Author Archives: Affordable Gutters Plus LLC

Do gutter guards cause problems?

Those that don’t advocate leaf guard gutters are the first to tell anyone about the problems they can cause, like the debris that accumulates on top of the leaf guard, gutters start getting piles of stuff on top of the guard, affecting the curb appeal of your home. 

Another factor to consider about leaf guard gutters is warranty on your roof could be negatively impacted if they aren’t installed correctly. This is a confirmation to hiring a professional contractor that has experience in installing leaf guard gutters, because there is a right way and several wrong ways. When leaf guard gutters are attached by nails to the roof shingles, or any type of hardware, this can void the roof warranty. 

We’ve already covered how clogged gutters are worse than no gutters, but with a system of leaf guard, gutters can be a benefit to any home. So, are leaf guard gutters worth the money? For the short answer, yes, if they are installed by an experienced professional. What is the best leaf guard for gutters?  

• Some people choose screens leaf guards. They are available in several types of materials and shapes, and while they are good at keeping leaves out, if you have pine needles and seeds, they can get clogged too. 
• Another option is surface-tension gutter covers. Water will cling to the rounded nose and flow into the gutter, while debris and leaves fall off the edge. Small debris can get stuck but will wash out the downspout soon. 
• Fine-mesh leaf guards’ function like screens and block everything but the smallest debris. Asphalt shingle grit can be problem for these, but a quick brush cleaning will clear that off and you’re good to go. 

A professional contractor that has experience in leaf guard gutter system can help you with the process of how to choose leaf guard gutters that will best suit your home for the area around your home. Call Affordable Gutters Plus LLC today at 770-735-4433.

Where do roof drains go?

Which roof drainage application to use on your roof depends on a few factors, like the roof size and slope, the appearance desired, and the level of maintenance you desire. To determine the number of drains needed for your roof, divide the roof drainage area for each leader. 

Each leader should be big enough to handle the water drainage volume. The bigger the capacity, the fewer drains needed. The spacing should be equal and located in the roof’s low points or where water accumulates.

Inner Roof Drainage

Inner roof drainage that is used typically on flat roofs includes a low channel that accumulates water then feeds it into a drain that is concealed and goes into underground drainage. This roof drainage system is not visible and is freeze-resistant, both significant benefits. However, inner roof drainage requires routine maintenance for prevention purposes. 

How can I improve my gutter drainage?

Inadequate roof drainage will put your home at risk with severe water damage. From the roof, attic, ceiling, walls, and especially the basement, which will weaken the foundation. A sump pump is an additional measurement, but without the proper roof drainage system that diverts water away from your home, you’re putting your home at risk. 

So, if your gutter roof drainage isn’t working correctly, here are ten things that roof drainage experts suggest that can improve your home’s roof drainage and runoff:

Why do my gutters overflow in heavy rain?

Gutters overflowing is caused by one of two things: The gutters are clogged, or the gutters are broken. These are the reasons you need to either clean and inspect your gutter regularly or have it done by a professional. 

Who does fascia repair?

A variety of contractors provide fascia repair. Usually roofers or gutter contractors can be counted on for the repair, but carpenters or a handyman with extensive experience with this type of repair can also be trusted for the repair. Because gutters are normally attached to the fascia boards, it’s good to have a contractor experienced with both gutters and fascia to make the repair. That’s something you can get with Affordable Gutters Plus LLC, a team experienced with all aspects of roofing and gutter work.

Why do fascia boards rot?

Fascia boards can rot for a variety of reasons, although rot is most commonly caused by a gutter that’s not functioning properly. Old, leaking gutters usually have misaligned downspouts that cause water to back-up against the fascia boards. In time, the excess moisture will lead to rot. Damage from storms is also a common cause of rot for fascia boards. The boards are some of the weakest parts of the roof, and vulnerable to the elements, especially wind-driven rain. Any rotted fascia will need fascia repair.

How do you fix rotted fascia?

Fascia repair will be necessary when the fascia boards are rotted. Repairs need to be made as soon as possible. To make the repairs, the following steps need to be made.

• Make sure you indeed have rot and not some discoloration. Rot appears as dark cavities or soft spots directly on the board’s surface. Wood will feel mushy and pulpy.
• Check for the source of moisture that led to the rot. This may be malfunctioning gutters or damaged shingles or other issues with drainage. Repairs to those sources may need to be made before the fascia is repaired.
• Remove the damaged fascia board, starting by cutting seams and caulk lines. Pry the pieces away with a six-in-one painter’s tool.
• After prying the board loose, check the sub-fascia, or framing underneath, for rot and replace of badly rotted. 
• Once the repairs, if any, to sub-fascia are made, it needs to be cleaned before the new fascia board is added. Usually, you just need to scrape away paint and caulk with the six-in-one tool. Any leftover fasteners need to be removed.
• Measure out a new piece of the exact size as the old one and cut this new board. Preferably PVC boards are used to replace the old board as better protection against rot.
• Use galvanized exterior-grade nails to attach the new board.
• Follow up by caulking the new board.

Replace fascia with roof

Usually, you replace fascia when replacing gutters, but you can also have the fascia replaced when you have your roof replaced. This is often a good idea as the fascia has probably aged and is showing as many signs of wear as the roof. At times, the fascia is well beyond simple fascia repair and needs to be replaced.

Does roof sheathing go over fascia?

Typically, when a roof is being installed or replaced, the sheathing overhangs the fascia slightly. If this isn’t the case, the fascia should at least be protected by drip edges, as the fascia boards are very susceptible to water damage and rot.

Replace fascia without removing gutter

In most cases, your gutters are installed on your fascia board. When you need to make a fascia repair, you will have to remove the gutters to make the repair. Obviously, once the fascia board is repaired, you will have to put the gutters back on. Fascia is always repaired or replaced before the gutters are added.

What are the Disadvantages of a Metal Roof?

While there are many advantages to having a metal roof, it is is important to weigh the possible disadvantages. Please feel free to review the following provided bullet point list to find out more.

• Metal roofs can be prohibitively expensive. Metal roofs have enduring longevity and amazing integrity. But it is important to consider that they are more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs. If you are looking for a roof that you only need to replace once in a lifetime, metal roofs are up to the task.
• Noisy. Unfortunately, without the proper insulation material, metal roofs can be quite noisy in rainstorms and hail storms.
• Inconsistent color matches. If you have an original metal roof installation, it may be difficult for you to color match your roof to new replacement metal panels.

What is the Best Color for a Metal Roof?

If you would like to increase the energy efficiency of your home, going with a lighter color palette is preferable. If you have a lighter colored roof, you can expect your home’s HVAC system to work less hard in order for you to remain cool during the summer. That is because the more reflectivity of the roof, the less heat it will absorb. This is especially valuable information if you live in a hot climate. Lighter colors for your roof would include white, off-white, light peach, light blue, light green, etc. The more reflective the roof, the less heat will be absorbed.

Is a Metal Roof Worth It?

As mentioned previously, metal roofs are more expensive than other roofing types, like asphalt shingles. That said, metal roofs have increased longevity and durability. If you live in an area that has high wind speeds and is susceptible to fires, a metal roof will be immensely beneficial. If and when a homeowner invests in a new metal roof, they can expect to see great benefits in the future. A metal roof won’t need to be replaced within fifty years, which means that it only needs to be replaced once a lifetime.

Does a Metal Roof Need Furring Strips?

When a metal roof is installed over shingles, there will need to be insulation in the spaces between the wood strips. It will need rigid insulation to prevent condensation before installing the roofing. Furring strips will also need to be added. It is always important to consult with a professional and established roofing company in your area to ensure that whatever occurs on your roof is nationally agreed to be a good solution.

Is Metal Roofing Galvanized

There is a traditional form of galvanized metal roofing which is a corrugated sheet of carbon steel that has a galvanized coating. This particular form of coating is created by dipping the straight sheet in hot molten zinc. In this process, the zinc ions bond with iron molecules in the steel. The result is a shiny, rust-resistant finish on the surface.

Is Metal Roofing Aluminum

Generally speaking, commercial and residential metal roofing is made of either steel or aluminum. There are also two different types of metallic coatings that are involved. One uses zinc in various thicknesses. These thicknesses will depend on product usage. The other coating is Galvalume, which is a mixture of aluminum and zinc.

How Metal Roofing Is Made

In terms of roll-forming standing seam panels, the basic process is simple. It involves feeding metal coils into a roll former. Inside the roll former, the metal coil will go through a series of rolls. These rolls bend and curve. Each time the roll moves through the machine, it will bend more.

When you need metal roofing in Canton, GA, it is always best for you to choose the established experts. Our team is always available at 770-735-4433. Please feel free to reach out to us. 

What is the best way to repel squirrels?

There are all sorts of methods available to keep squirrels, rats, mice, and even raccoons out of your attic. You might consider installing special flashing that these animals can’t chew through or squeeze under as a squirrel deterrent. You could spread predator urine or mothballs around. You may have even heard that strobe lights can keep squirrels around and you may wonder, “Do strobe lights repel squirrels?” Strobe lights, as well as sound machines, are only a nuisance to the animals. They might go away for a little while, but they will be back. About the only thing these devices will do is run up your electric bill. One of the surest ways to get rid of them is to have a pest control expert come and clean them out. Once their nests are cleared out, you will need to have a contractor like Affordable Gutters Plus LLC come out and repair the damage and seal up any entries and exits to keep them out permanently.

How do you stop squirrels from climbing your house?

While pest control may be able to get rid of squirrels and other rodents out of your attic, that may not necessarily keep them from climbing on your house and seeking ways to get in. Here are some other ideas to use as a squirrel deterrent:

• Squirrels mainly gain entrance from trees, so it’s good to regularly trim branches that touch or are within six feet of the home.
• Along with special flashing, you can install mesh screens over chimneys and vents.
• Utility wires are another way squirrels get on your roof. Ask your utility company if they can install loose PVC pipe around nearby wiring, which will roll and shake off unwanted pests.

Why does the squirrel keep coming back?

Squirrels, as well as other animals, keep coming back to your home because they have made a home of your house. Often they will nest in the attic because it’s actually often easy for them to access it by chewing through fascia boards or squeezing through loose flashing. They are also coming back because your yard proves to be an ample source of food for them, whether it’s acorns, nuts, and seeds from trees or even bird feeders to fruits and vegetables in your garden. Once they’ve nested, finding a squirrel deterrent to get them to leave is a difficult task. If you notice them in your attic, don’t plug up or repair holes before you’ve gotten rid of the squirrels. If they are in the attic when you do this, they will feel trapped and immediately start chewing to get out. If they are outside, they will try to find another way in. While taking action like spreading around predator urine or mothballs may deter more squirrels from moving in, your best bet is to call a professional to get rid of the animals and their nests, and then get a contractor to make the necessary repairs to your attic, roof, and other entry points.

What is a good squirrel deterrent?

There are several good deterrents that might keep squirrels away if they haven’t begun to nest in and around your home. Squirrel deterrent spray is one such option. You can buy sprays off the shelf or make some of your own using water, hot sauce, and detergent mixed in a spray bottle. Sprays tend to be effective in the short-term, especially if you spray the animals directly. It may, for instance, stop them from immediately eating up the vegetables in your garden. But two other areas are also often affected by these pests, your roof, and your attic.

Here are some hints to deter squirrels in these areas:

• Squirrel deterrent for roof: Spread capsaicin around the siding and along areas like the fascia board. This is the active ingredient of chili peppers and used in pepper spray.
• Squirrel deterrent attic: If the squirrels are already nesting in the attic you can soak a rag in ammonia and place it near their nest. This may serve as enough of an irritant to fully evacuate from the attic. Other options like loud sounds or strobe lights might run them off temporarily, but you are going to have to keep them going indefinitely to keep them away, and that will just drive up your electric bill.

Do gutter guards cause problems?

Aside from the minor change in your appearance to your gutter, there is only one problem with a gutter guard if one could call it that over the alternative. Due to it having the purpose of guarding against larger debris and allowing water to have a natural way off of your roof, a gutter guard still does retain some debris on the interior of the gutter that will on rare occasions need to be cleaned out. Comparatively, whether referencing older gutter guards or a gutter without a gutter guard, the improvements are clear and reveal that there is little to no problems when having a gutter guard on your home. A gutter guard is actually proven not only to save a homeowner time, but also money. A problem that can occur with gutters is the buildup of debris such as leaves on the edge of your roof, when ignored that build up for water and moisture to be constant on your roof after the rain or storm has passed. In more extreme circumstances, it can lead to standing water on your roof, both situations can lead to leaks that can result in a headache for the homeowner. A homeowner with a gutter guard is far less likely to experience that due to the leaves being pushed off the gutter if in the case they do buildup. 

In terms of cost, gutter guards heavily reduce the amount a homeowner would have to clean their gutter. When well made, a gutter guard will provide the homeowner with an added system that helps in dealing with rain and snow water. The filter may also help a homeowner detect when they have received shingle damages by seeing the granules filtered through the gutter guard. 

To get the best use from your gutter guard, you need the best material for your product and proper installation. The most popular and useful by far is one made of steel mesh. Easily capable of withstanding the elements and getting the job done. Brush and perforated metal can also be used, not as popular or widely used, but both do a good job. Much of the time if it’s the case of appearance, the only time you will see a gutter guard is from an above window, otherwise it will not exactly be a blemish to the overall appearance to your house. 

A well installed gutter guard will easily withstand storm force rains, in whatever part of the United States they are installed, especially in Canton, GA. A gutter guard will easily help a home withstand a storm by filtering through what slides off and can withstand the added heavy rains.

When you need to repair or replace roof flashing in Canton, GA, get help from the experts at Affordable Gutters Plus LLC. We install and repair flashing at affordable prices. To schedule an estimate, give us a call at 770-735-4433.

How roof flashing works

Roof flashing is set up to protect various roofing components like chimneys from water damage and leaks. It keeps water from getting under the shingles, and is shaped in various ways depending on where it’s placed. 

Chimneys, for instance, require flashing in several different areas. Continuous flashing runs along the bottom of the chimney, whereas step flashing runs up the sides. Cap flashing is lapped over the top of the other flashing to prevent seepage. Flashing is also placed at the top of the chimney so water will drain from the top. Continuous flashing is also used along vertical walls. Flashing is also placed around vents, skylights, and along drip edges and valleys.

How long should roof flashing last?

Your roof flashing should be some of the most durable material on your roof, especially if you have a traditional asphalt shingle roof. If you expect your roof to last 20 years, your flashing should last at least that long. If you have a metal roof, for instance, which can last 50 years or more, the flashing should last at least 50 years. Most flashing is made from rust-resistant metals like galvanized steel or aluminum so it will last as long as or longer than your roof.

How do you fix roof flashing? 

When you get roof leaks, it’s usually due to damaged roof flashing. In some instances, repairing flashing can be a simple job for do-it-yourself types that can save you money at the same time. Here are some basic repairs and repair tips to help you with minor damage.

• Repair small holes or corroded spots by either plugging pinholes with roofing cement or patching holes of ¾-inch diameter with the same material as the flashing.
• Flashing seals can be repaired by chipping away old mortar and caulking the edges of the flashing. Special masonry caulk needs to be used to seal the joints between flashing and chimney.
• Vent pipe flashing can be replaced by prying the old flashing loose and positioning new flashing in its place. Nail it down so shingles will cover it, replace the shingles and cover nail heads with roofing cement.
• If you have severe corrosion or multiple holes or other similar damage, you will need to replace the flashing, which will require you to remove a large portion of the shingles. You may want to call a professional to replace the flashing in this case.

While roof leaks are commonly caused by damaged flashing, hard water and mineral build up can cause problems like leaks for your water heater requiring water heater repair.

Does flashing go over or under shingles?

When you are repairing or replacing roof flashing, generally your flashing should go over your shingles or other roofing material. Occasionally, with asphalt shingle roofs, an extra row of shingle tabs is placed over the flashing for aesthetic reasons. The main shingles, however, are still placed underneath the flashing. These additional shingles might be mistaken for a defect in a roof inspection, so if you are selling your home, you might want to alert the inspector if you are aware of this being the case on your roof.

Can you reuse roof flashing

Given that roof flashing tends to be made from durable materials like steel and aluminum, when you’re replacing your roof, you may consider reusing the flashing rather than replacing it. This, however, may not be a good idea if you want to preserve the integrity of the roof. It’s usually better to replace the flashing as well. 

Reusing flashing can pose problems when installing a new roof. The nails, for instance, may not go into the same holes they were originally in, so new holes will need to be made. You might also discover as you begin replacing the roof that the original flashing wasn’t properly installed or may have been repaired frequently over time. The flashing may also have already been reused several times and may be worn or in disrepair.

Roof flashing and gutters

Drip-edge flashing or gutter flashing should be installed along with other flashing. This type of flashing keeps water from running under the shingles at the edge of the roof. It’s also used to protect the fascia boards from dripping water. This flashing sends water to the gutters but also keeps water from dribbling behind them. That protects wood behind the gutters from dry rot, and prevents the gutters from coming loose.

How much does it cost to replace flashing on a roof?

Costs to replace roof flashing will be affected by various factors. A significant issue affecting will be the type of roof you have and the types of other repairs you may need. For flashing around your skylights, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $500 for each, while flashing around your chimney will cost anywhere between $200 to $500. Large or multi-flue chimneys could cost as much as $1,500 to replace the flashing. You may have to pay for repairs to shingles or other roofing components as well, which will affect the cost of the flashing replacement.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing?

If you are on the fence about whether a metal roof is the best option for your home, then you need to learn more about the pros and cons of a metal roof. Knowing what the disadvantages and advantages are will help you make the best decision for your home.

Metal Roofing Benefits

• Long-Lasting: A lot of people ask, “How long will a metal roof last?” and the answer is that a metal roof can last 50 to even 70 years when they are properly taken care of.
• Resistant: Depending on the metal material that is used for your roof, metal roofs can be impact resistant against hail, they can resist severe winds, as well as resist against fire, corrosion, and cracking.
• Energy-Efficient: Metal roofs have a reflective material, which means they are able to reflect UV rays and radiant heat. This is great as it can save a lot of money on energy bills.
• Sustainable: These types of roofs are made up of recyclable materials and once they have reached their lifespan, they are able to be completely recycled.

Metal Roofing Drawbacks

• Expensive: Metal roofing is a lot more expensive than most residential roofing materials.
• Noise: If you don’t want your metal roof to be noisy then you will need to add insulation to block out any outside noise.
• Fading: Another question that people like to ask about metal roofs is, “Will metal roof fade” If your metal roof has a coated or painted finish, then it can start to fade.
• Dents: Depending on the metal that your roofing uses, some metal roofs can dent very easily.

What Are the Best Metal Roofs?

If you are interested in metal roofing, then you probably want to know what the best metal roofing is. There are several choices when it comes to metal roof materials, which include aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc. Aluminum roofs are resistant to corrosion, but they can be pretty expensive. Copper roofs are very long-lasting, but it can be easily dented. Steel is affordable, as well as has a couple of types to choose from like galvalume, galvanized, and weathering, and stone coated steel, but steel doesn’t have the best insulation. Tin is easy to install but its hard to come by and it rusts easily. Zinc is self healing because of its patina, but it does have a chalking effect to it.

Not only do metal roofs have a wide range of materials to choose from, but there are several styles to choose from. The most common styles that you will see are corrugated, standing seam, and metal shingles. Corrugated metal roofs are manufactured as metal panels, standing seam metal roofs are manufactured as panels and sheets, and then metal shingles can mimic the look of popular roofing like slate, tile, and wood shakes. Depending on what you want in a roofing system will determine what material and style metal roof you want. Fortunately, a professional roofer can help you make a decision that’s right for you and your budget.

Metal Roofing Vs Asphalt Shingles

When choosing residential roofing, asphalt shingles are always at the forefront. This is because they are affordable, look good, are easy to install, and last awhile. A lot of people who are choosing between metal roofs and asphalt shingles typically ask, “Is a metal roof better than shingles?” The function of a roof is going to depend on what features you want in a roof. Metal roofs do last longer than asphalt shingles, are more eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and durable. Asphalt shingles do cost less than metal roofing, but they will not last as long. When investing in a new roof, choosing a new roof might depend on how long you are going to be in your home. If you aren’t going to live there for a long time, then you might go with asphalt shingles; if you plan on making your home your life long home, then you should consider metal roofing.

Metal Roofing for Houses

What does seamless gutters mean? Seamless gutters mean that the gutter is manufactured in one long piece and is not sectioned, unlike regular gutters. There are no seams in seamless gutters (hence the name) so there doesn’t have to be any sealing at the joints or seams. When deciding on gutters, people want to know which is better. So in terms of seamless gutters vs regular gutters, which is better? Its honestly going to depend on your home, but also your finances. Seamless gutters are more expensive upfront, but they require less maintenance and will last longer than regular gutters. Because regular gutters are made of sections, they have the potential to leak, which will cost you money in repairs. Talking to a roofer about which one you should get can make the decision a lot easier.

Are Seamless Gutters Better?

To understand if seamless gutters are better than regular gutters, it’s important to look at seamless gutters pros and cons. If you’ve been wondering, “What are the advantages of seamless gutters?” or “What are the disadvantages of seamless gutters?” then you can read on to find out more about the benefits and drawbacks.

Seamless Gutter Advantages

• Low Maintenance: Because there are no seams or joints, you won’t have any leaks and your gutters won’t be near as clogged with leaves and debris. This means less maintenance for you.
• A decrease in Clogs: Again, because there are no seams or joints, clogs will be reduced. This will prevent water from overflowing on your roof and causing leaks.
• Easy Installation: Because seamless gutters come in one piece, they are a lot easier to install.
• Aesthetically Pleasing: Since there are no obvious seams or joints, seamless gutters are a lot more attractive.
• Fewer Leaks: Without joints or seams, these gutter systems are less likely to leak.

Seamless Gutter Disadvantages

• More Expensive: Because they are constructed into one piece, they can be more expensive in terms of materials and installation.
• Replace/Repair the Whole Gutter: If for some reason seamless gutter needs to be repaired or replaced, you have to remove the whole gutter system instead of one section.
• Expert Installation: Installing these types of gutters require the expertise of licensed roofers.

Seamless Gutters with Leaf Guard

Seamless gutters are a great investment for your home, ensuring that you don’t get clogs or leaks in your gutters. Another way to ensure you never get clogs is by having a leaf guard installed. Leaf guards are placed over the top of gutters and they are able to catch leaves and other debris. A leaf guard will take it the next step further and make sure that your seamless gutters never have any issues with clogs. Finding the perfect leaf guards is crucial, as there will be some that are better than others. When you call a roofer to install your seamless gutters, ask them if they are able to install leaf guards, as well. They are able to point you in the right direction and help you find the best leaf guards for your gutters.

Do I Really Need Gutters?

But what is a roof drainage system? A roof drainage system is a system that is installed on the roof to divert water and debris off the roof. Many people ask, “What are roof drains called?” and they are simply called roof drainage systems. The drainage system starts at the roof line and then you have roof drainage to ground. The components that you need for a roof drainage system is a gutter system and downspout. With these two components working together, water is able to be removed from your roofing system easily.

What Do Roof Gutters Do?

When it comes to roofing drainage systems and gutters, people typically think that they are different systems; this is actually not true. A gutter system is a component of a roof drainage system, which allows water, twigs, leaves, and other debris to collect off of the roof and flow toward the downspout and onto the ground. The water from the roof drips into the gutter system, which is a long piece of material that is installed along the edge of the roofline. The water will then flow through the gutter and then make its way to the downspout where it will then absorb into the ground.

There are some homes that don’t require a gutter system–for homes that are located in dry climates or your home slopes downhill. However, if you get plenty of rain and your home was built on pretty level land, then you need a proper roof drainage system that includes a gutter. Not only will a gutter help collect water from your roof, but it will also protect your landscaping from soil erosion and your home’s foundation from cracking.

How To Install Roof Drainage

Installing a roof drainage system is pretty easy when you have the right tools and materials. Many people ask, “Where does roof drainage go?” Depending on what type of roof you have will determine where the drainage system will be installed. If you have a flat roof, the drain will be installed onto the actual roof and then the drain will be linked together. For roofs that have a low slope, the water will just flow into the gutter system. Another question that is asked in regards to installing roof drainage systems is “How do you size a roof drain?” It will all depend on the size of the roof. Here are the steps to install roof drainage.

• Clean Roof: You’ll want to clean the roof line/fascia so that the gutter system has a clean place to be installed.
• Plan Placement: This will include planning where the gutters will line up on the roof line and where the downspouts should be installed.
• Hang Gutters: Once you know where the gutters are going to go and have cut the gutters to the correct size, the gutters can be installed.
• Attach Downspouts: After the gutters have been installed, the downspouts can then be installed.

Roof Drainage Cleaning