How close are you to the surf

Here is a simple guide used for roofing selection. It also helps frame expectations for gutters and accessories:

• Within 100 metres of breaking surf: very severe marine.
• 100 to 200 metres: severe marine.
• Beyond 200 metres: general coastal. Local factors still matter.

BlueScope and Lysaght use these bands when recommending materials or marine sites.

What to look for in coastal Gutter Protection

1) Mesh material that plays nicely with your roof

• Marine grade aluminium mesh. Alloys in the 5000 series, like 5052, are widely used in marine settings thanks to strong corrosion resistance and good formability. Powder coating adds another barrier and colour match.
• 316 stainless micro mesh. Excellent corrosion resistance. Usually chosen very close to surf or on mixed-material roofs where stainless is already specified.

Just as important is compatibility. Copper or lead touching COLORBOND or ZINCALUME can cause galvanic corrosion. Keep those metals apart from your guttering and Gutter guard system.

2) Fasteners and clips that last

Fasteners should match the service environment. BlueScope’s fastener guide ties screw type to distance from marine influence. Use higher corrosion resistance as you move closer to the water. Washers should be compatible and non-conductive.

3) A full-cover design

A continuous Gutter Cover keeps leaves off the gutter channel. Water still enters through the Gutter Guard Mesh while debris dries and blows away. These lowers standing moisture in the gutter which helps reduce corrosion risk and blockages. It also keeps pests out 🐦

4) Smart detailing

• Secure edges under the first roof row so the wind cannot lift the mesh.
• Avoid dissimilar metal contact points. Use isolators or compatible fixings.
• Treat valleys and box gutters properly. These spots cop higher flow and more debris.

5) If you are in a bushfire-prone coastal area

Some coastal areas also have BAL ratings. Ember guard rules limit mesh aperture to small sizes and call for non-combustible materials. Always check your site requirements.

Care that works by the sea

A little routine goes a long way 👍

• Rinse unwashed areas. Hose eaves, fascia, underside of eave gutters and other sheltered spots every six months. Do it more often if you smell salt on the breeze.
• Schedule seasonal checks. Autumn and spring are great times to clear ridge caps and valleys where wind piles debris. Lysaght also highlights hand washing of unwashed areas as part of regular maintenance.
• Think rainwater quality. Using a tank. Add a first-flush diverter so the dirtier first litres do not enter your storage. It helps reduce sediment and improves water quality.

Coastal Gutter Protection checklist

• Pick a mesh that suits your zone. Marine grade aluminium or stainless near surf.
• Use compatible screws, rivets and washers. Step up corrosion resistance as you get closer to the water.
• Avoid copper or lead contact with COLORBOND or ZINCALUME.
• Secure edges and treat valleys and box gutters with care.
• Rinse unwashed areas regularly. Increase frequency in salty air.
• Add a first-flush diverter if harvesting rainwater.

If you live near the coast, choosing materials and fixings that suit your exact location matters. CPR can inspect, suggest an appropriate Gutter Protection setup and install a compatible Gutter Guard Mesh system for your roof profile. No pressure. Just practical advice and tidy workmanship.

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