Why do I need gutters?
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Gutters protect your landscaping from damage
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Gutters protect entryways and allow entry/exit without
getting wet
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Gutters prevent flooding around the home and protect the
foundation
What size gutters and downspouts do I need?
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6-inch gutters are usually sufficient for pitched roof
with asphalt shingles
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Most barrel tile and flat roofs will require 6-inch wide
gutters
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Some tile roofs may require a larger 7-inch gutter
depending on pitch of roof, height of tiles, and the
length extend past the edge of the roof. Your estimator
will advise you of the proper size gutter your roof will
require.
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Downspout size varies depending on the amount of water
coming off the roof
Do you charge by the foot?
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Yes. Gutter prices are based on a price per linear foot.
The price per foot is determined by the type of gutter,
roof type, height of roof, and the difficulty of the
installation. Your estimator will measure your roof and
provide a detailed diagram of the proposed installation.
Do you give free estimate?
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Yes, estimates are provided free of charge, with no
obligation.
Do you give estimates over the phone?
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It is difficult to quote an installation sight unseen. A
rough estimate can be given verbally, but for an exact
price an estimator must either do an on-site estimate or
have access to architects blueprints.
What is a seamless gutter?
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A seamless or extruded gutter is formed by running a
coil of flat metal through a gutter-forming machine.
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Each gutter is cut to the exact length needed, on-site
at the time of installation.
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Seamed gutters have a joint or lap-seam, usually every
ten feet. These seams expand and contract and are
potential for leaks.
Can gutters be screened?
·
Screens on
top of the gutters are utilized to prevent leaves and debris
from entering and clogging the gutters. While they will keep
debris out of the gutters themselves, the homeowner must
still clean off any leaves or debris that pile up on top of
the screening.
Are different colors available?
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Yes, aluminum gutters are available from the factory in
several different colors. Your estimator will bring a
color chart and samples upon request.
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Gutters in copper and galvanized steel have a natural or
bare (bright) metal finish. These will oxidize and
darken over a period of time.
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Aluminum gutters may be painted over with a standard
exterior house paint. The manufacturer recommends
priming with X.I.M. bonding agent.
Can the gutters be cleaned?
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Keeping the interior of the gutter free of debris,
leaves, etc., will prolong the life of the gutter and
prevent leaking.
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The exterior of the gutter can be cleaned with non-
abrasive household cleaners to remove grime, water
stains, bug droppings and tree sap.
Manufacturer recommends:
·
113 cup of tide (or similar detergent)
·
213 cup Soilax (available at K-Mart, Wal-mart, Target, etc.)
·
1 quart liquid bleach
·
3 quarts water
Caution
greater concentrations may damage finish. Avoid contact with
skin or the eyes. Wear gloves and eye protection. The
solution can be sprayed or sponged on with a soft bristle
brush. Allow to sit for 15 minutes, then brush again and
rinse with hose. Caulking compounds and roof tar may be
removed by using reasonable quantities of degreasing
solution or mineral spirits rinse with hose.
What kind of warranty/guarantee do we offer?
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20 years on gutter material
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20 years on enamel finish
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2 years warranty on labor
How are gutters attached to the roof?
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There are 4 general ways gutters are attached
Ø
Spikes and ferrules (most common way of installing)
Ø
Internal hanger screwed into facia
Ø
External hanger screwed into facia
Ø
Timberlock screws and ferrules into facia
I have a stucco facia. Can gutters be installed?
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There are several different types of stucco facia. Your
estimator can advise you if it is possible to install
gutter on your home.
My roof is
being replaced and it already has gutters. Can the gutters
be taken down and reinstalled once the new roof is on?
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Removing the gutters will void any original warranty.
Unless it is a small straight piece it is usually
difficult to remove the gutter without damaging it or
destroying the integrity of the seams.
Do we install custom gutters?
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Yes, several types of custom style gutters are
available. Example: box gutter, half-round
(semi-circular), etc.
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An estimator will gladly discuss the different types
available
What is a header box (drainage head, scupper head,
catch-box)?
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A header box is designed to catch the water coming from
a scupper (roof drain) or a soffet drain. A downspout
runs from the header box to the ground. 12-inch wide and
15-inch wide headers are standard; other custom sizes
are available upon request.
Do I need a permit?
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Permit requirements vary depending on county and city.
Your estimator will advise you of any permits required
for your install. Permit prices if any will be added to
your estimate.
When should gutters be installed on a home?
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After any roof work is completed (to avoid damage to
gutters)
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After any painting or pressure cleaning
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Before any extensive landscaping (to prevent damage to
new landscaping)
Can downspouts drain underground?
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Yes. Generally we do not install underground drainage
systems. Any digging or installation of PVC sewer pipes
can usually be done by your sprinkler or landscaping
service. We can tie our downspouts into standard 4-inch
sewer pipe.
What is Supergutter?
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Supergutter or structural gutter is a specialized
load-bearing gutter built into a screen enclosure or
screened porch. A screen company must install it.