SURFACE TENSION SCREENS WHY DO GUTTERS CLOG?

INSTALLATION * CLEANING * REPAIRS * MAINTENANCE * SHEETMETAL * FABRICATION * DESIGN
Our technical department at Precision Gutters have been evaluating products to reduce maintenance
issues for the past twenty years. There have been many which claim to eliminate cleaning of gutters,
however our experience shows differing results over time.
Whether any product will work in your application depends to a large degree on the types and amount
of foliage surrounding your home. The west coast environment is especially challenging due to our
abundant fir trees combined with high volumes of rainfall.
With this in mind it is important to choose the best system for your application.
WHY DO GUTTERS CLOG?
Gutters will overflow when the rainfall entering them exceeds the drainage capacity. Gutters collect
water at the eaves and carry it to the outlet which is connected to the downpipes directing the
rainwater to ground or sewer. Debris on the roof is carried to the gutters by rainfall then flow to the
outlet where damming can occur. It is the volume of the gutter and size of the outlet which most
determines the water capacity of the system.
SURFACE TENSION
Water tension systems rely on surface tension whereby rainfall follows a
curved path into the gutter.
The system works on the principal that rainfall will flow into the gutters and
leaves will blow off.
The fact is that anything floating on the water will also be drawn into the
gutters, especially where the particles are small such as fir and pine needles.
This photo shows a water tension
system after one year of installation.
Over time, debris and algae will
deteriorate the smooth surface
causing the water to trip and
cascade over the opening.
SCREENS
Screen systems have been around for many years and are available in
many styles and materials.
HOW THEY WORK
Screens will filter out anything large enough to clog the outlet, permitting
continuous flow of rainwater.
As the organic debris breaks down, rainwater will flush the system
keeping your gutters free flowing. For added protection, installing a Leaf
Catcher at ground level will prevent material from entering the ground
These Gutters are working!
drains. Free flowing outlets will also contribute to performance.
#7, 9515-190th Street Surrey BC V4N 3S1 T.604.888.5112 F.604.888.5143 [email protected]
INSTALLATION * CLEANING * REPAIRS * MAINTENANCE * SHEETMETAL * FABRICATION * DESIGN
EXPANDED ALUMINUM
Our expanded aluminum screen offers the most in
performance and value. Economically priced, this screen
keeps large debris from entering the system and more
importantly allows materials to dry without adhering to the
surface. This feature also prevents material to backup under
the roof edge potentially damaging the roof structure.
The flow through design
stops debris from pushing
under the roof line.
Screen sits flush to
gutters allowing
debris to blow off
Good ventillation
promotes evaporation
Supplied in 8ft. lengths and
available for 4” and 5” gutter
profiles this screen can be fitted
to existing gutters or with a new
install.
Gutters can be washed by hose
right through the screen without
removal.
Leaves
Fir Needles
Snow Loads
#7, 9515-190th Street Surrey BC V4N 3S1 T.604.888.5112 F.604.888.5143 [email protected]
INSTALLATION * CLEANING * REPAIRS * MAINTENANCE * SHEETMETAL * FABRICATION * DESIGN
PERFORATED ALUMINUM
Our perforated aluminum screen offers the most in
performance and strength. This unique design is fixed to the
gutter hangers distributing the load evenly across several
fasteners. This is particularly crucial where snow loads can
cause damage. The lip of the screen rests on top of the gutter
to further protect from the hammering effect of shedding snow.
Perforations are optimized for maximum water flow and
ventilation while keeping out debris. The back stop detail
provides an air gap between the debris and the fascia
preventing water contact and damage to the underlying
structure.
Back stop design
promotes ventilation
and prevents water
damage to structure.
Unique installation
distributes loads over
several fasteners.
Screen sits flush to
gutters allowing
debris to blow off
Supplied in 8ft. lengths
and available for 4”, 5”,
6” and custom gutter
profiles this screen can
be fitted to existing
gutters or with a new
install.
Made from heavy
gauge .032” aluminum.
Good ventillation
promotes evaporation
Leaves
Fir Needles
Snow Loads
#7, 9515-190th Street Surrey BC V4N 3S1 T.604.888.5112 F.604.888.5143 [email protected]