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Blog

Does plastic ember guard work?

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 4 November 2022

If you want ember guard protection, you don’t want a plastic guard. You need an ember guard that is corrosion-resistant and non-combustible that covers any potential roof opening, such as gutter systems for roof ventilation openings, fascia, valleys, ridges and hips.

So, does plastic ember guard work? No. An ember guard cannot be manufactured from plastic as the material voids its compliance with Australian standards. An ember guard-compliant mesh must be either aluminium, steel or bronze.

Most homes destroyed during a bushfire is as a result of burning embers. Installing a gutter guard or an ember guard-compliant mesh may protect your home in high-risk areas. However, specific ember guard requirements exist for each bushfire attack level, and you need to know which ember guard is the best solution for you.

Read: Ember Guard Case Study: Yarra Ranges Special school

What is an ember guard?

An ember guard is a speciality gutter guard product designed to protect homes in bushfire-prone areas from burning embers carried on the wind. Ember guard mesh is fixed to the entire gutter system, including valleys and hips and roof spaces such as roof ventilation openings, fascia and ridges.

An ember attack occurs when airborne burning debris ignites fine leaf debris in the guttering system or flammable debris in the roof. The ember guard mesh or perforated sheets must have a hole size of 2mm or smaller to prevent an ember attack.

Read: The difference between ember and gutter guard

See our full range of gutter guard products.

Gutter Guard Vs Ember Guard

The table below details the differences between ScreenTech’s gutter guards and ember guards. Some variations will exist between other gutter protection systems on the market.

Gutter Guard

Ember guard

Base Material

aluminium & polyethylene

aluminium, steel or bronze

Aperture size requirement

No size minimum

maximum 2mm

Application Type

ember guard or gutter guard

Coating/Colouring

powder coating D1010 or Colorbond® steel, no coating

powder coating D1010

Manufacturing Technique(s)

expanded or extruded

expanded, expanded single direction or machine-woven or extruded

Best Fit Solutions

leaf guard, rainwater harvesting, bird & pest proofing, reduce maintenance & safety

ember proofing, leaf guard against fine debris, bird, pest & possum proofing, reduce maintenance & safety

Warranty

10-25-years

15-years

Bushfire Tested

AS3959-2018 compliant

AS 3959-2018 compliant

Gutter Guard Bushfire attack level (BAL) suitability

BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29

BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29, BAL-40, BAL-FZ

Ember Guard Bushfire attack level (BAL) suitability

N/A

BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29, BAL-40, BAL-FZ

Read: Best Gutter Guard in Australia | Ultimate Guide

Gutter Guard & Ember Guard Materials

Ember proof with aluminium ember mesh

Most homeowners install aluminium mesh to protect their gutters because it is corrosion-resistant, non-combustible, and flexible. These properties also make it suitable for commercial gutter guards.

Aluminium ember guards are suitable for BAL-LOW-to-BAL-29 bushfire-prone areas. Aluminium ember guards also provide other solutions, such as preventing gutter cleaning of fine debris, like pines, jacarandas, and she-oaks. The smaller mesh hole size in the ember guard gutter keeps leaves out of the gutter and allows water to flow freely.

Read: What is a commercial gutter guard?

TuffMesh® Emberguard

Specifications

LWG: 6.0mm
SWG: 3.0mm
Aperture: 1.6mm (average hole size)
Plate thickness: 0.8
Strand width: 1.2mm
Aluminum mesh

Features and benefits:

Strongest aluminium guard
One way mesh with added trough for maximum water collection
Complies with AS3959–1999
Australian Bushfire Standards
CSIRO tested flammability index of zero
Suitable to BAL 29
Akzo Nobel D1000 powder coating.
Powder coated in Australia
25-year material warranty

Colour Options:

Basalt®

Classic Cream®

Cottage Green®

Dark Brown

Deep Ocean®

Dune®

Evening Haze®

Gully®

Ironstone®

Jasper®

Manor Red®

Monument®

Night Sky®

Pale Eucalypt®

Paperbark®

Shale Grey®

Surfmist®

Terracotta

Wallaby®

Windspray®

Woodlands Grey®

Zinc

See our full range of gutter guard products.

Ember proof with steel gutter mesh

Steel mesh is required for BAL40 and BAL-FZ areas. These gutter guards Colorbond® steel mesh is the most popular steel gutter guard in Australia and is the most durable.

Steel mesh is strong and durable and is made from Colorbond Bluscope® Steel which provides an excellent colour match with your roof and gutters. Steel mesh is more robust but less malleable than aluminium, making it more challenging to install.

Read: Colorbond® Gutter Guards Complete Guide

SteelMesh

Specifications

Base material: colorbond® steel
Strand width: 1.4 mm
Strand Thickness: 0.55 mm
Mesh weight: 2500 gsm
Hole Size: 2mm
200mm- 600mm- x 1.2m panels

Features and benefits:

Aesthetically pleasing
BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29, BAL-FZ
0 Flammability Index
CSIRO non-combustible rated
Made in Australia
Custom galvanised products are available
20-year material warranty

Colour Options:

Evening Haze®

Jasper®

Gully®

Basalt®

Classic Cream®

Cottage Green®

Deep Ocean®

Galvanised

Dune®

Ironstone®

Mangrove®

Manor Red®

Monument®

Night Sky®

Pale Eucalypt®

Paperbark®

Shale Grey®

Surfmist®

Wallaby®

Windspray®

Woodlands Grey®

Zinc

Ember proof with bronze ember guards

Bronze ember guard gutter mesh is required for BAL40 and BAL-FZ areas. Bronze mesh is more robust but less malleable than aluminium, making it more challenging to install gutter guards. Steel gutter mesh is more widely used compared to bronze gutter guards.

Read: Bunnings Gutter Guard Range Review

Plastic gutter guards

Plastic gutter guards and plastic mesh are not suitable for bushfire gutter protection. However, plastic gutter guards can provide solutions for leaf-proofing, including against fine-leaf trees. The quality and prices vary among the other plastic gutter guard products, including plastic mesh, brush guards, vinyl gutter guards, mesh panels and foam inserts.

Read: Plastic vs Metal gutter guard | What’s best?

Need gutter guard installed?

Want to know more? ScreenTech sends out gutter guard samples and guides to architects. We also provide consultations for gutter protection projects and considerations across Australia.

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

Tags bushfire protection, ember guard, gutter guard

Blog

Bunnings Gutter Guard Range Review

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 25 October 2022

The first place people look for a gutter guard is Bunnings. Bunnings boast a wide selection of affordable DIY gutter guards. However, some are far more effective than others and more suitable for a specific gutter guard solution.
Let us take you through Bunnings’ gutter guard range and highlight the pros and cons of each product.

Bristle Gutter Guard

Approx. $15 per metre

The Whites Bristle Gutter Guard, also known as a brush gutter guard, is one of the cheapest solutions. It is made from a fire-retardant core and bristles designed to trap leaves and debris while allowing water to flow through the gutters. It makes for an easy installation as it slots directly into your gutter.

The bristles can also help to deter smaller birds from nesting in the gutters. However, the strands attract other pests, such as insects and mosquitoes. While the gutter guard is fire-retardant, it is not recommended in bushfire-prone areas as leaves and debris caught in the bristles are easily ignited through an ember attack. It, therefore, requires regular maintenance and cleaning and the lifespan is also limited to a few years.

With the average Australian home’s guttering system around 30 metres, you can expect to pay approximately $450 for the entire house.

Read: What is a commercial-grade gutter guard?

Compare Bunnings’ range to our TuffMesh® range.

Gutter Foam Inserts

Approx. $11.45 per metre

Another cheap option is the Foam Insert, which costs you around $11.50 per metre. The Bunnings Whites foam guards are fire retardant and UV stabilised. Similarly, foam inserts filter the leaves entering the guttering system while allowing water to flow freely.

The downside of most gutter foam inserts is that the flat surface forms at the top of the gutter, where leaves and debris can build up. Additionally, the inserts can make the perfect habitat for mould, fungi and weed growth. Foam guards will require regular maintenance and cleaning, significantly reducing their lifespan.

Compare Bunnings’ range to our GutterMesh range.

Whites StayMesh

Approx. $7-$14.5 per metre

You can purchase StayMesh in either plastic or aluminium, and it’s designed to slot directly into the gutter in preformed 1-metre packs. The installation is fast as the guard is placed in the gutter. The product reviews highlight its easy installation methods.

The aluminium stay mesh comes in silver. It complies with StandardAS3959 but does not provide mesh hole sizes. Therefore, it may need to meet ember guard specifications or drinking water standards which customers should investigate if they require that type of gutter guard solution. The mesh does not specify powder coating, which may reduce durability and lifespan. No product warranty is specified.

The Plastic StayMesh option is UV stabilised, which helps improve the guard’s lifespan; however, all plastic guards have shorter lifespans. Again, this product does not specify a warranty. Like foam guards, the flat surface works well to disperse most debris, but a build-up can occur without regular maintenance – you can see this reflected in the product reviews.

Compare Bunnings’ range to our SteelMesh range.

GumLeaf Colorbond® Sheets

Approx. $20-25 per metre

GumLeaf 1200mm Colorbond® Metal Corrugated Gutter Guard uses precision scalloping that contours to a corrugated roof and is secured with roofing screws. It recommends silicone to seal it in place. You can also purchase Gumleaf corrugated saddles for a more aesthetic finish. However, it comes in limited colours for colour-matching and is sold separately. It is also suitable for tiled roof installation; folded to slip under the first row of tiles and secured to the gutter lip with roofing screws.

It is supplied in 1.2-metre lengths and made of strong BlueScope Colorbond® steel material in over Colorbond® colours: one of its best features and benefits.

Unlike other Bunning gutter guards, it comes with a 20-year warranty for the mesh. The GumLeaf Gutter Guard is CSIRO fire-rated zero, and the 2mm hole size complies with ember guard ratings. However, ensure that the installation method complies with your area’s BAL ratings.

Colorbond® Metal Corrugated Gutter Guard states its suitable for water tank systems. However, the product does not specify AS4020 drinking standard certificates. If you require these certificates enquire at the Bunnings special orders desk.

A consideration from reviews indicates that the mesh material is hard to meld to the corrugated roof shape. This is true of many Colorbond® steel gutter guards.

Compare Bunnings’ range to our TuffMesh® range.

Blue Mountain Co Gutter Mesh Kit

Approx. $26 per metre

The Blue Mountain Co Gutter Mesh kit is a special order product made from Colorbond® steel for corrugated and tiled roofs and an aluminium kit for Trimdek® roofs. Unlike other products in the Bunning gutter guard range, it is supplied as a kit with mesh, trims, saddles/clips and roofing screws sold in 10, 15 and 30-metre rolls. A Valley mesh is also available.

It boasts an impressive 30 Colorbond® colour range, and the mesh’s 2mm aperture size complies with ember guard specifications meeting Australian Standard AS3959-2009, compliant for non-combustibility. It also has an impressive 20-year product warranty.

Colorbond® steel is widely considered a niche gutter guard product for ember guard BAL40 & FZ zones. The steel is more challenging to work with and is less malleable and flexible to fix the roof and gutter profile. Therefore, many professional installers prefer aluminium to Colorbond® steel unless specified. Colorbond® steel is also a more expensive product compared to aluminium mesh.

Fielders Watergate Leaf Guard

Approx. $5 per metre

Fields Watergate Leaf Guard is a mesh panel in zinc-preformed 1-metre packs. The installation is fast as the guard is placed in the gutter. The product reviews highlight its easy installation methods.

This product does not meet ember guard standards and is unsuitable for Bushfire prone areas and rainwater harvesting systems where rainwater is used for household use. The mesh does not specify powder coating, which may reduce durability and lifespan. No product warranty is specified.

Like foam guards, the flat surface works well to disperse most debris, but a build-up can occur without regular maintenance – you can see this reflected in the product reviews.

Read: Plastic vs metal gutter guards | What’s best?

Compare Bunnings’ range to our SteelMesh range.

Whites Fire Guard Gutter Mesh

Approx. $2-4 per metre

The Whites Fire Gutter Guard is easy to install and conforms to Australian standards for use in bushfire-prone areas, tested and certified by CSIRO to AS1530.2 with a flammability index of 1. It comes in two sizes to fit wider gutters and valleys. To install, cut with tin snips, bend by hand, shape & insert into the gutters. It is a good value-for-money solution.

While it conforms with Australian standards, the Fire Guard Gutter Mesh does not comply with ember guard standards with a 6.5mm aperture. The larger aperture will also have difficulty filtering smaller foliage and debris like pine needles.

Whites Ember Mesh Ultra

Approx. $15 per metre

Whites Ember Mesh Ultra Covers is an ember guard with 2mm aperture that prevents the entry of burning embers from openings and gutters. It is corrosion-resistant Stainless Steel wire with a black powder-coated finish that Ember Mesh Ultra complies with Standard AS3959 – 2009/2011. It is installed by hand – shaped & inserted into the gutters.

Unlike mesh kits, this ember guard requires shaping before gutter insertion, which some DIY customers may find difficult due to the robust and unmalleable stainless steel material. It is also important to note that this gutter guard has no product warranty.

Want to know more? ScreenTech sends 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.

Tags Commercial gutter guard, DIY gutter guard, gutter guard, leaf guard

Blog

10 Architectural considerations for gutter mesh

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 8 October 2022

An integrated mesh system is a comprehensive, permanent gutter guard product loved by architects as a permanent and aesthetically-appealing solution. A complete system, also known as a leaf guard, includes a micro-mesh and fixtures – trims and saddles.

It is the most durable and sustainable gutter protection system for all roof types, including corrugated, trimdek®, Klip-Lok®, tiled, roof valley areas and more.

Here are ten considerations when selecting a gutter mesh for your integrated gutter mesh system for your next project:

Strength

What type of strength is required? A standard strength gutter guard is sufficient for most domestic applications, but properties that include box gutters or parapets will need a stronger commercial strength gutter guard for additional strength.

Commercial-grade gutter guard is 50% stronger and therefore doesn’t sag spanning gaps over 500mm wide, which increases strength and durability over time. ScreenTech’s TuffMesh® range is the best commercial-grade gutter guard on the Australian market.

Read: What is a commercial-grade gutter guard?

See our TuffMesh® range.

Malleableness

The key to an integrated gutter mesh system is the mesh’s ski-slope permanently fixed to the outer edge of the gutter lip and roof or roof tiles. The slope encourages leaves and debris to slide to the ground while ensuring water does not sheet over the top of the gutter guard.
Installers must shape the mesh to specific roof areas. An aluminium mesh is more easily malleable. However, brittle materials like steel may be required for ember guard situations where an aluminium solution may not work.

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Lifespan

Gutter guard lifespan varies across products and materials. Typically, a comprehensive gutter guard, like an integrated gutter guard system, come with a 10-to-15-year warranty. Ember guards also include similar warranties between a 10-to-15-year warranty.

A commercial solution, both ember guard and gutter guard, typically includes an extended warranty of up to 25 years. We recommend matching the guttering, roof and gutter guard warranties. Thus, the best time to install a gutter guard is during construction.

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Colour

Gutter guards come in an array of Colorbond® colours for corrugated, Klip-Lok® and Trimdek® roofs. ScreenTech also includes speciality colours such as terracotta for tiled roofs and zinc or uncoated.

ScreenTech boasts an impressive colour range of 25 colours. We also partner with topcoat powder-coating in Melbourne and can custom powder coat to any colour as a particular order on some products.

Colour Options:

Basalt®

Classic Cream®

Cottage Green®

Dark Brown

Deep Ocean®

Dune®

Evening Haze®

Gully®

Ironstone®

Jasper®

Manor Red®

Monument®

Night Sky®

Pale Eucalypt®

Paperbark®

Shale Grey®

Surfmist®

Terracotta

Wallaby®

Windspray®

Woodlands Grey®

Zinc

Need gutter guard installed?

Appearance

A gutter guard can vary in appearance depending on the mesh thickness and the hole aperture size. ScreenTech encourages architects to use gutter guard photo guides for the best aesthetics.

Weather Resistance

The location, climate and weather conditions will affect your choice of material. Areas prone to severe hailstorms require a thicker mesh and would benefit from commercial-grade gutter mesh. Similarly, gutter guards in tropical regions suit integrated mesh systems with larger hole sizes to minimise sheeting during storms and heavy downpours.

Coastal applications in areas with high salt concentrations are more susceptible to rust and corrosion, so polyethylene gutter mesh is more suitable and durable. Larger hole sizes are also more suited to minimise sheeting during storms and heavy downpours.

Read: Plastic vs metal gutter guards | What’s best?

Need gutter guard installed?

Rain harvesting

Gutter guards in rain harvesting systems must have an AS4020 rating for potable water use. Many property owners also like to use an AS4020-rated system for water used around children, pets or bathroom appliances.

Plastic gutter guards do not meet Australian drinking water standards. However, not all metal gutter guards meet these standards either. Always ask for Australian water standard certificates if using your gutter guard to filter tank water used in the home.

BAL Rating

Buildings in bushfire-prone areas must use a BAL-rated gutter guard. Aluminium gutter guards and ember guards are suited to BAL12 and BAL29 areas. BAL40 & BALFZ-rated areas require steel or copper gutter mesh to comply with Australian standards.

Unlike gutter guards, ember guards have a hole size less than 2mm wide. The 2mm hole size prevents burning embers from igniting leaf litter that settles in your gutter system. Ensure the local planning requirements to determine your site’s type of ember guard category and build requirements.

Read: Ember Guard Case Study: Yarra Ranges Special School

Pest Control

A gutter guard is excellent for pest control measures, but choosing the right gutter mesh the kind of pest you are proofing. For small birds, a standard-thickness gutter guard is appropriate. However, proofing against larger pests such as possums, rats, and larger birds requires a thicker commercial-grade mesh to help ensure the property remains pest-free.

A 100% bird-proofing solution is possible if all access points to the roof, eaves and walls are protected. A 100% bird proofing also requires a solar panel bird mesh that covers and protects your solar panel from birds nesting underneath.

Read: Do all new homes need bird proofing?

Arboreal Factors

Leaf proofing considers a property’s surrounding trees and vegetation for seeds and leaves and the aperture size of the mesh.

For example, pine tree debris suits an ember guard with a smaller hole size. In contrast, a standard gutter guard will sufficiently proof eucalyptus trees larger pods and leaves. A more robust and thicker mesh is more suitable and durable if large gum tree branches surround your property.

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

Tags architecture, Commercial gutter guard, gutter guard, leaf guard

Blog

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Complete Guide

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 27 September 2022

Australian Colorbond® gutter guards are outstanding for leaf protection, bird proofing, bushfire protection and rainwater harvest protection. Many gutter guard products are on the market, but Colorbond® gutter guards offer unique advantages and features.

One primary feature is the colour-matching capabilities meaning the gutter guard is matched to the roof and gutter colour for the most streamlined aesthetics. The gutter mesh and the fittings can match tiled, Klip-Lok®, Timdeck® and corrugated roofs and the Colorbond® steel or aluminium gutters.

Continue reading to learn more about Colorbond® gutter guards.

What are Colorbond® gutter guards?

Colorbond® gutter guards, also known as an integrated gutter mesh system, sit over the gutters attached to the roof designed to filter rainwater into the gutter. Gutter mesh prevents leaves and debris from accumulating in the guttering system, allowing the optimal flow of rainwater away from your home.

A Colorbond® gutter protection system is the most efficient and long-lasting gutter guard, considered the best gutter guard. It is the most efficient gutter protection due to its ski slope angle from the front gutter lip and roof side, creating a permanent and permeable protective barrier. It is used in both residential and commercial applications.

It is the gutter guard of choice for roofing professionals and architects Australia-wide, but it is also popular in the DIY market. Your choice of gutter guard depends on your intended purpose, Australian outdoor conditions, budget and installation expectations.

Read: Best Gutter Guards in Australia Ultimate Guide

Need gutter guard installed?

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Solutions

Leaf proofing

A Colorbond® leaf guard prevents clogged gutters and debris build-ups and significantly reduces gutter cleaning and property maintenance. Leaf guards protect the gutter systems, downpipes and Australian roofs from heavy downpours, high winds and tropical storms.

Reduce maintenance and gutter cleaning

Clogged gutters increase maintenance for businesses, homeowners and property managers. Regular cleaning is every 6-12 months, depending on your area.

It is important to remember that Colorbond® gutter guards do not eliminate gutter cleaning and maintenance but drastically reduce the frequency. Reduced gutter cleaning improves safety for maintenance teams and residents, preventing people working at heights from cleaning blocked gutters.

Need gutter guards installed

Reduces property damage

A gutter guard ensures that water moves away from the property, preventing water damage. Therefore, it is suited to areas prone to heavy rainfall, extreme wind and weather conditions. The gutter guard offers additional durability reinforcing the gutter’s structural integrity.

Bushfire Protection against ember attack

Colorbond® ember guard products are the most effective bushfire protection against ember attacks. An ember attack occurs when airborne burning embers ignite litter in unprotected gutters. Colorbond® gutter protection will protect your home in Australian bushfire-prone areas.

An ember guard differs from a gutter guard with a minimum 2mm hole size per Australian standard. They are tested and certified BAL-rated with Low Flammability Index.

Read: Difference Between Ember Guard and Gutter Guard

Bird proofing

Colorbond® integrated mesh gutter guards are effective bird-proofing products. The gutter mesh prevents birds and other pests from accessing the gutter, roof spaces, and nesting. When applied with other bird prevention products, such as spikes and solar panel mesh, it can provide 100% complete bird protection.

A 100% bird-proofing guarantee is only possible by covering mesh over all entry points. However, vermin-proofing is much more difficult due to other entry points in foundations and walls. However, Colorbond® gutter guards reduce the risk of vermin and pests nesting in your gutters and roof.

Read: Do all new homes need bird proofing?

Want to become a gutter guard installation partner?

Rainwater harvesting

Colorbond® gutter guards are components of a complete rainwater harvesting system. It filters contaminants before reaching the water tank. Colorbond® gutter guards protecting portable water or household use must comply with AS4020 water standards. Plastic Colorbond® gutter guards do not meet these standards, so ensure to see Australian water standard certificates.

Commercial gutter guards

Commercial gutter protection differs from a residential installation with various roof and gutter profiles. Colorbond® gutter guards also come in commercial-grade options. The mesh is 50% stronger and more flexible for use in a project with bracing and spanning without sagging. A commercial gutter guard is suitable for a 750mm wide gap without sagging while maintaining its strength and durability over time.

Read: What are commercial-grade gutter guards?

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Benefits

Bushfire-rated ember guards

BAL-ratings
CSIRO fire rating
low flammability
2mm hole size as per Australian standards
non-combustible
Colorbond® steel & aluminium mesh options

Tested for Australian conditions

strong resilience to the elements
effective against extreme winds, hail, snow and rainfall
withstand tropical rains and winds
poly mesh combats salty atmospheric corrosion in the air

Tested for Australian conditions

25 Colorbond® colours
colour-matching offers aesthetically pleasing results
optimal for sloped roof properties where the roof is more visually exposed

Powder-coated strength

powder coating prevents fading
strengthens the product’s structural stability
prevents corrosion on a Colorbond® roof

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Warranty

Colorbond® gutter protection
up to 15-25-year warranty
warranties vary based on material Colorbond® Steel, aluminium and polyethylene

Read: AquaRevo Project Case Study

Get in contact with a gutter guard installation partner

Colorbond® Materials

Plastic gutter mesh

Plastic gutter mesh is excellent for coastal areas and suitable for all roof profiles due to the high salt concentration. We recommend poly mesh as a non-reactive substance great for use with galvanised roofs.

Key features include:

UV Stabilised polyethylene
Suitable for Galvanised roofs
Suitable for coastal dwellers
Netlon process diamond mesh
Proven for over 20 years
Up to 15-year material warranty

Aluminium gutter mesh

Aluminium gutter guards are the most popular in gutter guard protection due to their ability to span and fit many roof profiles. Aluminium mesh is coated in industry-leading coating for strength and durability. It also retains its colour for longer despite exposure to UV rays.

Key features include:

Flexible aluminium mesh materials & accessories
CSIRO tested a flammability index of zero
Complies with AS3959 – 1999
Australian Bushfire Standards
Ember guard products are available
Akzo Nobel D1010 powder coating
Up to a 25-year material warranty

Colorbond® steel mesh

Colorbond BlueScope® steel is the best steel type used widely on Australian properties. SteelMesh with a 2mm hole size is used for BAL-40 and FZ-rated properties. It is highly durable and robust for a Colorbond® roof.

Key features include:

Colorbond® steel
Ember guard-rated gutter protection
CSIRO non-combustible rated bushfire protection
BAL-40/FZ rated solution
Made in Australia
20 Year Warranty

Want to become a gutter guard installation partner?

Roof Types

It comes in an array of Colorbond® colours colour-matched to Colorbond® roof or tiled roof colours. Metal roof gutter guard kits include the mesh, trims, and saddles secured with roofing screws. Gutter guard kits for tiled roofs include the mesh, trims secured with roofing screws and tucked under the second row of tiles.

You can install gutter guards kits for many roof types, including:

Corrugated roofs
Klip-Lok® roofs
Timdeck®
Tiled Roofs
Flat roofs
Roof Valleys
Commercial roofs

Gutter profile types

Most gutter guards are suitable for use with standard gutter profiles. For a more comprehensive gutter system protection, consider an integrated mesh system.

Standard guttering

Typical gutter widths are five and six inches
Seven-inch gutters found in tropical areas

Box gutters

Widely used in commercial properties
More than 500mm wide

Bull nose gutters

Typical in Australian heritage design,
Curve angle makes it more visible from the ground
Colorbond® gutter guards span

Parapets

Typical in commercial properties
Parapet spans more than 500mm wide
Suits commercial gutter guard

Other fixtures

Roof-to-roof
Roof-to-valley
Roof-to-wall
Roof-to-commercial roof
Roof-to-rainhead
Wall-to-box gutter

How to install Colorbond® gutter guards

The installation plays a significant factor in the type of gutter guard system. It is the gutter guard of choice for roofers and architects Australia-wide, but it is also popular in DIY.

DIY Options

As a safety precaution, all work at heights should be completed in pairs with a roof spotter. However, DIY sites supply integrated mesh systems and mesh panels in kits.

Colorbond® gutter guards are a little more complicated for a DIY installation. Speak to an installer to learn the difficulty of your home project.

Professional gutter guard installers

There are several options available for the professional installation of gutter guards, including:

Accredited gutter guard installers
Roofers
Roofing plumbers
Local Handypeople

Read: How to find a gutter guard installer

Single & Double Storey installations

ScreenTech® recommends professional installers for multi-storey houses. Professionals must use safety harnesses and scaffolding as per safety regulations. Many single-storey homes require scaffolding to compete in a gutter guard project, so always check requirements.

Current Working at Heights Legislation makes it more challenging to complete maintenance working at heights, including installing gutter guards.

Do not attempt to do a double-storey house without heights training.

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

Tags bushfire protection, Commercial gutter guard, gutter guard, leaf guard

Blog

Aluminium vs Steel Gutter Guards

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 16 September 2022

Metal gutter guards are excellent property owners with aluminium gutters or steel gutters. Gutter guards reduce the need for regular gutter cleaning, help prevent blocked gutters, allow optimal water flow, optimise water tank capture and harvesting, and ember protection. Many homeowners also use gutter guards for bird proofing for gutters, valleys and roof cavities. So, are aluminium or steel gutter guards best? It depends on the gutter guard and solution type. An aluminium gutter mesh is strong, more versatile and malleable, making it perfect for most home and commercial applications. However, steel mesh meets BAL-40 and BAL-FZ ratings and speciality installation requirements, whereas aluminium does not. To make an informed decision about the best gutter material, you should consider multiple factors such as:

Gutter guard types
Gutter guard solutions
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Rating
Installation Process
Cost of Material
Maintenance Procedures
Durability of Material

Continue to learn the best gutter guards for your latest project.

Need gutter guard installed?

Aluminium vs Steel Gutter Guards Comparison

Aluminium Gutter Guards	Steel Gutter Guards
Very malleable	More robost
Easy to install	Galvanized, Colorbond and stainless steel gutter material options
Compatible with BAL-29 rating	Compatible with BAL-40 or BAL-FZ rating
Span across wider gaps	High tensile strength
More easily dented and more prone to cracking	Multiple gutter guard product types
Naturally corrosion and rust resistant	Prone to rust and corrosion over time
Affordable	More expensive

Aluminium Gutter Guards

Aluminium is corrosion-resistant, non-combustible, and flexible, making it easy to install. Aluminium deters birds, vermin, and other pests from nesting in gutters and is compatible with the BAL-29 rating. Aluminium’s versatility makes it the perfect choice for most homes in Australia.

Many property owners choose aluminium gutter guards to avoid rust. Aluminium does, however, corrode under extreme circumstances. The most common type is galvanic corrosion – aluminium comes in contact with other metals. So, aluminium gutters would not want to use aluminium gutter protection on steel gutters unless the steel has been galvanised.

Aluminium mesh

Aluminium mesh gutter guards are weaved from aluminium into diamond shapes that expand and contract. The expansion process makes aluminium gutter mesh more flexible and malleable, giving it an expansive property that allows the gutter mesh to span across all types of gutter profiles.

Like roofing companies, gutter guard installations that involve box gutters or require bracing may be better suited to a specialist gutter guard installation company.

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Steel Gutter Guards

Steel gutter guards are available in panels, screens or gutter mesh. Mesh panels and screens are usually made from stainless steel and are more prone to rust. Gutter mesh is preferred for professional installation. Mesh panels are rigid, do not span all gutter profiles, and allow fine debris to permeate the screen. The gutter guard creates a permeable flat surface across the gutter profile, which can cause leaves and debris build up over the panel, inhibiting the flow of water.

Steel mesh

Steel mesh is made from Colorbond steel material colour-coated to increase longevity and durability. Galvanised steel mesh is also available for corrugated roof and gutter profiles but is not suitable for copper roofs as contact will lead to rapid corrosion.

ColorBond steel is a metal gutter guard required for gutter protection in a BAL-40 and BAL-FZ-rated bushfire zone. Homes and commercial buildings in these areas are highly vulnerable to fire and ember damage; steel mesh is the only metal gutter guard safe for these gutters.

Metal Gutter Guards Cost

So, what is the difference in price between Colorbond steel and aluminium gutter mesh? Typically, you spend around $10 per meter of aluminium mesh and $15 per meter of stainless steel mesh. Stainless steel gutter guards or mesh panels are a cheaper alternative but are prone to warp and deteriorate under extreme Australian temperatures and heavy rain.

Durability

Colorbond steel gutter guard is more robust than aluminium. Aluminium is easily dented and more prone to cracking; however, aluminium is roughly one-third of the weight of steel, generally more low maintenance. So, although stainless steel is more robust, the strength-to-weight ratio of aluminium is much better. Aluminium’s lightweight property makes it much easier to work with, which is why many professional installers prefer it.

When it comes to longevity, aluminium and steel have an approximate lifespan of 20 years if properly maintained. Steel gutter guards often require a little more maintenance keeping them clean and moisture free. Similarly, it’s essential to make regular inspections of the colorbond-coating and rust spots.

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Metal Gutter Guard vs Plastic Gutter Guard

Like all gutter guards, plastic gutter guards vary in a product, durability styles and sizes. Typically, plastic gutter guards are your cheaper options and should be avoided if brittle and made from inferior materials such as nylon.

However, high-quality plastic mesh gutter guards made from polyethylene are suitable and even specified for specific projects. Plastic mesh is resistant to the extreme temperatures of summer and will retain shape and strength in strong winds or hail.

In most cases, aluminium is the preferred choice over poly mesh applications. However, if your gutter guard material contacts galvanised steel or copper, it will cause a chemical reaction. A poly mesh is usually the preferred gutter guard solution. Poly mesh gutter guards are also the preferred choice in coastal area applications, as a high concentration of salt and weather conditions affect the longevity of metal gutter guards.

ScreenTech is an industry leader in aluminium gutter guard solutions and wholesale supply for tradespeople, architects and construction firms. Speak with one of our team members today to learn more about our aluminium TuffMesh® and GutterMesh ranges and our SteelMesh range.

Tags aluminium gutter guard, gutter guard, leaf guard, steel mesh

Blog

Do all new homes need bird proofing?

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 8 September 2022

Thousands of homeowners need to bird-proof their homes, but deciding to bird-proof a new home can be challenging as your customers usually only recognise a bird problem after signs of bird infestations.

Do all new homes need to bird proofing? Of course not. It wastes the builder’s resources and adds a financial burden to the new homeowner. However, most new homes built on green field sites around urban peripheries benefit from bird proofing measures.

Our research in cooperation with Melbourne gutter guard installers found that 83% of Melbourne homes that installed gutter guards as a bird proofing solution were under five years old.

Furthermore, the same research indicates that bird-proofing solutions were commonly built on greenfield sites around the periphery of Melbourne.

As humans build on naturally occurring nesting sites (Greenfields), those birds look for alternative nesting options – your customer’s brand-new home.

Continue reading to learn more about bird-proofing new homes and commercial buildings.

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When to bird proof a new home

Bird proofing specifications on new build plans are rare. However, homeowners in greenfield areas are more at risk of infestation from pest bird species without early installation.

A bird proofing system is relatively cheap to install during construction stages as the available scaffolding is in place. A retrofit can cost thousands as legal safety requirements at heights will require framing, increasing costs by hundreds or thousands depending on property size.

Retrofit costs will also include bird removal services, maintenance and cleaning of the guttering system and solar panels, which is exceptionally costly for commercial properties.

Feathers, bird fouling and nesting material block gutters and downpipes after heavy rainfall, which can cause water damage to the gutter system and foundations.

Our recommendations for new buildings are as follows:

For brownfield sites, ScreenTech recommends waiting and responding if necessary;
For greenfield sites close to other new builds, look at the surrounding homes (i.e. if you can see bird proofing or nesting in gutters;
Bird proofing should be standard for homes using water collected by a rainwater harvesting system;
Bird proofing is the default for municipal builds on a greenfield, especially for schools where children may be exposed to bird-related diseases and contaminate tank water.

When considering your greenfield site, ask yourself:

Is bird proofing already installed in nearby homes?
Will the home have solar panels?
Are birds standing on the roof of nearby homes?
Are there bird nests in the gutters of nearby homes? Are their nesting materials in drain pipes or that blocked gutters?
Do trees border the site? Is there any bird roosting in those existing trees? (Birds prefer a warm roof, gutter or solar panel to a tree.)
Do bird droppings accumulate around the property area?
Are pest birds local to the area, including pest pigeons, gulls, mynas, sparrows and starlings?

Bird proofing is a fundamental consideration in house design to prevent bird problems. Architects and builders can offer bird proofing to homeowners right from the start.

ScreenTech offers straightforward and expert advice on bird-proofing new properties.

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Why choose bird proofing over pest control services

Nesting memory

Established bird nesting sites attract pest birds and other pests to that location. Pest birds rarely reuse an old nest; however, they will seek out other habitable spaces.

Baby birds have nesting memory, meaning offspring return to the same hatching site year after year – despite removing the original nest. Often, they nest in the opposite corner of your roof or gutter, causing blocked gutter and mess associated with birds.

Problem birds also carry transmissible diseases, such as worms and salmonella. The only way to stop them is to deny them access with a physical barrier.

Solar panel challenges

The rise in solar panel installation on domestic homes across Australia correlates to bird infestations in new and older Australian homes. Birds nest in warm, sheltered places, ideally provided by the gap between the roof and solar panels. As such, bird-proofing mesh systems prevent birds from nesting underneath the panels.

Birds are territorial and destructive. It can cause lasting damage to solar panels, and often this damage is not covered under a warranty. The combination of flat surfaces on the roof and solar panels make pest control, cleaning and maintenance extremely challenging requiring a professional approach. Any solar panel damage during the cleaning and bird removal may not be covered under warranty and may cost customers thousands.

The only way to stop birds from nesting underneath solar panels is to install a physical barrier that allows light and moisture to permeate but denies birds and other animals access.

Order a sample pack with integrated gutter mesh samples.

Bird proofing methods

Integrated gutter mesh system

An integrated gutter mesh prevents birds from accessing gutters, roof cavities, valleys, and other spaces birds use for nesting. A bird mesh system covers these areas deterring birds. It encourages healthy water flow through gutters creating a permeable protective barrier specially-manufactured to prevent birds from nesting and perching.

Solar panel bird mesh system

SolarMesh is a wire PVC-coated stainless steel or galvanised mesh with a larger hole size than typical gutter guard mesh. The larger 12mm aperture ensures the panels don’t overheat and diminish panel energy collection. It is secured safely to the solar panels with clips that prevent damage and voiding the panel warranty.

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Pest control services

Most pest control is not a preventative measure. Most pest control includes removal, cleaning and control measures without installing them permanently. Some bird control measures include chemical bird control, which is toxic to other birds, including natives unlikely to nest on your roof.

Bird spikes

Bird spikes prevent birds from perching and roosting but may not prevent nest development. It is also the most visible of the measures from ground level. It is often applied with other bird prevention measures, such as an integrated gutter guard system, to provide commercial properties with 100% complete protection.

Bird netting

Like spikes, in conjunction with other measures, bird netting for commercial properties and large domestic homes prevent bird infestation. It can provide a 100% bird solution if installed as part of an integrated gutter mesh system. However, it will not deter smaller bird species and can trap birds if installed incorrectly.

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New home bird proofing benefits

Some benefits of bird proofing include:

Reduce the risk of property damage to commercial & residential property, including shingles, tiles and wooden fascias.
reduce gutter system blockages
Improved rainwater quality for tanks and rainwater harvesting systems.
Reduce risk to your family’s health as droppings and fouling carry transmissible diseases and parasites, including salmonella.
Reduce risk from other pests that are attracted to bird nests.
Improved property aesthetics as bird droppings are highly corrosive and acidic, leaving stains, discolouration and damage to outdoor structures.
Reduced nesting litter around roofing eaves, verandas and gutters
Reduce noise pollution caused by baby birds and nocturnally active
Improve solar panel life expectancy and energy output
Encourage native bird species in your garden.

Free bird proofing mesh samples

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

Look no further than ScreenTech’s environmentally friendly, humane bird-proofing products. Our mesh prevents bird nests in gutters, roof valleys, walls and roof cavities. Get in touch with a ScreenTech installation partner today.

Tags bird proofing, gutter guard, leaf guard, solar panel protection

Blog

Best Gutter Guard in Australia Ultimate Guide

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 19 July 2022

Typically, gutter guards work to keep leaves and debris buildup out of your guttering system, allowing the optimal flow of rainwater away from your home—but they are also widely used for bushfire protection, bird proofing, rainwater harvesting, and commercial applications.

There are many different types of gutter guards. The best gutter guard for your home will depend on gutter guard’s intended purpose, location, climate, budget and installation expectations.

Here is a list of the types of gutter guards available in Australia:

Integrated mesh system
Ember guard system
Commercial-grade mesh system
Valley mesh system
Mesh panels
Vinyl gutter guards
brush gutter guards
Foam inserts
solar panel mesh

When choosing a gutter guard, homeowners and tradespeople should consider material, colour, aesthetics, environment, and location.

Continue reading for a comprehensive look at the best gutter guards in Australia and the considerations that help you choose the types of gutter guards for your project.

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Best Gutter Guard Quick Guide

Easiest to install: Brush Gutter Guards
Best for bird proofing: Integrated mesh (Commercial Grade)
Best for bushfire protection: Integrated Mesh Ember Guard
Best for leaf proofing: Integrated Mesh
Best for box gutters: integrated mesh (Commercial Grade)
Cheapest: Mesh Panels
Best looking: Vinyl guards

Best gutter guard types

There are several types of gutter guards common in Australia. Some categorise gutter guard products into DIY-friendly vs professionally installed gutter guards.

However, most gutter guards are DIY-friendly, some more than others. Therefore, we tend to categorise gutter guards by how they attach to the roof and gutters, such as:

Gutter guards that act as gutter covers sitting above the gutter and roof
Gutter guards that sit inside the gutters

Below is a list of the best Australian gutter guard types in detail:

Integrated Mesh System

An integrated mesh system is a comprehensive, permanent gutter guard product. The integrated mesh system, often known as leaf guard, includes a micro-mesh and fixtures – trims and saddles (for metal roofs) – that protect the gutters, valleys and other roof cavities or spaces.

The system incorporates a micro-mesh fixed permanently to the outer edge of the gutter lip and roof, creating a slope that encourages leaf and debris to slide to the ground.

The integrated mesh system is a more expensive gutter guard product. However, it is the most durable, robust, sustainable gutter protection system.

While it is a DIY gutter product, installing gutter mesh systems is typically completed by installers.

Below are the pros and cons of an integrated mesh system:

Pros

Up to 25-year warranty
Durable, long-lasting
DIY options available
Available for different roof types
Various material options
Colour-match available
Range of hole sizes, including pine needles
AS4020 products available
100% bird proofing solution
Ember guard products are available
Fire-rated products
Protect roof valleys
Protects box gutters or parapets

cons

Expensive
Difficult to Clean
Easy to install and maintain
More challenging DIY install

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Ember Guard System

Ember guards are custom gutter mesh products that comply with bushfire protection measures. The critical difference between an ember guard and other mesh gutter guard options is that the hole size is less than 2mm wide. The 2mm hole size prevents embers from entering and igniting leaf litter that settles in your gutter system.

For an ember guard to comply, it must be metal. Aluminium ember guards comply with BAL-29 standards and below, while steel and bronze ember guards comply with BAL-40, and BAL-FZ rated properties.

People also use ember guard on homes surrounded by pine needles, jacarandas and other flora with tiny litter as the fine mesh prevents debris buildup.

Read: Difference Between Ember Guard and Gutter Guard

Valley mesh system

A valley mesh system is another integrated mesh system that protects the roof valleys.

Roof valleys require a wider mesh to span. Installers secure the mesh using corrugated, Trimdek® or Klip-lok®-style saddles on metal roofs. The mesh is tucked under the tiles and sealed with silicone for tiled roof installation.

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Mesh panels

There are many different types of mesh panels on the market in plastic, stainless steel or aluminium. The most common are micro mesh guards and screen gutter guard systems.

Some mesh panels attach directly to the inner or outer gutter lip resting on the metal roof or under the first or second row of a tiled roof. Other types of mesh panels clip inside the gutters.

The mesh gutter guard range in hole sizes that allow water to flow directly through the mesh and into the rain gutter beneath. Depending on the hole size.

There are two significant concerns for mesh panels:

Panels create a flat surface leading to buildups on the gutter guards installed.
Extreme weather conditions and strong winds can cause the panels to dislodge and become airborne.

Below are the pros and cons of mesh panels:

Pros

5-15 year warranties
DIY options available
Many installation options
Different material options
Effective leaf proofing measures
Aesthetically-pleasing
Some fire-rated products
Some bird proofing options
Some colour matches are available
Available in various materials

cons

Expensive
Difficult to Clean
Easy to install and maintain
Leaves can accumulate on top and build up over time
Some hole sizes will not prevent finer debris like pine needles
Not suitable for water tanks – unless specified
Not ideal for areas with extreme weather or high winds
No 100% bird proofing solution
It does not protect roof valleys
It does not protect box gutters or parapets

Vinyl Guards

Vinyl guards, also known as downward curve or reverse curve gutter guards, attach to the roof, making a speedy and easy installation process for professionals. Like the mesh, the panels prevent debris from entering the gutter while allowing water to flow freely.

Although they are another cost-effective solution, vinyl guards can clog easily; clear out built-up debris. It is also not suitable for bushfire protection.

Correct installation is essential for the successful application of the gutter guard. To ensure the vinyl guards’ effectiveness, the slope must be set precisely to the roof’s angles.

Below are the pros and cons of vinyl guards:

Pros

10-15 year warranty
Very effective leaf proofing measure
aesthetically-pleasing
Some colour matches are available
Available in various materials

cons

Expensive
Difficult to Clean
Requires professional installation and maintenance
Not suitable for bird proofing
Not AS4020 rated – not suitable for rainwater harvesting
Not ideal for bushfire protection
It does not protect roof valleys
It does not protect box gutters or parapets

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Brush gutter guards

A brush gutter guard sits inside the existing gutters. It is a plastic gutter guard with black polypropylene bristles extending outwards from the thick metal wire core. Leaves and debris get caught in the bristles, while the rainwater flows through the gutters freely.

Brush-style gutter guards are relatively cheap and very easy to install as they only need to be inserted into the gutters. They are readily available from stores like Mitre10 and Bunnings in 10-metres or 1-metre.

Although inserted into the gutters, leaves and twigs stuck in the bristles are often visible from the ground. It also requires more regular cleaning than screen guards and is unsuitable for bushfire protection, bird proofing and rainwater harvesting.

Below are the pros and cons of brush gutter guards:

Pros

Inexpensive
Last 6-12 months but will require regular cleaning
Easy to install and remove
DIY-friendly
Fire Retardant and UV Stabilised
Invisible from the ground

Cons

Can clog
Difficult to Clean
Requires maintenance to be effective
Can attract pests and insects
Not suitable for bird proofing
Not AS4020 rated – not suitable around
Not ideal for bushfire protection
It does not protect roof valleys
It does not protect box gutters or parapets

Foam gutter guards

A foam gutter guard, also known as foam inserts, is another guard inserted into the gutter. It resembles a pool noodle and is popular for homeowners who want an easy DIY-friendly gutter guard install.

The insert sits inside the existing gutter system and is water permeable, separating the leaves and debris above. The foam barrier is straightforward to install gutter guards because they fit the size of a standard gutter.

Some downsides include the foam guard attracting mould and plant growth if not regularly changed. So, you will need to clean them and replace them periodically. The foam insert’s shape is flat, so the debris will build up on the top of the guard and become visible from the ground. Lastly, it is also a fire risk and should not be used in areas prone to bushfire alerts.

Below are the pros and cons of foam gutter guards

Pros

Inexpensive
Last 6-12months but will require regular cleaning
Easy to install and remove
DIY-friendly
Fire Retardant and UV Stabilised
Invisible from the ground

Cons

Can trap water
Can Trap Roof Oil
Difficult to Clean
Requires maintenance to be effective
Can grow mould
Can attract pests and insects
Not suitable for bird proofing
Not AS4020 rated – not suitable around
Not ideal for bushfire protection
It does not protect roof valleys
It does not protect box gutters or parapets

Solar Mesh

While SolarMesh is not a traditional gutter guard product, it is a necessary addition to gutter protection and bird proofing. The solar mesh protects solar panels from birds, leaves and debris collecting underneath the panels.

Solar mesh has a larger hole that ensures unrestricted airflow and sunlight, so the panels don’t overheat, reducing energy output.

The solar mesh also attaches with clips, unlike the fixtures for gutter covers, gutter screens and gutter guards. These clips avoid compromising the solar panels and voiding the warranty.

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Gutter guard solution

The best gutter guards offer more than one gutter guard solution, including;

leaf proofing
bird proofing
bushfire protection against ember attack
rainwater harvesting
solar panel protection
reduce gutter cleaning
reduce maintenance
preventing water damage
increase safety
increase the lifespan of your roof and gutter system

Leaf proofing

A leaf guard or gutter guard prevents blocked gutters and other debris buildups from guttering systems. It significantly reduces gutter cleaning and maintenance.

It is often installed to increase leaf guards to protect the gutter systems from heavy downpours and debris buildup for a more extended gutter and downpipe lifespan.

Reduce gutter cleaning, maintenance & damage

Gutter guards prevent debris and leaves from entering the guttering system. Clogged gutters are a maintenance concern for businesses and homeowners, and regular cleaning is every 6-12 months, depending on the area you live.

It also improves safety for maintenance teams and residents, keeping people on the ground instead of working at heights to clean blocked gutters.

Areas prone to heavy rainfall and extreme weather conditions are also at risk of water damage, including structural damage.

Bushfire protection against ember attack

An ember guard is the most effective bushfire protection against ember attacks from airborne burning embers igniting litter in unprotected gutters. Gutter protection is the only measure to protect your home from burning embers.

An ember guard is tested and certified as an Australian fire-rated guard with BAL ratings and Fire Rating Flame Index “0” for bushfire-prone areas.

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Bird proofing

Another common reason for gutter guard is bird proofing. Brush and foam gutter guards are unsuitable for bird proofing as birds and vermin can easily remove them from the gutters.

Integrated mesh gutter guards prevent birds from gaining access to the roof and nesting in the gutters and valleys. It also encourages healthy water flow.

The mesh material surface is specially-manufactured to deter bird nesting and perching. When applied with other bird prevention methods such as spikes and solar panel protection, it can provide 100% complete bird protection. Installers can only offer a 100% bird proofing guarantee if all possible entry points are covered with mesh.

It is impossible to vermin-proof your home with the gutter guard as other entry points are available through the foundations and walls. However, preventing overflowing gutters reduces the risk of vermin and pests nesting in your gutters and roof.

Rainwater harvesting

Gutter guards protect rainwater harvesting systems from contaminants and are a complete system’s first component. Any gutter guard with a water tank for home or drinking water must comply with AS4020 water standards. Plastic gutter guards do not meet these standards, but not all metal gutter guards will.

Always ask for Australian water standard certificates if using your gutter guard to filter tank water used in the home.

Commercial gutter guard

Commercial installation differs from a residential installation with roof types and gutter profiles. The installer attaches gutter protection with a ski slope angle to the gutter front lip or roof side, creating a permeable protective barrier to the other roof. The process is similar to residential installation.

The difference is most commercial projects require a commercial-grade guard, including using a combination of bracing and fixing options. This is due to the more significant gaps and gutter systems on commercial properties vs residential buildings.

Solar panel protection

Solar panel protection is an additional roof and gutter protection measure as part of a leaf and bird proofing solution. The solar mesh protects solar panels from birds, leaves and debris collecting underneath the panels. It is also suitable for bushfire-prone areas as it prevents buildup underneath.

Solar mesh has a larger hole that ensures unrestricted airflow and sunlight, so the panels don’t overheat, reducing energy output.

The solar mesh also attaches with clips, unlike the fixtures for gutter covers, gutter screens and gutter guards. These clips avoid compromising the solar panels and voiding the warranty.

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Gutter guard materials

There are several types of gutter guard materials, including:

plastic
aluminium
Colorbond® steel
Stainless steel
galvanised steel
bronze
copper

The type of gutter guard material you need will depend on various factors.

Plastic gutter guards

Plastic gutter guards are common in DIY – especially foam and brush. However, they are not the best solution for anything other than keeping clean gutters. These types of gutter guards will need regular cleaning.
Plastic gutter mesh is also commonly used in coastal applications where metal gutter guards corrode more quickly due to the high salt concentration. It is also used on galvanised roof types to prevent reactions between the mesh and roof material.

Aluminium gutter guards

Aluminium gutter guards are the most popular metal for gutter guard protection due to their ability to span and fit the roof profile. Aluminium mesh is Colorbond® powder-coated to increase strength and durability and to retain its colour for longer.

Steel gutter guards

Colorbond® powder coated steel is the most common steel type used in the gutter mesh. The powder-coating provides added protection and retains its colour for longer. Steel mesh is also used for BAL-40 and FZ-rated properties.
Stainless steel gutter guard is not the most durable gutter guard type and will have a shorter lifespan compared to other steel and aluminium products. Stainless steel mesh corrodes more quickly in regular weather conditions. It is also unsuitable for heavy rain areas or where large debris overhangs the roof.
Galvanised steel gutter guards products on galvanised roofs, where stainless steel and aluminium roofs will react and corrode more quickly with the metal.

Bronze gutter guards

Bronze, like steel, is used to comply in BAL FZ-rated bushfire areas. Bronze ember guards require professional installation and are generally more expensive than steel ember guards.

Copper gutter guards

Copper gutter guards are rare and expensive. Copper screen gutter guards are custom-made for copper gutters, also more unusual in Australia but more common in American gutter protection.

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Roof types

Tiled roof

There are many tiled roofs; some make gutter guard installation more challenging than others, such as Spanish tile. The integrated mesh system is the best gutter guard that seals to the tiles and does not void tiled roof warranties.

However, we always advise that you get advice from a professional before installing gutter guards on a tiled roof.

Installers secure the mesh to the gutter edge with a colour-matched trim and typically under the second tile of roofs. Silicone seals the mesh to the tile preventing moisture and air from penetrating the roof.

Trimdek® roof

Most gutter guard products are suitable for use with trimdek®. A trimdek® gutter guard will also suit a Spandek® roof profile.

Installers secure the gutter mesh to the trimdek® or spandek® roof using trim and trimdek® saddles and screws in Colorbond® colours.

Corrugated roof

Most gutter guard products are suitable for use with flat roofs.

Installers secure the gutter mesh to a corrugated roof using trim and corrugated saddles and screws in Colorbond® colours.

Klip-lok® roof

Most gutter guard products are suitable for use with Klip-lok® roofs and suit Lysaght®, Fielders KingKlip®, Metroll Metlok®, Revolution Revklip and Stramit Speed Deck Ultra®.

Installers secure the gutter mesh to a corrugated roof using trim and Klip-lok® saddles and screws in Colorbond® colours.

At ScreenTech, we use our Super-dek® clip with dibble ribbing to ensure maximum strength.

Flat roof

Most gutter guard products are suitable for use with flat roofs.

Saddles, brackets, or screws secure the mesh against the flat roof profile to ensure no leaves can get into the guttering.

Valleys

An integrated gutter mesh system is the only gutter guard that protects the valleys and the gutters. Roof valleys require a wider mesh to span. Installers secure the mesh using corrugated, trimdek® or Klip-lok®-style saddles on metal roofs or tuck the mesh under the tiles, sealing with silicone.

Other fixture types

Other gutter guard fixture types include:

Roof-to-roof
Roof-to-gutter
Roof-to rainhead
Roof-to-commercial roof
Roof-to-box gutter
Wall-to-box gutter

An integrated mesh system is the only gutter guard system able to span across all these fixture points and will require professional installation. ScreenTech pioneered bracing and installation techniques for all these fixture types. Speak to us if your project contains any of the following fixtures.

Gutter profiles

Standard guttering

Most gutter guards are suitable for use with standard gutter profiles. For a more comprehensive gutter system protection, consider an integrated mesh system.

Typical gutter widths are five and six inches. However, seven-inch gutters are found in tropical areas that receive a lot of rain. Measure your gutters to ensure that the guard you buy will fit properly.

Box gutters

Box gutters suit a commercial-grade gutter guard more than 500mm wide.

A commercial gutter guard is suitable for a 750mm wide gap without sagging while maintaining its strength and durability over time.

Bull nose gutters

The bull nose gutter profile is typical in Australian heritage design, but the angle curve makes it unstable and visible from the ground for most other gutter guards.

An integrated mesh system is better suited to a bull nose gutter as it is less visible, more secure and spans across the roof and gutter profile.

Parapets

Most suitable for a commercial grade gutter guard, especially if the parapet spans more than 500mm wide.

A commercial gutter guard is suitable for a 750mm wide gap without sagging while maintaining its strength and durability over time.

Rain heads and downpipes

An integrated gutter guard is most suitable for rain heads and downpipe gutter protections because the mesh and fixtures can span across the gaps without sagging.

We recommend getting advice from professional installers for these areas.

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Gutter guard installation

The installation plays a significant factor in the type of gutter guard system you choose. All the gutter guards have DIY gutter guard options available; however, the vinyl guard and the integrated gutter guard is often considered best installed by a professional.

DIY Options

Avid DIYers will need an appropriate ladder and experience working at heights. As a safety precaution, any work done at heights should be completed in pairs with a roof spotter. The brush guard and foam inserts are the easiest to install. However, DIY sites supply integrated mesh systems and mesh panels in kits.

DIY gutter guards include:

Integrated mesh system
Valley mesh system
Brush gutter guard
Foam inserts
Vinyl gutter guard
Mesh panels and other mesh clip ons

The solar mesh should not be installed yourself, as it will void the panel’s warranties. Likewise, commercial gutter guards require specialised bracing and should only be installed by a professional.

Some gutter guards, such as brush guards and foam inserts, are easy to install. Other gutter guard types, such as the integrated mesh system, are a little more complicated for a DIY installation. Speak to an installer to learn the difficulty of your home project.

Professional gutter guard installers

There are several options available for the professional installation of gutter guards, including:

Accredited gutter guard installation companies
Roofers
Roofing plumbers
Local Handymen

Single & Double Storey installations

ScreenTech recommends professional installers for double-storey houses or higher. Harnesses and scaffolding should be used where safety regulations require it.

Working at heights measures have changed in the last five years, making it more challenging to complete maintenance work at heights, including installing gutter guards. Many single-storey houses require scaffolding to compete in a gutter guard project, so always check the requirements from your local council or state.

Do not attempt to do a double-storey house without heights training.

Other important consideration

Now that you know about the different types of gutter guards consider the following factors before making a final purchasing decision.

Warranty

Most DIY gutter guards will not include a warranty because they’re a temporary solution. The integrated mesh system has the best warranty, 10-25 years.

Always be wary of gutter guards that claim more than a 25 -year warranty, as it is unlikely to have been tested on roofs that long.

Professionally installed guards should also come with a workmanship warranty or guarantee for the products of up to 20 years.

Professional gutter guard installers

Your home’s curb appeal should be equally important to you, so choose guards that blend into your roof aesthetics or remain hidden from the ground. An integrated gutter guard includes powder-coated mesh that matches the roof and gutter Colorbond® or tile colours.

Also, remember that your roof and gutters may be different colours, so order trim, mesh and saddles to ensure they blend into the exterior.

Australian climates and environments

Coastal areas: Plastic mesh is better suited to areas with high salt concentration and ensures it doesn’t rust quickly.
Tropical climates: a more permanent solution, like an integrated mesh system, is better for an environment with
Dry, dusty climates: Dry and dusty settings make gutter protection more challenging.
Hail and extreme weather: Mesh panels and brush gutter guards can become airborne in wild winds and are considered dangerous.

Overall Best Gutter Protection– Integrated Mesh Gutter Guard

At ScreenTech, we firmly recommend an integrated mesh system as the most effective and durable gutter guard solution.

Integrated mesh guards can come in various materials, such as ScreenTech’s GutterMesh and TuffMesh® ranges, including aluminium, Colorbond® steel, and poly. Each range includes

ScreenTech’s TuffMesh® range is the best commercial-grade gutter guard in Australia. It is only available for professional installation and not as a DIY option.

Tags bird proofing, bushfire protection, ember guard, gutter guard, gutter guard installation, leaf guard

Blog

How to find a gutter guard installer

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 3 July 2022

So, you have decided on the best gutter guard solution for your project. Perhaps an integrated gutter mesh system, mesh panel, vinyl guard or other DIY gutter guards; now, you need to find a suitable installer that can correctly secure the gutter mesh to your gutters and roof.

Some gutter guard products are especially DIY-friendly. However, these products are typically less durable and require more regular gutter guard replacement. The most durable and permanent solution is the integrated gutter mesh system, typically installed by a gutter guard installer.

There are several gutter guard installation options; roofing companies, accredited gutter guard installers and companies, local gutter guard installers and handypersons, and the option to install gutter guard yourself.

Continue reading to find out where to find an accredited installer in the gutter guard industry and gutter guard installation techniques.

Need gutter guard installed?

Who should install gutter guards on your project

Roofing companies

Many new homes choose to use the roofing company involved in the home’s construction to install the gutter guard at the end of the project. This is often ideal for many projects because it minimises costs and simplifies project management.

However, some roofing companies do not install gutter guards or may not have the experience needed on more complex guttering installations, such as those involving box gutters or those using bracing. A project may require a specialist gutter guard installation company in that case.

Roofing plumbers

Some roofing plumbers will also include gutter guard installation services as an addition to projects that are extensions to their work. It is important to note that not all roofing plumbers have experience with gutter guard installation.

Like roofing companies, gutter guard installations that involve box gutters or require bracing may be better suited to a specialist gutter guard installation company.

Need gutter guards installed

Accredited gutter guard installation service

Specialist gutter guard installation companies are ideal for commercial and residential projects because they are gutter guard experts. These services usually supply and install the gutter guard for your project, taking the project from quote to after-installation care. These companies provide expert advice on the best butter guard for your project and the installation process and also include gutter cleaning and guard replacement services.

These services are essential for significant housing developments or commercial projects to ensure quality control across the project, especially to comply with building standards and requirements.

For example, the Aquarevo Housing Project in Melbourne, featuring landscaping by Spire architects and collaboration between different building firms in close cooperation with South East Water, was completed entirely by gutter guard installation company Aussie Gutter Protection.

In collaboration with South East Water, ScreenTech supplied an AS4020 drinking water gutter guard system fitted to each home to allow the maximum rainwater harvesting to meet the Aquarevo Estate goal as Australia’s first-ever sustainable development of its kind.

The estate offered homeowners several unique design and layout options in land and home packages. Therefore, the gutter guard was supplied and fitted to dozens of housing and roof types with different roof styles and colours.

The installation was undertaken by Aussie Gutter Protection, which coordinated the fittings with building firms.

Aussie Gutter Protection is one of Australia’s largest gutter guard installers and a market leader in custom gutter guard solutions using ScreenTech Tuffmesh Aluminium products to meet the standards for drinking water for the AquaRevo project. Furthermore, the integrated gutter guard mesh product is a high strength, durable and has more modern aesthetics for homes with box gutters or parapets.

Local gutter guard installers

You can find local gutter guard installers near you on websites and apps such as Airtasker, Hi Pages and HomeAdvisor. These installers may be local handypersons with gutter cleaning services or roof plumbers who you can contract to either supply and install gutter mesh or other gutter guards or do the installation.

It is essential to realise that these people are contractors and may not be gutter guard experts or have any experience with gutter guard protection.

Some installers will also advertise cleaning on existing gutter guard or replacement services. Before contracting any replacement of an existing gutter guard, ensure you look at the warranty and workmanship guarantees of the original job, as most gutter guard installation companies offer guarantees and replacement warranty.

Need gutter guard installed?

Gutter Guard Installation Techniques

Gutter guard installation is typically straightforward on most roofs. However, your gutter guard installer must understand the specific applications. This includes not drilling holes that might allow water to ingress the roof.

Ensuring the mesh is cut correctly to provide the angle for the ski slope gutter guard system is essential. Gutter guard installers must ensure the water does not sheet over the top but filters through the mesh gutter guard and into the gutter. It also needs to be angled so leaves and debris falls from the roof rather than build up on the gutter guards.

A quality gutter guard installer also understands how guttering systems work and can see where potential problems may occur rather than leaving them for the owner to discover later.

Other speciality installation techniques include box gutter mesh installation that requires sufficient strength to support the product. Aluminium mesh with a thickness of 0.6mm is recommended for any gap over 500mm wide or more significant. Gaps greater than 750mm require bracing to support the gutter guard mesh.

Roof valley installation also requires specialist techniques. It’s crucial the mesh has sufficient overhang and is secured on both sides to help resist tears in the mesh in the long term. ScreenTech suggests a minimum 330mm wide mesh for a metal roof and 1000mm wide on a tile roof to allow sufficient length underneath the tiles.

It is also essential to consider how installation affects the best gutter guard solution, as well as products, and how it affects the purpose.

Types of gutter guard solutions include:

leaf guard for reduced gutter cleaning and blocked gutter prevention
bird proofing
bushfire protection
rainwater harvesting
solar panel protection

Speciality products and materials such as ember guards installed for bushfire protection require experience installation techniques to ensure no gap more than 2mm. The installation requirement ensures that embers cannot penetrate the ember guard and comply with AS3959. Therefore, the ember guard must be installed precisely, especially at joints and corners, for extreme bushfire protection from BAL 49-FZ bushfire-prone areas.

Another gutter guard solution is a rainwater harvesting system which requires the knowledge of the highest quality materials that meet Australian standards. Your gutter guard installer must understand your needs for the system to quote and install the best gutter guard product for the right solution.

DIY gutter guard installation

There are several gutter guards that homeowners can easily install themselves. These gutter guards include:

Brush gutter guard
Foam inserts
Vinyl gutter guard
Mesh Panels
Integrated mesh gutter guard system.

Some gutter guards, such as brush guards and foam inserts, are easy to install. Other gutter guard types, such as the integrated mesh system, are a little more complicated for a DIY installation. We recommend speaking with an installer or a gutter guard company to learn the difficulty of your home project.

Installing solar panel bird proofing

Alongside installing gutter guards, solar panel mesh is a popular addition to your gutter protection system.

It is important to note that solar panel mesh is a speciality gutter guard product explicitly designed for solar panels and roof protection. It, therefore, varies in specifications from gutter guards. For example, the hole size of the mesh is best at 12mm to allow optimal airflow and moisture control underneath the panels while blocking birds and vermin from nesting underneath. The mesh installation onto the solar panels is also different.

You must have an experienced installer who understands the product and installation techniques or risk damaging the panels and voiding any product warranties.

Need gutter guard installed?

Vetting gutter guard installation services

There are several questions to ask any gutter guard installer:

Do you supply the gutter guard materials? What gutter guard supplier do you use for your products? Do they meet Australian standards?
Do you have the correct Colorbond® colour gutter guard to match the roof colour and gutter colour?
How familiar is the installer with the supplied gutter guard materials and their unique installation techniques?
How familiar is the installer with gutter guard protection solutions such as bird proofing, rainwater harvesting and bushfire protection?
Does the gutter guard installation include gutter cleaning?
What experience do they have working with the specific roof and gutter type used? (This is especially important using rare materials such as copper or galvanised steel.)
Does the installer provide workmanship guarantees?
What other certifications and insurances does the company have?
Do you have examples of previous work on a similar project? Can you provide pictures etc.?
Do they have experience installing solar panel mesh? Does that include panel and gutter cleaning? Can you provide pictures?

If you install gutter protection incorrectly, it will cause problems. For example, gutter protection installed on a tile roof will cause water sheeting. Poor workmanship leads to costly mistakes, such as gaps in ember guard or an uncomplimentary aesthetic.

If you would like help finding a gutter guard installer, please don’t hesitate to contact ScreenTech. ScreenTech has a network of gutter guard installation partners throughout Australia with experience and diligence in their work and who we trust to install our products.

Tags ember guard, gutter guard, gutter guard installation, leaf guard

Blog

10 things to look for in a gutter guard

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 27 June 2022

The truth about gutter guards is that finding the perfect gutter guard depends on your property’s needs. It’s that simple.

So, what to look for in a gutter guard? To choose the right gutter guard, you might consider:

Gutter guard solution
Gutter guard products
Gutter guard material
Roof profiles
Gutter profiles
Colour-matching
Gutter guard vs ember guard
Commercial vs standard gutter guards
Gutter guard installation
Solar panel protection

Continue reading to look at our gutter guard considerations in more detail and consider how a gutter protection system can benefit your home.

Need gutter guard installed?

Gutter guard solutions

Leaf guards or gutter guards work to reduce gutter cleaning and maintenance with leaf proofing, bird control and prevention, ember guard against ember attack and rainwater harvesting.

Gutter leaf guards also significantly reduce the amount of gutter cleaning for homeowners. This is especially true for trees that overhang the structure. It is essential to select a gutter guard mesh with an adequate hole size to match the surrounding vegetation: pine needle trees need a mesh with small aperture size.

Gutter guards are also an effective bird-proofing solution. It is widespread in new build homes and estates built on green field sites as birds are often displaced from their regular nesting locations and need a new home quickly.

However, older homes are not exempt from bird nesting problems. All houses provide great natural nesting locations: roofs, gutters, verandas, valleys, and even downpipes. These areas offer warmth and protection that birds will take advantage.

Vermin, including possums, rats and mice, commonly nest in gutters and are noisy, especially at night, attracting other kinds of pests and diseases. A strong gutter guard will deter them and force them to seek shelter elsewhere.

Gutter guard saves homeowners and property owners money and keeps people safe on the ground, not risking themselves climbing ladders to clean gutters.

Blocked gutters also overflow during heavy rainfall and can cause foundation problems over time. The gutter will also start to sag with additional weight built up, and over time it produces lulls where stagnate water can sit. Stagnant water also attracts pests such as mosquitoes.

A gutter guard is also used in bushfire protection. It prevents debris in the gutters, an ignition source for embers in a bushfire. An ember guard also keeps the embers off the roof and gutter as those entry points are the most vulnerable in a bushfire.

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Gutter guard products

Gutter guard types fall mainly into two categories:

Gutter Guard that lies inside the gutters (E.G. brush gutter guards or foam gutter guards)
Gutter Guard protective mesh is attached to the gutter’s top, either flat or integrated with the roof’s pitch and slope.

Brush gutter guards

Brush gutter guards sit inside the existing gutters, mostly invisible from the ground. The gutter guard has polyethylene bristles attached to a twisted stainless steel core. Leaf and debris get caught in the strands while allowing water to free flow through the gutters.

While brush guards are inexpensive, they do have their drawbacks, including;

More frequent cleaning required
Not bushfire rated
Not suitable for bird proofing
Not suitable for tank water use
Not suitable for all types of gutter systems
Will need to be replaced more frequently
Can attract insects and pests to nest in the bristles

Foam gutter guard

A foam gutter guard, also known as foam inserts or foam gutter covers, sits inside the gutter system. It is made of plastic foam, similar to a pool noodle.

While foam gutter guards are inexpensive, they do have their drawbacks, including;

More frequent cleaning is required as leaves and debris accumulate on the top edge
Not bushfire rated
Not suitable for bird proofing
Not suitable for tank water use
Not suitable for all types of gutter systems
Will need to be replaced more frequently
Can cause dampness, moisture and water damage in the gutters

Mesh Panels

Metal Panels are made of painted aluminium or stainless steel panels with either micro-mesh filters or large holes that filter dirt. The mesh panels sit on the gutter with a screw added to the front lip for a secure install and rest on the roof.

Mesh panels must be installed on sloped gutters so that the panel does not sit flat on the gutters. Any flat surface will prevent leaves and gutters from falling to the ground.

Mesh panels are unsuitable for areas in Australia that undergo extreme weather conditions, especially severe wind or storms. Strong winds lift the panels, making them airborne as the panels are usually only secured to the gutter.

Vinyl gutter guard

This type of gutter guard is very similar to mesh panels but is made from durable plastic. Vinyl guard style fits directly into the guttering system, often “snapping” into place. It is essential to again install with a slope to prevent any debris from entering the gutter system.

It is a very affordable solution; however, it is not considered durable and should never be used in bushfire-prone areas.

Integrated mesh system

Integrated mesh systems are designed to sit over the top of the gutters and are permanently secured to the roof and gutter. The slope and material prevent leaves and debris from entering and accumulating in the gutter while encouraging them to fall to the ground.

All integrated mesh systems can be fitted to tiled, corrugated, and metal roof types.

Need gutter guard installed?

Gutter mesh material

When selecting a gutter mesh for your integrated gutter guard system, you need to consider the features and benefits of each, its purpose and the design and aesthetics of the home. The most common material choice is an aluminium gutter mesh solution. Aluminium mesh is malleable, easily shaped to the roof, and provides bushfire resistance.

Aluminium leaf guard

Aluminium gutter guards can be found in various hole sizes and strengths. At ScreenTech, we supply four types of Aluminium Gutter Guards, including:

Tuffmesh Aluminium: A commercial-grade thick gutter guard with medium hole size. It is the product we use on most new homes as its added strength is excellent for box gutters and parapets. Architects also favoured it as the thicker mesh strands from the ground make the mesh appear solid and part of the roof. You can see more information here.
Tuffmesh Emberguard: A commercial-grade ember guard product with a 1.6mm hole size and custom-made to each roof. It is the most robust ember guard product available in Australia and was custom-designed by ScreenTech to deal with the most demanding Australian situations. You can see more information here.
Guttermesh Aluminium: A standard product with great affordability and various applications such as preventing clogged gutters. You can see more information here.
Guttermesh Emberguard: this has a 1.9mm small hole size used where building requirements dictate an ember guard but are not so demanding as to need a commercial-grade gutter guard solution. It is also suitable for pine areas as the small aperture helps ensure pine needles and other debris stay out of the gutters.

Polyethylene leaf guard

For some applications, aluminium is unsuitable as it reacts with another metal. This may be a galvanised roof or application in coastal environments where corrosion is more likely and rapid. For these situations, though rare, ScreenTech offers a range of polyethylene mesh products:

Tuffmesh Poly: A strong thick poly mesh mirrors our Tuffmesh Aluminium product. The medium aperture is great at keeping gutters clean even in tropical or torrential downpour areas; however, it isn’t fire-resistant.
Guttermesh poly: A thinner gutter mesh product used in various applications to prevent blocked gutters.

Steel Mesh Gutter Guard

In extreme bushfire areas, where the BAL rating is FZ, we use our Steel Mesh Gutter Guard product to protect from ember attacks. In these high fire risk areas, it’s vital to have an ember guard and that all other potential ember ingress points such as vents and holes, including those for utilities, are covered. You can learn more here.

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Roof Profiles

An integrated gutter guard can be installed in any home with any roof type. Be aware that different roof types require other fixtures for integrated mesh systems, for example:

Corrugated metal roofs

Mesh
Corrugated saddles
Gutter Trim
Roofing screws

Trimdek® metal roofs

Mesh
Trimdek® saddles
Gutter Trim
Roofing screws

Trimdek® metal roofs

Mesh
Klip-Lok® saddles
Gutter Trim
Roofing screws

Tiled roof

Mesh
Gutter Trim
Roofing screws for gutters

Gutter system

Certain gutter guard products are more suited to specific gutter profiles. For example, in commercial and modern architecture, brush, vinyl and foam gutter guards are unsuitable for wide box gutters and parapets.

An integrated mesh guard with a commercial-grade gutter mesh is most suitable for box gutters and parapets but is also used in standard gutter guards.

Many homeowners also wish to leaf proof other parts of the guttering system, including rain gutters, railheads, downpipes, eaves troughs and other water tank collection points. Only an integrated gutter mesh system provides maximum protection as a leaf guard.

Colour-matching

Aesthetics is one of the homeowners’ first concerns regarding leaf guards and bird proofing.

Mesh panels, foam, brush and vinyl gutter guards are usually less visible from the ground unless the property slopes. Leaves and large debris can accumulate above the guard, which is less appealing.

An integrated mesh system is visible from the ground; however, the mesh and accessories are colour-matched to Colourbond® roof and gutter colours. Trims are colour-matched to the gutters, while the mesh and saddles (for metal roofs) are matched to the roof.

If you are uncertain about the best colour match for your property, speak to the gutter guard company or installer.

Choosing gutter guard vs ember guard

The main difference between the two guards is the hole size or the space between each intersecting wire mesh. An ember guard must have a hole of 2mm or less to comply with an ember guard’s standards, while gutter guards have no hole size requirement.

An ember guard is designed to prevent ember attacks when windborne embers ignite leaf litter in unprotected gutters. Ember guards protect the opening from burning embers more thoroughly per Australian Standards.

There are two types of ember guards, made from steel and aluminium. Aluminium ember guards are used for homes in 12.5-29 BAL ratings. These BAL standards are specified for new homes as a bushfire proofing measure as per Australian Standard AS3959-2009.

Homes in a BAL rating of 40 or FZ must be made of steel or bronze and are corrosion-resistant. The 2mm steel mesh is perfect and complies with all regulations to suit all BAL ratings of 12.5, 19, 29, 40 and FZ. Steel ember guards have fine apertures that keep pests and small leaves out of the roof gutter.

Commercial vs standard gutter guards

Commercial-grade leaf and gutter guards are suitable for commercial properties and domestic homes. It is easier

There are several reasons why a homeowner or commercial property owner may opt for commercial leaf guards, including:

Commercial-grade products have extended warranties, generally over 20 years;
Thicker gutter guard offers superior aesthetics as the thicker wire mesh strands blend better with the roof profile;
A more robust gutter mesh is best for bird proofing, especially for larger birds such as pigeons, but also to prevent possum attacks.

ScreenTech advises homeowners to always speak with their installer about whether commercial-grade gutter guards are best for their needs.

Need gutter guard installed?

How installing gutter protection affects the build

The installation of a gutter guard can be very simple or complex, depending on the access to the roof during installation. When installed during the build while the scaffolding is still up, any gutter guard solution can be installed quickly and safely in a few hours. Some roof types are more complex than others. For example, tiled roofs typically take longer than metal roof installation.

When installing gutter protection on a metal roof, the mesh is attached to the far gutter edge and fixed to the roof with a metal saddle to ensure the load is spread across the mesh reducing the risk of tears. For a tiled roof, the mesh is tucked under the second row of tiles and silicone is often used to provide a seal.

In Melbourne, ScreenTech recently supplied materials to one of our Melbourne installation partners Aussie Gutter Protection. Getting a gutter guard installed can be done by most reputable roofing contractors or specialised gutter guard companies.

Solar panel protection

Solar panels also need protection from birds nesting underneath the panels. However, a standard gutter guard is not suitable for solar panels as the wire mesh fixtures will damage the panels and reduces the airflow under the panels.

A solar mesh has a larger hole size allowing optimal airflow and moisture accumulation under the panels. They also use clips instead of screws to fasten the panels preventing damage to the panel’s face.

Always speak to an installer when trying to protect solar panels.

What is the best gutter guard for your design?

The best solutions depend on your situation, budget, and building code. Hopefully, this guide has helped point you in the right direction, but if you would like to talk to an expert at ScreenTech, we are always happy to discuss a project and ensure you get the right gutter guard specified for the result you want. We can work with you on custom gutter guard solutions if needed. We regularly custom fabricate gutter guard mesh for the roof gutter on custom homes and also have the ability to manufacture copper and galvanised fittings for homes with those requirements.

We are always happy to supply architects with gutter guard samples and a detailed architect gutter guard information pack if they would like more information.

Tags ember guard, gutter guard, leaf guard

Blog

What is commercial gutter guard?

Post author By brianne@bwcontent.com
Post date 26 June 2022

Over the last few years, commercial gutter guards have filled an increasing demand in Australia as modern architecture and designs incorporate more box gutters and parapets. These larger gutter spaces and commercial gutters require a thicker, more robust mesh to span.

So, what is a commercial-grade gutter guard? A commercial-grade gutter guard is typically a thicker, more robust mesh able to span wider spaces such as box gutters and parapets found in modern architecture and commercial buildings. Its material is specifically designed for commercial applications but can also be used for residential properties.

ScreenTech engineered a commercial-grade gutter guard with its TuffMesh® range designed to protect commercial buildings and residential properties.

Continue reading to learn more about commercial-grade guards and whether it is the best solution for your gutter protection system.

Commercial Grade Guard Features

Commercial-grade gutter guards are part of an integrated mesh system comprising commercial-grade mesh, fixtures including trims, saddles (for metal roofs) and roofing screws.

The key to an integrated mesh system is the ski slope created by the fixture of the mesh to the roof and gutter. A standard aluminium mesh thickness is typically 0.5mm, which begins to sag spanning gaps over 500mm wide. The sag creates a dip in the gutter guard, where leaves and other debris build up over time.

ScreenTech increased the thickness of the gutter mesh by 50%, finding it more suitable for a 750mm wide gap without sagging while maintaining its strength and durability over time.

See our TuffMesh® range.

Aluminium commercial vs standard guards

The following chart details key differences in features between ScreenTech’s commercial and standard leaf guard ranges.

Comparison

TuffMesh Aluminium (commercial grade)

GutterMesh Aluminium (standard grade)

Base Material

Aluminium

Aperture

3.3 mm

3.5 mm

Coating/Colouring

powder coating D1010

Manufacturing Technique

expanded

Strand width

1.0 mm

Strand thickness

0.7 mm

0.5 mm

Mesh weight

700 gsm

500 gsm

Warranty

20-years

15-years

Max size

50m

Standard widths in mm

250, 330, 500, 750,1000

Bushfire tested

AS 3959-2018 compliant

Gutter guard bushfire attack level (BAL) suitability

BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Poly commercial vs standard guards

The following chart details key differences in features between ScreenTech’s commercial and standard poly gutter mesh ranges.

Comparison

TuffMesh Poly (commercial grade)

GutterMesh Poly (standard grade)

Base Material

Polyethylene

Aperture

3.5 mm

4.0 mm

Coating/Colouring

100% virgin food-grade material, masterbatch

Manufacturing Technique

extruded

Strand width

2.3 mm

Strand thickness

expanded

2.3 mm

Mesh weight

1.0 mm

550 gsm

Warranty

1.0 mm

10-years

Max size

1.0 mm

50m

Standard widths in mm

1.0 mm

0.5 mm

Bushfire tested

N/A

Gutter guard bushfire attack level (BAL) suitability

N/A

Order a sample pack with commercial and standard gutter mesh samples.

Commercial vs standard ember guards

The following chart details key differences in features between ScreenTech’s commercial and standard poly gutter mesh ranges.

Comparison

TuffMesh Ember Guard (commercial guard)

GutterMesh Ember Guard (standard guard)

Base Material

aluminium

Aperture

1.6 mm

1.9 mm

Coating/Colouring

powder coating D101o

powder coating D1010

Manufacturing Technique

expanded single direction

machine-woven w/ rolled edge

Strand width

1.5 mm

0.5 mm

Strand thickness

0.7 mm

0.5 mm

Mesh weight

700 gsm

500 gsm

Warranty

25-years

15-years

Max size

103 cm x 2200 mm Sheets

30m

Standard widths in mm

custom width in 25mm increments

250, 500, 1000

Bushfire tested

AS 3959-2018 compliant

Gutter guard bushfire attack level (BAL) suitability

BAL-12.5, BAL-19, BAL-29

Need gutter guard installed?

Commercial gutter guard solution

Commercial grade gutter guards provide a more permanent solution, including:

Commercial projects, industrial roofs
Leaf guards as gutter protection, including blocked gutters and reduced gutter cleaning and maintenance
Leaf guard for a box gutter
Bird proofing and pest infestations
Ember guard for bushfire protection against burning embers and ember attack
Rainwater harvesting and protection for water tanks
Leaf guard for investment property

Commercial guard for gutter & roof profiles

Commercial grade gutter protection is available for every Australian roof and gutter type, including:

Corrugated roof
Trimdek® roof
Klip Lok® roof
Tiled roof
Flat roofs
Industrial roofs
Box gutter
Bull gutter
Parapet
Roof valleys

All gutter mesh comes with fixture accessories for each roof profile. For example, a corrugated roof will also come with corrugated saddles, trim, mesh and screws in Colorbond® colours to colour match the roof and gutters.

Need gutter guard installed?

Gutter guard installation

Installing gutter guards on commercial gutters

ScreenTech’s local Melbourne installation partners, Aussie Gutter Protection, report commercial-grade gutter guards such as ScreenTech’s Tuffmesh in over 80% of their installations.

Furthermore, ScreenTech pioneered specialised gutter guard bracing, which allows a commercial-grade mesh to span gaps more significant than 1m, including wider box gutters or on parapets preventing block gutters and minimising gutter maintenance.

Commercial guards & residential buildings

The commercial-grade TuffMesh® line is also suitable for domestic homes in a setting where a standard mesh would suffice previously. This is due to a combination of factors:

The mesh makes up a relatively small cost of a gutter guard installation, so upgrading to a more robust mesh has minimal price impact;
Commercial-grade products have more extended warranties than traditional gutter guard products, generally over 20 years, providing customers peace of mind;
The thicker gutter guard aesthetics is far superior; while the aperture size is the same, the thicker wire strands blend better with the roof from the ground;
People want the best for their homes and don’t want to compromise a vital safety feature, i.e. in a bushfire-prone area.
A more robust gutter mesh is best for bird proofing, especially for larger birds such as pigeons, but also to prevent possum attacks.
It can be used as a 100% bird proofing solution to cover spanning wall cavities and roof cavities.

ScreenTech advises homeowners to always speak with their installer for informed decisions on the best gutter mesh type. Most installers are well-equipped to advise you on the best gutter guard got pricing.

ScreenTech TuffMesh

ScreenTech commercial TuffMesh® range is suitable for commercial gutter installations and maximum protection for efficient water drainage and bird protection. We provide commercial building contractors with reliable product advice and services for a comprehensive range of roofing products.

ScreenTech provides curated sample packs designed for architects, including standard and commercial-grade materials. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

See our TuffMesh® range.

Tags ember guard, gutter guard, gutter guard installation, leaf guard

Our Products

Solutions

Leaf Guard

Bird Proofing

Bushfire Protection

Solar Panel Protection

Commercial Guard

Rainwater Harvesting

Installers

What is an ember guard?

Gutter Guard Vs Ember Guard

Gutter Guard

Ember guard

Gutter Guard & Ember Guard Materials

Ember proof with aluminium ember mesh

TuffMesh® Emberguard

Specifications

Features and benefits:

Colour Options:

Ember proof with steel gutter mesh

SteelMesh

Specifications

Features and benefits:

Colour Options:

Ember proof with bronze ember guards

Plastic gutter guards

Gutter Foam Inserts

Approx. $20-25 per metre

Approx. $26 per metre

Approx. $5 per metre

Approx. $2-4 per metre

Approx. $15 per metre

Strength

Malleableness

Lifespan

Colour

Colour Options:

Appearance

Weather Resistance

Rain harvesting

BAL Rating

Pest Control

Arboreal Factors

What are Colorbond® gutter guards?

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Solutions

Leaf proofing

Reduce maintenance and gutter cleaning

Reduces property damage

Bushfire Protection against ember attack

Bird proofing

Rainwater harvesting

Commercial gutter guards

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Benefits

Bushfire-rated ember guards

Tested for Australian conditions

Tested for Australian conditions

Powder-coated strength

Colorbond® Gutter Guard Warranty

Colorbond® Materials

Plastic gutter mesh

Aluminium gutter mesh

Colorbond® steel mesh

Roof Types

Gutter profile types

Standard guttering

Box gutters

Bull nose gutters

Parapets

Other fixtures

How to install Colorbond® gutter guards

DIY Options

Professional gutter guard installers

Single & Double Storey installations

Aluminium vs Steel Gutter Guards Comparison

Aluminium Gutter Guards

Aluminium mesh

Steel Gutter Guards

Steel mesh

Metal Gutter Guards Cost

Durability