Gutter Guard Systems Overview: Choosing Your Perfect One
Admin • June 28, 2019
Seeing water gushing over the edges of a gutter is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Fascia board rotting, ceiling damage, mold growth, and ruined curb appeal are only a few of the dire consequences that are to be expected in this case. When water is not flowing through your downspout the way it is supposed to, your clogged gutter system is to blame. Fortunately, the worst-case scenarios may be easily avoided if you know what add-on you should have in place.
Gutter guards are protection systems that serve as a boon to all homeowners out there. They are designed to reduce the risk of clogging by ‘filtering out’ debris and, thus, making sure only rainwater (but not twigs, leaves, bits, and pieces) can pass through your gutter. These add-ons also save you the trouble of oft-repeated drainage system cleaning, which means you no longer need to clamber up your roof every week.
However, choosing the right gutter protection system for your house is not as straightforward as you might think. There are many types of guards on the market, but which one is your perfect fit? We’ll help you make a well-informed decision.
Top 4 types of gutter guards for your home
The choice of guards primarily depends on the roof type and what kind of debris you want them to fend off. That is why all reputable contractors recommend with one voice that homeowners go for:
Foam guards
Made of porous polyurethane, these guards act like a sponge that doesn’t allow large objects to enter your gutter. They are installed inside it, making sure the appearance of your house from the street is not affected at all. That said, a foam gutter protection system doesn’t prevent tiny pieces from penetrating your drainage, which may result in the growth of unwanted stuff. Plus, it needs to be replaced on a regular basis.
Brush guards
Think of a huge chimney brush that is put into your gutter system. This is what this type of guards looks like. They prevent blockages by keeping leaves and twigs out of your gutter using special bristles. Although brush guards are budget-friendly and do not require a rocket scientist to be installed, they are not for everyone. Their major drawbacks include the ineffectiveness when dealing with small objects and the build-up of debris on the bristles.
Reverse-curve guards
Also known as surface tension guards, they work by covering the drainage opening so that only water can pass through. They cause debris to fall down and are designed to last long, which makes them one of the best gutter protection systems available today. Keep in mind, though, that reverse-curve guards call for professional installation, and they are visible from the street. So, you will need to match your roof design and color.
Screen guards
These are probably the most versatile ones. They can be made either of plastic or stainless steel, micro-mesh, or screen design. Their outstanding feature is that they have multiple debris-filtrating holes which prevent clogging caused by both large and small objects. Another reason why the majority of homeowners choose to use screen guards is that they appeal to all roof types, providing gutters with long-term protection.
Make sure your gutter is in safe hands
Once you get familiar with all kinds of gutter protection and figure out which one is your plummy solution, ensure that it is professionally installed. Home Run Improvement is looking forward to helping you with that! We are certified contractors for Shur Flo and Leaf Relief who have been around for dozens of years offering affordable gutter guard installation services in Louisville.
Want to forget about clogged gutters for good? Call 502-379-7415 or email us at support@homerunimprovement.com.
A well-built deck creates an inviting outdoor living space that adds value, functionality, and curb appeal to your home. If you're looking for a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood, TimberTech composite decking is an excellent choice. Designed to resist moisture, fading, staining, and splintering, TimberTech products provide the appearance of natural wood with significantly less upkeep. This guide walks through the major stages of building a TimberTech deck, from planning to the final inspection. Home Run is an official TimberTech Gold installer with specialized TimberTech training and access to enhanced warranties. Planning the Project Every successful deck begins with careful planning. Determine how the deck will be used, whether for entertaining, outdoor dining, or simply relaxing. Consider the size, shape, and location of the deck while taking into account access points from your home and the surrounding landscape. Select the TimberTech decking collection and color that best complements your home's exterior. At this stage, establish a realistic budget that includes materials, hardware, permits, and any specialized tools you may need. Before construction begins, verify local building codes and obtain any required permits. Preparing the Site Once the design is complete, prepare the building site by clearing vegetation, removing obstacles, and marking the deck layout with stakes and string lines. Confirm that the area is level and that drainage directs water away from the home's foundation. Accurate measurements during site preparation help ensure the framing and decking install smoothly later in the project. Building a Strong Foundation The strength of any deck depends on its foundation. Install concrete footings below the local frost line according to building code requirements. Secure support posts to the footings before installing beams and floor joists. Carefully check that all framing members are square, level, and properly spaced. Solid framing provides the support needed for the composite decking and helps prevent movement over time. Installing TimberTech Deck Boards With the framing complete, begin installing the TimberTech deck boards according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Many TimberTech products use hidden fastener systems that create a clean, fastener-free surface while maintaining consistent spacing between boards. Work methodically across the deck, checking alignment frequently. If your design includes a picture-frame border or decorative patterns, install those features as you progress. Take extra care when constructing stairs to ensure uniform rise, run, and secure fastening. Installing Railings Railings enhance both safety and appearance. Install railing posts securely to the deck framing before attaching the top and bottom rails. Complete the system by installing balusters and any gates required for stairways or access points. Choose railing styles and colors that complement your decking for a cohesive finished look. Adding the Finishing Touches Complete the project by installing fascia boards to conceal the framing and create a polished appearance. Many homeowners also choose to add deck lighting, post cap lights, stair lighting, or under-rail illumination to improve safety and extend the enjoyment of the deck into the evening. After construction is complete, clean the deck surface and remove any remaining debris. Final Inspection Before putting the deck into regular use, perform a thorough inspection. Verify that all fasteners are secure, railings are solid, stairs are stable, and the structure complies with applicable building codes. A careful final inspection helps ensure the deck is safe, attractive, and built to last. Maintaining Your TimberTech Deck One of the biggest advantages of TimberTech decking is its minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking does not require annual sanding, staining, or sealing. Routine maintenance typically includes: Sweeping away leaves and debris. Washing the deck periodically with mild soap and water. Cleaning spills promptly to prevent staining. Inspecting railings and fasteners during seasonal maintenance. With proper care, a TimberTech deck can maintain its appearance for many years while requiring significantly less maintenance than a wood deck. Conclusion Building a TimberTech deck is an investment that enhances both your home and your outdoor lifestyle. By carefully planning the project, constructing a solid foundation, following proper installation techniques, and performing regular maintenance, you can create an outdoor space that is beautiful, durable, and enjoyable for years to come. Whether you're building the deck yourself or hiring a professional contractor, choosing quality materials and following best practices will help ensure a successful project and lasting results. Not sure how to proceed? Call to schedule a free Deck assessment with our team today.
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Metal roofing has gone from a niche product to one of the most talked-about options in residential roofing over the last decade. You've probably seen it on newer builds, heard it mentioned by a neighbor, or come across it while researching a roof replacement. And then you ran into the price tag. That sticker shock is usually where the research stops — or where homeowners start looking for reasons to justify it. This guide doesn't do either. It gives you the honest metal roofing pros and cons and a clear framework for deciding whether it makes sense for your specific home in Louisville. What Is Metal Roofing? Before getting into pros and cons, it helps to understand that "metal roofing" covers several different products that perform and cost very differently. The two most relevant for residential homes in Louisville: Standing seam metal roofing — panels run vertically from ridge to eave with raised seams that interlock. No exposed fasteners. This is the premium option you see on high-end custom homes. It's what most people picture when they hear "metal roof." Metal shingles / stone-coated steel — metal panels shaped and coated to look like traditional shingles or tiles. Lower profile than standing seam, easier to retrofit, and less expensive. There's also corrugated metal — the classic ribbed panels more common on agricultural buildings and outbuildings. You'll occasionally see it on residential homes for a specific aesthetic, but it's not what most Louisville homeowners are evaluating. Standing Seam vs. Corrugated Metal Roof Since both come up in residential conversations, here's a direct comparison:
