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Monday, December 21, 2015

How Can Heat Tape Protect My Gutters This Winter?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498
Heat tape or heat cables are easy-to-install electric cables that are generally placed around the edge of the roof or run inside gutter systems. Their main duty is to help stubborn snow and ice melt away by producing electric heat either constantly or via a self-timer. Installing heat tape can help keep your home safe for the winter, and here are three specific ways how:

1. Minimizes damage to your roof. When water freezes it begins to expand. That means, if your roof has any minor cracks or breaks and water happens to get inside from collected snow or ice, the gaps will widen over time causing more damage. Heat tape keeps melting moving, reducing the chance for freezing and expansion to occur.

2. Prevents mold and mildew. As water sits on your roof or within your gutter system it has the tendency to grow mold and mildew which can be very dangerous to your home and your health. Keeping snow and rain draining properly from your roof will be a great asset in preventing this dangerous winter weather complication.

3. Keeps gutters clear of ice and snow. The main reason for water damage during the winter is clogged or frozen gutters. When your gutters are unable to drain water and melting snow away from your home, you’re left with a wide variety of possible detrimental outcomes. In addition to the problems that stagnant snow and ice present for your roof, overflowing due to a clog can cause structural and siding damage as well.

Before you go ahead and install heat tape this season, make sure you give your gutters a good once over and fix any existing damage that you find. If you need some help, remember that All Aluminum Gutters is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. for your convenience. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

3 Reasons Your Downspouts Don't Work

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

Downspouts are an important part of your gutter system. While gutters themselves serve to collect rainwater and usher it towards a central location, the downspout itself is what carries water down and away from the home for protection. If you notice that your downspouts aren’t working up to par lately, here are three of the most common reasons why that might be:

1. They’re Dirty - The number one reasons for malfunctioning downspouts and gutter systems in generally is a clog from built up debris. While your gutters may look neat and clean, your downspouts are enclosed, making it easy for you to miss the build up. Make sure to clean out your downspouts each season as part of your gutter cleaning process.

2. They’re The Wrong Size -
If your downspout is too small in width it has a better tendency to become clogged. Smaller downspouts are also unable to carry water away from a home as quickly and efficiently as larger ones would. In addition, if your downspout are too short they will not be able to redirect water properly away from your home.

3. There Aren’t Not Enough - Depending on the size of your home, you may need multiple downspouts in various locations. Some people make the mistake of only installing one or two, but when heavy rainfall hits the system is not able to funnel water down and out fast enough, causing overflow to occur.

If your downspouts are malfunctioning it’s important to identify the issue and correct it right away in order to keep your home safe from potential water damage, foundation damage, flooding and more.

Whether you’re in need of gutter cleaning to clear out clogged downspouts or gutter system repairs to correct the issue, All Aluminum Gutters is here to help. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

5 Creepy Critters That Hide in Your Gutters

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498
Keeping your gutters clean benefits your home in more ways than one. On one hand, it keeps debris from causing clogs, overflow and damage to occur to gutters, which can then cause costly damage to your home. On the other hand, it helps prevent unwanted house guests from taking up residence within your home’s exterior. To prove it, here are five of the most common critters that can be found hiding in an uncleaned gutter system:

1. Spiders - While they may be beneficial in keeping other pests at bay, no one can deny that these eight legged arachnids are some of the creepiest critters around. Still, they just can’t resist the cool damp climate that gutters provide!

2. Snakes - Since snakes are cold-blooded, they’re not a predominant problem in the winter. However, during the warmer months it’s not uncommon for snakes to crawl up your gutters in search of a mid-day snack.

3. Centipedes - Although centipedes have not been found to be dangerous, they can have anywhere from 30 to 100 tiny legs creeping and crawling all over your home. Dirty gutters present the perfect habitat for these scary scurriers, but eventually they’ll find their way inside as well.

4. Rodents - Cute and furry? Yes. Friendly and welcome? No! Rodents like squirrels, mice and rats can take up residence in your gutters, bringing with them filth and disease. Plus, they attract snakes, and other larger pests looking for a tasty treat.

5. Birds - Much like rodents, birds will often nest in gutters causing them to clog and stir up a ton of problems for your home’s drainage system, exterior siding, foundation and more. Plus, they can be riddled with bacteria and disease.

While gutter cleaning is important, it’s also s a dangerous, dirty and difficult job, which is why we suggest leaving the gutter cleaning and gutter repairs to the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Thursday, December 3, 2015

How to Hang Holiday Lights on Your Gutters

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: The time when beautiful holiday lights begin popping up all over town to celebrate the season. If you’re planning to tackle your outdoor holiday decor this weekend, it’s important to remember to be careful when hanging lights from your gutters. Using the proper hooks and clips can make all the difference aesthetically and can save you a ton of money on costs to fix gutter damage caused by your holiday light display.
Here are two of the most popular types of fasteners to have your home looking festive, while keeping your gutters safe:

1. S-hooks can be fastened just over the lip of the gutter with the upper part of the s-shape, allowing the lower portion to hang downward. On the lower end of the hook is a clip, which makes hanging strings of holiday lights by the wire simple, safe and secure. If your gutters have a lip off ¼ inch or less, s-hooks are a great option for you.

2. Gutter clips are another safe alternative for hanging holiday lights. They can clip right onto gutters of all shapes and sizes, and allow you to position each light bulb precisely, giving your home a streamlined professionally decorated look. These clips are best used for C7 and C9 sized light bulbs.

Before you begin hanging, remember to check your light strings for blown bulbs or broken wires. There’s nothing worse than doing all that work, only to have to take them down and do it all again!

All Aluminum Gutters is a full service gutter cleaning, repair and installation company, servicing Long Island and all of New York City. We also provide siding repair and installation in a variety of styles and material options. To learn more about our services, click here or call 631-816-2498 to speak with a representative and receive a complimentary consultation and estimate.

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Why Should You Hire Professional Gutter Cleaners?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

It’s gutter cleaning season, but you haven’t gotten around to climbing up on the ladder just yet. Don’t worry, there’s still time to whip those gutters into shape and it might be easier than you think. Forgoing DIY and hiring a professional definitely has its perks, and here are some of the most beneficial.
1. Efficiency & Peace of Mind - When you hire a professional like the ones at All Aluminum Gutters, you can rest assured that your home’s gutters will be cleaned with care and precision. Our experts know exactly what they need to do to get the job done and leave your gutter system clean, repaired and ready to take on the elements.

2. Safety - Cleaning your gutters by yourself can be very dangerous. In fact, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons estimates that about 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries each year, with approximately 300 of these incidents proving to be fatal. Instead of tackling your gutters as a DIY project this season and risking a fall, give the pros a call and let them take it from here.

3. Convenience - Gutter cleaning can be time-consuming and tiring. Wouldn’t you rather sit back and relax on the weekend while your gutters cleaned themselves? If you answered yes, then hiring a professional gutter cleaning team is the obvious choice!

Cleaning your gutters is a dangerous, dirty and difficult job, which is why we suggest leaving the gutter cleaning and gutter repairs to the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Vinyl Siding FAQ

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

Vinyl siding is one of the most popular choices for homeowners when it comes to armoring their home’s exterior. Siding itself acts as your home’s first line of defense against potential damage from the elements, which is why it’s so important to choose the right type. If you’re considering installing vinyl siding, here are some frequently asked questions you might be wondering about.
Q: If I want to install vinyl siding do I need to remove the existing siding first?
A:
While you certainly can, you can also have the vinyl siding installed right on top of your old siding, as long as it’s not riddled with mold or rot.

Q: If I choose vinyl siding, what are my color options?
A:
Traditionally vinyl siding comes in neutral and pastel shades, but darker colors have also become more popular in the industry. Many paint manufacturers also sell paint specific for vinyl siding so you’ll be free to refresh creatively!

Q: Will the color of my vinyl siding last indefinitely?
A:
Unfortunately the coloring of your vinyl siding will not last forever, but it can be expected to outlast the lifespan of traditional house paint -- which is pretty long!

Q: How secure will vinyl siding be against the elements?
A:
Vinyl siding holds up very well with regards to the weather and is rated to withstand winds up to 110 mph. In the event that siding does become damaged, replacing damaged sections is much easier for vinyl siding than it would be for other siding material options.

Q: How is vinyl siding measured?
A:
When you install vinyl siding on your home, you’ll notice that the amount of siding you need is measured in “squares.” A square encompasses 100 square feet of siding -- 10’x10’.

Q: What do I have to do to keep my vinyl siding clean?
A:
Contrary to popular belief, using a power washer is actually not the best option. A simple garden hose, soft-bristled brush and diluted Windex or vinegar and water solution will do just fine.

Q: What makes vinyl siding so popular?
A:
For starters, the price is right! Vinyl siding is the cheapest option when it comes to home exteriors, while also being a great and durable option to protect your home from the elements. Plus it’s easy to install, repair and maintain.

At All Aluminum Gutters we understand that a well-maintained gutter system and properly installed siding go hand-in-hand. That’s why not only do we provide gutter cleaning and installation services to protect your siding, but we also offer siding installation services to better protect your home.


If you notice that your siding is in need of replacement or repair, just call 631-816-2498 for a complimentary estimate and we’ll have your home’s exterior looking like new in no time!

Friday, November 13, 2015

What If I Don't Maintain My Gutters?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

Gutter maintenance is an important part of a homeowner’s seasonal to-do list. Without properly maintained gutters you leave your home unprepared and unequipped to handle the harsh weather ahead. Don’t believe us? Here are some of the most common issues that homeowners may face when they fail to clean and repair their gutters regularly.
Gutter Leaks - If you fail to clean your gutters they can become clogged, causing water to spill over and leak down your home’s exterior. The weight of debris can also cause your gutters to sag or break along a seam, which causes leaking as well.

Roof Damage - If your gutters are not functioning properly, water will pool and spill out onto your home’s roof. If overflow accumulates on the roof it can cause damage and leaking indoors from excess water-weight and rot.

Flooding - Your gutters are meant to steer water away from your home’s base, but unkempt gutters may not be successful. If water spills down your home’s side it can pool around your foundation and in basement window wells, eventually seeping its way in and causing a flood.

Wood Rot - Gutters protect your home from being saturated by water during heavy rainfall. However, if they’re not maintained the water can settle and accumulate in and around your home’s wooden structure or siding and cause rotting.

Foundation Damage - Your home’s foundation is porous in nature, which is why it is important to keep water far away. If water infiltrates your foundation it can cause cracking, shifting and even mold growth.

Pest Problems - Many pests are drawn to the moist conditions of rotting wood and stagnant water. Without a properly maintained and functioning gutter system you put your home at a greater risk for attracting insects like, carpenter ants, roaches, earwigs, mosquitoes and termites.

Waterlogged Landscape - Without a way to redirect rainwater the flower beds, shrubs and grassy patches surrounding your home can become overrun with water. This can cause them to suffocate, develop fungal diseases and eventually die.

Cleaning your gutters is a dangerous, dirty and difficult job. That’s why we suggest leaving the gutter cleaning and gutter repairs to the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Your Post-Storm Home Checklist

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

November on Long Island is famous for its rainstorms. Whether it’s a hurricane headed up the coast or the tail end of a tropical storm, heavy rain can potentially cause a ton of damage to your home, and its gutter system specifically. In order to be sure that your home had withstood a harsh rainstorm, here is a comprehensive checklist of items to examine post-storm.

1 The Roof - Do a visual inspection of your roof either with binoculars, or by climbing up a ladder. Pay close attention for any missing or disrupted shingles and have them repaired right away to avoid water leaks.

2. The Vents - It’s possible for leaves and other debris to blow into your dryer, furnace or boiler vents during a storm, clogging them up and creating a very serious fire hazard. If you detect a clog, clean it out as soon as possible.

3. The Gutters - During a heavy downfall it’s possible for gutters and downspouts to become loosened or detached by the water pressure. It’s also common for clogs to occur due to debris whirling about in the wind. Your gutters are an important defense mechanism for your home, so it’s imperative that you have a professional fix and issues right way.

4. The Siding - It’s common for siding to become damaged during a harsh thunderstorm due to natural elements and even malfunctioning gutters. Check for missing, warped or peeling siding, and have any inconsistencies repaired by a professional. After all, your home’s siding is the best set of armor it has!

5. The Electric - Inspect any electrical wires leading to and from your home to be sure that they weren’t loosened or disturbed by heavy winds or falling trees. Unattended electrical issue can not only be a nuisance, but they can cause dangerous fires as well.

6. The Trees - The most common issues that occur during a heavy rainstorm are fallen or weakened trees. Check to make sure your trees are sturdy, standing up straight and healthy. A fallen or unstable tree can cause tremendous damage to your entire property.

Inspected your property and found some items that need repairing? All Aluminum Gutters offers gutter and siding installation and repair at an affordable price to customers in the Long island, Queens, Westchester and Bronx areas.

To learn more about our services, click here or call 631-816-2498 for a free in-home estimate!

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Top Gutter Cleaning Tips

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

Keeping your gutters clear of buildup and debris is essential to the health of your home’s drainage system, and therefore the health of your home as well. Since it’s gutter cleaning season, we felt it was only right that we offer some of the top gutter cleaning tips to help you get the job done right.
1. Choose a sturdy ladder. Cleaning your gutters requires climbing up a ladder, which can be very dangerous. Make sure that your ladder is in good working conditions, and consider enlisting a helper to hold the ladder as you clean for added protection.

2. Pick the perfect tools. Make sure you’ve got a small, hand-held spade or rake to dig out any stubborn gunk. You’ll also need garbage bags, sealant to fix up holes, gloves for protection and a pressure washer.

3. Power wash the roof. Before you begin cleaning out your gutters, you’ll want to give the roof a quick cleaning to clear it of any leave and debris that can fall into your gutters after cleaning. This will help you keep your gutters clearer for longer.

4. Scrub them down. Use a little elbow grease and really get in there. The cleaner your gutters, the less likely they’ll be to clog, break and require fixing.

5. Examine diligently. Any holes or cracks that you come across must be repaired immediately. Even the smallest amount of damage can ultimately lead to costly issues in the future.

Cleaning your gutters is a dangerous, dirty and difficult job. If you’re not so sure you’re ready to give DIY gutter cleaning a go, we suggest leaving the gutter cleaning and gutter repairs to the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

How to Redirect Water Away From Your Home

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

Water is one of nature's most destructive forces, which is why it’s so important to have a fully-functioning gutter system on your home. Does the thought of a soggy, waterlogged landscape, water damaged or peeling siding, and a potentially flooded basement scare you? If so, here are a few ways to make sure that your gutter system is in great shape in order to ensure that water is safely dispersed as far from your home as possible.
1. Keep gutters clean. An annual or semi-annual gutter cleaning regimen will keep your gutters clear of debris so water can flow freely through the system.

2. Use an extension. An elbow piece can be attached to the end of your downspout in order to accommodate an extension, used to carry water even further from your home’s foundation.

3. Secure a slope. If your downspout directs water towards a splash block, make sure that the splash block and ground slope away from your home for optional water diversion.

4. Stay away from pavement. Water should be redirected away from the home, but no where near a driveway or sidewalk. During winter, water can freeze, causing cracks in the cement.

5. Dig a trench. For maximum protection, dig a trench and insert a PVC pipe, attaching it to the downspout. This is a great way to carry water far, without sacrificing the aesthetics of your yard.

With the wet weather rapidly approaching, now is the time to inspect your gutters and correct any drainage issues you find. While gutter maintenance and repair can be handled as a DIY project, it’s always best to consult a professional to make sure that any issues are resolved quickly and efficiently for maximum protection against the elements.

For more information about the gutter cleaning, repair and installation services that All Aluminum Gutters provides, call 631-816-2498 to speak with a representative and receive a complimentary consultation and estimate.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Gutters

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

The leaves have already started to fall, but you may not have had a chance to get to your seasonal gutter cleaning duties just yet. But don’t worry, there’s still time to get your gutters in order before the brunt of autumn hits, and here’s how you can do it:
What You’ll Need:
  • Sturdy ladder, tall enough to reach gutters on the second story if applicable.
  • Strong pair of work gloves, and goggles or protective eyewear.
  • Small shovel or spade for digging out debris, and a bucket and S-hook for disposal.
  • Garden hose with spray attachment and plumber’s snake for stubborn clogs.

What You’ll Do:

  1. Set your tools in place. Stash your cleaning tools in a utility belt or toss them in your disposal bucket to make climbing up the ladder easier. Make sure to place your ladder on firm, level ground to avoid falling and enlist a partner to hold the ladder as you clean if possible. Don’t forget to attached your debris bucket to the top of the ladder with the S-hook.

  2. Begin at the downspout. Starting your cleaning project at your downspout and working your way around the rest of the house is your best bet. That way, you’ll avoid pushing more debris into the downspout. Use your shovel or spade to scoop out debris and transfer it to your waste bucket. If you need to use your hands, be very careful to avoid potentially sharp or dangerous debris.

  3. Hose it down. Take your garden hose and spray out the remaining debris in the direction of the downspout. Be sure to rinse the entire system, leaving no debris behind.

  4. Unclog your downspouts. While you're rinsing your gutters and pushing debris toward the downspout make sure to spray water directly into the downspout when you reach it. This will loosen and hopefully clear any clogs. Should your downspout need some extra attention, try spraying water into the downspout from the opposite direction, and use the plumber’s snake if necessary.

  5. Inspect your gutters. Now that they’re sparkling clean, it will be easier to detect and damage that may have incurred over the course of the season. Check for cracks, sagging, dents or holes, and have any damage you find repaired as soon as possible.
Still unsure if you can get to your gutters this weekend? Gutter cleaning is an important part of your home’s fall maintenance plan and it’s imperative that you get those gutters in shape early on this season, which is why we suggest leaving the gutter cleaning and gutter repairs to the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters. Serving Long island, Queens, Westchester and the Bronx for over 30 years, there’s no gutter job we can’t handle!

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Monday, October 5, 2015

How Can Clogged Gutters Damage My Home?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

The most important benefit that gutters can provide for any home is protection from potential water damage caused by harsh weather conditions. Water, though a necessity for plant and human life alike, can be extremely destructive and even deadly if left to it’s own devices. In order to reinforce the need for gutters even further, here are a few very real ways that improperly functioning or clogged gutters can impact the well being of your home.
Cracked Foundation - Gutters are meant to redirect water away from your home’s foundation. When a clog is present, water has no choice but to spill over the side of your gutter system, down your home and to its base. Pooling water can infiltrate your home’s foundation, causing cracks and shifting over time, and in extreme cases it can lead to collapse.

Rotten Wood - Most gutter systems are supported and attached to the home by wooden fascia boards. Pooling caused by a clog can allow for wood rot to take hold, jeopardizing your home’s structure and welcoming pests like termites to infest your home. If your home also has wooden siding the overflow caused by the clog can spill down over your siding and cause rot there as well.

Waterlogged Landscape - While water is usually a good thing for your landscape, too much of it can be detrimental. When water cascades down your home's side and into your flowerbeds the ground can become over-saturated, suffocating flowers, trees and other shrubbery that may be surrounding your home.

Interior Damage - Once your home’s outer layer has been damaged and permeated by water, what’s to stop it from making its way inside? Damaged siding, rotten fascia boards and foundation cracks all provide points of entry for flooding water, mold growth and pests alike.

So, now that you understand how important it is to keep your gutters cleaned and unclogged, the next step is to pick up the phone and give us a call!

At All Aluminum Gutters, we guarantee all of our work and understand the crucial role that gutters play in protecting your home. As you now know, it’s very important to keep your gutters clean so that they can continue to work properly and protect your home from costly water damage.

To learn more about our gutter cleaning and repair services, click here or call 631-816-2498. We even offer free in-home consultations and estimates!

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

What Can Affect the Performance of Your Gutters?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

Having a gutter system that works to its fullest potential is extremely beneficial when it comes to keeping your home safe from damage caused by harsh weather conditions. As we enter into hurricane season here on Long Island, it’s important to make sure that your gutters are performing at their absolute best at all times. In an effort to help you keep your gutters going strong and your house protected from water damage, wood rot and more, here are a few key things to watch for that can have a negative effect on your gutter system’s performance.
Uninvited Guests - Almost any kind of animal or pest can take up residence in your gutter system, causing it to malfunction in more ways than one. Birds or rodents that nest in your gutters can cause clogs or deterioration of the system components and their weight can weigh it down causing structural damage.

Trees & Shrubbery - While your landscaping might be perfectly kept, the presence of overhanging trees or shrubs poses a serious threat for your gutter system. Not only do leaves, twigs and over debris tend to get stuck in gutters, but a severe storm can cause large limbs to fall, resulting in significant damage to your gutters and home as a whole.

Missing Parts - Every piece of a standard gutter system needs to be in place in order for your gutters to move water away from your home safely. Remember that your eaves should be protected with proper splash blocks, a gutter essential that is often overlooked during installation.

Improper Installation - When it comes to installing gutters, there’s a ton that can go wrong. That’s why we suggest leaving the installation to the pros! From an inaccurately judged pitch, to a misdirected downspout, even the slightest slip up during installation can put you at risk of incurring costly home repairs in the future.

As you can probably gather, keeping your gutters in shape is simple as long as you follow a regular cleaning regimen and look out for any damaged or missing components. While gutter maintenance and repair can be handled as a DIY project, it’s always best to consult a professional to make sure that any issues are resolved quickly and efficiently for maximum protection against the elements.

For more information about the gutter cleaning, repair and installation services that All Aluminum Gutters provides, call 631-816-2498 to speak with a representative and receive a complimentary consultation and estimate.

Friday, September 25, 2015

Are Gutter Guards Worth the Investment?

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

While most homes are equipped with gutter systems, they may not all be functioning to their fullest potential. Harsh weather conditions and changes in the seasons can present some pretty difficult challenges when it comes to keeping your gutters clean and unclogged. That’s where gutter guards come in handy! Instead of leaving your gutters wide open and vulnerable, gutter guards provide a porous cover, allowing only water to get in and keeping leaves and debris out.
While some might argue that adding gutter guards is just an extra expense, there truly is a huge benefit to having them. If you’re on the fence and are wondering “are they really worth it,” we're here to tell you why they are!

Convenience - While gutter guards won’t completely eliminate your gutter cleaning duties, they will certainly minimize them. Since leaves and debris won’t be able to get in, your gutters will naturally remain open and unclogged for longer with guards than without them. That means you’ll avoid those all-too-familiar trips up the ladder in the pouring rain to perform an emergency unclog, and can spend your fall weekends watching football instead of digging out those pesky leaves.

Safety - As you know, gutters work to keep your home safe from water costly water damage and pest problems. When they are not functioning properly due to clogs or sagging, your home is at risk. Gutter guards can minimize that risk by keeping clogs to a minimum, which promotes the best possible gutter performance. In addition, keeping your gutters covered will eliminate them as a place for birds and small rodents to nest.

Money Saving - Confused? Yes you’ll be spending money on installing gutter guards initially, but think about how much they’ll save you in the long run. The costs to repair waterlogged siding or a flooded basement is astronomical in comparison to the price of adding gutter guards onto an existing gutter system. Not to mention, protecting your gutters means you’ll save on potential gutter repair costs as well.

A good gutter system is a valuable asset to any house, which is why it’s important to protect your gutters the same way they protect your home.

At All Aluminum Gutters, we care about the well-being of your home and pride ourselves on our friendly, professional and prompt service. If you’re looking to install a gutter guard system, look no further! We carry a wide variety of options to ensure that you are able to choose the perfect style and fit or your home.

Give us a call at 631-816-2498 to learn more about our leaf guard systems and start protecting your gutters today!

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

3 Problems That Functioning Gutters Can Avoid

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

As many homeowners on Long Island will tell you, September through November is hurricane season, filled with stormy skies and rain galore. In addition to being a stylish accent on any home, rain gutters serve to collect water that comes down onto your home during a rainstorm and carry it safely away from the house to avoid destructive water damage. Not convinced? Here are three of the most detrimental issues that homeowners may face, and they can all be avoided by installing properly functioning rain gutters.
1. Flooded, moldy basement. If you have a basement but do not have a gutter system, you’re at risk of a flood. Without anything to catch and redirect the heavy rain, the water will spill down the side of the house and pool at it’s base, pouring into your basement window wells. Pretty soon the wells will become too full and water will begin to seep in through porous cement walls or unsealed window frames. If you don’t notice the water right away it can sit within your floors and Sheetrock, presenting the perfect cold, dark, wet conditions for mold to thrive.

2. Damaged, weakened foundation. When water pools at your foundation it can eat away at and erode the cement over time. Cracks can form and a study foundation can become weakened and shifted by water damage. Not only will your home lack a strong base, but your windows and doors will begin to sag, as the house will no longer sit evenly on its base..

3. Warped, stained siding. As the water cascades down the side of your home you risk the chance of having to deal with water stains, peeling paint, rotting, and more. Like a good gutter system, your siding is meant to protect your home. Without properly secured siding, water will get into your walls and can potentially cause damage to your Sheetrock and insulation. Gutters however, can catch the rain and redirect it so that it doesn’t pour down your siding.

If your home is without rain gutters or has a damaged gutter system, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call All Aluminum Gutters today and we’ll have a new set of gutters up in no time.

If you live in Long Island, New York City or any of its 5 boroughs and would like more information about our gutter repair, installation and cleaning services, call 631-816-2498 today!

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

How to Prep Your Home for the Fall

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

As sad as we are to admit it, the summer is coming to a swift close and the cool, fall weather is on it’s way sooner than you think. Though the fall season brings cool breezes and beautiful changing leaves, it also brings a ton of debris and weather conditions that can be hazardous to your home. To make sure you and your family are prepared to handle the change in seasons, here are 5 quick steps to take to get your home ready for the fall.
1. Inspect your heating and ventilation systems.
Sooner than you know you’ll be bumping up the heat in your home to battle the chilly temperatures, so you’ll want to make sure that vents are clean and clear of debris. Dust and vacuum out vents and filters, and be sure that no furniture, carpeting or curtains are obstructing the airflow.

2. Clean out your chimney and fireplace.
You and your family will soon be sitting around your toasty fireplace once again. Make sure it’s ready for the season by clearing out any remnants of ash or charred wood, and hiring a professional to clean out the chimney and make sure it’s sealed off properly to avoid drafts.

3. Tackle last minute paint or floor fixes.
If you have painting or flooring projects to finish up, we suggest you hop to it before you lose the warm weather. That way, you can keep the windows open for ventilation without worrying about the cold.

4. Check your insulation for drafts.
Even If your heating system is working and your fireplace is clear you may still have a problem warming up the house if your insulation is faulty. Do a visual inspection of the interior and exterior of your home, looking for any spots that may need to be re-caulked or weatherstripped. Windows and doors are the prime draft offenders, so pay special attention while doing your inspection.

5. Have your gutters cleaned by a professional.
In our opinion, this is the most important step of them all! The fall season is aptly named in that a ton of leaves and debris fall from the trees and right into your home’s gutters. To avoid a clog and the potential damage that can come from it, we suggest cleaning your gutters once at the beginning of the season (August/September) and then again during the middle/end of the season (November/December).

All Aluminum Gutters proudly serves Long Island, Westchester and the 5 Boroughs of New York City, providing gutter cleaning, repair and installation services all year round. If you’re looking for a convenient and efficient gutter cleaning experience, call us at 631-816-2498 today!

Friday, August 28, 2015

How to Avoid Major Gutter & Home Repairs

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498
Your gutters serve an important purpose, keeping water away from the foundation of your home to avoid unwelcome structural and water damage. However, like almost everything in your home, in order to function properly your gutters must be maintained on a regular basis. To help you avoid potential gutter problems and damage down the road, here are a few great tips to keep him mind as you monitor your gutter maintenance.

  • Look for leaks. Clogged gutters do not allow water to be dispersed away from your home, which can lead to crawl space or basement flooding. Be on the look out for suspicious puddles or water stains on the walls.

  • Check for cracks. If water is pooling around your home’s foundation it can weaken the footing and create visible cracks in your foundation wall. As the weather cools down these cracks can become more visible due to the natural freezing and expanding of water.

  • Spot the rot. Clogged, backed up gutters will overflow and cause rotting to occur on the wood fascia around the house. If you notice wood rot, clean the gutters immediately and call a professional to replace the damaged fascia boards.

  • Inspect the pavement. If you notice sagging or cracking on your driveway or walkway, this could indicate that water is not being redirected properly by your gutters. This may be due to a clog or interruption in the system’s water flow.

The best way to prevent major damage is to have your gutters cleaned by a professional regularly who will always be on the look out for suspicious inconsistencies within your home and gutter system. That way you’ll never have to worry about finding the time to clean before it’s too late!

All Aluminum Gutters proudly serves Long Island, Westchester and the 5 Boroughs of New York City, providing gutter cleaning, repair and installation services all year round.

To learn more about how we can help keep your home protected from water damage, structural issues and unnecessary flooding, click here or call 631-816 2498 today.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

How To Identify Unstable Trees Around Your Home

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498
Trees are a beautiful part of nature that provide sought after shade and privacy when planted around any home. However, over time trees can become weakened or sick, causing them to fall down with little warning. A fallen tree can cause tremendous damage to your home’s gutters, siding and more.

Fortunately, there are a few ways to identify unstable trees around your home to prevent a disaster from occurring.

Start with an inspection. After a heavy rainstorm or during the fall after a tree’s leaves have been shed are the best times to check out your trees for any inconsistencies. Look for differentiation between branches and bark, as cuts or peeling can indicate illness. If you don’t notice any physical symptoms, step back and ask yourself these three questions:

  1. Are your trees leaning? Though it’s natural for trees to grow on a slight angle, heavy leaning can indicate uneven weight distribution among branches or root damage. Pay close attention to cracking or raised soil opposite of the lean, or exposed roots around the tree’s trunk.

  2. Do you notice any trees with split trunks? Splitting at the trunk is a normal growth pattern for some trees, but the split can sometimes cause instability as the connecting point of the two trunks can be weakened over time. You may notice a long crack that begins where the split is and extends down the length of the trunk.

  3. Has your home been under construction lately? Certain home improvement efforts can put nearby trees under a ton of stress. Damaged bark and prematurely changing or falling leaves can indicate disease. Be on the lookout for mushrooms and carpenter ants at the tree’s base, as they are a sure sign of rotting.
As we leave the sunny summer days behind and look towards the fall we’re also heading toward the heart of hurricane season on Long Island. Unfortunately, no matter how diligent we are, mother nature can strike at anytime.

If your gutter system or siding has been damaged by a falling tree, the repair experts at All Aluminum Gutters can help! Our gutters and siding come in a wide variety of colors and styles to match and home’s existing exterior. For more information, call 631-816-2498 and schedule your free consultation and estimate today.

Monday, August 10, 2015

How to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498
It’s National Curb Appeal Month, which means it’s the perfect time to reinvent and rejuvenate your home’s exterior. Whether you’re looking for a simple DIY upgrade, or want to give your home a completely new look with a professional makeover, there are tons of great projects to help you start sprucing things up! Here are some of the top tips to boost your home’s curb appeal this August.

1. Be creative with your siding. If your home’s siding looks like it’s ready to be replaced, consider mixing and matching siding materials for a unique exterior. 

2. Pick up a paint brush. For a simple yet dramatic difference add a pop of color to your front door, shutters or window boxes.

3. Pave the way to the entrance. If the cement path to your front entrance is lacking in luster, replace it with a professionally paved one! Stamped cement or custom cut stone create a visually appealing pathway.

4. Shine some light to show the way. If you’re satisfied with your current pathway’s aesthetics, show it off in the dark as well as the light. Adding some custom outdoor lighting to highlight your walkway and define outdoor living spaces can make a world of difference.

5. Add a charming porch. If you’re looking for a more drastic upgrade, hire a contractor to build you the perfect porch. This adds personality to your home and increases available outdoor living space.

6. Bust out the power washer. Give your home a good clean scrub down. If you don’t own a power washer head over to your local home improvement store and rent one for the weekend. Your siding, deck and pavement can all benefit from a good pressure wash.

7. Manage your home’s drainage system. If your home is without rain gutters, or your existing gutters need repairs, now is the time to invest in an installation. Already have working rain gutters? Adding a pop of color with some paint can help boost your curb appeal!

Want more makeover tips for your home’s exterior? Click here!

At All Aluminum Gutters, we know how important your home’s exterior is to you, which is why we provide gutter and siding repair and installation with a wid
e variety of colors and styles to choose from. Water stained siding? Rusted downspout? Rotted fascia boards? No problem! Just give us a call at 631-816-2498, and we’ll be there to help you beautify your home in no time.

Monday, August 3, 2015

How to Paint Your Aluminum Gutters in 5 Steps

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

Gutters come in all shapes, sizes and materials, but the aluminum gutter is the most popular choice among homeowners. It’s low cost, seamless design and easy-to-install qualities make it a crowd favorite. What’s the best thing about installing aluminum gutters? They are able to be painted as well! Whether you want to paint your gutters to camouflage them into your home’s existing exterior, or are looking to highlight your gutter system with a complimentary paint color, painting your aluminum gutters is fairly simple DIY task.
If you’re looking to paint your new gutters, or repaint old ones, here’s a list of steps you should take to get the job done:

Step 1: If repainting, strip away the old paint. You’ll want to make sure that your gutter surface are stripped and sanded before you begin painting. A paint scraper can help you peel off any old paint, followed by a pass of sandpaper to smooth the surface.

Step 2: Clean and rinse your gutters. Scrub your gutters down with a simple solution of dish soap and water. Without a clean surface your paint will have a hard time adhering to the gutters. Make sure you give your gutters a thorough rinse once you’re done cleaning them.

Step 3: Paint on the primer. Primer is essential to keep your gutters in great shape and your paint-job perfect for years to come. An oil-based metal primer is key, but be sure to choose a primer that is ammonia free, as ammonia may have a negative reaction with the aluminum.

Step 4: Apply enamel to your gutters. After about 48 hours your primer should be completely dry. An oil-based enamel helps to smooth over the surface and seal any inconsistencies within the aluminum. It is recommended that you choose either a satin or gloss enamel and apply two coats for best results.

Step 5: Finally, get to painting! Choose your desired paint color and apply 2 coats of paint, waiting for the first to dry before beginning the second. Make sure to be careful to fix any runs in the paint before it dries!

Need some help with aluminum gutter installation or cleaning prior to your painting project? At All Aluminum Gutters, we are committed to keeping your home healthy. We take pride in providing the highest quality materials and gutter cleaning services at an affordable price to the Long Island, Queens, Bronx and Westchester areas.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for your free consultation and estimate, please give us a call at 631-816-2498 today.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

The History of Rain Gutters

All Aluminum Gutters
531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704
(631) 816-2498

We all know how important it is to have rain gutters on our homes, but did you ever wonder where in the world they came from? The history of rain gutters is actually quite fascinating, dating way back to 3000 B.C. in the ancient civilizations of Rome, Greece and Egypt. Read on to learn all about rain gutters and how the idea to catch and divert rain emerged and  evolved over time.
The first drainage systems. Ancient civilizations recognized the need to control water drainage early on, constructing runoff systems made of stone, brick and wood . In fact, the 1st century Romans are known for their intricate drainage systems, meant to keep their streets water free. Early water redirection systems on buildings featured a spout at the edge of the roof, usually shaped as a lions mouth, that shot water to the ground. However, the majority of ancient water drainage was used to transport water from one place to another, in lieu of what we know as modern day plumbing.

Gargoyles, not just for decoration.
As a direct response to an old 7th century legend about La Gargouille, a slayed fire-breathing dragon, the Gargoyle became a common staple of Western European architecture, replacing many of the previous lion-mouth spouts. The Italians actually called these intricate gargoyle statues “gronda sporgente,” which fittingly translates to “protruding gutter.”

Gutter systems begin to improve. In the mid-1200s gutters began to evolve from animal-mouthed water spouts to wood, lead and clay-tile gutter systems, downspouts and all. In 1240, the Tower of London became the first building to be outfitted with a fully functioning gutter system, as a precautionary measure to protect it’s white walls. From then on the popularity of gutter systems skyrocketed, transitioning from lead to cast iron in the 1800s. By the 18th century gutters were a standard on many homes, and the introduction of mass-marketed metal gutters came during the Industrial Revolution.

Seamless aluminum gutters are introduced. Aluminum gutters had already gained a ton of traction by the 1960s, but the invention of seamless gutter technology took them to the next level. Today, more than 70 percent of homeowners enjoy the benefits of a seamless aluminum gutter system.

Rain gutters have certainly come a long way! Just like the ancient civilizations, the professionals at All Aluminum Gutters understand the importance of having a solid, fully-functioning rain gutter system. Our high quality customer service and commitment to providing top notch products at affordable rates is what makes us the obvious choice for all of your gutter installation and repair needs.

To learn more about our gutter installation process and the styles that we offer, click here or call 631-816-2498.