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Yearly Archives: 2016

Alloy Gutter   →  About   →  Blog   →  2016
Author Alloy Gutter Categories Home Maintenance Posted on

Milwaukee M12 LED Spotlight – Like a Handheld Car High Beam

In case one brightness isn’t enough for you, the Milwaukee M12 LED spotlight has three different modes. One of them, a strobe feature, I didn’t actually realize existed until I read the documentation. Unlike many multi-mode flashlights, Milwaukee doesn’t make you power the light on and off to find the mode you want. That style of light can be really annoying as you power on and off the light repeatedly to get to what you want. Instead Milwaukee has a trigger on/off and a cleverly-named “mode” button at the back of light. Once you power the light on with the trigger pushing the “mode” button will cycle you between low and high beams. If you hold down the “mode” button, you’ll discover the strobe mode which is great for emergency use or to bust out your freshest moves from Saturday Night Fever. One thing I really like is that the light remembers what mode you used last and defaults to that each time you turn the light back on. The trigger design on the M12 LED Spotlight is great. Not only is the handle ergonomic (if you’ve held any of the M12 drills, the LED Spot will seem very familiar), but the trigger can either be depressed lightly for momentary brightness or pulled in on the way for constant on (until the trigger is pulled again in the future). Despite the whole rig not exactly being pocket-sized, the head of the tool doesn’t feel particularly heavy. The overall weight depends on whether you use the original m12 batteries, or the larger XC square shaped battery pack. I definitely prefer the XC, both in terms of runtime, but also because you can stand the light up without it toppling over. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • This light is no joke when it comes to projecting a beam far away.
  • It’s great for home inspectors, or pro’s that need to inspect dark buildings or big unlit and hard to reach areas.
  • The beam pattern has an intensely bright bullseye in the center, a slightly dimmer ring around that, and then a much dimmer broader ring around that.


    • "The Milwaukee M12 LED Spotlight kicks out a narrowly-focused 750 Lumens in high beam and strobe modes, or 400 Lumens in low beam mode. Both low beam and strobe use about 1/2 the battery power as the high beam mode (4-8 hours according to Milwaukee, with an XC 4.0 battery). Milwaukee also estimates the beam distance as 700 yards." Original Source: http://homefixated.com/milwaukee-m12-led-spotlight/

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Rain Posted on

    The DIY Drain That Will Save You Thousands

    Runoff from rain or melted snow can cause serious damage to your foundation and basement. The best solution to lead all that water away from your home? Head to your local home improvement store for a few supplies, and dig your own French drain. The job is a surprisingly simple. Start by digging a trench alongside the foundation where the water is pooling. It should be about a foot wide and at least two feet deep. Be sure to create a gradual slope in the direction you want the water to run. Add a few inches of crushed stone in the bottom of the trench, then lay down perforated PVC pipe. Before installing the pipe, it’s a good idea to wrap it in a layer of water-permeable landscaping fabric to keep dirt and roots from blocking the pre-drilled holes. Next, cover the pipe with gravel, stopping about three inches below the grade of your yard. Finish with a layer of sod to hide the drain. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • If the excess moisture is concentrated in your basement, remember that you can also install a French drain there too
  • The French drain is a classic, low-cost solution for water pooling around your foundation or in your basement.
  • Imported from Europe and popularized in Massachusetts.


    • "If the excess moisture is concentrated in your basement, remember that you can also install a French drain there too— as long as you have a sump pump to remove the water. It’s a lot more work, since you’ll need to cut through the concrete slab to before breaking out your shovel, but the concept is the same." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/articles/french-drains-101/

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Uncategorized Posted on

    Rainwater Harvesting System Market

    Various regions are facing water scarcity issues globally which leads to depletion of ground water level due to high amount of heat that is induced into ground. This in turn leads to drought situations. Rainwater harvesting is an old technique and also an initiative to overcome shortage of water with the help of modern equipment in order to store the water from house roofs and building which is further directed to the storage facility constructed on the ground level or directly into the ground. This arrangement is made to increase the ground water level. Rain is undoubtfully an ultimate source of fresh water. Based on the type, the global rainwater harvesting market is segmented as land-based harvesting and roof-based harvesting. In land-based harvesting system, the water from swollen river and surface running water can be routed using gutters which redirect water towards the storage facility. Similarly, roof-based rainwater harvesting system comprises roof catchments, guttering, storage tank, pivot joints, and others. However, compared to land-based water, roof-based rainwater is clean. Based on the end-user, the global market is segmented as residential, commercial, industrial, and others. The land-based rainwater harvesting includes underground tanks, ponds, and reservoir. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • Compared to land-based water, roof-based rainwater is clean.
  • The utilization of rainwater after storage also helps in reducing the consumption of the ground water.
  • North America is leading the rainwater harvesting market globally and is expected to sustain its influence in future.


    • "Rising adoption of rainwater harvesting system in industries and construction by builders and manufacturers is also boosting the demand in market." Original Source: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/report/rainwater-harvesting-system-market

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Gutters, Uncategorized Posted on

    Are Gutters Actually Necessary?

    The apparently straightforward fixture that runs along the edge of the roof is entrusted with a vital responsibility. Gutters are essential, know how to ensure yours do the best job possible. Gutters are an imperative component of homes’ exteriors and not just some sort of decorative feature. Professionally installed gutters create a clean edge around your home’s roofline and the gutter system on every new house for a job—guiding rain and storm water off the roof and away from the foundation of the house which is essential to the home’s structural well-being. In case your gutters are not fully functioning, and downspouts to control runoff in a safe manner, rainwater could cut pathways through your yard creating ditches, pooling in low-lying areas, and destroying your lawns, flowers, and other vegetation. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • Gutter must be kept clean and free from debris
  • Clogged gutters can be nearly as bad as having no gutters at all.
  • If you have traditional gutters on your home, you should clean them at least twice a year.

    • "No matter how gently rain falls onto your roof, the water builds up as it runs off and creates a powerful surge that, if not diverted, can hammer the ground next to your foundation." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/articles/are-gutters-actually-necessary/

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Home Maintenance Posted on

    Don’t Make These Mistakes Prepping Your Home for Winter

    Homeowners tend not to appreciate that their gutters, by channeling storm water away from the home, perform a pivotal function. If you expect your gutters to do their job, you must first clear out any accumulated debris that could eventually clog and compromise the drainage system. In addition to ensuring problem-free performance at peak efficiency, regular service also helps the furnace fulfill its estimated useful life expectancy. The HVAC technician should inspect each furnace component individually, making repairs as necessary, while also cleaning or replacing the filter. As the furnace filter goes a long way toward supporting indoor air quality and protecting the internal workings of the furnace itself, the technician may suggest that you clean or replace the filter on your own, perhaps as often as every three months. Be sure to ask. As much as homeowners fear the prospect of a frozen pipe, many forget all about the fixture most at risk—the outdoor hose faucet. Nowadays, it's easy to protect it. Simply purchase a low-cost cover to block cold air from reaching the faucet. Or better yet, install a brand-new outdoor faucet that's specially designed not to freeze. Of course, in a pinch, you can also do it the old-fashioned way: Locate and close the water shutoff valve along the line that supplies water to the outdoors. Then, to complete the process, open the faucet to clear out any remaining water. if you see branches scraping against your home's roof or exterior siding, cut them back to a distance of at least three feet. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • Don't disregard your gutters.
  • Don't omit outdoor faucets.
  • Don't trifle with trees.

    • "If you detect air leaks around their perimeters, seal them with weatherstripping, caulk, or a combination of the two." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/don-t-make-these-7-mistakes-prepping-your-home-for-winter-50609/4-don-t-underestimate-creosote?bvsp=lg

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Clogged Gutters, Gutter Guards, Gutters Posted on

    5 Ways Clogged Gutters Are Destroying Your Home

    Regularly cleaned gutters protect many key components of the home, including the foundation. Clogged gutters put the foundation at risk, storms come and go, rainwater runs amok, pooling around the base of the home and seeping into the ground, where it exerts intense pressure against the foundation. After a while, due to the pressure, the foundation begins to crack, allowing water to enter the basement resulting in extensive and expensive to repair damage. Tthe foundation may ultimately fail if the situation does not get corrected, leaving the home vulnerable to a cave-in or collapse—a catastrophe. When gutters malfunction, water gets to parts of the home that were never designed to withstand exposure to that much moisture. Windowsills and door jambs are often the first to buckle. Mold poses a legitimate health hazard, particularly if anyone in your household suffers from allergies. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • In theory, gutters are simple, straightforward components that perform precisely as intended.
  • Gutters offer protection by preventing overwhelming volumes of water from cascading onto foundation plantings.
  • Many types of insects thrive in stagnant water.


    • "If you allow clogs to render your gutters ineffective, it could take only one heavy storm to compromise or even erode your landscaping." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/5-ways-clogged-gutters-are-destroying-your-home-50590?slide_name=weak-foundations&bvsp=lg

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Installations Posted on

    Soffit Vents – How to Install

    To introduce fresh and cool air to your attic, as well as let hot air escapes from the top of the attic through ridge vents you may consider adding soffit vents. The cooling costs for your house can be reduced using and the job itself is easy enough for you to handle. In order to determine how many will be needed along each section you must first measure the area where you want to install the vent. Use a template made of wood to mark the cut lines for each location that has been cut a little smaller than the size of the vent you’re installing. It should be an inch shorter and an inch narrower than the actual vent. For a nice finishing touch paint the vent to match the soffit. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • Center each soffit vent over the hole and parallel to the eaves with the vent louvers facing in toward the house before you screw each vent to the soffit board.
  • Cut the hole using a circular or saber saw.
  • Easy to handle yourself.

    • "No one will notice it is there except you and you utility bill." Original Source: How to Install Soffit Vents
    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Solar Power Posted on

    Understanding Solar Thermal Panels

    A large amount of solar energy reflects back into space or is absorbed by Earth's atmosphere, enough energy to power homes and businesses for years. The solar thermal panels are used to heat domestic hot water. The panels are filled with antifreeze or evacuated tubes. A typical thermal-panel system can produce around 70% of a house’s hot water demands. A photovoltaic (PV) system transforms the sun’s energy into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter mounted inside the house converts the DC power to standard alternating current (AC), which is then used to power lights, appliances, and other electrical devices. If the PV system produces more electricity than you can use, the excess gets sent back to the power company and you receive a credit on your electric bill. Solar companies are now offering power purchase agreements to homeowners, which include a free solar system in exchange for government rebates. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • Unraveling the mystery of off-grid solar power and understand the basics about your system.
  • There are some nuances in solar power that you must be aware of.
  • Often the most overlooked component of any off grid system is safety.


    • Original Source: "Understanding Solar Power"

    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Gutter Material, How To Posted on

    How To – Maintain Stucco

    Stucco is used both outdoors siding and indoors wall finish, to ensure stucco looks and performs its best patching may be necessary and cleaning and with the right combination of products and tools, any homeowner can get the job done. Indoor stucco may need some paint sporadically, however as outdoor stucco are exposed to the elements, the sidings will most probably need cleaning and repair. To clean indoor stucco it often requires water and some elbow grease. Simply scrub the dingy stucco with a dampened nylon brush to saturate the surface, then rub away the buildup with a moistened microfiber cloth (or clean cotton rag). A chemical solution known as trisodium phosphate, or TSP maybe needed for deeply set stains. Homeowners must take the precautions when applying the solution, such as ventilate the area by opening windows and running a fan, wear rubber gloves, protective eye-wear, and long-sleeve clothing. Home centers and hardware stores usually have available the solution and they can advised how to use TSP safely. Combine the TSP with water in a bucket, diluting to water-to-TSP ratio of 15 to 1. Finally, apply the TSP to the affected area by means of a nylon brush and allow the stucco an hour or two to dry. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
    • The good news is that cleaning indoor stucco usually takes nothing more than water and a bit of elbow grease
    • Don’t give a minor crack the chance to become a major headache. Take swift action.
    • In fact, due to its unique formulation, you get the job done in remarkably little time.
    "if the existing surface features a smooth finish, then no problem—you can smooth the patch to an equally smooth finish with a traditional plastering tool. If, however, you need to match a decorative effect like stippling, then you may wish to take a cue from the pros who often employ ad hoc tools like sponges and kitchen whisks to create the desired effect. Once you have finished the patch to your satisfaction, you can more or less call it a day." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-maintain-stucco/?#.V85vB5grLIU
    Author Alloy Gutter Categories Uncategorized Posted on

    How to Weather Wood – Easy DIY Methods

    Making furniture look old can be done using simple tricks, people passionate about decorating or who wants to give a rustic, antique or vintage can use simple DIY tricks. There are techniques that involve sanding the surface of the furniture, or simply using the elements to give a total new look to any wood surface. Different ways to weather the wood can so that it appears to have lived through years for sunshine, spills, wear and tear despite being a new piece. Some of the techniques will age your furnishings quickly. Some of the looks you can give the wood are fake wear and tear, go grey, rich wood stain, weather with paint or bleach with a sun bath. KEY TAKEAWAYS:
    • Different wood gets different results, despite using the same process. And whatever that process, it’s never an exact science.
    • Nothing is permanent. If you’re not crazy about your end results, rest assured that they’re only surface deep!
    • You can always paint it, or strip it and try again, thanks to the forgiving nature of this beloved building material.
    "Naturally, wet wood looks very different when dry, so let your treatments dry completely before deciding to add another layer." "Use the elements to weather your wood. One sunny afternoon could add years to your furniture’s appearance. This method only works with tannic woods, like redwood, cedar, pine, mahogany, and red oak, so check what type of wood your piece is made of before you begin." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-weather-wood/?
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