What You need to Know about Aluminum Gutters
If you are having your rain gutters updated or installed for the first time, you have a variety of materials to choose from. Gutter systems are commonly made of vinyl, steel, aluminum, or sometimes, copper. Aluminum rain gutters are, by far, the most popular systems chosen, making up nearly 80% of all gutters installed in the country. They provide homeowners with an aesthetically pleasing appearance, flexibility, and reliability. Additionally, there are some benefits and facts that you may not already know about aluminum gutters as you add them to your home.
Aluminum Gutters are Long Lasting and Durable
Aluminum gutters are known for their durability. They are able to stand up to harsh weather conditions that Texas sometimes experiences including heavy rainfall, hail, high winds, tornadoes, and the ice and occasional snow that the area sees in the winter. In fact, aluminum gutters often have a lifespan of over 20 years.
Aluminum Gutters are Lightweight
Gutters that are lightweight, like those made of aluminum, are an ideal choice for homeowners because they are easier to install than those made from heavier materials, and they sag far less over time.
Aluminum Gutters Won’t Rust
While steel gutters are an option that some homeowners opt for, it is heavier than aluminum and when leaves and other debris begins to fill up steel gutters, it may cause corrosion or rust. While aluminum gutters don’t rust, and for that reason, they may be a better option.
Aluminum Gutters Can Hold More Water
One of the most effective reasons to choose aluminum gutters is that they are able to hold more water than those made of other materials. This is a huge benefit during heavy rains that are seen in the Dallas area.
Aluminum Gutters Can Be Customized
Unlike some of the other gutter materials, such as steel or copper, aluminum gutters can be customized to the specifics of your home. They are made in different gauges and thickness, so a unique system can be designed to complement your house. That means that the aluminum gutter you have installed can be fitted to any unique spaces that your home has.
Aluminum gutters also come in a variety of prefinished colors that will allow you to match them to your home.
Aluminum Gutters Can Be Seamless
Nearly three-quarters of homeowners who have rain gutters installed opt for seamless gutters. Aluminum works great for this option. Using seamless gutters ensures that there are no leaks and that water is directed away from your home quickly and safely. This prevents water from running down the side of your home, potentially creating damaging issues like fascia and soffit rot, and mold and mildew.
Aluminum Gutters Prevent Foundation Damage
Water can be very damaging to your home, including the foundation. If water from rainfall is allowed to collect around the base of your home, it can soak down to the foundation. Over time, water can cause cracking and movement of the foundation, making the home a hazardous place to be for you and your family. Adding aluminum gutters can flush rainwater away from your home and foundation keeping them safe and secure from damage.
Aluminum Gutters Need to Be Maintained
While rain gutters are efficient and effective, they do require maintenance to continue to work properly. Many people opt to take care of their gutters during the spring season, after the harsh weather in the winter, but it’s important that you inspect your gutters more than once a year. Some of the key times to make sure that they are in good shape are:
- When leaves have fallen from trees. It’s often a beautiful time of year when the leaves fall from trees as the hot weather of summer is finally gone for another year. But all those falling leaves can quickly clog up your gutters. When they become clogged, they can no longer effectively keep the water away from your house and foundation.
- After severe weather. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause damage to your gutters, causing holes, tears, or other types of breakage. Damaged gutters will not protect your home as they should. That means that doing a quick check that they are clean of debris and that there are no visible cracks or tears after storms is a must.
Aluminum Gutters Can Be Installed by R2 Roof Guys
If you are considering having aluminum rain gutters installed on your home, R2 Roof Guys are here to help you determine the right options for you and your home. Contact us today at 214-405-4396 for a consultation and free estimate.
Signs That You Need a New Roof Installed
Is your roof in need of repair? Or has the time come to replace it entirely? A new roof installation can be a significant investment. How do you know if it is time to make the leap to a new roof? There are some sure signs that your roof is in need of replacement rather than repair. To help you make the best decision for your home and your family, here are some warning signs you should look for. These signs will let you know that it’s time to call R2 Roof Guys for a new roof installation.
Missing Shingles
If you begin to notice that there are shingles missing here and there on your roof, it may be time to consider replacement. The high winds of storms and tree branches that rest on the roof can cause shingles to be ripped away. If there are only a few shingles missing, you may be able to simply have them repaired. However, if you need to have more than a few repairs, the aesthetic of your home may be affected, with your roof resembling a checkerboard. If you find that you need more than a few shingles replaced, it may be more effective to have your roof replaced and keep your home looking beautiful.
Curled Shingles
Shingles that are in good shape are flat with a smooth surface. As long as they remain flat, they provide the protection to your home that they are designed to do. When you notice that some of the shingles are beginning to curl at their edges or that they have cupped tabs, you have a problem. When shingle edges are curled up, it allows debris and water to get underneath them and may cause damage to your home. If you notice that your shingles are curling, don’t delay in having a roofing contractor come out to inspect the problem – you may need a new roof.
Roof Age
Another thing to consider when you make your decision of whether to replace your roof is how old your current roof is. Roofing materials are designed to last, but they do have a limited lifespan. If your current roof is 20 years old or older, it might be a good time to consider having it replaced. The team at R2 Roof Guys can come out and inspect your roof to let you know if it’s time for a new one.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a sign that you should call a roofer as soon as possible – delaying can cause a dangerous living condition to your family. When a roof is sagging, it is a sign that you may have an issue with your foundation supports or the roof decking itself. Not having it checked promptly could result in you having more than just a roof to replace, as damage to your home is imminent.
Shingle Granules in Gutters
It’s important that you check your rain gutters, not only for debris that may be clogging them up and not allowing water to flow through, but also to see if you notice any shingle granules inside. As a roof nears the end of its lifespan, it will lose more and more shingle granules, and that indicates that it may be time for a roof replacement. Also, a darker or inconsistent color on parts of your roof may indicate that the shingles granules have worn away.
Weakened Roof Decking
Roof decking can become wet and weakened when your roof is wearing out. If you feel a soft or spongy spot when walking on your roof, it indicated that the roof decking is retaining moisture. Another way to check for this is to inspect your roof from the underside, in your attic. If you can see any daylight coming through the boards, or you notice that the attic insulation is wet, it’s time to call a roofer.
Neighborhood Roofs
Are your neighbors replacing their roofs? If so, and your home was built around the same time, it’s a good indication that your roof may also be nearing the end of its lifespan. It may also indicate that Texas storms have caused damage to the roofs in your area. If either of these conditions are causing your neighbors to have their roofs replaced, it’s a good time to have yours inspected as well.
Contact R2 Roof Guys for Your New Roof
If you become aware of any of the above signs, it’s time to call R2 Roof Guys to check your roof and make recommendations for repair or replacement. Delaying will only allow any problems to worsen and cost you more in potential damages to your home in the future.