Dirty Gutters: Buyers Are Looking at Your Gutters

We’d all rather other things than spend an hour or two up a ladder cleaning out our gutters. It can be a quick job if you do it regularly, however not many of us enjoy climbing a ladder with a bucket, a mini shovel and a brush, scooping rotting leaves into the bucket, then climbing back down, only to move to the ladder half a step and do it again. No wonder most of us ignore this job to watch TV, have a nap, walk the dog or do nothing at all. When leaves clog your gutters, it stops water being able to flow away. This build-up of water must go somewhere and will often seep into your home. Especially when it goes unnoticed, this water will build up and cause mold issues. Believe it or not, if you’re trying to sell your house, people will notice if your gutters are dirty. No, they probably won’t climb ladders to have a peek, but they will know. Bugs love gutter debris, especially when it’s moist. They’ll happily make their home in your gutters, taking every opportunity to sneak into your house. And no one likes to be constantly swatting bugs when walking through a home. Termites also love rotting branches that collect in gutters, so you run the risk of a termite infestation if you don’t clean your gutters KEY TAKEAWAYS:
  • The harsh truth is that if you ignore gutter cleaning, it will cost you dearly.
  • Cascading water from the gutter not only ruins garden beds but can also fall and sit along the foundations of your home.
  • If your house is surrounded by trees, you may need to do this job more often (every season is recommended). However, if you’re tree-free, twice a year will do.

  • "Overfilled gutters can create a waterfall effect onto your garden beds below. Although waterfalls are a beautiful sight in nature, they’re not so marvelous when they’re caused from a blocked gutter." ORIGINAL POST: http://blog.homesales.com.au/latest/dirty-gutters-putting-buyers-off/

    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

    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/

    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/?

    How To Keep Mold and Mildew Away After Flooding

    To clean the mold and mildew in your home you need to take some precautions, if you have a serious problem of fungus on the walls, it may be better to seek the help of an expert. Make sure you wear eye protection, gloves and a mask for the face to avoid contact with the spores released by the fungus. Open windows or use a fan. Mold and mildew are the terror of most homes. Not least because they can be bad for your health. But luckily, you can use everyday cleaning products to end the fungi and prevent them to re-appear. In this case, it is important to go straight to the root of the problem. The mold usually grow in warm and humid environments without much air circulation. Since the mold is another type of fungus that can grow on the walls. It is characterized by patches that can spread quickly if not treated. In general, these fungi grow only by the ambient conditions. Other times, they may be the result of a storm or plumbing leaks inside or outside the home. The air conditioning piping, for example, can generate excessive moisture inside walls if it is not properly isolated. To find out if the dark area on your wall is actually mold or mildew, apply a little bleach in spots using a piece of cloth. If the stain clear after a few minutes, you found fungi. If not, probably its walls are just dirty.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:
    • There is something that people forget. All it needs is a little moist and a little dark space and it can grow so quickly.
    • It can be there and you won't know at all.
    • Your ceiling fan, very very good make sure you use in an counter clockwise position so it is creating the breeze throughout the house.
    "You think everything is clean and all of a sudden a month or so later you see just a kind of white specks and you wonder, it looks like dust on it and it is actually those mold spores that are growing, and sometimes it will be just as white as can be and other times is dark black mold." Original Source: http://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/keeping-mold-and-mildew-away-after-flooding/

    Small Roof Leaks – Major Damage

    A small roof leak can cause great headache and be quite costly if not fix promptly. Finding where the leak is can be hard and you might need to find a reliable roofer that will get it right the first time. Minor leaks can cause major damage. Listen to a 60 seconds home improvement radio tip and avoid roofers that give you a list of bullet points with important details missing. Ensure that you know exactly what materials the contractor plans to use. Second-rate supplies maybe cheaper, but at the end you might need additional repair that will cost you a lot of money. KEY TAKEAWAYS
    • Make sure you’re dealing with a reputable contractor.
    • Take a closer look at the estimates you’ve already received. How comprehensive are they?
    • A careful review takes time, but it can save you thousands of dollars—and loads of grief.
    "Don’t let your roofer talk you into nailing new shingles over the old ones. You’re better off inspecting the sheathing below and correcting any issues before moving forward. Finally, before you sign the contract, read it over so you understand any liabilities and warranties. If anything goes wrong on the job—or after the crew leaves—you’ll know exactly where you stand." Original Source: http://www.bobvila.com/articles/bob-vila-radio-replacing-your-roof-2/?

    Do You Need New Gutters? Here Are Some Tips That Will Help You Figure That Out!

    You may not pay that much attention to your gutters, but it is very important that they are functioning properly. One of the main reasons that it is important is because you do not want rain water to be pooling near your foundation, as this could potentially cause water leaks in your basement. Another reason is that rain water can erode away your concrete pavers and landscaping. An easy way to fix these problems is to ensure that you have properly functioning seamless gutters. Reasons you might need new seamless rain gutters include:
    • Your gutters have leaky corners when it rains
    • Your gutters overflow when it rains
    • Water goes behind the gutters
    • Your gutters have visible cracks
    • The paint on your gutters is peeling - this means that the gutters are leaking
    • There are water marks below your gutters - indicating that your gutters are leaking and leaving these marks behind
    • Your gutters are pulling away from the house
    If you are not sure if you need a seamless gutter repair or replacement, call Alloy Gutter Company Inc today for a free estimate. We have been in business for over 37 years and are experts in our field, so we are happy to offer suggestions and do the troubleshooting for you!

    Why Do You Need Seamless Gutters?

    In a state like Michigan that experiences frequent rainfall, seamless gutters are of utmost importance. Water can be very damaging to the structure of your home, and gutters are your first defense against water. Having seamless gutters on your home will prevent rain water from flowing off your roof right onto your head as you enter and exit your home. Without gutters, sheets of water will run right off of your roof. Seamless, as opposed to sectional, gutters minimize annoying, dripping leaks. Gutters protect your expensive concrete work. Constant dripping water can erode away your walkways, driveways, paver sidewalks, and brickwork. Gutters protect your soil from erosion, preserving your home's curb appeal and keeping your landscaping in tact! Gutters direct water away from your home's foundation, reducing mold, mildew, oxidation, and insect infestation in your basement, foundation, and crawl spaces. Seamless gutters also add value to your home. They are great for resale! They show that you care about water management and maintaining your home!

    Spring Is Here, Contractors! Are You Ready?

    1325881It has been a long, cold winter here in Michigan, but spring has finally arrived! And we know what that means - it is also "home improvement" season! As the weather begins to warm, homeowners will get outside and see what types of work they need done on their homes. Not only do seamless gutters and leaf protection protect a home's foundation from water, they also add resale value to a home or simply beautify a home that needs a little TLC. Alloy Gutter Company is fully equipped to assist your company in all of their seamless gutter and leaf protection needs. We employ expert installers with years of experience, a fully staffed office 5 days per week, and offer same-day, next-day scheduling on all of our seamless gutter work. Alloy Gutter is here for all of your exterior home improvement needs this spring - call us now to get on our schedule!

    Are Icicles An Indication Of Improper Pitch On Your Gutters?

    It looked like it was going to be a mild Michigan winter this year, but in the last couple of weeks Winter has unleashed her fury... And where there is melting snow on roofs, there are icicles. But do your icicles indicate a problem?   As you can see from the above picture, moving water freezes whether it is falling from a steep waterfall or a steep fall off the gutters of a home. Many people worry that the presence of icicles hanging on their gutters indicate a problem with the pitch of their installed gutters. This is most likely NOT the case. So what does cause icicles on your home? Experts say they are a byproduct of an “ice dam,” a buildup of ice on the roof along the part of the roof that extends beyond the exterior wall or the eaves. The buildup is a result of energy loss from inside the house. Not only does this loss of heat have a high monetary cost, but It also can lead to problems like rotted roofs and rafters, ruined insulation, moisture inside the walls, mold, peeling paint and even physical injury from falling icicles. When the snow on the roof melts from the loss of heat off the roof, it runs down to the eaves. When the outdoor temperatures are cold enough to freeze, the eaves are also frozen since they extend beyond the warmth of your house. The melted snow freezes when it reaches the eaves and your gutters. Eventually, enough melted snow (that has now frozen) fills the gutters. When melting snow runs over the filled frozen gutters, icicles are the result. How can you prevent icicles? It's simple! Fix the problem that is letting heat get out of your home by way of your roof. Insulate or re-insulate your attic. In the mean time, have the snow that will eventually melt removed. We can help with our Roof Raking service. 3638224_orig