How to Attach a Leaf Guard to a Downspout

If you are looking for a way to prevent leaves falling into your gutter during the autumn months, you should try fitting a leaf guard to your downspout. Leaf guards catch the leaves as they fall, preventing them from slipping into the pipes of your gutter and causing a jam. You can also empty the guard conveniently, rather than having to struggle with a pipe which has a load of mush at the bottom. Fitting a leaf guard to the top of the downspout is a simple process, which by following some simple instructions, you should be able to manage in a few hours.

Step 1 - Clear Your Gutters

The first stage in installing your new leaf spout is to remove all the debris from your gutters. This can be vital in preventing dirt from getting trapped under the leaf guard, or even preventing it from sitting flush on the pipes. Hose down your gutters to ensure the water is gone, and then run a stream of water from one end of the gutter to the other, to make sure there is no damage to your gutter.

Step 2 - Measure Your Gutters

Use a tape measure to work out how much gutter guard you will need. You will want to have a gutter guard that is the same width and height as the gutters, although you don't need a long sheet, just enough to cover the downspout. Cut it into the right segment, and place it over your downspout to ensure you have a good fit. You can also fit leaf strainers along the gutter, as this will ensure that even the smallest leaves have to pass through several barriers before they can land in the downspout. Cut off as many pieces as you desire.

Step 3 - Fit Your Leaf Guard

You should now be ready to fit the leaf guard on the downspout. Place it over the hole, and then snap it onto the pipe at the side of the drain. As you do this, tighten up the pipe joint using a wrench, so it fits around the side of the leaf guard. If you live in a very windy area, you may need to screw the guard onto the pipe. Do this by pushing a screw through the edge of the guard, and then through the edge of the pipe, and screw into place.

Step 4 - Adjust the Pipe

If you find you are having trouble fitting the leaf guard around your downspout joint, you should consider purchasing a second joint. Remove the old joint using the wrench, and place the leaf guard over the top of the new joint, and screw into place. Then put the new joint into the hole at the base of the gutter, and tighten the lot into position.