How to Remove a Gutter Cover

Place a ladder on a level surface when removing gutter covers.

The covers usually have been installed by snapping in place or by securing them with clips, rivets or screws. Each type of installation requires a different approach to remove a gutter cover.

1. Place the ladder on level ground in the location where the gutter cover will be removed. If the ladder is not level, remove soil from the high side, or add a block to the low side. Never add soil under the low side of a ladder--it will compress as you climb the ladder, and that could lead to a serious injury if you fall.

2. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp gutter guards and gutter edges. Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.

3. Inspect the front edge of the gutter for clips, rivets or screws. Remove clips by inserting a screwdriver between the gutter and each clip. Pry each clip open, and twist the clip so it moves out of position on the lip of the gutter. Remove rivets by using a drill with a drill bit slightly larger than the hole in each rivet. Drill into the rivet until the rivet top comes off. Remove screws with a screwdriver by turning them in a counter-clockwise direction.

4. Move the gutter guard off the gutter. Snap-in gutter guards are removed by grasping one end and pulling up in the center until they pop out of position. Make sure you are firmly on the ladder when removing a snap-in gutter guard.