3 Ways To Prepare Your Gutters For Spring

Gutters can receive a lot of damage during the winter months. When the weather begins to warm up is the perfect time to take necessary steps to ensuring the quality of your home’s gutters. There are some steps that can be taken to make sure that your gutters are fully ready for the spring season.

1. Clean Debris

The first way to prepare your gutters for spring is to thoroughly clean them. Getting rid of the debris in your gutter is the first step. Debris in the gutters can cause many long-term problems and cleaning out the debris when changing seasons is a good way to prevent more serious problems that may occur. Once the debris is removed then you can begin washing, cleaning, and inspecting the rest of the gutters.

2. Check Roof and Gutters for Damage

Once all the debris has been cleaned and the gutters are easier to look at take some time to check the condition of your gutters. Look and make sure that there are no cracks, leaks, or any other kind of damage that may need to get repaired. If you come across any major damage hire a professional to get your gutters back in tip top shape. While inspecting your gutters also take the time to check your roof for damage. If you’re not sure what you are looking for or how to check for damage call a professional to do an inspection for you.

3. Install a Gutter Guard

The end of the winter and beginning of spring is a great time to get your gutters ready for the seasons that are to come. Gutter guards are helpful when it comes to maintenance. They cut down on the amount of work that needs to be done and also helps to protect your gutters from damage. Gutter guards do a good job of keeping debris out of the gutters and reducing the wear and tear that all gutters experience.

Preparing your gutters for spring is a good way to take care of any damage the winter left on your gutters and ensure that your home is ready to take on the next season. Simple steps can be done to ensure your gutters are healthy. Companies such as The Gutter Pros have hired and trained professionals that can help with any gutter damage, gutter guard installation, or inspection that your home may be needing.

Give the Gutter Pros a call today at 443-880- 4831.  

This post first appeared on http://www.thegutterpros.net

Living in Tacoma, Wash., you probably know the importance of having rain gutters—we’d even venture the assumption that you have a system installed on your home. Even with the best gutter system, as a home owner, you still have to deal with maintenance and regularly cleaning debris out from them.

Wind and rain can carry a bunch of junk, such as leaves, twigs, nuts (such as acorns or pine cones), and dirt, into your rain gutters, which causes them to clog. Blocked gutters no longer work the way they’re intended; in fact, they can become pointless. If gutters are clogged, then rain water can overflow, drip down your walls, pool around and crack your foundation, damage your landscape, and lead to pest infestation.

There are two ways to avoid these types of problems:

1. Clean out your rain gutters several times a year
2. Install a gutter guard to protect your system from debris and junk

 

What are Gutter Guards?

Gutter guards filter out debris so that only water passes through the system. Theoretically, it saves you time and energy from having to clean out your gutters after every storm. (Other maintenance may still be required throughout the year.)

 

Types of Gutter Guards

There are many different kinds of gutter protection systems available; all of them are intended to let the water drain into the rain gutter while keeping the debris out.

Screen Gutter Guards

A gutter screen prevents the majority of debris from getting into your gutter system. Fine or very small bits can still pass through the screen and get into your gutters. Because of this, occasional cleaning may still be required, but far more infrequently than if you had no gutter guards. Screens are usually made of metal or plastic and are typically the most affordable gutter guard option. They’re also easy to install. If you choose a screen guard as your protection, opt for plastic instead of metal, because metal can rust and stain your home’s exterior.

Bottle Brush Gutter Guards

Bottle brush gutter guards look like wire cleaning brushes and will filter out large debris. They’re very easy to install—you simply need to place them inside your gutters. Rain water slips between the bristles, but larger materials, like leaves or pinecones, get caught. This type of gutter guard requires yearly maintenance, but cleaning is simple. When it comes time, all you have to do is remove them from your gutters, shake them off, and pull out anything that may be stuck in the bristles.

Mesh Gutter Guards

Mesh gutter guards are made of metal sheets with tiny holes. These are similar to screen gutter guards, but have smaller openings, so they keep out more debris. These guard systems are versatile in that they can be installed on many types of gutters and roofs. They are also durable and not likely to deteriorate or rust. The downside to mesh guards is that debris can pile up on top of them causing rain to deflect and not make it through the gutter system.

Foam Gutter Guards

Foam gutter guards fit inside your gutters to block debris from entering the system. The fine pores of the foam only allow water to penetrate. This option is also easy to install; you simply insert the pre-cut, size-specific pieces inside your gutters. Foam gutter guards are made of polyether or polyurethane foam, and while they are relatively inexpensive, they do not last long and need to be replaced every two years.

Reverse Curve Gutter Guards

Reverse curve gutter guards have a curved nose that extends past the edge of the gutter, then curves in towards the system to enables rainwater to flow naturally into the gutters because of surface tension. The opening between a curved guard and gutter is less than half an inch, so only rain flows through, and any other debris falls to the ground or blows away without clogging your gutters. This type of guard should be chosen to match your roofing, since it lies along the roof and is visible at ground level.

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The experienced and professional team at Tacoma Gutter Service can help you choose the right option for your home. We’ll install the gutter guards for you and clean out your gutter system beforehand, so that everything functions properly. Give us a call at (253) 927-7111 or visit us online to schedule your free estimate.

This post first appeared on https://tacomagutterservice.com

Are your home’s gutters looking a little the worse for wear these days? Without periodic cleaning, old gutters can become covered in dirt, debris and black streaks that detract from their original appearance. The good news is, there are a few DIY cleaning solutions you can use to keep your gutters looking their very best.

Use TSP-PF to Your Advantage

Do you have some deck or siding cleaner tucked away in your garage? Check the label and see if you can find the letters “TSP-PF” on it. TSP-PF stands for “trisodium phosphate-phosphate free,” and it means that the cleaner is capable of degreasing and cleaning surfaces without harming the environment. Take one cup of this cleaner and mix it with one quart of Clorox bleach along with three quarts of hot water. Apply it to your gutters with a rag or brush to wipe away dirt and mildew stains.

Try Cream of Tartar

The spice rack in your kitchen might not seem like a logical place to look for gutter cleaner, but cream of tartar can make gutters shine when used properly. Take cream of tartar and mix it with water to create a thick paste. Then, apply that paste to the outside of your gutters and buff it with a rag before letting it sit for a little while. After about 30 minutes, hose your gutters down. They should look a little brighter after being treated with your homemade cleaning paste.

Remove Dirt and Grime With White Vinegar

In addition to cleaning the outside of your gutters with a DIY cleaning solution, you should be sure to clean their interior as well. Scoop out any dirt, leaves, stick, and other debris before pouring a solution of warm water and white vinegar into your gutters. Plug your downspouts to prevent the solution from washing away and allow it to sit in your gutters for about an hour. Then simply drain your gutters once the hour is over and hose them down.

At Bell Seamless Gutters, we can install gutter guards on your existing gutters to prevent them from getting clogged with dirt and debris in the first place. To learn more, feel free to give us a call at our toll-free number or contact us online today!

 

The post Maintain Your Gutters With These DIY Cleaning Solutions appeared first on Bell Seamless Gutters.

Gutters don’t always look like a big deal, but they are very important in protecting your home. Rainwater causes damage, and too much water near your foundation or running down your home is a problem. Only one inch of rain can cause the need to direct 500 gallons or more of rainwater away from your home. Without gutters, rain will wreak havoc on your home and landscaping.

When You Have a Flood

Without a working gutter system on your home, you will find that your basement floods during heavy storms. Gutters take rainwater away from your roof and directs it away from your property. When water is allowed to run down the side of your house instead, the water pools down and into your basement.

Damage to Your Foundation

Poorly working gutters will cause damage to your foundation. Too much water near your foundation causes cracks because it will dissolve the masonry. If the water near your foundation freezes, this is going to make your foundation crack. Too much water in and around your foundation will cause problems.

Mold Growth In Your Home

When gutters are not keeping moisture and water out of your home, mold and mildew will be able to grow. Both can cause respiratory problems, especially in people who have asthma or a compromised immune system. Your gutters help protect your home from mold and mildew growth throughout the home.

Damage to Your Landscaping

Your gutters help keep your beautiful landscaping intact. When you have invested money on making your property look great, it’s important to keep unwanted water off of your flowers and shrubs. If you’re landscaping is getting damaged from water coming from your gutters, your gutters should be inspected carefully to determine what is wrong.

The gutters on your home bring rainwater from your roof, down the length of your gutters and then out throughout the downspouts. Gutter clogs, gutters pulling away from the side of your house and sagging gutters can all cause problems with the water flow. Water that gets into your basement and causes damage to your landscaping is not necessary. A good gutter system will guide the water away from your home so that your property remains protected.

Contact Weatherguard Gutters Today

If your gutters are no longer protecting your home, it’s time to contact Weatherguard Gutters to see how we can help. We have been providing homeowners quality gutter service in Vancouver and the lower mainland for more than 30 years, and we are ready to provide you with a free estimate today.

The post How Gutters Protect Your Home from Damage appeared first on nfl.

Spring is on its way! There’s no better way to enjoy the sunlight than having it filter through a bright clean window in your home.

Sparkling clean windows let the light in. They also make your home feel bigger and cleaner. If you want to enjoy the early spring mood outdoors, yet still stay indoors and keep warm, a clean window is essential.

Getting Professional Help for Your Windows

Sure, you could spring-clean yourself, but why not have a professional do your windows? You save a lot of time, effort, and if you select the right company, you’ll get high-quality work done.

According to HGTV, it is one of the cheapest possible ways to give your home instant curb appeal. And having a Window Service company clean your windows frees you to take care of other spring-cleaning work.

Find Reliable and High-Quality Window Cleaning Services

We at Superior Pressure Washing provide Window Cleaning to Olney, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bethesda & Potomac Maryland. We take charge of cleaning and maintaining Windows for multi-unit residential buildings, apartments, condos, and HOA’s.

Here are some more reasons why it pays to have a professional window cleaning service:

· Scheduling and Logistics

If you have a lot on your plate, hiring a window cleaning service will help you schedule things better. They can work around your schedule requirements, on-time and effectively.

· Professional Service

The only way to get the best quality is to entrust the work to those who are well-trained in it.

· Experienced Technicians

No more worrying about your windows or glass panes shattering, Our technicians know how to handle all types of home and residential furniture.

· Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is the best way to get your windows cleaned. It ensures the removal of mold, mildew, and algae. It will also keep your windows cleaner for longer during the spring and summer months.

Let us help you enjoy the bright and beautiful windows of your home. See what a big difference sparkling windows make to your residence.

For more information, see our complete list of services, or call Superior Pressure Washing for more information.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorwash.net/

K-Guard gutters have finally solved an age-old problem: how do you keep leaves out of gutters? Cleaning out the gutters used to be an annual tradition (if not more frequently) for many homeowners. Now, however, homeowners can use patented K-Guard gutters that will prevent most leaves from getting in the gutter in the first place.

Our gutters are equipped with a hood system that will prevent most leaves from entering the gutter. This prevents jams and reduces the need to clean the gutters. K-Guard gutters are made of very high-quality aluminum and are designed to last for ages. In terms of quality and value, it’s hard to beat K-Guard.

Of course, some customers are going to have some questions and concerns. Let’s review some tips for selling gutters to potential customers.

Why Are K-Guard Gutters Better Than Traditional Gutters?

The first question a new homeowner will likely ask you is why they should bother with K-Guard gutters. Traditional gutters have been around for years, aren’t they good enough? The answer, quite simply, is no.

Once a traditional gutter is clogged with leaves, it may not be able to effectively drain water. Over time, poor drainage could result in damage to a homeowner’s property. Further, the leaves in the gutter will eventually rot, which can produce an awful stench.

Homeowners will either have to get the ladder out and clean the gutters themselves or hire someone to do it. Hiring someone can get quite expensive. Meanwhile, when homeowners clean gutters themselves, they are going to spend a lot of time carrying out an unpleasant task. Worse yet, there’s always the risk of a slip or fall.

Do K-Guard Gutters Actually Keep Leaves Out?

Yes. Our patented K-Guard gutters actually keep leaves out. Clogging and other issues rarely occur. K-Guard gutters use a specially designed system consisting of a hood, gutter, downspouts and the patented K-Guard hangers.

New homeowners don’t have to take our word for it. Hundreds of happy customers can testify that our K-Guard gutters work year in and year out. We recommend showing skeptical customers our product reviews. Often, other happy customers make the best salespeople.

Are K-Guard Gutters Only For New Homes?

No. While we recommend installing K-Guard gutters from the get-go, existing homes can be refitted with our system. K-Guard has helped both new and existing homeowners.

What If Customers Are Worried About Longevity?

Eventually, all gutters have to be replaced. However, homeowners can rest assured that K-Guard gutters will last a long time. First, we use a heavy-duty aluminum that will resist corrosion. Lesser gutter manufacturers use lesser aluminum that won’t hold up to the elements.

Second, our patented K-Guard Hangers are made out of durable, long-lasting all-weather polymers that can resist just about anything nature throws at them. These hangers can also support the weight of the entire system, ensuring that it retains its shape.

New homeowners will be adding value to their home by using high-quality, long-lasting K-Guard gutters. They’ll be able to rest easy, knowing that they likely won’t have to replace their gutters in the near future.

What if Customers Are Worried About the Aesthetics?

Many new homeowners rightly obsess over aesthetics. K-Guard gutters look a bit different from traditional gutters. If anything, however, they look better. For one, there won’t be rotting leaves hanging out of K-Guard gutters. Further, homeowners can select a wide range of colors. Also, K-Guard gutters can be fitted to just about any roof line.

What If Customers Want to Go With the Cheapest Option?

K-Guard gutters are a bit more expensive than the lowest cost gutters. However, the high-quality aluminum and patented K-Guard Hangers mean our gutters will last for years. Customers who buy cheap gutters may quickly find themselves having to uninstall and reinstall new gutters.

Then there are the cleaning costs. Unless the homeowner cleans their gutters themselves, they’re going to have to pay someone to do it. Cleaning gutters is no one’s idea of a dream job, so homeowners may have to pay quite a bit.

What If My Customers Want to Install Hood Systems on Their Existing Gutters?

Does your customer already have gutters installed? Some homeowners try to take a short-cut: they install hoods on existing gutter systems. Unfortunately, this often turns out poorly. Our 5-inch gutter system offers better drainage than the 3 and 4-inch gutters many people have. Further, the hoods rarely fit properly, leading to sub-optimal performance.

Not only that, but the hoods are often a different color than the gutters. This can lead to poor aesthetics. Ultimately, these ramshackle systems look clunky and out of place, something you’d never say about K-Guard gutters.

Do You Have Any Materials I Can Provide to Customers?

Yes! You can refer customers to Kguard.com where they can learn more about our patented system. Customers can also watch an explainer video that will outline our gutter system works. Further, we can sell you brochures and door hangers at cost. Just get in touch!

This post first appeared on https://www.kguard.com

If you’re like most homeowners in Tacoma, Wash., then you know that a rain gutter system is an essential part of your home. Rain gutters have an important function, and they can also be stylish—adding a certain elegance to your home’s exterior.

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to make the right decision as to which is best for your home. One option to consider is copper gutters. At Tacoma Gutter Service we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners beautify their home with this type of system. If you’re thinking about upgrading or replacing your system and considering this material, here are a few things you need to know about copper gutters.

1. They Have a Long Lifespan

Copper gutters can last at least 50—sometimes even 100—years with proper maintenance. Some homeowners may balk at the price of a copper gutter system, especially when they compare it to vinyl or aluminum, but its lifespan is well worth the cost. Not only does it last for decades, but they typically require fewer replacements and repairs, which can you save money after the initial costs.

2. Copper is More Durable Than Other Material

You really can’t beat copper’s durability. Most of the material’s longevity is due to its ability to resist corrosion. While copper does weather, it doesn’t rust. It is also very unlikely that a copper system will creak, wear out, or develop other issues that would be the end of gutter systems made with weaker material. Because of this, copper gutters require minimal maintenance; you’ll still have to routinely clear out debris, but they rarely sag, dent, or need replacement.

3. These Systems are Stronger

Copper gutters feature soldered seams, so there won’t be any gaps in the gutter or downspouts where water can leak and escape. The hangers and fasteners used to keep copper gutters secured to your home are also stronger than other materials, so you won’t have to worry about your system falling away from your home’s eaves or fascia after a big storm.

4. Copper Gutters are Generally Made to Order

Copper gutters are truly a seamless system; this is because they are usually made to order and customized to fit your home exactly. Joints are smoldered together, so you won’t have to worry about leaks, or gaps, and because the pieces are measured to fit your home, you won’t have to worry about them being ill-fitting or awkward. The only downside to this is that you won’t be able to install a copper system yourself, and it may be more challenging to find professionals who can handle the job.

5. They Can Immediately Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Copper rain gutters offer immediate interest and appeal. Oxidation gives copper a beautiful coat of patina, so, over time, your gutters will have a bit of rustic charm and a dramatic, weathered look to them. Copper gutters can be a great way for your home to stand out and also increase the curb appeal of your home, since its unique look can’t be matched by other types and finishes of gutters. Its durability makes it a great selling feature when it comes time to sell your home.

 

Because copper is a more difficult material to work with, you’ll need to hire professionals for the job. If you want the job done right, contact Tacoma Gutter Services. We have decades of experience and have worked with all types of gutter materials—including copper. For a free estimate, visit us online or call (253) 927-7111.

This post first appeared on https://tacomagutterservice.com

From their ecological benefits to the significant savings they can provide on your monthly water bill, there a number of good reasons to consider adding a rainwater collection system to your home. These systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, as many homeowners are looking for creative new ways to minimize their water consumption around the house.

Rainwater collection systems are also ideal for avid gardeners, or for people who live in areas where soil conditions make it difficult to drain large volumes of water away from their homes.

Although we often add rainwater collection bins to new seamless gutter installations, these systems can be easily integrated into your existing gutters and downspouts as well. All we have to do is divert the downspout of your choice into two separate pipes. One of these pipes will feed your rainwater collection bins, while the other will carry water safely away from home in the same manner as an ordinary downspout. Once the system is installed, you can select which path the rainwater will take at the flip of a switch.

In the event that your rainwater bins become filled with water, you can simply close the downspout diverter to prevent them from overflowing. Otherwise, you can let your gutters fill the bins with free water to use in your lawn and garden.

Interested in learning more about the rainwater collection systems we offer at Bell Seamless Gutters? Feel free to give us a call at our toll-free number or contact us online today to speak with a representative!

The post Adding a Rainwater Collection System to Your Existing Gutters appeared first on Bell Seamless Gutters.

Gutters protect your home and property from water damage. While your gutters might not look like much, they bring water from the roof of your home and guide it along so that it doesn’t damage your roof, basement or landscaping. There are a number of signs that indicate your gutters aren’t working properly. From damage to your gutters that is visible, to water pooling in your basement, poorly working gutters will cause a number of problems. Learn more about common problems seen when your gutter system is not working as it should to protect your property.

Visible Signs of Damage

Your gutters need professional help when you can visibly see signs of damage. Holes in your gutters, or gutters that are pulling away from your home are not going to work correctly. You may notice that your gutters are sagging or cracked when they need to be repaired. There may be gaps in between the gutter connections that need to be replaced. Any time you see gutters that are pulling apart or that drip at the connection points, they need to be assessed. If you find screws or small pieces of your gutter system on the ground, it is clear that it’s time to call for help.

Less Obvious Signs of Gutter Damage

There are times when small animals will make your gutters home. If your gutters overflow all the time, or you see small nests in your gutters, they aren’t able to direct water to where it needs to go. If you find standing water in your gutters, this means they aren’t at the right angle to drain water from your roof. When icicles form in cold weather, this shows that your gutters aren’t draining water as they should. If you aren’t able to clean your gutters on your own, professional gutter cleaning can get the work done for you.

Signs Around the Home That Gutters Are Failing

Beyond the clear signs that your gutters are structurally failing, your home can show signs that your gutters are in need of help too. Ifyour foundation has water that is pooling around it after a storm, the gutters aren’t moving the water away from your home. Rotting wood or peeling paint on the exterior of your home are signs of water damage from a poor gutter system. If your basement floods often or your landscaping gets damaged after a rain storm, your gutter system needs professional attention.

Contact Weatherguard Gutters for Gutter Maintenance Services Today

Weatherguard Gutters is ready to provide your home in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland with gutter maintenance or replacement gutters. Contact us today to get a free estimate and learn why Weatherguard Gutters has been serving the area for more than 25 years.

The post 3 Signs Your Gutters Need Professional Attention appeared first on nfl.

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Are you considering installing a new copper roof on your home or place of business. Copper roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their long lifespan, low-maintenance and choice in styles, including standing seam, flat seam, diamond panels and copper shingles. You can also choose the type of finish you’d like on your new copper roof as well as whether or not to allow your copper roof to develop a patina, which is the green-gray hue that develops on the copper over the course of six to 20 years or to keep your copper roof looking new by applying special coatings and sealants.

Copper Roofing Finishes

Copper roofs can be given a wide range of finishes, depending on the composition of the copper and the chemicals placed on the copper after installation. For example, 99 percent copper is salmon red upon installation. Other metals can be introduced to create alloys such as 90 percent copper / 10 percent zinc (red-gold upon installation), and 85 percent copper / 15 percent zinc (reddish yellow in appearance upon installation). All of these copper and copper alloy roofs form patinas over time, ranging in color from gray-green to gray-brown. The reason is oxidation, and homeowners and commercial building owners can opt to allow the patina to form, or use coatings to stop the patina process.

Copper Roofing Oxidation and Patinas

Copper roofs last more than 100 years due to oxidation and the patina that forms on the surface of the copper. The patina process starts the minute the copper is exposed to air and moisture, and over time, a very thin layer of corrosion develops on the copper, which helps protect it against the elements and degradation. As more years pass, the patina thickens, changing the appearance of the copper from a shiny bronze color to gray-green or brilliant green, like the shade of green on the Statue of Liberty.

Factors That Affect the Patina Process

Two factors can slow the formation of the patina, including how clean the copper is when it is installed and the amount of moisture present in the environment.

Copper Cleanliness

If the copper panels are lubricated or oiled by the manufacturer, this can slow down the development of the patina because the oil or lubricant acts like a coating that prevents air and water from coming into contact with the copper.

Environmental Moisture

If the environment is extremely dry, like in the desert, it may take as long as 20 years for a patina to start to develop. However, a copper roof that is installed in an ocean environment may develop a patina in as little as five or six years.

Preventing Copper Patinas

While the formation of the patina should be considered a natural process and admired, some homeowners and commercial building owners may want to keep the original color of the copper by preventing air and moisture from coming into contact with the copper. This can be accomplished by coating the copper sheets, panels or shingles with a sealant that prevents air and water from coming into direct contact with the copper.

Common types of copper sealants include nitrocellulose, acrylic and silicone. Nitrocellulose coatings are the most popular due to their cost, but they must be reapplied every year. Acrylic coatings are slightly more durable, but also more expensive. Silicone coatings also work well to prevent patinas from forming on copper roofs. This is slightly more expensive than nitrocellulose but may offer the best protection against the formation of the patina.

Once the coating is applied, the patina process will not occur as long as the coating remains intact. Unfortunately, coatings do wear away over time, which means the copper roof will need to be resealed periodically in order to maintain its shiny, original color, and if the coating wears away unevenly, parts of the copper roof may start to develop a patina before other sections of the roof.

The good news is that home and business owners can stop coating their copper roofs at any point and let the patina develop naturally. Any coatings placed on a copper roof are merely for aesthetics. They don’t actually protect the roof against wear and tear. The copper is wear, tear and weather-resistant all by itself.

Restoring Copper After Patina Has Occurred

If the patina has already formed on the copper roof, it can be removed in order to restore the original color of the copper. The process starts by thoroughly cleaning the patina from the copper. This can usually be accomplished via powerwashing, but may require some scrubbing by hand if the patina is particularly thick. Once the patina has been completely removed, the copper can then be sealed in order to prevent future redevelopment of the patina.

The post Copper Roofing; Managing Oxidization and Patinas appeared first on Rain Gutter Pros Inc.