People are mindful about keeping the exteriors of their house clean, but one thing most of the homeowners tend to forget is maintaining their drainage system. Maybe they lack time for inspecting their drainage system or are simply afraid to handle the cleaning process.

However, taking care of the drainage system is not that tough. The best way of doing so is through prevention. Usually, if you take preventive measures during what goes down your gutters, there will be no need for cleaning them very often. Apart from taking preventive measures, certain things can happen, especially clogs and blockages, that need to be restricted by cleaning the gutters regularly.

The clogged gutter could be a result of garbage clutter, leaves, dirt that might accumulate near your gutters during storm or breeze. If you do not clear this clutter from the exteriors of your house frequently, it could result in clogged gutters and a disrupted drainage system. If the condition worsens, then it may lead to costly damages which will result in calling eaves trough experts for the services.

Here are some tips for maintaining healthy drainage system-

1) Spruce up your gutters-

The only way to keep your gutters clean is by cleaning them twice or thrice a week with the right equipment. Sometimes the small leaves, dust particles and hair can go deep down to block the inner pipelines, and all this debris can only be extracted using the right equipment and tools.

Another important thing to use is the drain cleaner while cleaning the gutters. Bacteriological drain cleaner could be used to keep your channel free from growing bacterias that may later result in the dispersion of spores and growth of molds ion all the places.

2) Use leaf guard or gutter protection-

Install leaf guard and gutter protection on all the plug holes to limit the amount of waste that gets down the pipelines. Leaf guards prevent the rotten leaves and plant debris to get inside the gutters and downspouts during the time of rainstorm, allowing only the water to seep through it; thereby, omitting blockages.

3) Look for the signs of trouble-

Problem with the drainage systems is not entirely noticeable until you inspect them intricately. Maybe it is not the leaves and garbage that is causing the stagnant water around your house; it could be the water leakages from certain pipes or the channels being invaded by the rodents who have damaged the drainage system. Leaks and white patches are the signs of mold and mildew that can be a sign of definite nuisance and such problems must be solved immediately before the things get worse.

5) Plant your trees away from the roof-

Trees must be planted away from the exteriors and roof since the branches can lean on and stick to the walls of the house, causing the leaves to fall either on the rooftop or directly into the gutter during a storm or heavy breeze. Try to trim the branches of your trees if they were planted long back.

There is nothing as exciting as building and living in a house that is specifically tailored to your visions and needs. From selecting an appropriate piece of land to constructing it with the best materials and decorating it to represent your personality and style – the entire process is indeed worthwhile. However, if it is your first time then there might be plenty of challenges you would have to go through before getting to slide the key into the lock of your new house.

Read below the step by step guide to learn about the process and planning to have your home ready to move in. Following is a detailed description of how to build a custom home:

1. Purchase a Land

When it comes to choosing the right home site, you have to do ample research and then buy a land real estate that accommodates your needs. Even if a piece of property seems perfect, there are a lot of things your seller might not tell you right away. However, asking these questions can give you a clear path further –

• What is the property size?
• Who are the neighbors?
• What kind of utilities and facilities does the property have?
• What is the orientation of the property?
• Are there any back taxes, debts or liens?

2. Finalize the Home Design Essentials

The second phase of custom home building involves designing a home to match your preferences and tastes. It is the most exhausting yet a thrilling experience – to give your family and kids a home that caters to their specific requirements. These are some important considerations while deciding a home design –

• Room size and arrangement
• Open or segmented floor layout
• Cabinets and countertops
• Type of HVAC system, etc.

3. Contact Professionals for Support and Guidance

The next phase is all about assembling your custom home team to give life to your dreams. This team aids in putting the plans into action and executing the project well in the first go. Here is the list of experts you would need in the process –

• A custom home builder or general contractor
• An architect
• An interior designer
• A landscaping contractor

Once you are done with hiring a specialized team, apply for building and electrical permits. Also, get homeowner’s insurance to insure it from the start.

4. Start Building

When all your plans are approved by the reviewing committees or other concerned authorities, you can finally ask the builder/contractor to begin the construction of your home. Of course, there can be highs and lows during this phase but if you break the entire project into these milestones, it can become less of a hassle –

• Site preparation
• Foundation and framing
• Installation of heating and cooling, plumbing, and electric systems
• Flooring and paint
• Fitting the cabinets, countertops, and kitchen appliances
• Giving the exterior finishing touches like rain gutters and decorative mouldings
• Landscaping

Most homeowners who plan to sell their old house for a new place always look forward to getting good value for their property. It is true that if your kitchen, toilets are in good condition then you will get a better prince in this competitive market. However, if the curb appeal and aesthetics are not maintained, especially of the outside home then your home value may differ. Gutters and eavestrough are a good addition to your house, not only they prevent various hazards but they also help you to increase the value of your house.

Gutters are important in many ways, including enhancing your curb appeal, provides protection of your home. If gutters don’t function properly then it may bring you various kind of troubles. Improper drainage leads to waterlogging in and around your home. Rainfall can cause erosion leading to a decrease in the strength of your foundation.

You can invite professional from home remodeling industries to help you renovate your house but it is more important to call experienced gutter specialists who can manage the gutter system of your home. They understand the nitty-gritty of the gutter system and know the right procedures for installing Gutter systems that can keep them functional for years. They direct rainwater away from your house and protects your foundation, siding, and roof from any water damage. If you don’t have a proper gutter system then your house can be prone to various significant damages which can turn burdensome on your pocket by additional investment for the repairs.

Here are some reasons as to how gutters increase the value of your house:

1. The gutter may seem costly when you buy it for the first time, however, it is just a matter of initial investment. With a seamless gutter system, you never have to worry about additional maintenance cost as it hardly requires any kind of repair. They can be maintained very easily and the value of your house increases.
2. There are gutter systems that are made up of cheap materials and they also don’t look as if they are a part of the house. Nevertheless, if you go to a quality professional, they will help you set up a gutter system that not only enhances the aesthetics of your home but also provide you with high-quality premium gutters. These days gutters are available in variable colors and materials that provides your house with a cleaner look.
3. A gutter helps to direct the flow of water away from the house and not towards the house. In this way, it protects the foundation and prevents moisture from entering the basement. Hence there will be no mold growth and your next buyer wouldn’t have to spend extra money in the removal or protecting the house from snow melting or rainwater. Hence a buyer will always look for properties that have functional gutter systems.

These days gutters can be installed professionally and they can be cut as per the requirement of the site. Your buyers will definitely inspect this factor and it will make them more satisfied. Hence you will be able to avail great value for your house.

If you own a house, then the first question that comes to your mind is “if the gutter is necessary?”. Gutters are home to various flora and faunas, they not only attract nesting birds but are prone to clogging. Further, their capacity to hold water is limited and it can eventually wear off from your roof or tilt. The most debated type of gutter is the rain gutter. In case you have a sloping roof, you can omit gutters from your modern home. But installing a gutter and eavestrough is essential and beneficial in many ways. It is best if you weigh all the pros and cons before installing a gutter or an eavestrough at your home. This article deals with reasons to install gutters on your new house.

PREVENT EROSION

Those homes that are built to code are situated on a slight slope to help guide runoff away from the foundation. When rain flows off your roof without taking the gutter system, it leads to erosion. Heavy rainfall can cause massive erosion by washing soil off each time it rains. This will further cause your landscape to wear down, by directing the flow towards your house rather than away from it. Erosion also hampers the foundation by causing it to settle which leads to uneven floors, cracked walls, and chimneys as a result.

PROTECT GARDEN

If you are a garden person then you are to surely benefit from the gutter system. Many homeowners who enjoy gardening tend to plant flowers and shrubs right next to their house. This not only creates a pleasing aesthetic sense but it also acts as a windbreaker. However, if you do not have a gutter, soil erosion will take place and it will wash your garden off completely. Even when there is minimum erosion, it can create puddles of water which will drown your plants and ruin the whole garden set up. Melting snow will also drip down and freeze overnight into solid sheets of ice that could kill evergreen shrubs.

PREVENT BASEMENT FLOODING

Rainwater is heavy and when it is saturated, it is heavier. So when this water flows from your roof and pools around the house, it causes tremendous pressure on your foundation. The pressure over time may cause the basement walls to crack. Even a tiny crack in the foundation walls can make water sweep in your basement. Water may or may not be substantial but it is enough to promote mold growth causing serious physical and health hazard.

PROTECT THE SIDING

Rainwater carries a lot of undue particles such as leaves, dirt, asphalt shingles etc. Over time this makes your house looks unkempt and affects your curb appeal negatively. Further, it can lead your sidings to rot, especially if they are made up of wood. Rotten sidings don’t look pleasingly aesthetic and invite pest into your house. This will shake the structural integrity of your house and will cost you a bomb.

Hence, you must understand all the improvements that your house needs. Try to get in touch with a professional gutter installation company who has an experienced team to help you with your gutter installation.

Are you concerned about the safety of your home and family? If so, you must consider repairing those loose, cracked, faded, or damaged home siding. Residential sliding is extremely important to keep your family protected, reduce your utility bills, and improve the curb appeal of your home. Most of the sidings are built for winds up to 110 mph; however, to ensure that wind doesn’t rip it off you need siding that is strong, sturdy, and properly installed. Since installing siding on your home can be expensive and time-consuming, it’s important that you get it right the first time.

As such, in order to ensure the best results, you will want to do your research to hire the best residential siding contractor for the job. Whether you need siding repair or re-installation, make sure you hire the right contractor for the job. Here in this post, we have provided a list of 5 must-ask questions to find a qualified and reliable contractor for the job.

1.    Are you licensed and insured?

The siding contractor you hire must be properly licensed and registered to perform the work. Though not every state requires contractors to obtain a license, but make sure to know the rules in your area to prevent obstacles in your remodeling project. Moreover, make sure to verify the contractor’s insurance coverage to protect you from liability in the event of an accident. A responsible siding installation company will make sure that their workers are protected by worker’s compensation insurance.

2. How many years of experience you have?

Ideally, you should look for a siding repair contractor who has maintained business in your area for several years. Ask the contractor for a business card or letterhead with a local, physical address. The number of years in the business is a good indication to determine their reliability and know-how of the job.

3. Is it possible to add more insulation during siding replacement?

When the old vinyl siding is replaced, ask the contractor how they can add more insulation to your home. Siding replacement helps in decreasing your heating and cooling bills. Therefore, if you’re concerned about reducing your bills, ask the contractor if it would be possible for them to add more insulation. Always discuss different with them the types of insulation that will work best for your space.

4. Do you offer guarantees or warranties?

Before hiring a contractor, ask what product and workmanship warranties they offer. A reliable siding contractor should be able to guarantee their work. To get the best quality siding installation services to make sure that your contractor is able to provide product and workmanship warranties that may come with all the materials used in your remodeling job.

5. Are all costs included in your estimate?

The home siding installer you hire should provide you a written estimate for the cost of labor and materials. Make sure that your home siding repair or replacement project estimate includes everything from labor, to materials, to waste removal, to applicable permits and any other contractor incidentals. The contractor you hire should also be transparent about the siding brands and types of materials that are included in the estimate.

Gutters are the first line of defence when it comes to protecting your home from water damage. Gutters guild and lead water away from your home and they help to protect the exterior walls and doors of your home. With time, gutters get damaged after withstanding several harsh weather conditions and if you are not careful, water can easily seep into your walls and cause basement flooding.

It is more expensive to do damage control caused by damaged gutters than it is to repair or replace them. Gutters can last for decades and therefore, homeowners cannot easily tell when it is time to replace their gutters when the need arises. If you are not sure whether your gutters need replacing, these are warning signs that you should look out for.

Decay or separation

It is not easy to notice small separations and decay unless during a large storm. Once in a while you need to monitor your gutters, especially in large storms to detect points of weakness in your gutter. Most people tend to overlook tiny amounts of decay and small separations on their gutters. When they decide to act on the matter, they simply use sealants to manage the problem but this is usually a temporary solution. With time, the problem worsens and it is only a matter of time before they need to replace their gutters.

Unlevelled gutter seams

Also known as gutter joints, gutter seams are sections that join gutters. Over time, gutter seams weaken and they develop gaps which allow water to seep through during a heavy downpour. If you notice gaps on your gutter seams, you need to call in professionals who specialise in repair/replacement of gutters in Toronto.

Paint fading on your gutters

One certain way to tell that your gutters need replacing is when you notice the fading of the paint. Aluminium gutters are painted using baked enamel which makes it hard for them to flake or peel. However, after being exposed to the sun for long, the paint on your gutters fades. Paint plays a vital role in maintaining your gutters because it repels excessive moisture from getting into your gutters. If you notice that your gutters are faded, you have an option to repaint them. You can only do this if you are a 100% sure that there are no underlying issues on your gutters. The best way to handle faded gutters is to replace your gutter system to avoid future complications.

Mildew along the foundation of your home

If you notice mildew or pools of water showing up near your home’s foundation that is not a good sign. Gutters are meant to lead water away from your home and that is why they are fitted with downspouts to ensure water flows a few feet away from your home’s foundation. When water starts to build up near the foundation, it eventually gets into the basement which results in smelly mildew growth. So, if you notice water pooling near the foundation of your home, this is a sign that your downspouts and gutters need replacing.

Sagging gutters

Whether you gutters need replacement or not, you need to ensure that you occasionally maintain fasteners which hold your gutters along your roof’s edge. If you find that you keep re-securing fasteners because your gutters are pulling away from the roof that should be a warning sign that your gutters need replacing. Gutters end up sagging if your fascia boards are rotting, there is stress on gutters brought about by snow damage or your gutters are waterlogged. When this happens, replacing your gutter becomes imminent.

Watermarks

When you notice watermarks underneath your gutters that is a clear indication that they are overflowing or leaking. If left unattended for long, this type of water intrusion causes damage to your fascia and soffit board.

An eavestrough is a gutter than is fixed beneath the edge of a roof – and cleaning an eavestrough is a daunting, and often, a dangerous task to perform. Without proper equipment, and without taking accurate safety measures, it is all too easy to slip and fall, or hurt yourself while cleaning out the eavestroughs. It is recommended that you hire a private company, or call a professional service, to clean your eavestroughs for you – for professional services will be able to finish the job with efficiency, and will make sure that adequate safety measures are followed while doing the job.

While looking for professional services, or for companies that allow you to hire their professionals for eavestrough cleaning, it is imperative that you ask the serviceman for their past references, or past clients. If the serviceman refuses to divulge that information, then be wary of who you choose to hire. If you do manage to obtain any information about the past clients and customers, it is advised to give them a call, or to contact them in some way to see just how good this company is – for personal feedback from other customers is always honest and can be trusted. Make sure to ask former clients about functionality and efficiency, and how well the job was done.

The next thing to check on while looking for eavestrough cleaning companies is whether they have the appropriate licenses and legal requirements to practice their profession in the area you’re living in. Make sure that the company whose services you choose to hire has some form of insurance to offer as well, in case something goes wrong during the cleaning service, so you won’t be held liable for any damages caused, to either property or to the servicemen.

It is recommended that you visit the offices of the cleaning company at least once, and see the interior of the offices for yourself; and the demeanour of the servicemen and administrative staff as well. This is nothing but simply confirming the professionality of the company you choose to hire, and whether the servicemen are experienced and are respectful and professional in the workspace. Another benefit to visiting the offices is that it’s easier to have your questions answered, including questions about the rate at which they charge you for their services, or price ranges for various packages offered, if there are any. This way, it is useful to get professional advice as well – in case you feel as though you can do the job on your own, it is always useful to get advice from a professional, to know the best way to approach and tackle the problem.
Century Aluminum is one such company that offers its services for protection and maintenance of your property. Being accredited by various boards gives those who approach Century Aluminum a sense of satisfaction, knowing that professional service will be guaranteed. Century Aluminum offers its expert services to the public at very competitive market rates, ensuring that everyone involved – servicemen and customers – are satisfied.

Keeping the gutters well cleaned is also an integral part of home maintenance project. If you have been ignoring the cleanliness of gutters for some time, it is perhaps a wakeup call for you in order to keep your home safe from any structural damage in future. There are many problems that arise simply because the homeowners do not pay much attention to this area. Following are some of the benefits associated with regular gutter cleaning:
• Reduces the chances of water damage
Gutters are designed for gathering water from your house and then removing it from your place as well. The water accumulated on your roof needs to drain somewhere. Because of this reason, gutters are specially designed to force water off the roof. In case of clogged gutters, they fail to perform their due task and results in water accumulation. This matter should not be ignored for a long time because it poses threat to the overall structure of the house and there is a chance that you get a leaky roof very soon.
• Keeps mold and mildew at bay
There are several health benefits associated with clean home gutters as well. Leaky roofs invite moisture inside and this ultimately leads to mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew have severe side effects on the overall health of homeowners. They are usually known for instigating respiratory ailments. Once you have clean gutters in your home, your family members can enjoy a healthy environment.
• No replacement
If the gutters have not been cleaned and are clogged for a long time, there comes a time when replacement of the entire roof becomes mandatory. This is surely an expensive project but you will have no other choice then. Hiring professionals for cleaning gutter is easy and cost effective at the same time. There is a considerable difference in their service charges and the cost of replacing roof.
• Keeps yourself safe from insects
Stagnant water happens to be an ideal breeding space for mosquitoes and other insects. They breed and spread different types of diseases. Once the moisture is present in your home, you are welcoming termites and cockroaches that also pose serious health issues to the homeowners. Clean gutters ensure a healthy environment in the house and keep the home dwellers safe from many diseases.
• Foundation damage
Once water starts accumulating on the roofs, it begins to leak down the walls of the building and ultimately sinks into its foundation. This would surely damage the foundation gradually. It is the foundation of the house that determines the overall strength of the structure. If the foundation is damaged, its strength would diminish gradually as well.
• Prevents landscape destruction and maintains the beauty of the house
Leaky roofs, moisture accumulation, moist walls and insects’ proliferation never portray a nice image of the house. These elements also have a psychological effect as well. A well cleaned gutter makes it easy for the water to leave the house easily and helps in maintaining the true essence of the house. If you have no time to clean gutters at your own, you can always seek professional assistance in this regard.

It will not be wrong to say that the beauty and the true value of your house are dependent on the quality of gutters. Gutters that is full of debris, leaves and other materials become heavy. When water overflows, it leaks behind the gutter and later seeps into the house. If you want to protect your house from any structural damage, you must be vigilant in keeping the gutters clean. You just need to give this area its due importance and you will feel the difference yourself.

Gutters perform a critical task of diverting rain water away from a home’s foundation. However, they end up collecting lots of dead branches, leaves, dirt, and other debris. As such, it is advisable to inspect the gutters at least twice a year in order to make certain they are enduring the elements well, continuing to do their job and they are free of debris as well as dirt accumulation.

During a biannual inspection, ensure to have the gutters and eaves troughs thoroughly cleaned, the slope of the horizontal sections at the edge of the roof checked, and the drainage coming out of the downspouts examined. If you opt to carry out these undertakings yourself, then you must have tools such as garden hoses, ladders and gloves in your possession.

Make things easier by including several digging tools for removing stubborn debris from your gutters. A couple of buckets, one for carrying equipments and the other for holding dirt and leaves, are also recommended. A biannual gutter and eaves-trough inspection includes:

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Gutters are extremely important portions of your building structure. It is where rainwater passes through, just so it will not build up in your roof. Being the important structure that it is, it pays to have a well maintained gutter in your home. Remember that when choosing the type of material for the construction of your gutter, the first thing to be considered is its durability. It should be made of something that can withstand the test of time. To give you a bird’s eye view as to the type of material for your gutter, here are your options:

Wood

Wooden gutters are rarely installed now because it is much more expensive when compared to other types of gutters. In fact, prices range from $12 to $20 per linear foot. You can say that is quite cheap but you have to consider that aside from that, wooden gutters also require a lot of maintenance prior to and after installation.

Copper

This material is rust-free because of its natural patina. It can last long that is why many people have used such a material for constructing their gutters. Price ranges from $15 to $20 per linear foot so prepare some cash if you want to have copper.

Vinyl

This is easy to cut to the size that you want and you can even do it yourself. It is also rust and rot-free. They come in various colors and this gives you the option to choose which hue matches your house. However, it is not that lasting because they get brittle when exposed to extreme cold, heat or with age. If you live in a tropical area, this type may be good for you. It is less expensive with its price of $3 to $5 per linear foot.

Galvanised steel

If heavy precipitation is your concern, then this is for you. It can hold up against weather elements and can last forever provided you have it treated prior to installation so that it will not rust easily. Otherwise, you will end up spending money for an investment that is not worth it.

Aluminum

This is the most commonly used material for gutters because it is rust-free. Although it is not as strong as steel or copper, it can endure extreme weather changes. If you decide to use aluminum gutters, choose primary aluminum as this is more likely to have a consistent quality compared to a secondary type.

Other things to remember when choosing your gutter materials

These are not only the considerations in choosing your gutter materials. You should also pay attention to its structure. It could be seamless or traditional. Seamless gutters come in one piece but do not be misled by the idea that they do not have seams because they do. These are at the ends of the gutter and at the corners. Leaks may start from any of these areas. It is an advantage to have this type because it does not require too much cleaning and birds have no way to go in. The only disadvantage of this gutter is the cost and you need to hire a professional gutter installer.

On the other hand, traditional gutters come in sections. Damaged segments can be easily replaced without taking off the whole thing. The drawback for this type is it requires to be cleaned often. Its in-between seams should be cleaned of debris regularly for this may result to the formation of rust and sediments.

Gutter size should also be a factor in choosing. This greatly depends on the climate of the area where you reside. If you live in an area with heavy precipitate, have a bigger or wider gutter. A house built in an area with many trees needs a wider gutter to avoid clogging of leaves.

Factors that matter when building gutters

Apart from materials, its different types and sizes, it also pays to consider the design of the gutter before building one. Amongst designs to choose from are k-style gutters which has a decorative shape that makes them look like crown mouldings. These gutter designs are available in a wide array of option that you can choose from. Half-round gutter versions are also available. These ones are made of half-round tubes and are most popular in historic or traditional homes.

Gutters in Toronto come in different shapes and sizes with different materials that can be used for construction. Each type of material used in gutter construction differs from those of others – this is one thing to take note of. With these different materials come pros and cons too. It can involve sturdiness and cost which are obviously vital to making a purchase. You have to weigh in also on all other factors that are crucial with the investment. The bottom line is you must pick one material that you think will work for your needs in the best way possible.