Ask the Expert

Aside from Frequently Asked Questions, we often are asked more unique or perplexing questions from our contractors and customers. Each month we will update this page with new information and new questions.

To ask a technical question of our installation experts, please click here and you will be directed to a brief questionaiire.

We reserve the right to post all questions to this website.

 

Recent Questions to "Ask the Expert"

1. I have a recurring squirrel problem where squirrels are getting into the gutters and under the GuttaGard™from an outside corner of my gutters. What can I do to prevent this from happening in the future?

A: Almost all squirrels enter the gutter protection system from outside corners. If squirrels have been a problem for you, we recommend cutting outside corners so that one panel is mitered to match the roof line, and the other is left square. Bend the square panel under the mitered panel, and secure it with a self-tapping sheet metal screw or two. A bead of elastomeric caulk along the seam is a good idea too.

If squirrels have already penetrated your system, the only sure way to eliminate the problem is to eliminate the squirrels. Aggressive squirrels have been known to chew through wood siding, vinyl and aluminum . . . it's tough to stop a determined critter. We recommend calling a pest control professional, or using humane bait traps to catch and release the squirrels at least 3 miles away from your home.

2. My gutter is old and the lip is bent in places. In several of the worst places, water appears to be splashing over the lip of the gutter in heavier rains. How can I fix this?

A: Unfortunately, the gutter protection product is only as good as the gutter. The Elko® GuttaGard™works best when the gap between the GuttaGard™and the gutter lip is 5/32" at 45 degrees. When the gutter isn't straight, it can affect performance. The best approach is to purchase additional Gutter Genius® clips and attach the clip to the gutter (and the panel) at those spots that are not evenly spaced to attempt to "even out" the rough spots. If that doesn't work, we recommend that you call a professional gutter installer to replace those areas of your gutter. Most gutter installations are less than $4 per linear foot installed. The GuttaGard™can be removed and reinstalled over the new gutters.

3. Several of my Elko® GuttaGard™panels blew off in a recent windstorm. Why did this happen, and what can I do to prevent it from happening in the future?

A: This should never happen, particularly with the new Gutter Genius® clip. Almost all problems relating to dislodged panels are related to incorrect installation of the clips. The old clips required a reasonable amount of mechanical aptitude to correctly crimp the gutter lip to secure the clip. If not installed correctly, clips can become dislodged with ice and wind. Introduced in late 2003, the new Gutter Genius® eliminated this problem. As long as the new clip is crimped onto the gutter lip using a flat screwdriver as directed (see installation instructions on this website), the panel will be secure. In higher wind areas, we recommend that the panels be telescoped (overlapped) by 2-3" and a clip be installed at the overlap. Consulting a professional installation contractor is always a good idea.

4. I followed the instructions on my Elko® GuttaGard™retail box and put a screen in the two inside corners of my gutters. They handle the water fine and keep debris out, but some debris accumulates on top of the screen. Is there any other solution to this problem?

A: High volume areas such as valleys and inside corners are a challenge for any gutter protection system. Inserting a screen into inside corners is the best solution in our experience. Elko® also offers a pre-manufactured inside corner unit (part #0800) that is often more effective at deflecting debris. The only other solutions are: 1) miter the panels and install a large diverter along the outside lip of the gutter; or 2) miter the panels and install a diverter above the gutter on the roof line, or on the inside edge of the gutter along the fascia. Please call our toll free hotline at 1-800-331-4273 for more information.

5. I want to install the copper Elko® GuttaGard™ on my half-round copper gutters, but the aluminum Gutter Genius® clip won't work on the lip of the gutter, and aluminum will discolor the copper. Any ideas on how to handle this?

A: For installation on half round copper gutters, we provide a stainless steel clip that mounts quickly and easily with a self-tapping stainless steel screw. Aluminum will discolor copper and should never be used on copper gutters. For standard copper K-style gutters, we provide a stainless steel clip that requires no screws. A professional installer should be consulted on copper installations.