Winterize Your Gutters

By Amelia Gray

Worried about your gutters in the coming winter weather? It may be time to winterize with a new gutter installation. The winter snow and spring rain are no match for your new set of guards, diverters, and gutters.

New gutters give you peace of mind, increase your property value, and make it less likely that you'll be hauling out the ladder to scoop out leaves anytime soon. If your gutters are over twenty years old, you may be surprised by the new technology available to make gutters cleaner, safer, and easier to care for.

Seamless Gutters: The Facts
Seamless gutters are not truly seamless but they do eliminate bottom and side seams. The gutter does have seams at each end and another on every corner of your home. They do offer a lot of rain protection; seamless gutters are one of many sensible options for your home improvement project.

Thickness of the gutter matters; the best aluminum gutters are made with a .032 inch thick metal. A gutter should not be so heavy that it is easily weighed down, but it should be sturdy when struck by a branch or ladder. Invest in gutter guards and durable floating hangers that attach easily to your home. Avoid gimmicks and go for products with glowing customer reviews.

Gutter Contractors Work with Confidence
If it sounds like a lot of work, that's because it is. Improper gutter installation can mean disastrous results in terms of clogging, sagging, and improper weight distribution. A broken gutter can tear away from your home, resulting in serious damage. If you're wary of undertaking a gutter installation on your own, consider hiring a professional gutter contractor.

Specialized gutter contractors are trained to work with different facades and gutter brands, and can offer you personalized advice, materials, and work on your installation project. Look for trusted contractors through editorial reviews and referrals.

Home Gutters Improve Value
A working gutter system does more than save you a lot of hassle. It improves the look of your home and its value. If you ever choose to put your house on the market, a professional gutter installation shows its value to potential buyers.

Sources:
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About the Author
Amelia Gray is a freelance writer in Austin, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University and an MFA from Texas State University.