The Hidden Problems with Gutter Helmets in Myrtle Beach

Are you sick of cleaning your gutters?

Curious to learn ways to keep debris out of your gutters?

Gutter helmets are often promoted as a flawless way to keep leaves, pine needles, and other debris from clogging your gutters. The concept seems straightforward: debris slides off the helmet’s metal surface, while rainwater flows into the gutter, preventing clogs that can lead to water damage. But as with any product, there are potential issues that homeowners should be aware of before investing in gutter helmets, especially in regions where rainfall is common, like ours.

In this article we’ll go over some of the potential setbacks and problems with having Gutter Helmets installed on your home. 

Gutter Helmet Installation Can Cause Roof Issues

A key concern with gutter helmets is their installation process. Traditional gutter guards are usually installed under the first row of shingles, but gutter helmets are often placed beneath the second row of shingles. This can pose a risk, as lifting shingles to install the helmets can damage them.

We've encountered multiple cases where improper installation cracked or torn shingles. In one extreme case, a homeowner was left with over 17 damaged spots on their new roof due to poorly installed gutter helmets. 

Damaged shingles not only affect the appearance of your roof but also make it more susceptible to wind damage, which is a significant risk during storms. Even worse, many contractors fail to reseal the shingles with caulk after lifting them. This oversight leaves the shingles vulnerable to being blown off during high winds, exposing the roof deck to water damage and eventual rot.

Gutter Helmets Can Be Ineffective in Light Rain

Another problem with gutter helmets is how they perform in light rain. These devices are designed to allow water to curve over their surface and flow into the gutter. However, in light rain, there’s often not enough water to create the necessary surface tension, this can render gutter helmets ineffective.  

Homeowners have reported seeing water runoff in unusual patterns, leaving parts of the roof dry while others become saturated. Over time, this uneven water distribution can cause moisture-related issues like moss growth and shingle deterioration.

Gutter Helmets Can Only Be Installed by One Company

Gutter helmets come with a hefty price tag and they are exclusive to a specific company. This monopoly means that the installer can set high prices. Often as high as $30 per linear foot. 

Moreover, the company holding the local rights in Myrtle Beach to install gutter helmets is the only company who can perform the necessary detach and reset services without voiding the warranty. This can become a hassle if you need roof repairs, as you’re forced to rely on one company, whose schedule may not correlate with your roofing company’s schedule.

Deciding If Gutter Helmets are Right for You

Finding a great low maintenance option to keep your gutters clean can be difficult. There are plenty of companies out there. Traditional gutters are effective but they can require pretty regular maintenance. 

While gutter helmets may seem like the ideal solution for keeping your gutters free from debris, they come with significant drawbacks. The risk of roof damage during installation, inefficiency during light rain, and the high costs paired with contractor exclusivity make them a potentially frustrating investment. Before deciding, consider these issues and explore other gutter protection options that might be more cost-effective and less likely to compromise your roof’s integrity. At Linta Roofing, we install effective gutter guards for as low as $13 per linear foot.