If your DFW home doesn’t have a proper working Gutter system, you need to read these common problems facing people who do not have a gutter system or those people who do not have gutter systems at all.

Here is one of the biggest problems of all.
The Dreaded Leaky Gutter:

Leaking Gutters are a huge problem and can turn any beautifully landscaped lawn into a muddy disaster piece. Landscape erosion and splashes that turn to stains on your siding are never going to improve that curb appeal by any means.  This is where you need to take firm action against your gutters and have a professional come to explain where the leak is coming from and how it needs to be mended to avoid further leaking. A non leaking gutter is integral to any home’s health and if yours are leaking, its time to call the gutter doctor.

Another significant problem with Gutters  on your DFW home may be that you do not have a complete Gutter system on your home. Systems that are incomplete will only have gutters over the front and back doors. This should be a very scary thought. One heavy Texas rain could wreak some serious havoc on your lawn. If the water is running down from the roof and not being caught by the gutter, you need to call a gutter company immediately. This is a very serious problem and can pose serious risks not just to your beautiful “yard of the month” but to your foundation and as we all know foundation repair is no cheap task, ranging anywhere from $1,000 and above. Its a scary thought to know that your biggest investment could be under siege by some rain coming off of your house, but the truth of that matter is that it is and its nature against you.

Another huge problem facing home owners is not having splash blocks to catch the water coming out of the downspout. Water coming out of the down spout is under quite a bit of speed and will start digging holes where the downspout empties and will kill the grass and make a mud puddle where your beautiful grass used to be.

Sectional Gutter Systems

Sure they seem like a cost effective alternative, but when you really think about it and how hard gutters need to work to effectively make water move to the downspouts, you begin to realize just how silly the idea of gutters with breaks in them can be. It is 100% likely that sectional gutter systems will be more of a headache in the long run, because of all the serious maintenance that is required to keep them running close to well.

Do I need to keep my Gutters clean?

YES!

The answer is an extremely strong yes. Gutters need to stay clear of debris and other materials to stay working. Gutter cleaning and resealing is very important and this step is not to be missed. You need to reseal the gutter to keep parts together and to make sure that your system can operate properly for many years to come. This part of the gutter cleaning process should be done by a professional. This ensures quality and use of a caulk that will last and beautify your DFW home for many years to come. If you take these steps in taking care of your gutter system, you wont have to worry about too much in the way of later repairs being needed. Take care of your gutter system and it will more than take care of you.

Is cleaning my gutters a DIY project?
Gutter cleaning is not a DIY project. There are many tools necessary, that you may or may not have. Not only is the cleaning of debris from the gutter important, but also the resealing of joints and replacing any sections that might be rotting through.
This is where the professional will excel and where your average DIY’er will fall quite short. Its in making sure your angles on the gutter are correct and the flushing out and proper cleaning of the gutter and downspout.

What are Seamless Gutters?

Continuous Rain Guttering, Also known as Seamless Guttering “Seamless Gutters” is nationally recognized as the most popular form of guttering. Seventy-five percent of all guttering installed throughout the nation is continuous. Its popularity is easily understood because…

Continuous Rain Guttering, Seamless Guttering, eliminates unsightly seams

Reduces the possibility of leaks

Baked on enamel finish never needs painting

Protects the beauty of your home and landscaping

Formed on the job site for exact measurements

Most jobs are completed in one day

Many colors from which to choose from

THE PURPOSE OF GUTTERING SYSTEMS

The purpose of guttering systems is to collect water (rain) from the gutters area and disperse the water away from your home. Properly configured downspouts (leaders, drain pipes) are very essential

A faulty guttering system can contribute to damage to Soffit & Fascia, Shingles, Building Foundations, Driveways, Walkways, Landscaping.

Guttering systems require maintenance to insure protection for your home. Make sure your gutters are free from debris, leaves, granules from shingles, birds nest. The extreme exposure to nature can also cause sealant failures. Snow & Ice can loosen fasteners and should be repaired immediately to prevent costly repairs.

(We always recommend a professional for maintaining your Guttering System)

Seamless Gutters

There are many different gutter materials to choose from, including steel, aluminum, vinyl, copper. Many types of gutters (steel and vinyl in particular) are sold in 10’ lengths and require dozens of seams fastened with slip fittings, each one is a weak spot and a potential leak site. Another alternative well worth considering is the installation of seamless aluminum gutters. Seamless gutters must be fabricated on-site by a professional contractor,

The term seamless gutters can be confusing because there are seams in the system. The seams are only at the corners and downspout outlets.These joints are fastened more securely and sealed for stability and leak resistance. The Seamless Gutter itself is continuous which makes them both strong and visually more appealing.

Selecting a Contractor

Your first step is to select a contractor. As with any contractor selection, look for a company with an established reputation, and confirm their current status with your local licensing authority. The contractor will need to make a site visit to measure your home and discuss your options. At the time of the contractor’s visit, request a sample of the proposed gutter so you can see the colors, sizes and quality of the material. You’ll also want to look at a list of references with addresses so you can drive by and take a look at the finished product. When you make your final choice, be sure and get a detailed estimate in writing and payment arrangements are clearly stated.

How to Determine Gutters & Downspouts

The most commonly used is the 5″ Seamless Gutter

2 x 3 downspout for every 600 square ft. of gutters area.

3 x 4 downspout for every 1200 square ft. of gutters area.

For example: If your roof is 40ft. long and 16ft. to the peak.

40 x 16 = 640square ft. area *Requires (2) 2×3 downspouts or (1) 3×4 downpout

6″ Seamless Gutters may be required to accomadate steep pitch roofs or slate & tile and should always be used with 3×4 downspouts