Top Factors To Consider When Buying Gutter Guards

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When it comes to outdoor maintenance, gutters are often the most neglected, leading to clogged gutters. This may seem like a minor problem. However, water spilling over clogged gutters and down the walls of a home can pool on the ground, eventually leading to soil erosion that weakens the foundation. On average, homeowners have to pay around $4,564 to repair such foundation issues. This costly problem can be avoided by cleaning your gutters regularly or investing in gutter guard installation. Gutter guards protect gutters from falling leaves, dust, dirt, and other debris clogging gutters. However, not all of them are created equal. They come in different materials and vary in strengths and features.

To help you make a well-informed choice, here are some key factors to consider when buying gutter guards for your home.

Why Opt for a Gutter Contractor? 

Installing guards on your gutters adds weight to them. To prevent damage to your gutters, it’s advisable to have a trusted gutter contractor in Wisconsin provide you with gutter guard installation and assess if you’ll need additional support brackets.

The contractor will also measure the length and width of your current gutters to determine the correct size of the gutter guard. Buying the wrong size could give poor results, such as inadequate drainage.

In addition to properly sizing and installing gutter guards, a professional contractor can also provide valuable insight into the condition of your existing gutters. They may notice signs of wear and tear or damage that you may have overlooked, which could potentially lead to bigger issues down the road.

Furthermore, hiring a gutter contractor means having access to their expertise and knowledge. For example, they can recommend the best type of gutter guard for your specific needs, whether it be mesh screens or solid covers. They can also offer tips on proper maintenance and upkeep to ensure the longevity of your gutters.

Common Guard Materials

Gutter guards are made from various materials, which make a difference in how effective they are and how long they last. Here are some of the materials used in the manufacture of guards and their average price for 200 linear feet:

  • Plastic: This material is inexpensive and may cost around $80 to $200. While it doesn’t rust or corrode, plastic is susceptible to swelling and cracking.
  • Aluminum: This is often used to make lightweight gutter guards. It costs around $100 to $300. Aluminum isn’t as durable as other materials; however, it can still be an affordable option. However, if your home is close to overhanging trees, we do not recommend this material as the branches may poke through the guard.
  • Foam: While foam is durable and easy to install, it is also a little costly. Prices range from around $400 to $650 for 200 linear feet. Foam is also prone to mold growth because it absorbs water like a sponge. Plus, debris can get trapped in foam gutter guards, creating blockages.
  • Stainless Steel: This material is one of the best choices in terms of durability. However, it tends to be more expensive, with prices ranging from $300 to $700. However, it can resist rust for ten years or more, even in extreme temperatures, making it a wise long-term investment to save you money on repairs.

Gutter Guard Installation

You may be tempted to save time and money by buying gutter guards and installing them yourself. However, going up on the roof to work on your gutters is dangerous. Additionally, you risk installing them incorrectly, which can lead to roof damage. Instead, it’s best to have them installed by a professional.

Although professional installation might seem costly, you won’t have to worry about installing the gutter guards improperly or the dangers of working on the roof. Also, only guards installed by a professional will include a warranty.

Ease of Maintenance

Ultimately, gutter guards cut down on time, energy, and money spent on unclogging gutter and repairing the damage they cause to your home. However, dirt and debris can still build up with most gutter guards, especially after heavy rains.

To make maintenance even more effortless, opt for a gutter protection system like K Guard gutters that require zero upkeep. K Guard will replace your existing gutters with 5-inch gutters and a helmet-like cover guaranteed to keep leaves, dirt, and other possible causes of clogs out.

Gutter Guard Installation Done By Experts

With the wide variety of choices out there, buying gutter guards can be a difficult decision. Don’t make the wrong choice–turn to All Exteriors for K Guard gutter system installation. We install K Guard gutter systems for homeowners throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota, and our work comes with a lifetime workmanship warranty. 

If you’re interested in improving your home maintenance with gutter guard installation, contact us today to learn more.

9 Telltale Signs Your Gutter Needs Replacing

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Rain gutters play an important role in protecting your home’s exterior from water damage. If you have a basement, gutters are especially beneficial, as they can prevent ground erosion that can lead to flooding. By the same principle, gutters can keep water away from your foundation, preserving it and saving you from expensive repairs.

However, over time gutters may get cluttered or become damaged. To keep your home safe, it’s essential that you have them repaired or replaced by experienced Wisconsin gutter contractors as soon as you notice signs of degradation.

All Exteriors LLC helps homeowners in New Richmond by offering seamless gutter installation and other services. With 20 years of experience, we’re the ideal choice for your remodeling or repair job. How can you tell if it’s time to contact us? Here are six signs your gutters need to go.

1. Pooling Water

If you’re noticing pools of water along the side of your house, there’s probably something wrong with your gutters. Pooling indicates a leak; if it’s been around for a while, you may also notice mold or mildew.

These two issues are especially troublesome, as they can cause health problems for residents and structural damage to your home. A few common signs of mold and mildew are bubbling on interior walls or ceiling, a musty odor and discoloration.

2. Rot

If you have wooden siding, leaking gutters may cause rot. As an organic material, wood is susceptible to moisture and can quickly degrade with exposure. Depending on where the leak is, you may also notice rot along with wooden door jams or window sills.

Rot is a serious issue, as it eats away at your house’s first line of defense against exterior threats. Softened siding can let moisture, dirt, and even wild animals into your walls where they’ll wreak havoc.

3. Sagging

When gutters clog, they can become structurally unsound from the weight and built-up pressure. This often results in sagging or pulling away from the roof. This is a significant sign that you need to upgrade, potentially to K-guard gutters that prevent leaves, sticks and other debris from entering the system. If your current system is often clogging, that means it’s too narrow to manage the flow of water and

debris effectively. If you try to repair instead of replacing, you may find yourself facing the same problem again.

4. Peeling Paint

If you suspect a leak but don’t see puddles along the side of your house, there may be more subtle signs of the damage: peeling. The repeated presence of water makes paint peel and bubble over time. Since these issues start small, you may not notice them at first. Make sure to look under overhangs and where the system meets the house.

5. Separating Seams

Many older systems have seams where gutter segments connect. These weak spots are susceptible to separating with the repeated pressure of water and debris. While it’s possible to repair this issue, there’s no way to eliminate it without upgrading to seamless gutters.

6. Cracks

Visible cracks are a bad sign since they indicate leaks. If you notice a crack anywhere along the system, make sure you thoroughly examine the rest, as there may be smaller cracks you don’t see at first glance.

While repairable, cracks are a sign that your gutters are getting old. Sun, rain and fluctuating temperatures eventually take their toll, and it’s up to you as the homeowner to recognize when your system is done for.

7. Loose Screws and Nails

Finding screws or nails on the ground near your gutters once or twice is okay, but if it happens more than that, then it’s time to consider replacement. Screws and nails are crucial components of your gutters as they keep them attached to the roof. While replacing these components is easy, repeated instances could be a sign of gutter wear and tear.

8. Broken Fasteners

The fasteners connect your gutter to the roof and keep it aligned. Without them, your gutters will not be able to perform their job of guiding water away from your home. Repairing the fasteners a few times over the years is typical. However, if the issue persists, then the gutters themselves might be the problem.

9. Eroded Landscaping

If you’ve been wondering why the soil around your home is eroding, your gutters could be to blame. Damaged gutters can cause water to spill into your yard, carrying the soil and washing it away. When not properly addressed, this can cause your outdoor area’s soil to become thinner and denser.

Worst case scenario, soil erosion could cause damage to your home’s foundation. The topsoil around your home serves as foundational support for your house. When the soil loosens, it could cause your building to shift or tilt to one side.

Is it time to install new gutters? Then reach out to All Exteriors LLC. Our experts can get you set up with an effective, durable system in no time. To learn more about our services or to get a quote, give us a call at (715) 781-1696 or contact us online.

Photo Credit: Bilanol/Getty Images

Common Gutter Problems Every Homeowner Should Know About

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Common Gutter Problems Every Homeowner Should Know About

The rain gutter is one of the home’s most important features―and it’s one that doesn’t always get the attention it needs. When gutters aren’t functioning properly, water can drain into your foundation. This can weaken the structure of your home over time. Here are some common issues to be on the lookout for so you can promptly resolve the situation before it escalates.

Understanding the Importance of Gutters

Before diving into gutter problems, it’s essential to recognize the role of gutters. These structures channel rainwater away from your roofing and foundation, preventing erosion and water damage. A well-functioning gutter system protects various parts of your home, including the roof, walls, and basement. Regularly maintaining your gutters is key to ensuring they operate effectively.

Signs of Gutter Problems

Should There Be Standing Water in My Gutters?

As it rains, your gutters should flow continuously. If water is sitting in the trough, then something is wrong. Usually, the problem is that there isn’t enough slope in the pitch. If the gutter isn’t appropriately angled, gravity can’t do its job.

Sometimes minor adjustments can alleviate this, but the problem may have been caused by improper installation. You may need a complete overhaul of the entire system to achieve proper drainage.

What Problems Can Clogged Gutters Cause?

Clogs are one of the most difficult gutter problems to detect because you may not realize the issue until it’s escalated. Because they’re so high up, gutters can become overrun with twigs and leaves, especially if you have a lot of trees in your yard. This debris can create obstructions in the flow, causing water to back up.

When water isn’t flowing out through the gutters, it can pool in areas that may cause harm to your home; namely the roof and the foundation. This type of damage threatens your home’s structural integrity.

Why Does My Gutter Overflow?

Overflowing may be the result of a few different problems. If you frequently have standing water due to an improper pitch, the rain may just run out of places to go, resulting in an overflow. When debris has caused too much water to back up in one area, it can start to spill out of the top once it gets full.

Another concern may be the positioning of the gutters themselves. If they’re angled too far outward, water may be flowing out because the gutter is directing it that way. It’s also possible that the troughs are too small to handle the excessive rain your area receives.

Why Do I Have Leaky Gutters?  

Leaky gutters can be a frustrating issue for homeowners, as they not only affect the appearance of your home but also pose a risk of water damage. Leaks often occur at the seams or joints of the gutter system, typically due to wear and tear, poor installation, or separation caused by temperature changes.  

The best course of action for leaky gutters is to inspect them thoroughly and seal any gaps or cracks with appropriate materials. However, if the damage is extensive, it may be time to consider replacing your gutter system altogether.

How Can I Fix These Problems?

Regular Maintenance Is Key

To prevent gutter problems, regular monitoring and maintenance are essential. Aim to clean your gutters at least once a year, ideally before the rainy season arrives. This practice will help remove any debris that may have accumulated over time, ensuring smooth water flow. Check for blockage in downspouts, as well; leaves and twigs can easily clog these critical components.

Adjusting Your Gutters

If standing water is a persistent issue, it may be time to adjust the angle of your gutters. A professional can help ensure that they are properly pitched to promote adequate water drainage. This minor adjustment can make an important difference in preventing future issues.

Investigating Overflows

If you experience overflowing gutters regularly, check for clogs, and clear away debris diligently. In situations where you’ve done all the maintenance but still encounter overflow, consider consulting with a professional. They may suggest upgrading your gutter system to larger troughs that can accommodate heavier rainfall, especially in areas prone to storms.

Preventing Gutter Problems

With regular maintenance and swift attention to potential issues, you can prevent costly gutter problems. Here are some tips:

  • Clean your gutters at least twice a year and more frequently during peak leaf season.
  • Trim back trees near your home to reduce debris accumulation in gutters.
  • Consider getting gutter guards to minimize clogs caused by leaves and other debris.
  • Ensure proper pitch by using a level when installing new gutters or making adjustments.

Further Gutter Care Tips

Installing Gutter Guards

One effective solution to combat the buildup of debris is the installation of gutter guards. These protective covers keep leaves and twigs out while allowing water to flow freely. While no system is entirely maintenance-free, gutter guards can significantly reduce the frequency of cleaning and make upkeep easier.

Checking Downspouts

Ensuring that your downspouts are functioning correctly is just as important as maintaining the gutters themselves. Downspouts should direct water well away from your foundation. If not, consider installing extenders to guide water even further away from your home.

Knowing When to Replace

While regular maintenance can prolong the life of your gutters, there will come a time when replacement is necessary. Signs of deterioration, such as rust spots, leaks, or sagging sections, indicate that your gutters may need to be replaced. Investing in durable, high-quality materials can prevent recurrent gutter problems and give you peace of mind.

Professional Help Is Available

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the upkeep of your gutter system, consider seeking professional help. At All Exteriors, we specialize in gutter repair and maintenance services. Our team can assess your situation and provide solutions to ensure your gutters function optimally.

Don’t wait for issues to escalate; protecting your home from water damage starts with understanding and addressing gutter problems early. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your gutters are ready for the next storm.

With proper care and attention, your gutters will continue to protect your home effectively, allowing you to enjoy your living space without the worry of water damage. Remember, when it comes to home maintenance, prevention is the best policy!

Under-Deck Ceiling: A Must-Have for Outdoor Living

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Do you wish you had a relaxing space to hang out and enjoy your yard? Does water drip from your second-story deck make it impossible to use the space below when it is raining? If you want functional space that stays dry and doubles as a finished outdoor entertaining area, adding an under-deck ceiling system may be just what you need.

What Is an Under-Deck Ceiling?

The area under a raised first-floor deck is typically damp, with mold or mildew forming on the slab and beams underneath. An under-deck ceiling is a sophisticated solution designed to enhance the usability of the area beneath your elevated deck. This system is typically constructed from waterproof materials that channel water away from the living area below, preventing leaks and water damage. Under-deck ceilings also come with a variety of aesthetic options, allowing homeowners to choose styles and colors that complement their outdoor space.

Under-deck ceilings are also:

  • Bird-proof
  • Self-cleaning
  • Durable against snow loads
  • Guaranteed not to leak or sag

In addition to providing shelter, these ceilings can improve the overall ambiance of your outdoor area. They allow for ambient lighting, integrated ceiling fans, and easy installation of electrical outlets, turning an under-utilized spot into a functional and inviting entertainment zone. By combining practicality with aesthetic appeal, an under-deck ceiling transforms the footprint of your outdoor living space, making it a valuable addition to any home.

How It Works

An aluminum under-deck ceiling system acts like a dropped ceiling, channeling rainwater and snow away from the space between the decking planks. The overlapping panels attach to a framework that angles water, snow, and debris into seamless gutters and downspouts. By moving moisture away from the house and foundation, your patio, furniture, and other contents stay dry. Depositing the water in specific areas also prevents the ground around your home from becoming oversaturated.

Clearance requirements for underdecking are minimal. On the high end, the deck roof hangs about two inches below the beams, with the slope dropping an eighth of an inch for every foot. This design ensures proper drainage without compromising overhead space.

The Benefits of an Under-Deck Ceiling

An under-deck ceiling system is not only practical, but it also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. By creating a dry area below your deck, you can enjoy your yard regardless of the weather, transforming it into a functional outdoor living area. This added protection means that you won’t have to worry about mud or puddles forming below your deck during rain, allowing for uses such as outdoor dining, relaxation, or even hosting social gatherings.

Improved Aesthetics

In addition to functionality, an under-deck ceiling system elevates the overall look of your outdoor area. It provides a clean, finished appearance that can match your home’s exterior. Available in various designs and materials, these ceilings allow homeowners to personalize their space with style.

Increased Property Value

Moreover, investing in an under-deck ceiling can increase your property value. Potential buyers appreciate the added element of usable outdoor space, especially in regions where outdoor living is popular. Ultimately, an under-deck ceiling system combines practicality and beauty, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living experience.

Aluminum vs. Vinyl

The temperature fluctuates significantly throughout the year in Minnesota and Wisconsin, from scorching hot summers to frigid winters. Snow and ice may thaw and freeze multiple times in a single season. Unlike vinyl, aluminum alloy does not contract and expand with the temperature. This means that the deck ceiling will not develop gaps or cracks over time. Here are three more reasons why aluminum is a better choice:

  • Strength and Durability: Aluminum is more rigid and stronger than vinyl, ensuring that the under-deck ceiling won’t sag or buckle. This strength is essential since the system needs to accommodate light fixtures, fans, speakers, and other outdoor accessories, helping create an inviting atmosphere.
  • Critter-Proofing: Birds and squirrels often find their way into traditional gutters or under decks, leading to nesting issues. The under-deck ceiling features overlapping panels that enclose openings with flashing, effectively deterring unwanted critters.
  • Low Maintenance: Aluminum alloy is easy to maintain. Routine power washing or staining of your deck can be performed without any issue. A simple cleaning solution like dish soap or glass cleaner, combined with a soft cloth or sponge, is perfect for keeping the panels spotless without scratching the surface.

Finish Your Yard in Style

Once your under-deck system is in place, give your home a finishing touch that reflects your personality with concrete patios and hardscaping. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

  • Stone Features: Maximize your space with natural stone that extends beyond the covered patio area, creating a seamless flow into your garden.
  • Walkways: Create inviting walkways with stamped or broom-finished concrete services that lead to your outdoor space, enhancing accessibility.
  • Fire Pits: Extend your outdoor season with a fire pit or similar feature. It offers warmth and ambiance, making your gatherings cozy, whether for parties or quiet evenings.
  • Functional Living Areas: Add functionality to your yard by integrating an outdoor living space that encourages enjoyment and relaxation.

Get an Under-Deck Ceiling for Your Home

Completing your yard with design details can enhance curb appeal and increase property value. At All Exteriors, we work with you to create your perfect outdoor space, from concrete patios to retaining walls and driveways. For more information on creating the yard of your dreams, contact us today!

By investing in an under-deck ceiling and incorporating stylish designs, you can transform your outdoor living experience, ensuring it is functional, beautiful, and ready for year-round use. Don’t let damp conditions dictate how you enjoy your home. Explore the possibilities of designing your ideal outdoor retreat now!

A Comprehensive Gutter Cleaning Guide

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Cleaning your gutters is one of the more necessary (and dreaded), parts of home ownership. The job can be a hassle and even a danger, but skip it for too long, and you could see some severe damage to your home. This handy gutter cleaning guide will tell you everything you need to know about why clear gutters are necessary, how to get them clean, and how to avoid ever having to do it again.

The Importance of Cleaning Your Gutters

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about why gutter cleaning is so important, how often it needs to be done, and what could happen if you slack off.

Why Should You Clean Your Gutters?

Gutters are designed to carry water away from your roof and ultimately away from your house, preventing water damage from heavy rains and snow. Unfortunately, if your gutters are clogged, not only are they not draining away from your home, they can cause water to overflow, resulting in water damage. Cleaning your gutters ensures that waters from rain and snow will drain efficiently, keeping your home safe and undamaged.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

The average homeowner should clean their gutters twice a year, in spring and fall, to clear debris, prevent clogs, and keep everything flowing smoothly. However, this can vary based on where you live. For example, homeowners in very arid climates with fewer trees might only have to clean their gutters once a year. On the other hand, here in the Midwest, we can have harsh winters with lots of ice, making it important to clean your gutters a minimum of twice a year. If you have a lot of trees on your property, you may even need to have them cleaned three or four times a year.

What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Gutters Regularly?

Depending on how quickly your gutters get clogged, you might not actually notice any issues right away if you forget to clean your gutters. Once you get a clog (and you will), water will stop draining effectively, and heavy storms with lots of rain, ice, or snow will cause the water to begin to damage your home. In addition, heavy water-filled and debris-laden gutters can sag or break away from the house, damaging the roof and fascia.

How to Clean Gutters

Now that you know how important it is to clean your gutters let’s talk about how to complete this tricky, yet important task.

Cleaning Traditional Gutters

Traditional gutters are open along the top to catch water as it runs off your roof. This is a simple, effective design for catching water, but it’s also great at catching everything else too. Leaves and other debris easily fall inside and get stuck. To remove collected debris, you’ll need a ladder, a bucket, a small shovel or trowel, and a garden hose.

  • For safety’s sake, use a ladder that’s taller than your gutters by about three feet.
  • Have a bucket for debris hanging on your ladder.
  • Scoop any debris out of the gutters using the trowel, and put it in your bucket.
  • Check for clogs and flush the downspouts by running the garden hose down the downspout and turning it on.

Checking Gutters for Damage

Water damage to your home isn’t the only side effect of clogged gutters. When debris is left to rot in the gutters for long periods of time, it absorbs water and causes the metal gutters to rust, creating leaks. Gutter seams, where two lengths of gutter are joined together, are particularly vulnerable to catching debris and developing leaks. Leaky gutters can’t do their job, so while you are cleaning the gutters you should check the integrity of the gutters themselves.

  • After a rainstorm, check your gutters for leaks that need to be repaired and mark them so you’ll be able to find them easily once dry.
  • While you’re cleaning your gutters, visually inspect them for chipping or flaking paint, rust, gaps, leaks, or loosened supports.
  • Repair or replace sections of gutter, downspouts, or supports as necessary to ensure adequate drainage.

Cleaning Covered Gutters

Some gutters are covered with an add-on screen or cover to try to keep debris out. These gutters will still need to be occasionally cleaned to remove debris that got past the screen or cover. When it’s time, you’ll need to remove the screen or hood first, possibly requiring a professional to do the job. While screens or covers may mean cleaning your gutters less often, they’ll also make it more expensive and time-consuming when it comes to cleaning.

The alternative is a fully integrated, all-in-one system such as K-Guard Seamless Gutters. These gutters don’t have seams where leaks can develop, and they have a custom, removable hood that is designed to work with the gutter system, not against it. These are true maintenance-free and clog-free gutters, and the lifetime warranty guarantees that they will stay that way or be cleared or replaced for free.

Make Life Easier: Hire a Professional

If you’d rather not clean your own gutters, there is a solution: You can call a professional home improvement company and have them do the task for you, or better yet, install a maintenance-free option. The cost of having your gutters cleaned several times a year can add up, especially if you live in an area where it needs to be done frequently. Save yourself time, money, and worry by calling All Exteriors LLC today to have K-Guard Seamless Gutters installed on your home.