What are gutter guard end caps, and do you need them?
Short answer. Gutter guard end caps are small closures that fit over the open end of a guard run where it meets the end of the gutter, so leaves, needles, birds and squirrels cannot slip in under the guard. They are different from the gutter's own end caps, which seal the trough, and they are worth using on every exposed end.
Why the ends matter
A guard covers the top of the gutter, but at each end of a run the guard stops and can leave a gap between its edge and the gutter end. Debris blows in sideways, wasps nest in the sheltered space, and squirrels and birds use it as a doorway. Under Georgia pines, needles collect in that pocket and form a plug right where a downspout often sits.
Types
- Guard end caps: molded or formed pieces that clip onto the end of the guard panel and close the gap down to the gutter.
- Cut-and-fold ends: some metal guards can be trimmed and bent down at the ends to close the gap without a separate piece.
- Inside and outside corners: miter pieces or careful cuts where two runs meet; open corners are another common gap.
- Gutter end caps: the caps that seal the ends of the gutter trough itself with gutter sealant. If these leak, water drips at the corner no matter what guard you have.
Installation tips
- Buy end caps made for your guard and gutter size, such as 5 or 6 inch K-style.
- Fasten them so they do not blow off; a screw or rivet beats friction alone.
- Make sure the cap does not block water from entering the last few inches of gutter.
- Check ends and corners when you inspect guards each spring, since that is where gaps open first.
More on guard types in gutter sizing, seamless gutters and guards, and on keeping animals out of the roof edge in trees and your roof.