Gutter Glossary: Common Gutter Terms Defined

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

(631) 816-2498

Whenever you’re considering making home repairs or installations, it’s important to be sure you know the basics first. Well, the same can be said if you’re looking to repair or install a new gutter system. While most homeowners understand the basic function of rain gutters, they may not always recognize the vocabulary surrounding them. If you need a refresher on your gutter terminology, look no further!

Brackets - These are what holds the gutters onto a home. Generally, these brackets are secured directly to your home’s fascia boards -- which you’ll learn more about later.

Downspout Extensions - While a downspout is meant to funnel rainwater from your gutters down off your roof, an extension can help redirect and control the flow of water once it hits the ground.

Fascia Boards - The trim work that runs along the seam where your home’s siding meets the roof is called a fascia board. They create a layer of protection in between the exterior wall and the roof.

Gutter Guards - Any sort of mechanism that can be attached to a gutter system to protect it from filling with leaves and debris is considered a gutter guard. These may also be called gutter screens, covers, filters, brushes, or leaf guards.

Ice Dams - In winter, It’s not uncommon for ice dams to form on the lower edge of the roof, which can cause water to pool and prevent it from making it into your gutters. If water pools on your roof long enough, it will inevitably seep in and cause flooding and water damage.

Seamless Gutters - Just as their name implies, seamless gutters are created with no visible seams at all. Instead, measurements are taken and each piece is custom cut to fit the length of the home. Not only are these more attractive, but less seams also means less potential for leaking.

Soffits - When you look at a home’s roof, you’ll notice that the roof hangs out further than the exterior wall. The underside of that overhand, or it’s “ceiling,” is called a soffit.

Here at All Aluminum Gutters, we believe that each of our customers has the right to make a fully informed decision when it comes to selecting gutter products and services for their home. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation estimate for anyone in Long Island and the five boroughs.

To learn more about our gutter installation services or to schedule your free estimate, call 631-816-2498.

3 Reasons to Bury Your Downspouts

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

(631) 816-2498

When it comes to gutter installations, the material and style options are never-ending! There are a variety of ways to dress a new gutter system, but it’s up to you to find the design concept that’s best suited for your home. That being said, burying downspout components are one of the more popular options for homeowners looking to customize their gutter system , and here’s why.

1. More Secure - What better way to ensure that water is redirected away from your home’s foundation than by creating an extended tunnel system to do so. With just a splash block, there’s no telling where water will go once it hits the ground -- especially in a severe storm.
   


2. More Direct - For some people, the gutters or storm drains are quite far from their homes. This creates a problem redirecting rainwater runoff away from the house. However, tunneling your downspout can actually give a homeowner more control over where the water ultimately ends up.
   


3. More Visually Appealing - What do we do when we don’t want something to be so visible? We hide it of course, and the same goes for your downspout and rainwater runoff. Tunneling your drainage system helps to keep your home’s exterior seamless.

How are your downspouts and gutter systems holding up with all the rain we’ve been having in the Long Island area? If you feel like they could use a pick-me-up, allow All Aluminum Gutters to assist.

For more information about our gutter repair and gutter installation options, visit our website or call us at 631-816-2498.

The Pros & Cons of Gutter Guards

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

(631) 816-2498

Just like gutters, gutter guards come in all different materials, shapes and sizes. As you may have guessed, their main purpose it to protect your gutters from dirt and debris, which makes gutter cleaning a breeze! Not sure if gutter guards are right for your home? We’ve laid out the basic pros and cons for you to consider below.

First, the pros:

• Gutter guards are easy to install and can be added to your existing gutters quite simply.
• Not only do they protect your gutters from dirt and debris, but from birds, rodents and insects that are looking to nest within them as well.
• Gutter cleaning has never been easier, simply because leaves and dirt will have a difficult time getting in, in the first place!
• Along with protection comes a longer anticipated lifespan for your gutters, as they will now be better shielded from rust and rot.
• Having gutter guards makes rainwater harvesting more efficient, as it helps to filter out the debris way before the water gets to your collection barrels.

And now, the cons:

• Like any upgrades you make to your home, installing gutter guards might cost a bit of money, but it will be money well-spent -- and saved down the line by preventing damage.
• While very efficient, nothing is 100% foolproof, not even gutter guards. Yes, they’ll certainly minimize the amount of debris that’s collected in your gutters, but you’ll still have to clean them every once in awhile.
• If you live in an area that gets very cold for the winter, be aware that gutter guards are more susceptible to ice dams. Luckily, many manufacturers provide a heated option to deter ice from solidifying.

After considering your options carefully, we’re certain you’ll see how the benefits of installing gutter guards far outweigh any slight drawbacks. If you’re interested in having an expert come give you an installation estimate, give All Aluminum Gutters a call today!

For more information about our gutter guard and leaf protection systems, call 631-816-2498.

Different Ways to Clean Your Gutters

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

(631) 816-2498

When most people set out to clean their gutters, they do it the old fashioned way -- with a ladder, a pair of gloves and a small spade to dig out debris. While this method is most certainly effective, there are actually a few other ways to rid your gutters of build up in between large cleanings.

Blow them out. A leaf blower is effective for shooing leaves and debris off your property, but did you know that it can help rid your gutters of dirt as well? In fact, most home improvement stores sell an extender attachment that will allow you to reach up and blow leaves out of your gutters from the ground. Just remember, this method will not be effective for stubborn, caked on dirt.

Spray the dirt away. Never underestimate the power of water -- nature’s most destructive force! As you know, your gutters are meant to protect your home from water damage, but water can also help protect your gutters from malfunctioning. How’s that for helping a situation come full circle? Grab your garden hose every once in awhile and spray concentrated water down your gutters. This will help keep them clear of buildup, but beware, as it can also cause a mess!

Looking to simplify your gutter cleaning duties altogether? Consider installing leaf guards to protect your gutters from debris from the start. Here at All Aluminum Gutters, our gutter screening and protection systems come in a variety of styles, so you’ll be able to find the perfect fit for your home.

To learn more about our leaf guard systems, or to have your gutters cleaned by a professional, call us at 631-816-2498 or visit our website today.