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of your gutters while still allowing rainwater to flow through. There are several types of gutter guards:

• Foam inserts – Cylindrical foam tubes placed inside gutters
• perforated vinyl shields – Solid vinyl covers with small holes over gutters
• Mesh screens – Sturdy mesh material that allows water to pass through small holes
• Reverse curve shields – Solid covers with a curved shape that guides water under them and into gutters

The best gutter guards have a few important features:

• Allow complete rainwater flow into gutters
• Block all leaves, pine needles, and debris
• Fit tightly and securely on existing gutters
• Durable against weather and won’t sag over time
• Easy to install DIY style

Should you install DIY gutter guards?

Installing gutter guards yourself has some clear advantages over hiring a professional:

• Cost savings – DIY guards can be 10-30% cheaper than pro installs
• Customization – You can take exact measurements and buy just what you need
• Convenience – Work on your own timeline and avoid scheduling service visits

However, DIY does require more effort and skill. Key considerations include:

• Comfort on ladders and roofs
• Ability to take accurate measurements
• Knowledge of gutter guard types and installation
• Time required to complete the project

Overall, DIY gutter guards are ideal for homeowners who want to save money and don’t mind a hands-on project. For those short on time or not comfortable on ladders, hiring a pro may be the better choice.

What materials will you need?

If you decide to add DIY gutter guards, make sure you have these essential materials on hand:

• Gutter guard material – Choose your preferred type like foam, mesh, or solid shielding
• Measuring tape – For accurately measuring your gutters
• Hacksaw or tin snips – For cutting guards to fit your measurements
• Screws and/or adhesives – To firmly attach guards to gutters
• Ladder – Sturdy A-frame or extension ladder to safely access roof
• Gloves – Protective work gloves for handling guards
• Safety glasses – Eyewear for cutting guards

It’s also smart to have silicone caulk on hand for sealing any small gaps between guards and gutters. Make sure all materials meet your local building codes.

How to measure gutters

The key to effective DIY gutter guards is taking accurate measurements so the guards you install fit snugly over your existing gutters. Follow these steps:

1. Use a ladder to access the roof safely
2. Starting at a gutter downspout, measure across the front lip of the gutter in inches
3. Note the length from downspout to end of gutter
4. Measure any bends or corners separately
5. Measure the back vertical gutter wall height in inches
6. Repeat for all gutters around roof perimeter
7. Add up the measurements to determine how much gutter guard material you need

Having accurate numbers for linear feet of gutter coverage and height of gutter walls will ensure your guards fit properly once installed.

How to cut gutter guards

With your measurements complete, you can cut your gutter guard material to the appropriate sizes.

For vinyl and other rigid material:

• Mark measured lengths clearly on material
• Clamp a straightedge as a guide to cut along
• Use an electric saw, hacksaw, or tin snips to cut through material
• File any rough edges smooth

For foam inserts:

• Use a serrated bread knife or electric carving knife
• Place foam on a cutting board to protect work surface
• Cut slowly in long straight motions for clean edge

Wear safety glasses when cutting any materials. Take your time to cut guards to precise measurements.

How to install DIY gutter guards

Once you have your gutter guards cut to size, it’s time to install them. Follow these key steps:

1. Clean out any accumulated debris from gutters before starting
2. Apply caulk strip along top edge underside of gutter where guard will attach
3. Position guard tightly over gutter front lip and hold firmly
4. Pre-drill holes through guard as needed for screws
5. Attach guard to gutter lip with screws spaced every 8-12 inches
6. Use adhesives like liquid nails for added strength if needed
7. Seal any gaps with additional caulk
8. Repeat process to install guards across all exposed gutters

Take care not to bend or warp the guard material as you install it. The goal is direct contact between guard and gutter with no gaps for debris intrusion.

Maintenance tips

Like anything exposed to the elements, your DIY gutter guards will require occasional maintenance. Follow these tips to keep them working properly for years:

• Inspect guards once or twice per year for any damage or bending
• Clear any accumulated leaves or debris off the guards as needed
• Reapply caulk if gaps form allowing water under guards
• Replace any dislodged or worn out screws
• Monitor and clear out downspouts for any clogging

With routine maintenance, quality gutter guards can last for over 10 years before needing replacement. Be sure to check and repair any issues promptly.

Best DIY gutter guards

Based on all the factors discussed, here are 5 top-rated DIY gutter guard options:

Guard	Type	Key Features
GutterStuff Foam Guards	Foam inserts	Heavy density foam blocks debris Snug friction fit installation
Amerimax Home Products	Perforated vinyl	Durable powder-coated aluminum Small holes allow max water flow
DIY Premium Mesh Guards	Stainless steel mesh	Extremely fine 0.027″ openings Lifetime warranty
Flex-A-Spout Reverse Curve Shield	Reverse curve	Guides water under shield Click-lock installation brackets
LeafFilter DIY Protection System	Foam inserts	Patented foam insert design Covers entire gutter for max protection

Be sure to verify required gutter dimensions and footprint when choosing guards. All of these provide excellent protection when installed properly.

Conclusion

Adding DIY gutter guards is a smart way to prevent clogged gutters and costly home repairs. With some basic tools and materials, you can install guards for much less than professional services. Measure accurately, cut guards to fit your gutters, and attach them securely. Maintain guards each year and replace worn parts as needed. Your gutters will stay clear and functional for years to come.