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How Do You Install Guttering?

seamless gutter

How do you install guttering?

Thanks to big box home improvement stores and YouTube videos, homeowners have learned how to do many things around their house. Many of those things were once done only by professionals, like gutter installation. With that DIY ability and way of thinking though, come many questions. 

With those many questions though, we have to wonder is it worth doing it ourselves? Like with a gutter installation, there are many caveats in that process, it isn’t as simple as it may seem from the non-professional viewpoint. However, with an internet search, you can start your own gutter installation with this simple question, “Can you install gutters yourself?”.  

While the answer is “Yes, you can do your own gutter installation.”, it is always followed up by this question, “How do I install guttering?”.  It is that question and few others that we’ll answer here today, and you may find that having professional gutter installation and cleaning is the better way to go. So, read on as we proceed with those questions and answers: 

Professionals will tell you that the best gutter installation is when nobody notices the gutters. Why? Because they blend in with the rest of the house, as if they had been there all along. So, with that in mind, here are the basic steps and suggestions to a gutter installation: 

1. A plan. 

Determine how many of the exterior walls need gutter installation? No, it may not be necessary for gutters all the way round your home. For example, if your house is on a typical city block with a house on each side within a few feet, you only need gutter installation in the back and front. However, a house with ample space all the way around, all 4 sides should have gutters installed. 

With this in mind, you need to get precise linear feet measurement of gutter runs  you’ll need. It is recommended to buy a few “learning curve” feet too. How many corners does your house have? You’ll need downspouts and elbow joints for those corners.  

2. The budget.

Know what your budge is then look at the different materials gutters are available. Aluminum gutters are going to cost between $5 and $10 per linear foot, and vinyl gutter installation material will cost between $3 to $5 per linear foot.  You can get really fancy with the finish, edges and trim, but that will cost. So, keep your budget in mind as you shop.

3. The Basics  

For gutter installation, there are some essential tools, so make sure you have the following items:

  • A ladder to reach the roof top 
  • Safety goggles and work gloves
  • Cordless drill with minimum of two rechargeable batteries
  • Fine tip permanent markers 
  • Tape measure, at least 25 foot long
  • Wood screws
  • Caulking gun, construction glue and gutter sealant 
  • Gutter brackets
  • Tin Snips

4. The Fascia and Soffits 

The fascia are the flat boards just underneath the roof positioned along the exterior walls. The soffits are under the roof positioned  between the gutters and the exterior wall. You need to inspect both all the way around your home. If they have chipped, cracked, or peeling paint, any missing pieces or  wood rot, these need to be repaired or replaced before you start your gutter installation. 

5. Have Help 

It is always good to have another person around that can help with holding the gutters while you drill, hand you things, and simply be there. 

6. The Drainage

Your gutter installation will need a slight angle so  water can drain toward the downspouts and flow into the yard.  For a 40 foot gutter run, make the high point in the middle with a slight slope to each end. A shorter gutter run needs to angle one direction or the other with the lower end for the downspout. 

7. The Measuring 

This rule-of-thumb is measure twice and cut once. We recommend measure three times and cut once. Now you can follow the instructions that came with your gutter installation materials. 

Which gutter system is the best?

A good gutter installation will maintain the integrity of your home, from the foundation up. So, the more educated and informed you can be about gutters, the better choices you’ll make. Starting with sectional or seamless gutters. 

Most gutter installation materials come in sections only and are fastened together as you install them. However, today, aluminum gutters are available in the seamless style and are custom made for each home. What is the advantage of seamless or sections? Seamless won’t have the joints and seams to worry with leaks later on. The seamless style of gutter however are the more expensive. 

With that decision made, now choose the type of material you want for your gutter installation: 

  • Vinyl Gutters: A favorite because of cost, price, and corrosion and rust resistant. Lightweight, snap together and great in mild climates. You’ll know you didn’t install them right when they start to sag in the middle of the sections. They do become brittle over time in extreme cold weather. 

  • Aluminum Gutters: Another cost efficient gutter installation material. Lightweight rust resistant, and easy to install. Good for cold climates and won’t need painting as often as the vinyl gutters. Structurally, they aren’t as strong as other materials, easily dented. 
  • Copper and Steel Gutters: Compared to aluminum gutters, these are more sturdy, and the galvanized steel is cost effective. However, they do rust and will need patching or replacing sooner than other gutter installation materials. The stainless steel gutters are virtually indestructible and rust resistant. Copper gutters are the beauty of all gutters in looks, indestructible, and rust resistant. However, both are expensive. 
  • Wood Gutters: Used for years but not a common gutter installation material today. If you’re restoring a historic home and looking for authentic, these are the better choice, but you’ll pay a hefty price. 

Are wider gutters better?

Yes, a wider rain gutter will have more capacity to handle the rain flowing through, and less clogging from debris like leaves and twigs.  With less clogging, your gutter installation will provide better protection for your home against water damage.

How far should gutters extend past the house?

The gutter runs themselves will be installed against the fascia by brackets. The downspouts should extend at least four feet out, six feet if possible. Depending on the slope of your house, the soil around your house, and building codes, away from the house; however, they may need to extend much further depending on your soil, the slope of your house and local buildings codes. 

How long can a gutter be with one downspout?

Experts and professionals recommend one downspout to every 35 feet of gutter run. 

How long does gutter installation take?

For a first time DIY job, on an average size home, expect the project to take a full day, maybe the whole weekend.   For a professional gutter installation, an average sized single story home can take up to 4 hours.  A larger home, more than 3,000 square feet, can take up to 8 hours. 

gutter system

When You Decide This Isn’t For You

After reading our piece and doing your own additional research, you may have second and third thoughts about a DIY gutter installation. So, get on the internet and do a search for ‘who installs gutters near me?’ and get two to three quotes. Ask for recent references and check those references. Call 770-735-4433 today for your seamless gutter installation in Canton, GA.

What can I do to make my home more energy efficient?

metal roofing system

Does a metal roof lower your insurance?

Here in Canton, Georgia and the surrounding area, summers get hot and humid. That means we’re running the air conditioner more and that is costing us money every month. So, homeowners are always looking for ways on how can energy efficiency be improved for their home. One of the best things they can do is have metal roofing installed. 

Why choose metal roofing? You may be picturing a rusted old metal barn roof, but the metal roof material available for homes today is nothing like those!  Today, you can choose three different types of metal roof styles, each offering many advantages like a longer lifespan and the resilience to hailstorms, heavy rain, high winds, ice, and snow. A metal roof is also excellent for areas where brush fires are frequent and an additional perk: Saves you money on your homeowner’s insurance. 

Yes, you read that right.  A metal roof will help lower your insurance rates. A new roof of any material can lower it simply because it’s new, but a new metal roof is a favorite of insurance companies. Why?  For all the reasons we list above like weather resistant when it comes to hailstorms, heavy rain, and high winds.  It is resistant to ice, snow, and fire resistant too. 

What are the benefits of energy efficiency? 

A metal roof offers energy efficiency, which is one of the best ways to contribute to the global efforts. Being energy  efficient is a quick way to save money, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and meet growing energy demands while creating more jobs. Read on for more information on the benefits we all get from energy efficiency: 

  • Environmental: Increased energy efficiency lowers pollutants and the greenhouse gas emissions we expel every day. It also decrease our water usage, another  natural resource we need to conserve. 
  • Economical: Improved energy efficiency will lower your energy bills, and stabilize the pricing and volatility of electricity while creating jobs.
  • Benefits the Utility System: Energy efficiency provides benefits for the long-term by lowering the demand of electricity overall, which reduces the need for investing in infrastructure for generations and transmissions.
  • Risk Management: Energy efficiency diversifies the utility resource portfolios, allowing a hedge against uncertain  fluctuating fuel prices.

What does more energy efficient mean?

Energy efficiency isn’t just the buzzword of the decade. Yes, it spews out of the mouths of advertisers, energy companies, environmentalists, and politicians every day. So, with those words be repeated daily, we may lose sight of what it really means. 

We are living in a tie of  climate-consciousness because of the direct impact the energy we wasted has on the Earth. It is also impacting your wallet each month too as the cost of electricity, gas, and water increases. 

So, what does energy efficiency mean? It is the opposite of being energy wasteful. Just simply by turning off lights and not running water while brushing your teeth can help minimize the carbon footprint you leave behind. 

The lightbulb is a perfect example of how we can all be more energy-efficient. Replacing your 60w incandescent lightbulbs with LED lightbulbs can save as much as ninety percent of the energy used. When you replace any of your appliances, choose one that is noted as energy-efficient. Your next roof replacement, go with a metal roof instead of the tradition asphalt shingle. Don’t worry about the aesthetics, they make metal roofing look just like shingles today. 

What is the best color of metal roof for energy savings?

It doesn’t matter if you’re choosing an asphalt roofing material or going with a metal roof, the color needs to complement the architecture of your home. Choosing the correct color for your metal roof will directly affect the energy efficiency of your home too, especially in warm climate like here in Georgia. 

You will see more metal roof energy savings in a lighter color. Light colors reflect the sun’s UV rays and the intense heat they can create. A light color roof will also help keep your energy bill lower, whereas a dark color roof will keep your home warmer in the winter. 

Ask your roofing contractor about a cool metal roof in addition to choosing a light color. A cool metal roof will have a coating with cool pigments that enhance the solar reflectance while lessening the temperature of the roof surface. 

A cool metal roof reflects the sun’s heat and emits the radiation back to the atmosphere.  This all keeps your home more comfortable while easing the cost of your electric bill and easing the workload on your HVAC system. 

metal roofing system

When is energy efficiency important?

Because it saves you money!  If you can achieve the same intended desires and results by using less energy, you spend less money. This is what metal roofing can help you with. A metal roof will keep your home cooler in the summer and therefore you have a lower electric bill.

Additionally, while you can make more money, you can’t make more Earth and that is another important factor is energy efficiency. The more energy we use, electric, gas, or water, we’re using resources from the Earth and the Earth doesn’t regenerate like solar or wind power. 

So, you’re considering a metal roof after reading this article, you probably wonder how long will a metal roof last? Longevity is one of the biggest benefits of a metal roof.  With proper installation and proper maintenance and upkeep, your metal roof can last you up to 70 years or even longer. Call 770-735-4433 today for your metal roofing system in Canton, GA.

How do I keep squirrels out of my gutters?

squirrels in gutters

Can squirrels eat through gutters?

Squirrels climbing gutters isn’t just in your neighborhood. All across the country there are squirrels in gutters, trees, on rooftops, light poles, and telephone poles. These little critters are skilled climbers and can jump between light poles, telephone poles and trees with the greatest of ease. They scurry up drainage pipes and climb up onto roofs, from there, they find the gutter system, set up house, and cause gutter damage.  

So, do squirrels live in rain gutters and why? They don’t necessarily live in gutters. Gutters fill with leaves, twigs, and other debris. Those are the primary ingredients squirrels use for building nests to hide from their predators. Sometimes, they can’t get out when the coast is clear. 

Yes. Squirrels’ teeth grown continuously, and they gnaw on gutters and other items to keep them from growing too long. Therefore, squirrels will continue to gnaw all through their lives, and they seek materials they can chew on, usually wood or plastic, like decks, eaves, electrical wiring, fascia, and windowsills, even aluminum. 

Why do squirrels chew on gutters?

Squirrels burrow up in the leaves, twigs, and other debris inside gutter to hide from predators. While there, they may have liter of baby squirrels and cluttered gutters make a great nesting for those baby critters. While nesting there, the adult squirrels gnaw away at your gutters, causing gutter damage.  

Does aluminum foil deter squirrels?

Some people have found that when they cover their potted plants from the top with aluminum foil, punch a few holes for watering purpose, the squirrels won’t bother them? Why? It is believed that either they don’t like the shininess, or they don’t like the crinkling sound it makes when they gnaw on the foil. However, there are others that say squirrels will chew through aluminum without any issues. 

What can’t squirrels chew through?

If squirrels can chew through aluminum siding, vents, flashing, gutters, and downspouts, it would only make sense they could chew through aluminum foil, right? Yes, that aluminum siding you had installed is durable, strong, corrosion resistant, and waterproof. It is even energy efficient and sustainable. 

Many homeowners have discovered about these aluminum features to their home, they aren’t squirrel resistant. The next thing they discover is that squirrels chew through anything, except galvanized or stainless steel. As soon as you hear squirrels in your attic or walls, your first course of action should be to eradicate them from your home before they do more than gutter damage. 

Look for places they could be entering your home then attached galvanized steel sheeting or heavy mesh wire over the entry points once you have rid your attic of the pesky critters.  Blocking off their entry points while they are still in your attic will result in them making new entry points. 

gutters along roof

Do gutter guards keep squirrels out?

Squirrels are cute, but only at a distance. When they take over your gutters an attic, they are annoying and the gutter damage they leave behind is irritating. Here are some recommended ways to keep squirrels out of your attic: 

  1. Trim all the tree branches around your home. Tree branches are roadways for squirrels and if they lead to your roof, they take call it home. Tree branches shouldn’t be any closer than 15 feet to your roof. 
  2. Have your gutters cleaned twice a year or using your water hose, clean the gutters yourself. Get the leaves, nests, twigs, and other debris flushed out. Then with gloves on, manually remove any chunks that didn’t flush out. 
  3. Have gutter wire toppers installed? This will keep critters, leaves, and most twigs out of the gutter run, so your gutters are clogged and possible gutter damage happening. 
  4. Pour mothballs in the gutter runs, that is one smell that squirrels do not like, and it will run them off. Mothballs are poisonous, so never place them where other animals or children can get them. 
  5. Put a squirrel gutter trap on the roof, available at most hardware and home improvement stores. Peanut butter is a great bait inside the trap, and once you catch the squirrel, call your local animal control department to get it.
  6. If none of these work, then you’ll need to call pest control service who will place custom traps around your home. 

If you’re having squirrel issues other than gutter damage, here are some natural remedies to use that will keep the squirrels away from your garden: 

  • Spray urine from known squirrel predators on a regular basis.  
  • Sprinkle cayenne pepper, garlic pepper, and /or pepper flakes around your outdoor plants when they are about to bloom. 
  • Some gardening homeowners sprinkle blood meal around their garden.
  • Scattering dog or human hair around a garden has proven to work for many gardeners. 
  • Plant marigolds, mustard plants, or nasturtiums as a border around a vegetable garden and the strong aroma keeps squirrels away.
  • Most dogs love chasing squirrels and squirrels are scares of them!

Quality gutters can last your home a long time and provide quality water protection. Need gutter installation in Canton, GA? Call 770-735-4433 today.

Will Gutters Help?

Corner of a red tiled house with red metal gutters and downspouts

Learn More About Gutters

Having gutters on your property will be essential in directing water flow away from your roofing materials into proper pathways that avoid water from hitting your siding and pooling on your property. With too much water on your landscape, your foundation can be affected which may require costly foundation and other types of property repairs. Consider having a gutter system for your home by contacting a professional roofer to see how they can fit according to your property specifications. For your convenience here is some general information regarding gutters and why they will benefit your property. 

What Gutters Do

Gutters are designed to redirect water flow away from the foundation and siding of your home. It’s important to have gutters cleaned of leaves and debris so that they can function properly and not overflow water onto your roof or over the sides of your gutters. Make sure to have them cleaned in the fall and spring or after a particularly harsh storm.

How Gutters Work

When it rains the slope of the roof and valleys will direct water to your gutters. How gutters work is by collecting the rainwater from the roof and channeling it through to the downspouts which will, in turn, carry water to the base of the house. Water will then channel to the appropriate drainage lines.  

Are gutters supposed to be level?

Gutters should slope an inch or two for every 40 feet in a forward tilt. They will need to be level from the front to the back or risk water spilling over the edge. Using a level with gutter installation will ensure that all tighteners are affixed tightly. 

Where should gutters be placed?

Gutters will typically be placed with new homes yet if a home is absent of gutters they can be installed. They will be installed just beyond the roof eaves at a certain measurement in order to collect hail and water runoff from the roof’s slope. Typically they are installed on all sides of the home along the roof edge.

Do I need gutters around my entire house?

Gutters won’t necessarily need to be around the entirety of the home unless you have a roof that slopes in all directions. However, gutters will need to be placed around any slope. A situation where gutters won’t be necessary is if for example your roof only slopes in two directions, like toward the back and front of the home with a peak in the middle. In this case, gutters will only be needed for the front and back of the home and not the sides.

What gutters last the longest?

Seamless gutters are the better option over other gutter systems as there’s less room for issues that come with seams. In other words, there will be more durability, fewer leaks, and less maintenance. As far as materials aluminum gutters have a life span of 20 years while aluminum downspouts can last 30.

close up of metal gutters

What type of gutters are best?

  • Vinyl Gutters
  • Aluminum Gutters
  • Steel and Copper Gutters
  • Stainless Steel
  • Wood Gutters

How often should you replace gutters?

Your gutters should typically be replaced every 20 years yet with proper care and maintenance gutters can last longer. Longevity will also depend on the type of materials your gutters are made of. With aluminum and galvanized steel materials, you’ll have 20-year gutter life whereas copper materials can last 50 years or more.

Can gutters cause roof leaks?

Gutters at times can cause roof leaks. Here’s how: essentially your gutters will have to be damaged in such a way or clogged enough for water runoff to spill over onto the roof. Any present punctures or openings on your roof will have water escape through. If there are roof leaks it’s important to have a roof inspection for repairs scheduled sooner rather than later as leaks can weaken the structural integrity of your home. Your home’s interior can also be damaged by water like with your walls, ceilings, and furniture.

When Gutters Should Be Cleaned

Ideally, your gutters should be cleaned two times a year in the spring and fall. If there are more trees near your home or more frequent storms you may have to clean them more often. After a particularly harsh storm consider having your gutters checked as well.

Contact a Professional Roofer About Your Gutters Today

If you’re in need of gutter services contact your local qualified roofers for more information. Gutters are essential for properties in order to prevent water damages on materials and a shifting foundation. There are a variety of different materials and profiles to choose from so make a point to familiarize yourself with your options. You can provide more value to your property with a gutter system and better protect the conditions of your home. Consider a gutter system and contact a gutter installation expert today.

Get more information regarding gutters in Canton, GA by calling 770-735-4433 with the experts at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC today!

Do Seamless Gutters Need Cleaning?

A Seamless Gutter

Do seamless gutters need cleaning?

One reason people choose seamless gutters for their homes: less debris like leaves and twigs get caught in them. And less debris means less time and money spent cleaning them. This doesn’t mean seamless gutters never need to be cleaned. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can still get snagged in the connecting points at corners and downspouts. It’s good to periodically check your gutters in these areas, especially if water isn’t draining well, to see if anything needs to be cleared. If you are interested in installing seamless rain gutters in Canton, GA, check in with the gutter experts at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC. We offer a wide range of gutter and roofing solutions. Find out more by calling 770-735-4433.

Are seamless gutters worth it?

If you need new gutters, you might want to consider seamless gutters over standard sectional gutters. One advantage you’ll have with these types of gutters is less debris, which means less cleaning and fewer problems like leaks. Some of the pros and cons of these types of gutters include:

Pros

  • Stronger than traditional gutters
  • Fewer problems with leaks
  • Customized lengths
  • Low maintenance
  • Easier to install

Cons

  • Not suitable for do-it-yourself
  • More expensive
  • Contractor required for installation
  • Difficult to repair

Are seamless gutters really seamless?

Technically, seamless gutters aren’t 100% seamless. There are seams at corners an downspouts, but the main lengths of the gutter have no seams. The corners and downspouts will require the most maintenance with this type of gutter.

What colors do seamless gutters come in?

Seamless gutters come in a variety of colors to match your home’s design. Colors range from eggshell white to ivory to green to a wide range of shades of blue to brown, black, and gray. Most of these colors will be available for five-inch and six-inch gutters.

Do I need 5 or 6 inch gutters?

While five-inch gutters are standard for both sectional and seamless gutters, many homeowners are installing six-inch gutters. This size of gutter does have advantages, especially in the capacity to handle as much as 40% more water. Six-inch gutters are especially valuable for larger, steep-pitched roofs because water runs down these roofs faster than on other roofs. Water also runs down metal roofs faster than asphalt, so six-inch gutters are also recommended in this case. Wider gutters are also recommended when you have fewer downspouts or when you have gutters draining into other gutters. If you are planning to install half-round gutters, you’ll also want a six-inch gutter to lessen overflow.

Seamless gutters with leaf guard

If you want to lower your chances of getting leaves and other debris in your seamless gutters, you can have a leaf guard installed. Besides protecting your gutters from debris, leaf guards also shield your gutters from birds and other animals nesting in them.

Can seamless gutters be repaired?

While seamless gutters are sturdier and less prone to leaks than sectional gutters, they can still get damaged or need repairs, especially if they pull away from the house. The difficulty of repairing these gutters is one of their few drawbacks, but repairs can be made without having to replace the whole gutter system.

In fact, there are a few repairs such as patching that are actually relatively simple and inexpensive to make. Small holes—about the size of a nail hole—can be patched by cutting a piece of flashing for your patch, bending it so it fits the gutter, and then attaching it with roofing cement and sealing it with caulk or more roofing cement. You can repair even smaller holes by plugging them with roofing cement or silicone caulk.

Can seamless gutters be detached and reset?

If you need to remove your gutters to make repairs to the soffit or fascia other parts of the roof, you will have to detach the gutters from your roof. This is generally done by disassembling them at the corners and the downspouts. It’s also recommended that you remove your gutters if you are having your roof replaced to prevent the gutters from being damaged. The gutters can simply be reattached after the new roof is put on. If your gutters are damaged or leaking and in need of serious repair, you might want to put on new gutters when replacing your roof. If your gutters are in good shape, however, there is no need to do this.

A Seamless Gutter and Downspout

Who installs seamless gutters near me

Seamless gutters offer several advantages over sectional gutters, including fewer issues with debris and leaks. If you want to take advantage of those benefits in Canton, GA, look to the experts at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC. We can find the gutter solution that’s right for you and your home. Find out more about what we can do for you or schedule a time for an estimate by calling 770-735-4433.

Are Leaf Guard Gutters Worth the Investment?

leaves in a gutter system

Do leaf guard gutters really work?

Over the past few years, leaf guard gutter installation has become a debate among homeowners and roofing contractors. Some love leaf guard gutters and others say they add more work to the cleaning task. So the primary question would be, do leaf guard gutters really work?

After every spring and every fall, you get the ladder out and yard gloves on, then set out to clean the gutters. The decomposing leaves, dirt, limbs, and other debris like bird and squirrel nests. It can take a whole Saturday, or the biggest part of the day.  

The idea behind leaf guard gutters is to keep that stuff out of the gutter runs, eliminating the need to spend your Saturdays doing it.  The advocates of leaf guard gutters say it is all dependent on proper installation to get the full potential benefits of leaf guard gutter installation. 

Do gutter guards cause problems?

Those that don’t advocate leaf guard gutters are the first to tell anyone about the problems they can cause, like the debris that accumulates on top of the leaf guard, gutters start getting piles of stuff on top of the guard, affecting the curb appeal of your home. 

Another factor to consider about leaf guard gutters is warranty on your roof could be negatively impacted if they aren’t installed correctly. This is a confirmation to hiring a professional contractor that has experience in installing leaf guard gutters, because there is a right way and several wrong ways. When leaf guard gutters are attached by nails to the roof shingles, or any type of hardware, this can void the roof warranty. 

leaf guard gutters

What are the pros and cons of gutter guards?

So, as you can see there are leaf guard gutters pros and cons, and we offer the following recap: 

The benefits of leaf guard gutters:

  • Money and Time: Open gutters collect various types of debris, like leaves and limbs, that accumulate and lead to clogged gutter runs and downspouts, keeping water from flowing. Yes, even with gutter guards, you’ll have to spend some time cleaning off the top of the leaf guard, gutters themselves won’t need cleaning. 
  • Damage Prevention: As ice and snow melt, the water runs off into the gutters and then refreezes there, then additional melting ice and snow flows over the gutter and around your home’s foundation. Additionally, that excess water becomes heavy and pulls from the house or gutters collapse. 
  • causes your gutter to have additional weight, and the gutter might give in. With leaf guard gutters installed, your gutters become stronger to prevent that from happening. 
  • Safety for Humans and Home: We’ve established gutter cleaning isn’t fun, but it also has a level of danger too with the ladder climbing factor and possible electrical shocks if you hit the wiring going into your home.  If you don’t clean the gutters, they become clogged and the water that doesn’t spill over and pool around the foundation will back up under the shingles and begin rotting the roof. A leaf guard gutters installation will reduce the chances of these happening. 
  • Pest Infestation: With leaf guard gutters installed, the debris, dirt and water can’t accumulate. When debris and dirt accumulate, it makes a great place for critters to nest, while the standing water attracts bats, birds, insects, and more. 
  • Fire Prevention: Homes that are in brush fires prone areas will benefit from the extra protection that leaf guard gutters  provide by keeping dry materials like leaves and twigs covered so that fire and sparks can’t get to them. 
  • Improved Home Value: Potential home buyers will be drawn to a home with clean and properly hung gutters, and leaf guard gutters can make them even more attractive. The funny thing about gutters, they aren’t noticed when there are installed, but a home without them, gets noticed that it needs them. 

We’ve already covered how clogged gutters are worse than no gutters, but with a system of leaf guard, gutters can be a benefit to any home. So, are leaf guard gutters worth the money? For the short answer, yes, if they are installed by an experienced professional. What is the best leaf guard for gutters?  

  • Some people choose screens leaf guards. They are available in several types of materials and shapes, and while they are good at keeping leaves out, if you have pine needles and seeds, they can get clogged too. 
  • Another option is surface-tension gutter covers. Water will cling to the rounded nose and flow into the gutter, while debris and leaves fall off the edge. Small debris can get stuck but will wash out the downspout soon. 
  • Fine-mesh leaf guards’ function like screens and block everything but the smallest debris. Asphalt shingle grit can be problem for these, but a quick brush cleaning will clear that off and you’re good to go. 

A professional contractor that has experience in leaf guard gutter system can help you with the process of how to choose leaf guard gutters that will best suit your home for the area around your home. Call Affordable Gutters Plus LLC today at 770-735-4433.

How do you drain water from a roof?

water draining from roof to gutter

Preventing roof water damage

The roof of your house is the protector of your house, the contents, and your family, and so is the roof drainage system you have installed. What is a roof drainage system? The roof drainage and components assist the roof in protecting your home from the elements. 

The roof drainage system is made up of various components, two of the main ones are the gutter system and the downspout, and some parts and pieces put those together and fasten them to your house. The roof of your home is stable and robust and roof drainage and components, when professionally installed, will redirect any debris and moisture that has been left on the roof, down through roof drainage to the ground and away you’re your foundation. 

Why is roof drainage so crucial to your home and the roof? When moisture is allowed to sit in a room, it will seem under the asphalt shingles and begin to mildew, and mold growth will form. Mold is a live organism that will eat through the asphalt shingles, the underlayment, and decking. After a while, you’ll have a roof leak. 

Where do roof drains go?

Which roof drainage application to use on your roof depends on a few factors, like the roof size and slope, the appearance desired, and the level of maintenance you desire. To determine the number of drains needed for your roof, divide the roof drainage area for each leader. 

Each leader should be big enough to handle the water drainage volume. The bigger the capacity, the fewer drains needed. The spacing should be equal and located in the roof’s low points or where water accumulates.

Conventional Gutter Roof Drainage

This roof drainage is what most homes have, suitable for roofs with a two percent or greater slope. This roof drainage system is inexpensive and simple but will require regular cleaning, keeping even the smallest debris from causing a gutter system to overflow. The conventional gutter system is installed along the roof’s bottom edge and is fully visible. Downspouts are mounted on the side walls of the house. 

Scupper Roof Drainage

Scuppers are a method of roof drainage that is commonly on flat roofs with a bulwark or other perimeter barrier that encloses the roof. Scuppers are channels or open holes cut into the bulwark or roof edge. All flat roofs have some slight slope, and flat roofs with scuppers, the water drains through the scuppers, sometimes into a downspout or an extended chute that directs the water stream away from the building.

Inner Roof Drainage

Inner roof drainage that is used typically on flat roofs includes a low channel that accumulates water then feeds it into a drain that is concealed and goes into underground drainage. This roof drainage system is not visible and is freeze-resistant, both significant benefits. However, inner roof drainage requires routine maintenance for prevention purposes. 

How can I improve my gutter drainage?

Inadequate roof drainage will put your home at risk with severe water damage. From the roof, attic, ceiling, walls, and especially the basement, which will weaken the foundation. A sump pump is an additional measurement, but without the proper roof drainage system that diverts water away from your home, you’re putting your home at risk. 

So, if your gutter roof drainage isn’t working correctly, here are ten things that roof drainage experts suggest that can improve your home’s roof drainage and runoff:

  • Inspect and Clean Gutters Regularly: Experts recommend cleaning gutters twice a year: fall and spring. While cleaning them, inspect them for any broken or missing components and make repairs as needed. 
  • Gutter Guards: Gutter guards professionally installed will prevent clogs from forming and causing the roof drainage to overflow or back up under the shingles. 
  • Landscape and Plants: Create a natural solution for roof drainage problems with a rain garden that can manage the water runoff. 
  • Lengthen Downspouts: There is a retractable downspout you can add to the existing downspouts that will help with the roof drainage and keep the water flowing. 
  • Dry Well or Storm Drain: Have a plumber provide you a quote for a Sump Pump installation to direct water away from your home’s foundation and into a nearby storm drain.
  • Grading and Slope: To do this, you’ll need to hire a professional excavation, making this an expensive option, but it will allow water to flow past your home as it comes off the roof drainage system. 
  • Fill In Low Spots: If you notice there are low spots around your home, have dirt hauled to fill them. 
  • A French Drain: A French drain consists of a trench filled with gravel or sand that allows water to flow out of the roof drainage system and away from your home.
  • Impermeable Surfaces: Impermeable surfaces can cause water not to flow away. An expensive option, but if you change the existing concrete into permeable pavers, it will dramatically help.
  • Rainwater Collection: Purchase cisterns,  rain barrels and build the aforementioned rain garden to help with roof drainage problems. 

Why do my gutters overflow in heavy rain?

Gutters overflowing is caused by one of two things: The gutters are clogged, or the gutters are broken. These are the reasons you need to either clean and inspect your gutter regularly or have it done by a professional. 

white gutters on roof

Should you bury your downspouts?

You can, but you want to make sure you dig the trench deep enough but not too deep and to extend it far enough out so that the water is directed to a safe area.   The trench should be no less than six inches wide and have a 1 to 2-inch slight slope, so the water drains away from the downspouts. Be sure to bury the pipe below the frost line if you’re in the snow belt, typically thirty-two to forty-eight inches. 

If you’re a DIY homeowner, you may be tempted to do your roof drainage system yourself. Keep in mind that the roof drainage system is protecting a valuable investment for you.  It may be worth the expense to have it professionally installed. For quality installation, call 770-735-4433 today!

Can You Repair Damaged Fascia?

A Roofer Repairs Fascia Board.

Can you repair damaged fascia?

As with any component of your roof, when your fascia gets damaged or begins to rot, you can repair or replace them. What is the fascia on a house? It’s the panel or board that is directly in front of the eave. The eaves, for that matter, are the part of the roof that overhangs the home or building. When attempting fascia repair, you’ll normally need to remove the damage section to make the repair. If the damaged area is a long section of board, you might want to consider replacing the fascia. Otherwise, you can just replace the damaged sections with new boards. While some repairs might be easy to do, anytime you need fascia board repair in Canton, GA, look to the experienced professionals at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC. We are a trusted, local contractor that offers an extensive range of roof and gutter services. Give us a call at 770-735-4433 to find out how we can help.

Who does fascia repair?

A variety of contractors provide fascia repair. Usually roofers or gutter contractors can be counted on for the repair, but carpenters or a handyman with extensive experience with this type of repair can also be trusted for the repair. Because gutters are normally attached to the fascia boards, it’s good to have a contractor experienced with both gutters and fascia to make the repair. That’s something you can get with Affordable Gutters Plus LLC, a team experienced with all aspects of roofing and gutter work.

Why do fascia boards rot?

Fascia boards can rot for a variety of reasons, although rot is most commonly caused by a gutter that’s not functioning properly. Old, leaking gutters usually have misaligned downspouts that cause water to back-up against the fascia boards. In time, the excess moisture will lead to rot. Damage from storms is also a common cause of rot for fascia boards. The boards are some of the weakest parts of the roof, and vulnerable to the elements, especially wind-driven rain. Any rotted fascia will need fascia repair.

How do you fix rotted fascia?

Fascia repair will be necessary when the fascia boards are rotted. Repairs need to be made as soon as possible. To make the repairs, the following steps need to be made.

  • Make sure you indeed have rot and not some discoloration. Rot appears as dark cavities or soft spots directly on the board’s surface. Wood will feel mushy and pulpy.
  • Check for the source of moisture that led to the rot. This may be malfunctioning gutters or damaged shingles or other issues with drainage. Repairs to those sources may need to be made before the fascia is repaired.
  • Remove the damaged fascia board, starting by cutting seams and caulk lines. Pry the pieces away with a six-in-one painter’s tool.
  • After prying the board loose, check the sub-fascia, or framing underneath, for rot and replace of badly rotted. 
  • Once the repairs, if any, to sub-fascia are made, it needs to be cleaned before the new fascia board is added. Usually, you just need to scrape away paint and caulk with the six-in-one tool. Any leftover fasteners need to be removed.
  • Measure out a new piece of the exact size as the old one and cut this new board. Preferably PVC boards are used to replace the old board as better protection against rot.
  • Use galvanized exterior-grade nails to attach the new board.
  • Follow up by caulking the new board.

Replace fascia with roof

Usually, you replace fascia when replacing gutters, but you can also have the fascia replaced when you have your roof replaced. This is often a good idea as the fascia has probably aged and is showing as many signs of wear as the roof. At times, the fascia is well beyond simple fascia repair and needs to be replaced.

Does roof sheathing go over fascia?

Typically, when a roof is being installed or replaced, the sheathing overhangs the fascia slightly. If this isn’t the case, the fascia should at least be protected by drip edges, as the fascia boards are very susceptible to water damage and rot.

Replace fascia without removing gutter

In most cases, your gutters are installed on your fascia board. When you need to make a fascia repair, you will have to remove the gutters to make the repair. Obviously, once the fascia board is repaired, you will have to put the gutters back on. Fascia is always repaired or replaced before the gutters are added.

A Roofer Installs Fascia Board.

Fascia repair near me

If your fascia are damaged or rotted and you need fascia repair in Canton, GA let the experts at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC help you. We have years of experience working with fascia, gutters, and all aspects of roofing. We are a trusted, local source for these types of repairs. You can find out more a set up a time to get an estimate by calling 770-735-4433.

Can You Put a Metal Roof Over Shingles?

metal roofing

Can You Put a Metal Roof Over Shingles?

Metal roofing is a great form of roofing material. But can it be installed over shingles? The overall consensus is that it is preferable not to install a metal roof over shingles. This is because asphalt shingles are very heavy and they can present an unwelcome amount of weight on your existing home structure. Once the asphalt shingles are removed, the metal roof can be installed properly. There are also ways for homeowners to donate their old asphalt shingles. Please feel free to research places for your old asphalt shingles to be donated in your area.

What are the Disadvantages of a Metal Roof?

While there are many advantages to having a metal roof, it is is important to weigh the possible disadvantages. Please feel free to review the following provided bullet point list to find out more.

  • Metal roofs can be prohibitively expensive. Metal roofs have enduring longevity and amazing integrity. But it is important to consider that they are more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs. If you are looking for a roof that you only need to replace once in a lifetime, metal roofs are up to the task.
  • Noisy. Unfortunately, without the proper insulation material, metal roofs can be quite noisy in rainstorms and hail storms.
  • Inconsistent color matches. If you have an original metal roof installation, it may be difficult for you to color match your roof to new replacement metal panels.

What is the Best Color for a Metal Roof?

If you would like to increase the energy efficiency of your home, going with a lighter color palette is preferable. If you have a lighter colored roof, you can expect your home’s HVAC system to work less hard in order for you to remain cool during the summer. That is because the more reflectivity of the roof, the less heat it will absorb. This is especially valuable information if you live in a hot climate. Lighter colors for your roof would include white, off-white, light peach, light blue, light green, etc. The more reflective the roof, the less heat will be absorbed.

Is a Metal Roof Worth It?

As mentioned previously, metal roofs are more expensive than other roofing types, like asphalt shingles. That said, metal roofs have increased longevity and durability. If you live in an area that has high wind speeds and is susceptible to fires, a metal roof will be immensely beneficial. If and when a homeowner invests in a new metal roof, they can expect to see great benefits in the future. A metal roof won’t need to be replaced within fifty years, which means that it only needs to be replaced once a lifetime.

Does a Metal Roof Need Furring Strips?

When a metal roof is installed over shingles, there will need to be insulation in the spaces between the wood strips. It will need rigid insulation to prevent condensation before installing the roofing. Furring strips will also need to be added. It is always important to consult with a professional and established roofing company in your area to ensure that whatever occurs on your roof is nationally agreed to be a good solution.

Is Metal Roofing Galvanized

There is a traditional form of galvanized metal roofing which is a corrugated sheet of carbon steel that has a galvanized coating. This particular form of coating is created by dipping the straight sheet in hot molten zinc. In this process, the zinc ions bond with iron molecules in the steel. The result is a shiny, rust-resistant finish on the surface.

Is Metal Roofing Aluminum

Generally speaking, commercial and residential metal roofing is made of either steel or aluminum. There are also two different types of metallic coatings that are involved. One uses zinc in various thicknesses. These thicknesses will depend on product usage. The other coating is Galvalume, which is a mixture of aluminum and zinc.

How Metal Roofing Is Made

In terms of roll-forming standing seam panels, the basic process is simple. It involves feeding metal coils into a roll former. Inside the roll former, the metal coil will go through a series of rolls. These rolls bend and curve. Each time the roll moves through the machine, it will bend more.

metal roofing

Is Metal Roofing Better Than Shingles

Are you wondering whether metal roofing is better than shingles? The answer is clear: yes, in many if not all respects, metal roofing is an exceptional form of roofing. When the time comes to replace your roof, please be sure to speak with a professional roofing company that is established in your area. A professional consultation is always preferable when it comes to a serious home improvement project.

When you need metal roofing in Canton, GA, it is always best for you to choose the established experts. Our team is always available at 770-735-4433. Please feel free to reach out to us. 

What Deters Squirrels From Gutters?

A Squirrel on a Roof

What deters squirrels from gutters?

Squirrels and other rodents can cause a significant amount of damage to your roof and areas around your roof. They can chew through your fascia and nest in your attic and gutters. There are several deterrents that can prevent these animals from damaging your roof, including specially designed flashing. Squirrels can also be deterred by soaking rags with predator urine and placing them around your home and in the gutter downspouts. Mothballs also repel squirrels. Other deterrents include trimming back your trees and keeping your gutters clear of material that can be used for nests. Affordable Gutters Plus LLC installs squirrel deterrent flashing in Canton, GA to prevent squirrels and other rodents from getting into your attic through your roof. To find out more, give us a call at 770-735-4433.

What is the best way to repel squirrels?

There are all sorts of methods available to keep squirrels, rats, mice, and even raccoons out of your attic. You might consider installing special flashing that these animals can’t chew through or squeeze under as a squirrel deterrent. You could spread predator urine or mothballs around. You may have even heard that strobe lights can keep squirrels around and you may wonder, “Do strobe lights repel squirrels?” Strobe lights, as well as sound machines, are only a nuisance to the animals. They might go away for a little while, but they will be back. About the only thing these devices will do is run up your electric bill. One of the surest ways to get rid of them is to have a pest control expert come and clean them out. Once their nests are cleared out, you will need to have a contractor like Affordable Gutters Plus LLC come out and repair the damage and seal up any entries and exits to keep them out permanently.

How do you stop squirrels from climbing your house?

While pest control may be able to get rid of squirrels and other rodents out of your attic, that may not necessarily keep them from climbing on your house and seeking ways to get in. Here are some other ideas to use as a squirrel deterrent:

  • Squirrels mainly gain entrance from trees, so it’s good to regularly trim branches that touch or are within six feet of the home.
  • Along with special flashing, you can install mesh screens over chimneys and vents.
  • Utility wires are another way squirrels get on your roof. Ask your utility company if they can install loose PVC pipe around nearby wiring, which will roll and shake off unwanted pests.

Why does the squirrel keep coming back?

Squirrels, as well as other animals, keep coming back to your home because they have made a home of your house. Often they will nest in the attic because it’s actually often easy for them to access it by chewing through fascia boards or squeezing through loose flashing. They are also coming back because your yard proves to be an ample source of food for them, whether it’s acorns, nuts, and seeds from trees or even bird feeders to fruits and vegetables in your garden. Once they’ve nested, finding a squirrel deterrent to get them to leave is a difficult task. If you notice them in your attic, don’t plug up or repair holes before you’ve gotten rid of the squirrels. If they are in the attic when you do this, they will feel trapped and immediately start chewing to get out. If they are outside, they will try to find another way in. While taking action like spreading around predator urine or mothballs may deter more squirrels from moving in, your best bet is to call a professional to get rid of the animals and their nests, and then get a contractor to make the necessary repairs to your attic, roof, and other entry points.

What is a good squirrel deterrent?

There are several good deterrents that might keep squirrels away if they haven’t begun to nest in and around your home. Squirrel deterrent spray is one such option. You can buy sprays off the shelf or make some of your own using water, hot sauce, and detergent mixed in a spray bottle. Sprays tend to be effective in the short-term, especially if you spray the animals directly. It may, for instance, stop them from immediately eating up the vegetables in your garden. But two other areas are also often affected by these pests, your roof, and your attic.

Here are some hints to deter squirrels in these areas:

  • Squirrel deterrent for roof: Spread capsaicin around the siding and along areas like the fascia board. This is the active ingredient of chili peppers and used in pepper spray.
  • Squirrel deterrent attic: If the squirrels are already nesting in the attic you can soak a rag in ammonia and place it near their nest. This may serve as enough of an irritant to fully evacuate from the attic. Other options like loud sounds or strobe lights might run them off temporarily, but you are going to have to keep them going indefinitely to keep them away, and that will just drive up your electric bill.
A Squirrel Eating a Nut.

Call Us Today

If you are looking for a very effective squirrel deterrent in Canton, GA, have Affordable Gutters Plus LLC install specially made flashing for a more permanent solution to your squirrel problem. We offer a full range of roofing and gutter solutions at affordable prices. Find out more about us or schedule a service call by calling 770-735-4433.