| Leaf Relief – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much rainfall will Leaf Relief handle?
A: Controlled testing conducted by an independent laboratory (Intertek Testing Services NA Ltd) resulted in a certified flow rate for properly installed Leaf Relief equivalent to 301 inches of rain per hour for a clean roof surface extending twenty feet above the gutter. Drainage of 301 inches of rain per hour is 25 times greater than the official rainfall world record (Kilauea, Hawaii – 12 inches in one hour).
When the roof and Leaf Relief are covered with debris, the measured flow rate is still and astonishing 161 inches of rainfall per hour for roof sections extending twenty feet above the gutter.
Q: What is the maximum roof pitch for which Leaf Relief will work properly?
A: Our experience with the product has not yet shown a limitation with regard to roof pitch.
Q: Does Leaf Relief allow water to overflow my gutters?
A: When properly installed the Product will keep gutters from becoming clogged and overflowing as a result of the interior of the gutter or downspouts filling with debris such as leaves, twigs, needles, and seeds.
It is important to note that in certain situations (like heavy rain  following freezing rain), the perforated holes of Leaf Relief may become blocked resulting in rainwater overflow of gutters. This is no different from open gutters under prolonged similar weather conditions.
Q: Does Leaf Relief work with pine needles?
A: Yes – Leaf Relief keeps debris out of your gutters including pine needles. Testing proves that pine needles sitting atop Leaf Relief have little effect on the flow of rainwater.
Q: Do I need to clear leaves, twigs and debris from Leaf Relief?
A: Leaf Relief is one of the most efficient gutter protection systems available today for residential applications. In most cases, normal debris is lifted away with only a gentile breeze. In sheltered roof areas or overhangs on shallow pitched roofs, debris may collect where air cannot lift away debris. We recommend occasionally clearing these areas to keep Leaf Relief working properly.
Q: Can I lean a ladder against gutters with Leaf Relief installed?
A: Leaf Relief has been tested and shown to be stronger than open gutters when properly installed. Please note: the thickness of the gutter is very important with regard to resistance to ladder. We recommend customers check with the manufacturer of their gutter system before using a ladder.
Q: Does Leaf Relief cause ice damming on my roof in the winter?
A: No – In fact, Leaf Relief provides you with several winter weather advantages over open gutters and competitive leaf removal systems:
- Less weight build-up in gutters
- Faster de-icing and resumed flow when the temperature raise above freezing
- For most slopes, ice and snow slide over Leaf Relief and off roofs easier than open gutters.
- Unlike many competitive products, the installation of Leaf Relief does not interfere with the roofing materials and therefore no opportunity for water, snow or ice to cause damage by leaking through your ceilings exists.
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