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Category: Gutter Guard Installation

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Blog Gutter Guard Installation

Solar Panels Are Warm—Birds Know It. Do Your Clients?

If you’ve been on a roof lately, chances are you’ve seen it. Or heard it. That familiar flapping under the panels. Welcome to winter, where solar panels become high-rise bird hotels, and your clients have no idea it’s happening.

While homeowners are curled up by the heater, pigeons are busy settling in under their shiny new solar investment. For birds, it’s the perfect winter retreat: warm, dry, and rent-free. For your clients? It’s a ticking time bomb of droppings, noise, corrosion, and eventually—complaints.

The good news? You’re in the perfect position to fix it before it becomes a problem. And no, we’re not talking about glue guns or garden owls.

Enter SolarMesh—a fast, clean, no-drill bird-proofing system that adds serious value to your next job. Whether you’re quoting gutter guard, specifying roof fixtures, or just happen to be up a ladder this week—this is the winter add-on that sells itself.

 

Let’s break it down.

Why Winter Is Nesting Season Under Solar Panels

From a bird’s perspective, solar panels offer everything they need:

  • Warmth: Panels trap and retain solar heat, making the area beneath an ideal refuge during cold weather.

  • Shelter: The underside of panels offers protection from rain, wind, and predators.

  • Elevation: Roof height deters predators and provides a safe vantage point.

Birds are opportunistic. Once they find a warm, quiet cavity, they settle in—and often return year after year. That means winter is when they start looking, and installers should be initiating this conversation now, before the mess (and damage) begins.

Read: Best Gutter Guards for Pine Needles

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The Cost of Waiting: What Birds Can Do

Once nesting begins, the consequences are costly and time-consuming for your clients:

  • Corrosion: Droppings are acidic and can damage solar panel coatings and frames.

  • Blocked Gutters & Wiring Damage: Nesting debris often finds its way into gutters and around wiring, increasing fire and water damage risks.

  • Voided Warranties: Many solar providers exclude damage caused by animals from their warranty coverage.

  • Health Hazards: Bird droppings carry parasites and bacteria, creating risks for children and pets.

 

Let your clients know: prevention is far cheaper than remediation.

Introducing SolarMesh: A Simple Add-On With Big Value

SolarMesh is our professional-grade bird-proofing mesh, purpose-built for trade installation on solar panel systems.

solar_mesh_product-opt

Features and benefits:

  • Stainless Steel or Galvanised Mesh with Black PVC coating

  • 12mm Aperture allows airflow while blocking nesting

  • No-Drill Clip System—preserves panel warranties

 

  • Fast Install, Professional Finish

Supplied in kits of 30m rolls and includes solar clips. It’s designed to integrate smoothly into your workflow—ideal for bundling into gutter guard installs, roof maintenance, or solar jobs.

How to Sell SolarMesh to Your Clients

1. Start the Conversation

Ask every client with solar panels:

“Have you had any issues with birds nesting under your solar panels?”

If they haven’t yet—great. Let them know that this winter is the critical time to prevent it. If they have, offer a long-term solution.

2. Highlight the Risks

Explain how solar panels provide the warmth and shelter birds look for in colder months, and how quickly nests cause mess, damage, and voided warranties.

Make it real by pointing out any feathers, droppings, or noise you observe during your inspection.

3. Bundle It In

SolarMesh is a simple add-on that’s quick to quote and install. If you’re already on the roof or quoting for a gutter guard, it’s a minimal upsell with major value.

 

Clients appreciate bundled solutions that prevent future problems—this is your opportunity to offer one.

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ScreenTech Has Everything You Need

As a ScreenTech installer, you get:

  • Access to SolarMesh kits—galvanised or stainless steel, cut-to-size

  • Poly or Metal Solar Clips—easy-fit, no drilling required

  • Trade Pricing & Fast Fulfilment from our warehouse

  • Marketing Support—sales folders, mesh samples, and expert advice

 

We’ve designed SolarMesh to help tradespeople grow their business through smart add-ons that solve real problems.

With solar panel installs on the rise, the demand for bird-proofing is only going to increase. Be the installer who solves the problem before it starts.

Don’t wait for nesting season to peak—equip your clients now while it’s quiet.

Need help quoting or want to order a SolarMesh trade kit?

 

Contact ScreenTech today—we’ll help you quote with confidence and install with ease.

Look no further than ScreenTech’s TuffMesh®, GutterMesh, SteelMesh and SolarMesh products. Our mesh suits Klip-Lok®, Timdeck® corrugated roof types and tiled roofs. Get in touch with a ScreenTech installation partner today.

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Blog Gutter Guard Installation

Tips That Sell Gutter Guards & Close Every Deal

Tired of clients asking for your “cheapest option” or going quiet after a quote?

You’re not alone. 

We know the real wins come when you stop just selling a product and start solving problems. Whether you’ve been installing for years or are new to gutter guard, these five straight-talking tips will help you take control of the sales process, win more jobs, and make every quote count.

1. Focus on the Problem—Not the Price

Stop telling yourself that you customers are just bargain hunting— that story your telling yourself s costing you. Big time. Your customers are looking for someone who understands their pains points and headaches, whether it’s water damage during storms, bird nesting issues, or bushfire risks. It’s not about being the cheapest; it’s about being the right solution. That starts with asking the right questions.

1. Start by building trust:

“Before I run through the options, can I ask a couple of quick things about your setup? That way I can recommend the right system for your roof.”

2. Tackle overflow concerns:

“You ever get water spilling over the gutters when there’s a proper downpour?”

Overflowing gutters are often a sign of blockages or a poor setup—this opens the door to position mesh as a preventive fix, not just an upgrade.

3. Identify pest or bird problems:

“Have you had birds nesting around the roofline or noticed any mess building up in the gutters?” 

And please don’t just look at gutters. Ask your customer if they would like a free bird proofing assessment and check out aircon units and even solar panels (if it is suitable and safe to do so).

This taps into a common issue homeowners often overlook until it becomes a nuisance. Present your mesh as a clean, long-term solution that keeps pests out and protects the home.

4. Qualify water usage:

“Are you collecting rainwater in a tank out? How are you using that water; drinking, garden, or something else?”

For customers using tank water, mesh isn’t just about gutter protection; it’s about water quality. Position Tuffmesh™ Aluminium as an effective certified drinking water-rated first filter, keeping out leaves, pests, and debris before they reach the tank.

5. Address fire safety if relevant:

“Has this place ever been near a spot fire or ember attack during summer?”

In bushfire-prone areas, showing that your product meets BAL ratings and offers certified ember protection is a powerful selling point, especially when it also cuts down on cleaning and risk. What’s more certain councils and areas offer discounts and rebates for bushfire protection. Do your homework; and it could upgrade your sale. 

Once you’ve uncovered what matters most to the customer—overflow, pests, water quality, or fire safety—you can confidently recommend the best solution. This isn’t about selling harder, it’s about listening better. When the client feels understood, the sale follows naturally.

Read: Best Gutter Guards for Pine Needles

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2. Offer Clear, Tiered Options

Keep your cool—don’t rush to offer the cheapest fix. That’s not what most clients actually want.

Instead, position yourself as the expert who understands their situation and has the right options to match. Offer three levels of protection, each with a clear benefit tied to their specific problem. Maybe it’s a fire-rated mesh for bushfire zones, a durable aluminium mesh for heavy leaf areas, or a cost-effective poly option for general protection.

Instead of a one-size-fits-all pitch, present three clear options tied directly to their concerns. Maybe it’s:

This isn’t upselling—it’s about tailoring the job to what matters most to them.

Take last week as an example. One of our installer partners quoted a property with large wattle trees overhanging the southern side. The client only wanted to do that section. But through asking the right questions, the installer uncovered that the client had other issues; birds and smaller debris on other parts of the roof. In the end, they installed TuffMesh™ just under the wattles to handle the fine litter, and used GutterMesh on the rest of the house. Same property, two solutions, one happy (and protected) customer.

This is how you show value. Not by pushing the most expensive option, but by recommending the right one, where it counts.

 

Here’s how you can explain it during a quote:

“Alright, based on what you’ve told me, I’d usually recommend three options so you can decide what suits best.”

Option 1:
“This first one’s top-of-the-line—it’s fully fire-rated and certified for ember protection. Perfect for your high-risk area and want to set and forget it for 20+ years.”

Option 2:
“This one’s our most popular. It’s strong enough to handle heavy leaf build-up and bird issues, but without the bushfire specs. Great for everyday protection.”

Option 3:
“And then there’s a solid entry-level option—does the job well in lower-risk areas or if you just need to meet basic council or water tank standards.”

“Any of these will solve the issues we talked about—the difference is how long you want it to last and how much protection you want built in. Happy to walk you through them.”

3. Show Don't Tell

Visual proof is powerful. At the end of the day, gutter guard is still a physical and tangible product—and your clients want to see and feel the difference.

Use This Script:

“Let me show you what we’re talking about—this is TuffMesh®. See how thick and rigid that mesh is? That’s why it spans wider gutters without sagging, and why it’s trusted in schools and commercial projects.”


“Now compare it to this one—it’s thinner, and while it might do the job short-term, it won’t last under the same pressure. Which one would you rather install on your own roof?”

Action Tip: Always have your sample kit on hand. Clients are far more likely to commit when they can physically compare materials and see the build quality.

Don’t Stop at Samples:

  • Use product videos or live demonstrations to show how Ember Guard filters debris while maintaining water flow.

  • Show how saddle fixtures lock in place to match roof profiles—especially valuable for metal and custom roof types.

Site-ready Proof:
Photos of completed installs, close-ups of Colorbond® matches, or short install clips can turn a “maybe” into a locked-in quote. If you don’t have visuals, ask us; we’ll sort you out with case studies or product visuals.

Read: Best Gutter Guards for Pine Needles

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4. Leave a Lasting Impression

Always leave behind a tangible reminder of your quality such as a mesh sample or a Trades Sales Folder. These tools let clients compare materials and understand why your solution stands out. Need samples? We’re happy to help; just get in touch.

5. Be The Installer They Can Trust

When it comes to home upgrades—especially ones involving the roof—clients are cautious. They’re not just buying a product; they’re putting their trust in the person who installs it. That’s why your role as both the advisor and the installer is so powerful.

People don’t want a slick sales pitch followed by some random contractor showing up later. They want one point of contact, one expert they can rely on. Someone who knows their property, has heard their concerns, and is personally invested in doing the job right.

The moment you say, “I’ll be the one installing it,” you’re building trust. You’re telling them:

  • You’re not just passing the job off.

  • You’re accountable for the results.

  • You take pride in your work.

This level of reassurance often makes all the difference—especially when the quote comes in higher than expected. Confidence in your skills and professionalism can turn hesitation into a “yes.”

Here’s how to communicate that clearly during the quote:

“I’ll be the one installing this for you; it won’t be subbed out. I’ve done hundreds of these and I’ll make sure it’s done cleanly, safely, and looks good from the ground. Once it’s in, you shouldn’t need to touch the gutters again.”

If they seem unsure:

“If it helps, I can show you photos of previous jobs or walk you through exactly how we fit it to make sure everything stays watertight and neat”

Need Support?

 

Screen Tech is here to back you with product guidance, marketing materials, and expert advice. Reach out for support, request a trades folder, or place your next order—we’re just a call or email away.

Want to know more? ScreenTech sends out Colorbond® gutter guard samples and guides to architects and discusses projects and considerations.

Look no further than ScreenTech’s TuffMesh®, GutterMesh, SteelMesh and SolarMesh products. Our mesh suits Klip-Lok®, Timdeck® corrugated roof types and tiled roofs. Get in touch with a ScreenTech installation partner today.

Categories
Blog Gutter Guard Installation

What’s the Best Gutter Guard Against Wattle Trees?

Are your customers dealing with clogged gutters caused by wattle flowers and leaves? As a gutter guard installer, finding a reliable solution that doesn’t exacerbate your customer’s current problems is crucial. Remember, not all gutter guards are equal. 

So, what’s the best gutter guard against wattle trees? The answer is an ember guard mesh system. Its smaller hole size prevents fine flowers and thin leaves from clogging gutters, offering superior protection compared to gutter mesh, gutter brush and foam solutions.

In this article, we delve into why ember guard mesh systems are the best option for combating wattle tree debris, and spotlight two top products: TuffMesh Emberguard and GutterMesh Emberguard.

Tuffmesh emberguard product before and after

Why Ember Guard is Best Against Wattles?

Ember guard mesh systems are specifically designed with smaller holes, making them ideal for preventing the fine flowers and thin leaves from wattle trees from clogging gutters. Unlike regular gutter guards, the finer mesh of ember guards effectively blocks these small particles, ensuring your gutters remain clear and functional. Additionally, ember guards are superior to gutter brush and foam systems, as they prevent debris from getting stuck in the bristles or germinating in the foam, which can lead to further gutter damage.

Read: Best Gutter Guards for Pine Needles

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The Problems Caused by Wattle Trees

Although they are beautiful trees and native to Australia, wattle or acacias trees pose a significant challenge to gutter systems due to their unique characteristics. Here are the primary issues and considerations:

  • Abundant Flowers and Leaves: Wattle trees produce many fine flowers and leaves that can quickly accumulate in gutters.
  • Blockages: The fine flowers can lead to blockages that impede water flow, causing overflows.
  • Damage: These blockages can result in damage to gutters, roofs, and gables, leading to costly repairs.
klip-lok tuffmesh emberguard screentech

Why Other Types of Gutter Guard Solutions Are Less Effective

Regular gutter guards often have larger hole sizes that allow fine wattle debris to pass through, causing clogs. Gutter brush and foam systems also fall short, as the debris tends to get stuck in the bristles or starts to germinate in the foam, compromising the gutter’s effectiveness and leading to further damage. These solutions do not provide the fine filtration required to keep gutters clear of the small particles produced by wattle trees.

Read: Best Gutter Guards for Pine Needles

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Additional Steps to Protect Against Wattle Trees

To further protect your gutters from wattle tree debris, consider these additional steps:

  1. Regular Cleaning: One of the simplest ways to prevent clogging is regular gutter cleaning. Ensure you remove any accumulated debris, including wattle flowers, leaves, and other organic matter. Aim to clean your gutters at least twice a year, or more frequently during the flowering season.

  2. Install a Gutter Guard: Gutter guards are a practical solution to prevent debris from entering your gutters in the first place. Screen Tech Gutter Guard offers a range of high-quality gutter guard solutions, such as the TuffMesh™ and GutterMesh systems, which are designed to block even the smallest particles like wattle flowers while allowing water to flow freely.

  3. Trim Overhanging Branches: If wattle trees are close to your house, trimming overhanging branches can significantly reduce the amount of debris falling into your gutters. This proactive step can help minimise maintenance and prolong the effectiveness of your gutter guard.

  4. Use Downpipe Filters: Downpipe filters can catch debris that may have bypassed the gutter guard. These filters are easy to install and maintain, providing additional protection for your gutters.

TuffMesh™ Emberguard

ember guard on klip-lok

TuffMesh™ Emberguard is a premium product designed to offer superior protection against wattle tree debris. Its commercial-grade expanded aluminium mesh is not only strong but also has smaller holes that prevent fine particles from entering the gutters. The TuffMesh™ Emberguard can withstand large loads, including tree branches and vermin attacks, making it a robust choice for both residential and commercial properties. With a 25-year warranty and compliance with Australian standards, TuffMesh™ Emberguard ensures long-lasting protection and peace of mind for property owners.

Features and Benefits:

  • Commercial-grade expanded aluminium mesh: Provides superior strength and durability.
  • Smaller holes: Effectively prevent fine particles from entering the gutters.
  • Load-bearing capability: Can withstand large loads, including tree branches and vermin attacks.
  • Versatility: Suitable for both residential and commercial properties.
  • 25-year warranty: Ensures long-lasting protection.
  • Compliance with Australian standards: Guarantees high-quality and reliable performance.
See our latest case study, where ScreenTech supplied TuffMesh™ Emberguard as a solution to wattle tree debris in “TuffMesh™ Emberguard Leaf Proofing in Dandenong, Vic“

GutterMesh Emberguard

Trimdek commercial gutter guard

GutterMesh Emberguard is another excellent option for combating wattle tree debris. Made from premium-grade aluminium, this gutter guard features a finer mesh that effectively blocks fine flowers and leaves. The GutterMesh Emberguard is proven to last over 20 years on Australian roofs, making it a reliable and durable choice. It also comes with a 15-year material warranty and complies with AS3959-2018 standards, ensuring it meets the highest safety and performance criteria. The powder-coated finish adds an extra layer of protection, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Features and Benefits:

  • Premium-grade aluminium mesh: Offers durability and strength.
  • Finer mesh: Blocks fine flowers and leaves effectively.
  • Long-lasting performance: Proven to last over 20 years on Australian roofs.
  • 15-year material warranty: Provides extended protection.
  • Compliance with AS3959-2018 standards: Ensures safety and high performance.
  • Powder-coated finish: Adds an extra layer of protection and suitability for various applications.

When it comes to protecting your gutters from the persistent problem of wattle tree debris, ember guard mesh systems stand out as the best solution. Products like TuffMesh™ Emberguard and GutterMesh Emberguard offer superior protection with their fine mesh, durability, and compliance with Australian standards. By choosing these high-quality ember guards, you can ensure that your gutters remain clear and functional, saving time and money on maintenance and repairs. Invest in the best and keep your properties protected from the challenges posed by wattle trees.

Want to know more? ScreenTech sends out Colorbond® gutter guard samples and guides to architects and discusses projects and considerations.

Look no further than ScreenTech’s TuffMesh®, GutterMesh, SteelMesh and SolarMesh products. Our mesh suits Klip-Lok®, Timdeck® corrugated roof types and tiled roofs. Get in touch with a ScreenTech installation partner today.

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Blog Gutter Guard Installation

Install Gutter Guard: Box Gutter & Klip-Lok® Roof Guide

ember guard products

Many tradespeople hesitate to offer gutter guard installations on box gutters with Klip-Lok® roofs, daunted by the complexity compared to other systems. However, this hesitation overlooks a significant opportunity. With their unique profiles, these roof types are more susceptible to pest infestations and ember attacks, making gutter guards not just an add-on but a necessary defence. By mastering this installation, you’re not just solving a common problem; you’re adding exceptional value to your services and giving your clients the comprehensive protection they truly need. 

This guide is tailored to equip you with the skills and knowledge to provide your clients with an added layer of protection, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic of their properties. Whether you’re dealing with the coastal homes of Sydney, the sprawling estates of Melbourne, or any structure in between, the right gutter guard solution can significantly elevate your project’s value.

Let’s dive into the various methods of fitting gutter guards to Klip-Lok® roofs and box gutters, considering factors like pitch, size, and accessibility.

How to install gutter guards to Klip-Lok® Roof & Box Gutters

  1. Clean and flush your box gutter systems.
  2. Prepare and assess your gutter system and gather the necessary tools/materials.
  3. Measure the box gutter and order the correct gutter mesh width.
  4. Measure the trim line inside the box gutter.
  5. Pin the gutter mesh to the box gutter wall.
  6. Create tags in the mesh covering.
  7. Securing mesh to Klip-Lok® roof with clips.

Read: Supa-Dek Klip-Lok® Roof Clip | Gutter Guard Game Changer

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Understanding Box Gutters and Gutter Mesh

ember guard on klip-lok

Box gutters and parapet wall fixtures are different from your standard gutter systems as they are not visible at ground level, giving your property a sleek look. Box gutter protection is effective for residential, commercial and industrial buildings. However, their higher edges and unique dimensions make the gutter mesh more susceptible to sagging and lulls, reducing the guard’s effectiveness. Installers need to understand the difference in a box gutter guard install to require specialised systems to support their weight and debris, preventing blocked gutters.

The benefits of installing gutter guards on box gutters are numerous. They:

Read: Best Gutter Guard in Australia | Ultimate Tradies’ Guide

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Preparing for Gutter Guard Installation

Before proceeding with gutter guard installation, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your box gutters. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Clear any debris from the gutters.
  2. Flush the entire system.
  3. Preparing the tools 
  4. Measuring the box gutter for mesh width and ordering materials 
  5. If you find significant faults in the gutters, consider replacing those sections before installing.

Safety is of utmost importance in this procedure. Always comply with local and state height safety measures and use appropriate equipment such as gloves, harnesses, and ladders. 

Necessary Gutter Cleaning Tools and Materials

The right tools and materials are paramount for a successful gutter guard installation. You will need:

  • Safety equipment, including gloves, harness, etc 
  • Gutter brush
  • Gutter scope
  • A hosepipe

Make sure to use a lightweight aluminium extension ladder for stability and maneuverability. Work gloves that offer good grip and protection against sharp edges are also advisable.

The role of a stiff brush in the gutter guard installation process is to:

  • Dislodge debris
  • Thoroughly clean the gutter before installing the guard
  • Ensure a clean surface for the gutter guard to adhere to
  • Catch and trap debris, preventing it from entering the gutter after the guard is in place.

Preparing Gutter Guard Tools

You will need additional tools for the installation, including: 

  • All necessary Safety equipment 
  • Gutter guard kit 
  • Tin snips
  • Electric screwdriver 
  • String line (works best for runs longer than 4 metres)
  • Silicone 

Measure the Gutter

Measuring box gutter for mesh width

Width Measurement

Measuring the width accurately is critical, especially with box gutters. The standard widths of 250mm and 500mm work for most kits, but precision is key for box gutters on a Klip-Lok® roof. To ensure you order the correct width, measure the distance from the box gutter wall to the roof. Add 100-150 mm where the mesh will sit on the roof and another 50mm where the mesh will sit flush up against the box gutter wall.

Length Measurement

Equally important is measuring the length of your gutter runs. This ensures you have enough mesh to cover the entire area. You can measure this from wall to wall along the gutter line. For a more tech-savvy approach, consider using satellite measuring tools like Near Maps, which provide precise aerial measurements.

Ordering Gutter Mesh

We always recommend ordering a minimum of 5 metres extra mesh beyond your measured length. This extra length accounts for any unforeseen adjustments or cuts you might need to make during installation. It’s better to have a bit more than you need than to fall short during the crucial stages of your project.

Determine the Trim Line

determine the trim line - box gutter installation

Measuring a straight line inside your box gutter or parapet wall is essential for a professional finish and efficiency. Place a flat trim against the roof to the box gutter and mark it on the wall. Add about 50 mm to that measurement and mark at regular intervals to give you your trim line. Continue to mark along the gutter run to ensure an even trim line.

Pin the Mesh

Pin the mesh just under your trim line to provide a starting point. Secure in place with a pinning screw. This initial step is crucial for aligning the mesh correctly and ensuring it stays in place during the rest of the installation.

Secure with Trims

Once the gutter mesh is pinned, it’s time to secure it with the flat trims. Remove any pinning screws and plug the holes with the silicone. Align the trims with your earlier markings, ensuring the mesh is neatly tucked underneath. Secure the trims with neoprene screws, which ensure a waterproof seal.

Important: Before removing any screws, fill in with silicone. At the end of the installation, run a bead of silicone across the top of the trim to ensure a waterproof seal.

Cut the Mesh Along the Ribs

Cut along the roof ribs

Cutting the mesh correctly is vital for a flat fit, preventing water build-up, and ensuring vermin and ember proofing. Screen Tech and our installation partners pioneered the tag method. Make two cuts down the top of each rib, stopping about 30mm from the edge, and then fan out towards the end, creating a flush tag with the roof pan.

Seal the Gutter Mesh with Clips

attach clips to gutter mesh and roof

The final step is securing everything with clips. These clips play a crucial role in holding down the tags and ensuring a watertight seal. Align the screw hole with the mesh to strengthen the tag, then snap the clip into place.
Secure with a roofing screw; neoprene washer screws are not necessary as the clips provide a watertight seal.

Finalising the Gutter Guard System

With the gutter guards securely installed, it’s time to complete the gutter guard system installation. This involves ensuring proper water flow and achieving an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Ensuring Proper Water Flow

Maintaining proper water flow is vital for efficiently operating your gutter guard system. After installation, follow these steps to ensure proper water flow:

  1. Remove any loose debris from the gutters.
  2. Flush the gutters with water to test the flow.
  3. Observe if the water flows smoothly towards the downpipes.
  4. Check the underside of the gutters for any leaks or dripping water.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your gutter guard system is working effectively.

If you notice any water flow issues, it’s important to address them promptly. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Adjust the positioning of the gutter guards if needed.
  2. Clear any debris blocking the gutter or downspout.

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Adapting the Process to a Parapet Wall

Installing gutter guards on parapet walls closely mirrors that of box gutters on Klip-Lok® roofs. The key principles of accurate measurement, secure pinning, precise cutting, and thorough sealing also apply here. For parapet walls, ensure that your measurements for width and length are exact, taking into account any unique contours or features of the wall. When pinning the mesh and fitting the trims, pay special attention to the alignment against the parapet wall, ensuring a snug fit that prevents debris accumulation and water ingress.


The final inspection is crucial to ensure that the gutter guard system is not only effectively installed but also complements the aesthetic of the parapet wall while offering robust gutter protection.

Read: Ultimate Guide to Plastic Gutter Guards and Mesh

Selecting the Right Gutter Guards for Your Roof Type

Your roof type can significantly dictate the kind of gutter guard products appropriate for installation. Whether you have a:

  • Metal roof (Trimdek®, Klip-Lok® or corrugated roofs)
  • Slate roof
  • Flat roof 
  • Asphalt roof
  • Terracotta tiled roof
  • Tiled roof

It’s crucial to choose a gutter guard that is compatible with your specific roof type.

Colorbond gutter guard system

Compatibility with Metal Roof

For a metal roof, ensure the compatibility of your chosen gutter guards with the roof material. Using incompatible gutter guards can result in galvanic corrosion due to contact between different metals, which can weaken your roof and potentially cause leaks or damage.

When selecting gutter guards for metal roofs, consider the following factors:

  • The type of roofing system
  • The specific gutter guard product material
  • Design
  • Installation complexities
  • Higher edges 
  • Maintenance requirements

Klip-Lok® Roof Compatibility

Specialised gutter guards like the Klip-Lok® box gutter guard kits with custom clips are designed to offer a precise fit for specific metal roofing systems, ensuring compatibility and aesthetics. Screen Tech’s Supadek clip for Klip-Lok® roofs is also suitable for Lysaght® Klip-Lok®, Hi-Strength Lysaght® Klip-Lok, ® 406 Lysaght® Klip-Lok®, Classic Fielders KingKlip®, Metroll Metlok®, Revolution Revklip Stramit and Speed Deck Ultra®.

For Trimdek® or Spandek® roofs, see our Trimdek® gutter guard kits with custom clips.

Read: Five Best Gutter Guards for Stratco Gutters

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Common Installation Mistakes and Their Solutions

Mistake 1: Incorrect Measurement

  • Problem: One of the most frequent errors is incorrectly measuring the gutter’s width and length. This can lead to inadequate coverage or excess material.
  • Solution: Always double-check measurements before ordering. For width, include additional space for the mesh to sit comfortably on the roof and against the box gutter wall. For length, use precise tools or digital measurement aids like Near Maps for accuracy.

Mistake 2: Inadequate Securing of Mesh

  • Problem: Please secure the mesh properly to avoid it sagging or detaching, especially in adverse weather conditions.
  • Solution: Ensure the mesh is firmly pinned at the start of the installation. When securing with trims, use silicone to plug any holes created by the removal of pinning screws, and align trims accurately with earlier markings.

Mistake 3: Overlooking the Importance of Trim Line

  • Problem: An uneven trim line can lead to poor aesthetics and functional issues in water flow and debris collection.
  • Solution: Use a flat trim to mark a straight line inside the box gutter or along the parapet wall. Ensure consistent marking at regular intervals along the gutter run for an even and effective trim line.

Mistake 4: Incorrect Cutting of Mesh

  • Problem: Improper cutting technique can lead to ineffective sealing, leaving room for debris accumulation and water pooling.
  • Solution: Adopt the ‘tag method’ pioneered by Screen Tech. Make two straight cuts along each rib, stopping short before the edge, then fan out to create a tag. This ensures a flat fit and effective vermin and ember proofing.

Mistake 5: Failing to Seal Screw Holes Properly

  • Problem: One common oversight is neglecting to fill screw holes, which can lead to leaks and potential water damage.
  • Solution: Whenever you remove or reposition screws during installation, it’s crucial to fill these holes with silicone immediately. This applies both to the initial pinning screws and any adjustments made during the fitting of trims. Ensuring all screw holes are properly sealed not only prevents water ingress but also maintains the structural integrity of the roof and gutter system. A thorough final check for unsealed holes is essential for a professional and reliable installation.

By being aware of these common pitfalls and their solutions, you can ensure a more efficient and reliable installation, reinforcing your reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable professional in this field.

Read: What is a commercial gutter guard?

gutter guard installer at work

Maintenance and Longevity

The beauty of the gutter protection system is that it requires minimal maintenance once it is installed and offers a unique selling point for your customers. Here are some maintenance and longevity points you can share with your customers: 

  • Importance of Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to maximise the lifespan and effectiveness of gutter guards. Even the best-installed gutter guards can accumulate debris over time, which may affect their performance.
  • Schedule Regular Checks: It’s advisable to inspect gutter guards at least once a year – typically in spring and/or autumn when debris accumulation is likely to be highest.
  • Cleaning Process: Use a soft brush or blower to remove any debris sitting on top of the guards. Ensure that downspouts are straightforward to maintain proper water flow.

Regular maintenance and awareness of environmental impacts are vital to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your gutter guard system. By taking proactive steps in care and choosing the right materials, you can significantly extend the life of your gutter guards and maintain their protective qualities over the years.

Final Thoughts

In summary, properly installing and maintaining gutter guards on Klip-Lok® roofs and box gutters is crucial in safeguarding properties against water damage, debris accumulation, and potential fire hazards. As a tradesperson, architect, or builder, your ability to skillfully navigate these installations not only enhances the functionality of your projects but also contributes significantly to their overall aesthetic and longevity.

Remember, the key to successful gutter guard installation lies in attention to detail — from accurate measurement and correct placement to regular maintenance and timely repairs. Embracing these practices will ensure that your gutter guard systems perform optimally year-round, offering peace of mind to your clients and elevating the quality of your workmanship.

Our team at Screen Tech Gutter Guard is here to assist those looking to undertake box gutter projects, whether a residential home or a large-scale commercial building. With our extensive experience and a wide range of high-quality gutter guard solutions, we can help you navigate the complexities of any project.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice and support on your upcoming box gutter project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you install gutter guards on existing gutters?

Yes, you can install gutter guards on existing box gutters. It is easy to install on new homes as the scaffolding makes the installation process easier. However, you can install these systems from the roof with the correct safety measures. 

How do I stop my box gutters from overflowing?

To prevent box gutters from overflowing, consider installing gutter guards or gutter mesh covering to keep leaves and other debris out and allow water to flow freely.

Can you install an ember guard to a box gutter?

Yes, you can use the same installation process for ember guard installations to protect against ember attack, keep fine leaves and other debris out and allow water to flow freely.

Are box gutter protection systems better than other gutter guard products?

A box gutter protection system is more effective than other gutter guard products, such as brush gutter guards, foam gutter guards or other metal guards, as they span across the entire gutter. 

Can you install it to the gutter’s edge?

Yes, in some cases where the slope is lower than the gutter’s higher edge, installing the mesh to the gutter’s edge provides a better slope that will encourage leaves to fall to the ground and prevent water pooling. 

Are box gutter guards suitable for all gutter guard solutions? 

Yes, box gutter guards are versatile and suitable for multiple applications. They effectively prevent birds from nesting and block debris like leaves, making them great for leaf-proofing. They offer ember-proofing for areas at risk of bushfires, especially when made of fire-resistant materials. Additionally, they facilitate rainwater harvesting by keeping gutters clear, ensuring cleaner water collection.

Want to know more? ScreenTech sends out Colorbond® gutter guard samples and guides to architects and discusses projects and considerations.

Look no further than ScreenTech’s TuffMesh®, GutterMesh, SteelMesh and SolarMesh products. Our mesh suits Klip-Lok®, Timdeck® corrugated roof types and tiled roofs. Get in touch with a ScreenTech installation partner today.