Yeah, gutter guards are kind of a mixed bag. I’ve got the mesh ones and they’re decent for leaves, but pine needles still sneak through and clog things up. I started trimming back the branches overhanging my roof—less debris overall, and it actually helped with moss too. Also, I check the attic after big storms for any damp spots. It’s not high-tech, but catching leaks early saves a ton of hassle later. Water always finds a way if you let it...
Trimming trees back made a bigger difference than I expected—less junk in the gutters, and fewer critters trying to get in too. I’ve tried those foam gutter inserts, but they just turned into a soggy mess after one season. Honestly, nothing beats just getting up there and checking things after a storm. Caught a small leak last year before it ruined the drywall... learned that lesson the hard way.
I hear you on the foam gutter inserts—mine just turned into a moldy mess and didn’t keep out the pine needles anyway. Trimming trees back has probably saved me more headaches than anything else, especially with all the wind we get here. I’m still figuring out the best way to seal up the attic vents—last winter, a squirrel got in and made a nest. Have you tried any of those mesh screens for vents? Wondering if they actually hold up in storms or just end up blowing off.
Have you tried any of those mesh screens for vents? Wondering if they actually hold up in storms or just end up blowing off.
Honestly, I’ve seen mixed results with those mesh screens. They’re decent for keeping critters out, but in a big windstorm, the cheaper ones can get bent or even pop loose. If you go that route, look for the heavy-duty stainless ones and make sure they’re screwed in, not just clipped. Personally, I’d rather deal with a squirrel than water getting in—sometimes sealing things up too tight can mess with attic airflow and cause moisture issues. It’s a balancing act for sure.
I hear you on the airflow thing—last winter I got a little overzealous with sealing up gaps and ended up with condensation in the attic. Not fun. I’ve been eyeing those vent screens too, but honestly, I’m more worried about hail busting through my old roof vents than critters. Has anyone tried those wind-driven turbine vents? Wondering if they hold up better in storms or just become flying saucers when the wind picks up...
