Using a string line and level instead of just eyeballing it saves a lot of headaches down the line.
That’s spot on—gutters that aren’t pitched right just turn into little ponds. I’ve seen folks try to fix overflow by adding bigger downspouts, but if the water’s not moving, it doesn’t help much. Curious if anyone’s tried those newer micro-mesh covers? I’ve heard they’re supposed to keep out even pine needles, but I wonder if they just clog up faster in practice.
Curious if anyone’s tried those newer micro-mesh covers? I’ve heard they’re supposed to keep out even pine needles, but I wonder if they just clog up faster in practice.
I put micro-mesh on the back gutters last fall—lots of maples and a couple pines nearby. They do block most debris, but honestly, fine stuff still builds up on top and needs brushing off. Not sure it’s less work overall. Has anyone found a type that actually stays clear longer?
I’ve managed a few buildings with micro-mesh covers, and honestly, they’re not the magic fix some folks hope for. Pine needles especially love to mat up on top, and then you’re out there with a broom after every windstorm. I actually had better luck with those foam inserts—less stuff sits on top, but they do break down faster. Has anyone tried those reverse-curve guards? I’m skeptical about water overshooting in heavy rain, but maybe I’m missing something...
Reverse-curve guards are kind of a mixed bag in my experience. I helped install them on a couple of steep roofs last fall, and they did keep most debris out, but you’re right—during heavy downpours, water sometimes just shot right over the edge. Not a huge problem on lower slopes, but on steeper ones it got messy. Honestly, nothing’s totally maintenance-free, especially if you’ve got a lot of pine trees around. I still end up clearing stuff off the top every few weeks.
Mesh guards might be worth a look if you’re dealing with a lot of pine needles. They don’t block everything, but I’ve seen less water overshoot compared to reverse-curve types, especially on steeper roofs. Still gotta brush them off now and then, though.
