Rain Control Gutters

Seamless Gutters vs. Regular Gutters: Which is Best?

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 13:23:00 GMT

Everybody wants to save money on home maintenance costs. We get it. Even if you realize the full extent of everything your gutters do to protect your home from water damage, you probably don’t want to spend an arm and a leg making it happen.

So if you’re considering DIY gutter installation, hey, we can hardly blame you. After all, we know, and you know, that you could go grab a 6″ x 10″ aluminum K-style gutter in 10″ lengths for about $15 at your local Home Depot.

So how do you know whether you should do that, or whether you should go ahead and get seamless aluminum gutters professionally installed instead?

Ask yourself how often you’re willing to replace your gutters.
Professionally installed seamless aluminum gutters last up to 20 years or more. While DIY-installed seamed aluminum gutters can also last that long, they tend to fail faster because debris builds up around the seams, putting pressure on them and causing them to leak (unless you’re very vigilant about cleaning them).

If you’re going with vinyl, you’ll save even more money, but you can expect to do this job again every 7 years at best and every 3 years if you’re extremely unlucky.

Make sure you’ve factored in all the “hidden costs.”
When you start comparing costs make sure you remember that your gutter installation professional’s quote includes everything, including hanging brackets, screws, and endcaps. Once you start adding those to your cart at Home Depot your price is going to go up, and suddenly you’re not just looking at installing gutters at $1.50 a foot anymore.

Of course, there’s a far more dangerous hidden cost that you need to think long and hard about.

Your regular gutters will have seams! You’re not custom-cutting your gutters to match the length of each side of your house like the pros do when they install seamless gutters.

Every seam is a potential leak point. Every leak point is a place where your gutters are not doing their job.

All that water is running down the walls of your house. It’s working its way under your roof shingles. It’s rotting your soffit and fascia. It’s working its way under your siding, where it will happily rot your walls. It’s pounding at your slab, which means you could be looking at some serious, expensive foundation repair problems sooner rather than later.

Remember, we live in the Tampa metro area where rainfall can be heavy and persistent in the rainy season. You either need to be prepared to stay 100% on top of leaks or you need to be prepared for some potential expensive repairs due to water damage.

Be honest, are you handy?
If you have real handyman skills, then you might be able to install your gutters so well that they perform adequately. If you’re an organized homeowner with the time to really take care of those gutters, then absolutely, you can save a lot of money this way. You still won’t get all the advantages of seamless gutters, but it might be good enough.

Just be honest. Are you handy enough to hang gutters? Sure, that YouTube clip makes everything look easy as pie, but you might find yourself floundering when it’s time to get the job done.

How much time do you have to devote to installing your gutters?
It takes longer than you think, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Your time is worth money too.

Is this really what you want to spend your weekend doing? What are you going to do if the entire project takes longer than you think it will? Or worse yet, what are you going to do if you get half way through and realize things aren’t going well and you’re going to have to hire someone to finish the project?

How much gutter can you afford?
If you absolutely can’t afford a professional installation and have enough skill to do the job competently then putting up your own gutters is certainly better than nothing. If you don’t have the skills then you may be better off saving up until you can pay for a professional installation.

The truth is, a professional installation costs a lot less than you think. Plus, you’re probably only going to have to do it once during the entire time you own your home.

Why not get a free estimate before committing yourself to the DIY option? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to walk you through what your professional gutter installation will really cost. I promise it won’t be nearly as bad as you think!

We install seamless gutters in cities throughout Central Florida including St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Lutz, New Port Richey, Odessa, Trinity, Spring Hill , Brooksville Floral City, Homosassa, Inverness, Crystal River, Beverly Hills, Dunnellon, Ocala.

What are Galvalume Gutters?

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 12:15:00 GMT

If you’re hoping to find a gutter that can literally last a lifetime then galvalume gutters might appeal to you. These types of gutters can easily last 100 years or more if maintained properly. They’re also less expensive than copper gutters , which is another type of gutter that can last 100 years.

Despite their longevity, it’s rare to see galvalume gutters on homes in our service area . In fact, in the 40+ years we’ve been in business we’ve never been asked to put galvalume gutters on a home.

They aren’t as aesthetically appealing as copper or even seamless aluminum gutters that come in a variety of colors. Mostly you’re going to see them on commercial buildings because they have a heavy, “industrial” look. You might not care about that. In fact you might like the industrial look.

The problem is, you’ll likely end up moving before these gutters need to be replaced and potential buyers may not like that “bold” industrial look. The last thing you want holding up the sale of your home is your gutters!

What are galvalume gutters?
Galvalume gutters are steel gutters coated with a blend of aluminum and zinc. The coating helps to keep the galvalume rust-free over most of the surface of the gutter.

Over time you may still see a slight bit of rust at the edges of the gutter, but only until that rust hits the coating.

You may also see some scratches, as the coating is pretty thin. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t provide excellent protection, though: it moves with the metal which means it’s not going to chip when the metal expands or contracts in response to temperature changes.

They can be painted, but this tends to emphasize, rather than de-emphasize, the “industrial” look.

How much does galvalume cost?
Galvalume gutters costs twice as much as seamless aluminum gutters. You can have seamless aluminum gutters installed on your home for anywhere from $6 to $15 a foot depending on what gutter contractor you hire (we are on the low end of that range, by the way). Galvalume gutters cost anywhere from $12 to $30 a foot installed.

Why are galvalume gutters so expensive?
First, the material itself costs more than other materials. Galvalume is more expensive than aluminum.

Second, the installation takes longer. It’s tricky to get galvalume gutters properly bonded and sealed.

The cost and the aesthetics are both reasons why we’ve seen homeowners opt for aluminum gutters every single time, even if they call us about galvalume gutters first.

Galvalume gutters are best reserved for commercial and industrial applications but if you want them for your home we’re happy to discuss the option with you. Call us for a free estimate today and we’ll be happy to help!

We serve several cities in Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Citrus counties in Central Florida including St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Lutz, New Port Richey, Odessa, Trinity, Spring Hill, Brooksville, Floral City, Homosassa , Inverness, Crystal River, Beverly Hills , Dunnellon, Ocala.

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Are Copper Gutters Worth the Investment?

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 12:07:00 GMT

They gleam in the sunlight and are reminiscent of stately homes and churches from another era. There’s no denying that copper gutters are gorgeous. There are even people who will tell you they’re more eco-friendly than their aluminum counterparts.

They’re also the most expensive type of gutter you can buy, so you will want to think carefully before deciding they’re right for you.

What are the biggest benefits of copper gutters?
There’s no denying copper gutters offer some impressive benefits.

The thing is, seamless aluminum gutters have the first five advantages too. They don’t have the sixth, they “only” last 20 years. Of course, you’re not likely to be in your home for 100 years, and the disadvantages of copper gutters could outweigh that longevity advantage anyway.

It’s worth noting that copper isn’t invincible either. If a big tree branch falls on the gutter system just right it will tear part of it away just like it would any other gutter. This means that “100 year installation” may not last as long as you might like: you’ll have to get a repair if that happens, or maybe even a brand new installation.

What are the major disadvantages of copper gutters?
There are two big ones. First, they eventually turn green. When that happens, you’re going to have to get up on a ladder and get to work with a copper-cleaning solution. They’ll also require you to apply UV resistant antioxidant coating, which means suddenly they aren’t so maintenance-free.

Second, they’ll cost three to four times what a seamless aluminum gutter system would cost.

They may also draw attention you don’t want to draw. These expensive gutters could tell potential thieves and con artists you have money to burn, making you stand out as a target. Copper itself is a valuable item for thieves, and while we’ve never heard of anyone ripping copper gutters off a home to sell them, stranger things have happened.

Why are copper gutters so expensive?
The first reason comes, of course, from the material itself. Copper is far more expensive than aluminum, about 3 1/2 times more expensive at of the time of this writing.

The second reason comes from the installation process. Copper requires a more delicate installation process than aluminum. This means the installation takes two or three times longer, depending on the size of your house and installation needs.

Are you still interested in copper gutters? Contact us for a free estimate today!
Ultimately the decision is yours, but unless you’re just in love with copper gutters, seamless aluminum gutters will generally be the smarter choice but we’d be more than happy to discuss the costs of each and to help you determine the best solution for your home.

We serve a large area of Central Florida including St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Lutz, New Port Richey, Odessa, Trinity, Spring Hill, Brooksville, Floral City, Homosassa, Inverness, Crystal River, Beverly Hills, Dunnellon, Ocala.

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What Are K-Style Gutters (aka Ogee Gutters)?

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 18:48:00 GMT

Here in the Tampa metro area we get 54″ of torrential rain every year. That means most homeowners need strong, durable gutters capable of holding up to so much water.

K-style gutters, also known as “ogee” gutters, are a great solution which allows homeowners to do just that. They hold more water than rounded gutters. They’re also tougher, doing a better job of standing up to water pressure, winds, and other stresses without bending or protruding. Finally, they blend in nicely with any style home so they always look great.

It’s for these reasons why we only install K-Style gutters.

K-Style Gutters: It’s All in the Shape
Look at a K-style gutter from the side and you’ll see a 90-degree angle followed by a strange squiggle-shape. It might look a bit like a letter “k” if you squint.

While it might not pass a handwriting test, the actual shape of the outer edge of the gutter, with its opposing curves and hooked top edge provides this gutter style with all of its damage resistance and overall durability.

As mentioned, these types of gutters are also known as “ogee” gutters, which is a somewhat accurate description of what the gutter looks like (ogee means “double curve”).

K-Style Gutter Materials & Sizes
You’ll find K-style gutters in every material gutters are made of, including the seamless aluminum gutters we specialize in. You can also find them in copper, galvanized steel, and vinyl.

Most homeowners will have either a 5-inch or a 6-inch K-style gutter. The 7-inch gutters are going to be a lot more common on commercial and industrial buildings. Custom sizes are available too, in the rare cases where they might be required.

We use 6″ K-style gutters on all of our residential gutter installations.

Other Advantages of K-Style Gutters
In addition to their durability and water-handling capabilities, you might want to consider this gutter style because:

Truthfully, they’re the default gutter style for most gutter contractors. It’s rare for a homeowner to call us up and tell us they just really can’t stand the idea of having K-style gutters: bring on the round! When they do, though, it’s usually because they don’t understand the advantages K-style gutters have over round gutters or they simply want that “rounded gutter” look.

Disadvantages of K-Style Gutters
The first snag you’ll encounter with K-style gutters is, in fact, a snag. The little “hook” shape at the top of the curve has a nasty habit of catching debris.

They’re also a little harder to clean than rounded gutters because of the “K curve” and the “hook.” Although this might be a moot point if you’re calling someone to clean your gutters for you.

Fortunately, these minor disadvantages are very easy to correct.

How to Keep K-Style Gutters Clean
If keeping debris out of your gutters and ease-of-cleaning are major concerns for you then you should ask us about our Flo-Free leaf guards . These leaf guards prevent debris from entering your gutter system in the first place and do so better than any other style of leaf guard on the market.

They’re made of industrial-grade nylon and fit neatly into your gutters. They’re designed especially for K-Style gutters, so you don’t have to worry about them not fitting properly. These guards use the little hook at the top of the ogee to hold the leaf guards into place. They then curve over the top of the gutter and fit neatly into the straight side.

Flo-Free leaf guards have a smooth, slick-top surface that sends most debris to the ground. The nylon itself is porous, which means debris doesn’t slip through the way it does through gutter helmets or grates. You’ll still want to brush the debris off them from time to time, but that’s about all you’ll ever have to do for maintenance or cleaning.

Together, the K-style gutter and our Flo-Free leaf guards, offer a powerful one-two punch that can keep you off your ladder and end your gutter headaches. Combine them with seamless aluminum gutters and you get a really powerful punch: gutters that have fewer failure points and leak points combined with water capacity, durability, and a debris-free experience.

Add all that to the fact that seamless gutters can last up to 20 years and you have yourself the most homeowner-friendly honey-do-list relief you can possibly get!

Interested in a Headache-Free Gutter System for Your Own Home?
We have offices in Spring Hill and Lutz but we serve several areas and cities in Central Florida including St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Lutz, New Port Richey, Odessa, Trinity, Spring Hill, Brooksville, Floral City, Homosassa, Inverness, Crystal River, Beverly Hills, Dunnellon, Ocala.

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Rain Control Aluminum of Central Florida Inc. is Now Rain Control Gutters

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 19:20:00 GMT

We’re Darren and Gwen Driscoll, and we’re excited to step into Todd’s tradition of providing excellent, ethical rain gutter service to the residents of Central Florida.

Darren worked with Todd for over a decade before taking this step. Darren comes from a management role at a very successful Master Elite Residential Roofing Company (Sharpe Professional Roofing, LLC). Because rain gutters and roofing are so closely intertwined, he and Todd met and began working together while Darren was in this role.

Todd really worked hard to build an amazing, reputable company. His crew and team are excellent, and they have remained with us. We’re committed to providing gutters at the same level of quality, at the same price point, with the same level of customer service that Rain Control customers have become accustomed to receiving.

Our Background
Darren worked in sales, distribution, and logistics management for the newspaper industry for over twenty years before joining Sharpe Professional Roofing. Gwen worked in the legal field for 8 years, and in sales and customer service for over 10. She’s been a local real estate agent since 2012.

More importantly, we both try to stay active in our communities. Darren was an Assistant Varsity Coach and Junior Varsity Head Coach at J.W. Mitchell High School for 10 years. He’s run several summer camps and coached competitive AAU basketball for 10 years. We both find coaching and mentoring to be extremely rewarding activities.

Our Philosophy
Todd always stood out to us because he ran his business ethically without fail. We share the same philosophy of integrity.

Our family mission statement is: “Treat others as you would like to be treated!”

It’s simple, but it works for us, and it’s served us well over the years.

The Future of Rain Control Gutters
First, you may have noticed a name change. The name of the company is now Rain Control Gutters . We decided this would still honor the old name of Rain Control Aluminum of Central Florida (well known as local gutter experts), but would be easier for people to remember and succinctly describes what we do – GUTTERS!

Second, we plan on adding additional crew members in the near future so we can keep up with sales, which are on the rise! We are so grateful for the continued support from our customers in Tampa and Central Florida.

If you have any questions for us, please drop us a line .

Rain Control Aluminum of Central Florida Inc. is Now Rain Control Gutters is from Rain Control Gutters

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Why You Should Invest in Flo-Free Leaf Guards Before Selling Your Home

Sat, 29 Jun 2019 22:17:00 GMT

But putting money into things that can make your home sell for a lot more is a smart investment. And while most people think about kitchens and bathrooms first, gutter guards are a right choice if you position them correctly (and if you buy the right ones).

How Gutter Guards Can Help You Sell

Think about it. What’s the number one commodity most people are hurting for? What’s the number one thing that brings people happiness?

Time.

It’s why if you give two people $100, the one who spends it on a housekeeper will be the happiest. Because then they have an hour or four to relax, or knock out other errands and pressing problems.

Leaf guards give the same gift to your buyer. You can point to those gutter guards, or have your realtor point to them, and say: “Because I installed these, you will never have to get up on a ladder to clean your gutters.”

Don’t you think that would be a strong selling point?

A Second Strong Selling Point

HGTV says that gutter replacement is a maximum-value home improvement project . Leaf guards in the same brand new seamless aluminum gutters can only maximize that value.

You have basically shown the homeowner that you’ve taken steps to prevent the water damage that so many homes suffer as a result of our Tampa metro area torrential rains. It’s a sign the rest of the house has been well-cared for, too.

Why Flo-Free Leaf Guards

The reason why you want to invest in these leaf guards is simple. They are the only ones who actually do the job.

The most common type of leaf guard is a metal mesh guard that keeps large debris out. What’s left behind is just as bad: pine needles and other smaller plant debris that eventually builds up and clogs your gutters.

The only way to clean them at that point would be to uninstall the leaf guard. And the same is true for “helmet” style guards.

Flo-Free guards are made of industrial strength nylon which curves tightly over the gutters. They keep all debris out, but because they are made of a tough porous material, allow all the water to flow through and out. In other words, they both relieve you of the task of cleaning your gutters while allowing the gutters to do their job.

They also have a lifetime warranty (which buyers will love) and are invisible from the ground (which means you might have to show them our web page to help them understand what you’ve done).

In short, they’re fantastic investments for any homeowner, and thus make for a feature a new buyer will be thrilled to have.

5 Best Seamless Gutter Installers in Odessa, FL in 2019

Sat, 01 Jun 2019 16:06:00 GMT

You might wonder why on earth a seamless gutter company would publish a list of their competitors, but at Rain Control Gutters, we believe in putting the customer first!

Installing seamless aluminum gutters is a major investment in your home, and we know you’ll want to do your research to make sure you’re getting the best service and value.

We started a similar list of the best gutter installers in Tampa a few years ago. We got such positive feedback for putting such a list together we thought we’d do it for other cities starting with Odessa, FL.

Here are five seamless gutter contractors in Odessa, FL that you might want to check out if for some reason you don’t like what we have to offer. We believe we’re the best of the best, but we’ve also included some of the other gutter companies serving the Odessa area. We’re confident that no matter how many companies you call, our excellent service record will keep you coming back!

1. Rain Control Gutters
1997 Lake Waters Place
Lutz, FL 33558
Phone: (813) 949-7246
Web Address: www.RainControlGutters.com
Year Business Started: 1975

It’s no surprise that we put us at the top of the list. We’ve been proudly installing seamless gutters in the Odessa, FL area since 1975. Our team has a proven track record of excellent service and flawless installations. We install only the best 6″ seamless aluminum gutters, available in over 25 colors to blend with the exterior of any home or business. All installations include a gutter warranty and 50-year paint guarantee. We also offer Flo-free leaf guards to eliminate gutter clogging forever.

Rain Control Gutters is BBB accredited and we have over 230 5-star reviews on Google ! Ask any of our loyal customers; we’re committed to getting the job done right!

2. A#1 Seamless Gutter Solutions
5555 W. Linebaugh Avenue, Suite 100
Tampa, FL 33624
Phone: (813) 317-0782
Web Address : FixTheGutter.com
Year Business Started: 2005
They provide commercial and residential seamless gutters. They also do gutter repairs and gutter cleaning and they install leaf/gutter guards.

3. Absolute Gutters Inc.
9011 Oyster Shell Trail
Odessa, FL 33556
Phone: (813) 962-2309
Web Address: AbsoluteGuttersFL.com
Year Business Started: 1994
They install commercial and residential seamless gutters. They also do gutter repairs and gutter cleaning and they install leaf/gutter guards.

4. Ark Gutters of Central FL
5214 US Hwy 98 N.
Lakeland, FL 33809
Phone: (863) 510-5699
Web Address: ArkGuttersofCentralFL.com
Year Business Started: 1999
They install seamless gutters primarily for residential homes. They also do gutter repairs and gutter cleaning and they install screened leaf-gutter guards.

5. American Custom Guttering Inc.
14436 Black Lake Road
Odessa, FL 33556
Phone: (813) 926-6366
Web Address: AmericanCustomGuttering.com
Year Business Started: 1991
They install seamless gutters primarily for residential homes. They also have a retail store that sells gutters and gutter supplies. What’s also unique about them is they will install rain barrels – your own or barrels they have in stock.

Choosing seamless gutters is one of the best (and affordable) investments you can make for your home. Not only do they dress up your home, they help prevent countless dollars in water damage each year. We’re confident the list of gutter contractors serving Odessa, FL that we’ve provided here can help you out!

Did we miss any gutter installers in Odessa, FL that should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Be Prepared: Hurricane Season 2019

Tue, 28 May 2019 17:46:00 GMT

Be Prepared: Hurricane Season 2019 is from Rain Control Gutters

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5 Things to Look For When Hiring a Gutter Contractor

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 17:09:00 GMT

1. A ton of positive reviews.

2. Investment in the local community.

3. Seamless aluminum gutters.

4. Craftsmanship.

Materials.

Workmanship.

5. Professionalism.

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What’s Covered in a Water Damage Insurance Claim?

Sat, 30 Mar 2019 02:41:00 GMT

Water damage is brutal. It can ruin both your home and your belongings. It can leave behind mold, an even more destructive force.

And if you’re not mitigating your water damage risk because you think insurance will cover everything, you may be in for a rude awakening.

Insurance is for emergencies.

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers things like tree limbs falling and tearing a hole in your roof, or tornadoes ripping the shingles away. It doesn’t cover basic maintenance failures, or even, always, the results of those maintenance failures.

“If the damage is not sudden or accidental, but instead is the result of a long-standing problem that went undetected, you will have a problem from the claim and might have a claim denied.” – The Balance

Clogged, leaky, or broken gutters would definitely count as a long-standing problem. And if you get a roof leak because of this problem homeowner’s insurance isn’t going to cover that.

Standing water and mold aren’t covered without separate policies.

Any standing water would fall under your flood policy. And on most policies you need a separate rider for mold damage and remediation.

If this is a concern, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance agent about it now, before there’s any problem in the home. That way you can add these coverages to your account and have the peace of mind that comes with doing so.

Keeping your gutters clear is its own form of insurance.

Think about this: whenever you file a claim, your insurance bill goes up.

Meanwhile, if you improve your gutters, add Flo-Free leaf guards to keep them clean, and make them seamless to avoid leaks, you’re stopping exactly the kinds of damages insurance won’t handle.

This means your rates stay stable, which means your gutters pay for themselves. And if you do get storm damage, a burst pipe, or any other type of damage which you might need insurance for you can prove you did what you needed to do to maintain the home.

It will also cost significantly less than you probably think it’s going to cost. That’s a theme that comes up in our reviews time and time again.

Gutters and insurance aren’t the most glamorous topics in the world.

But they’re both absolutely necessary if you want to have a glamorous home, one that stays in good repair and is as covered against disaster as it is possible to get.

What’s Covered in a Water Damage Insurance Claim? is from Rain Control Gutters

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7 Best Seamless Gutter Installers in Tampa, FL in 2019

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 15:36:00 GMT

You might wonder why on earth a seamless gutter company would publish a list of their top competitors, but at Rain Control Gutters, we believe in putting the customer first!

Installing seamless aluminum gutters is a major investment in your home, and we know you’ll want to do your research to make sure you’re getting the best service and value.

We started this list a couple years ago and continue to update it every year so this list is for 2019.

Here are seven experienced seamless gutter installers in Tampa that you’ll want to check out. We believe we’re the best of the best, but we’ve also included some of the other gutter companies serving the Tampa Bay area that you might want to check out. We’re confident that no matter how many companies you call, our excellent service record will keep you coming back!

1. Rain Control Gutters
10447 Tillery Road
Spring Hill, FL 34608
(352) 686-4518
www.raincontrolgutters.com

It’s no surprise that we put us at the top of the list. We’ve been proudly serving the Tampa metro area since 1975. Our team has a proven track record of excellent service and flawless installations. We install only the best 6″ seamless aluminum gutters, available in over 25 colors to blend with the exterior of any home or business. All installations include a gutter warranty and 50-year paint guarantee. We also offer effective Flo-free leaf guards to eliminate gutter clogging forever.

Rain Control Gutters is BBB accredited and we have over 200 5-star reviews on Google ! Ask any of our loyal customers; we’re committed to getting the job done right!

2. The Gutter Company
1100 N. 50th St., Unit H
Tampa, FL 33619
(813) 539-5260
thegutterco.com

The Gutter Company is new to our list for 2019. They have several glowing reviews on Google and their staff has a combined experience of more than 35 years in the gutter industry. They work with homeowners, business owners, local contractors, and builders. They also provide gutter maintenance and cleaning services.

3. Gutter Therapy
4209 West Bay Vista Ave
Tampa Bay, FL 33611
(813) 837-3820
guttertherapy.com

Gutter Therapy is family owned and has been serving Tampa Bay for more than 10 years. They install seamless aluminum gutters, as well as gutters in other styles and materials.

4. The Gutter Man of Tampa Bay, LLC.
604 Fayette Drive N.
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 724-1714
gutter-man.com

This is another new entry for 2019. They are locally owned with over 20 years of experience. They have several positive reviews on Google, Home Advisor, and Angie’s List. They do everything from gutter repairs and cleaning to full installations for residential and commercial properties.

5. Premier Seamless Gutters of Central Florida
3126 Reynolds Road, Suite 8
Lakeland, FL 33803
premierseamlessguttersofcentralflorida.com

Premier Seamless Gutters provides everything from gutter repair and cleaning to installation. They service home owners as well as business owners. They have over 25 years of experience.

6. Gutter Doctor
(813) 971-7101
718 Crystal Lake Rd
Lutz, FL 33548
gutterdoctorinc.com

Gutter Doctor has been installing and repairing seamless aluminum gutters in both Pasco and Hillsborough counties for nearly 20 years.

7. Crown Rain Gutters
8410 Epicenter Blvd., Suite 1
Lakeland, FL 33809
(407) 601-0269
crownrainguttersfl.com

This company has been around for a long time. They have over 30 years experience in the industry. They are a second generation, family-owned business providing seamless rain gutters for residential and commercial properties in Tampa and Central Florida.

Choosing seamless aluminum gutters is one of the best choices you can make for your home. Not only do they dress up your home, they help prevent countless dollars in water damage each year. These companies all offer free estimates in their respective services areas, which cover most of the Tampa metropolitan area.

Did we miss any gutter installers that should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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5 Rain Gutter Fails That Could Damage Your Home

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 22:12:00 GMT

But they play a vital role in keeping your home safe from water damage. And if you don’t stop to think about them from time to time, you might just make one of these expensive mistakes.

Failing to clean your gutters.

You need to clean your gutters every spring and every fall if you do not have good leaf guards installed (see below). You can do it yourself or you can have someone else do it, but you have to get it done.

Clogged gutters fail to shunt the water through to your downspout, which should send it away from the home. Instead, the rain falls over the edges and works its way right up to your foundation once more. It starts working its way under the shingles. It gets dozens of places you don’t want it to be.

Trusting the wrong gutter guards.

Most gutter guards are worse than useless. Not only do they continue to let small debris through them until the gutters get clogged, but they actively make the job of cleaning your gutters even more of a pain.

The only gutter guards we recommend are Flo-Free leaf guards, which really do get the job done. All you have to do if you invest in these guards is knock the debris off the surface of them every now and then.

They’re different because they’re actively designed to block debris while allowing water to continue through to the gutters. They’re snug, tight, and made out of industrial-strength nylon. You can read more about them here .

Failing to inspect your gutters twice a year.

Between our driving Tampa-area rains and high winds gutters tend to take a beating. They can get dented. They can pull away from their fasteners which creates a big gap for rain to get through, ensuring plenty of it ends up pounding against the sides of your house.

If you don’t walk your house at least twice a year you’ll never know there’s a problem.

Failing to invest in having your gutters repaired.

Once you find a problem will you groan and go, “man, I don’t really want to spend money on this right now?” Or will you go ahead and get your gutters taken care of?

Here’s hoping you do the latter, unless you like the idea of paying for extremely expensive home repairs later.

Attempting DIY rain gutters.

The only DIY rain gutters you’ll get are vinyl ones. Vinyl rain gutters come in 10′ sections, which means you’re placing little leak points all around the house as you join the sections together. They also crumple and dent with ease.

You’re not even saving much money as vinyl gutters don’t have a very long lifespan compared to seamless aluminum gutters. And, again, you have to factor in the repair costs for any water damage those gutters allow to happen.

Besides, having long-lasting, leak-free, professionally-installed seamless aluminum gutters costs a lot less than you think. If you live in the Tampa metro area, give us a call. We’ll be happy to give you a free quote on the gutters and leaf guards that can make your life easier for years to come.

5 Rain Gutter Fails That Could Damage Your Home is from Rain Control Gutters

The post 5 Rain Gutter Fails That Could Damage Your Home appeared first on Rain Control Gutters .

Why You Should Invest in Seamless Gutters

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 19:58:00 GMT

We custom cut gutters at your home using a machine just like this.

Your gutters are sagging, or pulling away from your roof. They’ve got big holes in them and they’re no longer doing their job.

It’s time for a replacement. And the last thing you want to do is spend too much money.

After all, you just got finished spending an arm and a leg on Christmas. And gutters aren’t exactly a fun purchase. There are dozens of other things you’d rather spend money on, so you might be tempted to run down to your local big box store so you can pick up vinyl gutters and get it over with.

Here’s why you might want to reconsider that idea.

A gutter is only as good as its ability to keep water away from your house.

Water that pelts the foundation and sides of your home does a lot of damage.

Here in the Tampa, FL area, we regularly experience hard, driving rains that put your home at risk if your gutters aren’t up to the challenge. An average of 46″ per year is 46″ you don’t want anywhere near your home.

Vinyl gutters have built-in leaks from the moment they go up.

Vinyl gutters are sold in 10′ sections. Chances are, most of the sides of your home are a lot longer than 10′. That length accounts for perhaps the average wall of a smaller room in your home.

Depending on your house shape, this means you could have anywhere from three to five leak points in your gutter system, not counting the corners, which add two more leak points per house side. There is simply no way to make the joins between these sections, or seams, water-tight enough to prevent some water from getting through.

Over time, this water exposure builds up, and sooner or later you’re dealing with the same level of damage you were dealing with before.

Vinyl gutters are only expected to last 10 years. If that.

In a moderate climate, vinyl gutters are expected to last about ten years.

Here in Florida, we’ve seen them give out in as few as five. They’re just not up to the challenge of heavy duty Florida rainfall.

Seamless aluminum gutters solve all these problems.

So, to recap.

Vinyl gutters:

Seamless gutters:

They also aren’t as expensive as you think, especially when you consider the fact that they really are an investment. Whatever you pay for them will be more than paid for when you consider all the repairs and replacements you’re not paying for.

Want to find out what that investment looks like? Live in our service area ? Give us a call today for a free quote.

Is Your Siding Taking Water Damage?

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 17:28:00 GMT

One of the places this water damage can show up is in your siding. And the siding isn’t the only thing that takes damage. The areas covered by the siding can start to rot as well. And once you start seeing damage to your siding chances are you’ve already got a pretty serious problem beneath.

Still, it’s important to know the signs.

You’re seeing water stains.

Siding can take on water stains just like your ceiling or walls can. They’ll show up as grey, brown, or black spots. You may also see streaks that are a slightly darker version of your siding color.

You should also be really concerned if you see algae growing all over your siding. Algae can’t grow without the presence of water. If your home is shedding water like it should be, this shouldn’t happen. The same is true for moss.

Mold and mildew aren’t unheard of either. If you’re seeing either of those you’ve got a serious issue, one that needs to be addressed right away.

Your paint is peeling.

If you have vinyl siding you won’t see this sign, of course, since you typically don’t paint vinyl. It’s just whatever color it is. The same is true if you’ve chosen to stain your wooden siding.

But if you’ve got painted wooden siding then this could be one of your earliest signs that your siding’s getting way more exposure to water than it should be.

Of course, the exterior of your home isn’t the only place where you might see this symptom. If your interior paint peels or stains there’s a good chance the water has already worked its way under the siding and to the interior house structure. The same is true for wallpaper which randomly starts peeling away.

Here in Florida, there’s a good chance mold, mildew, or both will be trapped between the wallpaper and the wall surface, adding another layer of trouble.

The nails no longer look right.

One of two things could happen here.

The first is nails could start popping out. The second is nails can start sinking deeper into the siding, because the water is causing it to swell.

Either way, nails that don’t look normal just aren’t a great sign.

You see warping or bubbling.

Siding that’s severely water damaged can start to visibly warp or bubble up. However, water damage isn’t the only reason siding buckles or warps. When you’re looking at vinyl siding the cause is more likely to be poor installation than water damage.

Your gutters are in bad shape.

The signs may not be showing up yet, but if your gutters aren’t in good repair there’s a great chance your siding is taking water damage, along with many of the other vital structures in your home.

We recommend doing a visual inspection of your gutters at least twice a year, right around the time you clean them, or get them cleaned. That way you can spot any problems.

Are your gutters in need of repair or replacement? Don’t forget to call us for a free estimate. Fixing your gutters is more affordable than you might think. It’s certainly more affordable than dealing with the consequences of water damage!

Ladder Safety Tips for Gutter Cleaning Season

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 20:40:00 GMT

That is, of course, unless you’ve invested in flo-free leaf guards which keep all the debris out of your gutters. But if you haven’t? You’re out of luck. There’s debris up there.

Some people will enjoy their Saturday and hire a professional to come out and clean their gutters. For those of you who still want to DIY it though, we want to make sure you’re safe.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of simple ladder safety tips. Unless you have special gutter-cleaning equipment which doesn’t require you to get on a ladder, you’re going to have to take a climb.

Please familiarize yourself with these tips before beginning your scoop-and-toss routine.

Make sure your ladder is up to the challenge.

You want a safe, sturdy ladder that’s in outstanding repair. A fiberglass, A-frame step-ladder is great for most homes . You get a ladder that does not conduct electricity but which is also very sturdy, and the right height for the work you’re going to do.

Check the weight rating, and be honest with yourself. Don’t get on a 200 pound ladder if you weigh 285 pounds. Find one rated for 300 pounds. The ladder won’t tell anyone.

Set up the ladder correctly.

A ladder that’s been set up incorrectly is an accident waiting to happen. Always read the directions.

You should place your ladder on a flat, sturdy surface. Leg levelers can help you if you’re working on a section of roof where the ground is a little uneven.

The ladder should be completely dry before you climb. You should only try to clean your gutters in clear, dry weather. You shouldn’t even climb if it’s very windy out, as the wind can threaten the stability of the ladder.

Never climb higher than the third rung.

You need a little bit of ladder to support your body. Remember the 3-point rule of contact. Either two feet and one hand need to be on the ladder, or one foot and two hands.

If you have to climb any higher than the third rung you have a ladder that’s too short. Go back and get a taller one.

It’s never too late to clean your gutters the easy way.

Getting a little wigged out by all this ladder safety talk? Given ladder falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the United States that’s probably worth worrying about.

Having someone come out and clean your gutters costs way less than going to the hospital for a fall. It’s also probably a lot less stressful, a lot more fun, and a lot less expensive than you think it is.

If you’d like to stay off the ladder just give us a call for a free estimate. We’ll be happy to help!

How Much Does it Cost to Have Your Gutters Cleaned?

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 21:56:00 GMT

And even though there are a variety of tools out there designed to keep you off the ladder, most people find the only way to get their gutters cleaned well enough to do the job is to get up on the ladder and start scooping.

But did you know professional gutter cleaning is one of the services we offer here at Rain Control Gutters? And that it’s a very affordable task? In many cases we can get it done for as low as $60 to $300.

If that seems like kind of a large range, remember the size of the house will play a big role in our estimate. If you have a smaller home you won’t have to pay that much. If you have a larger one we may need to charge you a bit more.

Either way, remember the debris and clogs from your gutters can cause far more expensive problems. Consider:

None of this even begins to touch what happens if your home gets infested with mold because of standing water in your gutters. Nor does it touch other unpleasantness which can happen, such as critters deciding to nest up there (and eventually working their way into your attic), or mosquitos using your gutters as a breeding ground.

So the only other question you have to ask yourself is: how much is your time worth?

It could take you an entire Saturday to do what it only takes our team a couple of hours to do. You work hard. Is cleaning your gutters really the way you want to spend your time?

It has to be done either way, of course, at least if you want to keep your home in good shape.

Think you might want to treat yourself to a gutter cleaning this year? Live in the Tampa metro area (see our service area page )? Call us for a free estimate. Chances are the job will be far more affordable than you think.

HGTV Calls Gutter Replacement a Maximum Value Home Improvement Project

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 19:55:00 GMT

But gutters are a solid choice. Don’t take our word for it though. HGTV backs us here. Here are a few highlights from the article.

Gutter Guard Buyer’s Guide

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 20:21:00 GMT

Or, if you prefer paying someone like us to do it for you, what else could you be spending that money on?

Buy the right gutter guard and you can take your pick. There’s just one problem. Most gutter guards don’t work. There is, in fact, just one form of guard you can buy to reliably free yourself from the drudgery of gutter cleaning forever. Some gutter guards can even cause massive problems.

Types of Gutter Guards

You’ve got several types of gutter guards to choose from.

The first is a brush guard. It’s basically a thick, wire brush meant to slide right into your gutters. This is one of two “fill” types that people have tried to use to let water flow through the guards without allowing debris to accumulate. Unfortunately, debris wins this battle every time, getting in behind the brushes, around them, and between them. The result? Now you’ve got a mess of leaves and a bunch of soggy brushes in your gutters. Yuck.

Next, you can get various types of screens or perforated meshes. These install over your gutters. They really will block the biggest debris, so you do get a bit of help here. But they don’t block all of it. Pine needles and other small things will accumulate over time. Eventually you’ll have to get in there to clean it all out, and it will be an even bigger job than before because now you have to remove the gutter guard, then re-install it. This is nobody’s idea of a good time.

Various metal solutions which are engineered to block most of the debris while allowing water to flow through are similarly imperfect, especially here in Florida. Eventually driving winds are going to send stuff right under whatever “hat-type” solution you use. Again, now you’re faced with having to clean gutters after uninstalling the gutter-guard solution.

“Foam” type gutters seem like they should be a pretty great solution. Just slip foam into the gutters. Now you’ve blocked everything but water. Brilliant! And as a short-term solution this isn’t too bad. Unfortunately, the foam gets brittle and impermeable within a couple years. After awhile, this hard foam mess becomes the new stuff blocking your gutters. Now you have to pull it all and replace it.

We don’t install any of these solutions for our customers.

This is because the sixth solution is the only one that really solves these problems. Flo-Free leaf guards are a 3/4″ thick layer of permeable nylon that lasts for a lifetime. It curves over your gutter, fitting inside from top to bottom. It creates an unobstructed channel within the gutter without leaving any place for even the smallest of debris to get inside. This is industrial strength nylon that lasts basically forever, so you never have to pluck it back out again. In fact, pretty much the only thing you ever want to do to it is brushing the stuff off the top, as leaves can end up covering the surface. This is a much easier task than cleaning gutters every spring and fall.

Who Needs Flo-Free Leaf Guards No Matter What?

Some people will see Flo-Free leaf guards as more of a luxury purchase than a true necessity. For some homeowners we’d agree. This is a nice-to-have.

However, if you’re a homeowner with massive trees in your yard, trees which stretch over a significant percentage of your gutters? Flo-free guards might well be a need instead. Your trees are just constantly shedding stuff into your gutters, which means you might find yourself having to get them cleaned out once a month, not twice a year. Let it go even for a little while and you could start to see moisture accumulate on the walls of your home, or see any of the other problems associated with dirty gutters. If this is you, Flo-free guards are just smart.

Think you might need (or want) gutter guards that work? Contact us for a free quote today.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Gutters?

Fri, 04 May 2018 20:07:00 GMT

Are you going to try to repair the gutters, or are you going to have them replaced?

To make this decision, there are five questions you should ask yourself.

What kind of damage is it?

A little rust can often be repaired. A loose hanger can usually be screwed back in.

A dented or buckling gutter that just got hit by a tree limb is usually done for. Gutters need to create an obstruction-free channel for water to flow through if they’re going to do the job they’re meant to do.

Is the damage localized, or is it widespread?

If you’ve only got a little damage in one spot, a repair is fine. Even if you have to make some replacements you might find you only need to put in one section of gutter.

If the entire guttering system is starting to fail you probably need to buckle up for a replacement.

Are the leaks large or small?

A small leak can usually be dealt with. Huge leaks can’t be sealed over though, which means at least that section of gutter will need to be replaced.

How’s it hangin’?

Sagging gutters are a big problem. As mentioned, sometimes hangers do get a little loose. You can go out and determine for yourself if that’s the issue. It’s an easy fix.

Sometimes sagging gutters are indicative of a much bigger problem, which might mean it’s better to replace the entire system.

What kind of gutters do you have?

Cheap DIY vinyl gutters from a big box store are rarely worth repairing. Super-expensive copper gutters are almost always worth repairing, because they’re so expensive to replace.

Meanwhile, seamless aluminum gutters usually last for over twenty years and rarely need repairs. If yours do, however, we offer that service. If necessary, it’s also easy to custom-create a new section of gutter to place on your house.

Still not sure?

Call us! We’ll be happy to take a look and give you our honest assessment. We’ll give you a free estimate so you know what you’re in for, too.

Remember, any money you put into either repairing or replacing your gutters is money well spent. It’s cheaper than repairing your foundation or dealing with mold.

Pasco County Cooperative Extension Hosts Gardening Classes

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 18:29:00 GMT

Not sure how to get started? Started a vegetable garden in the past, but then promptly killed it? The Pasco County Cooperative extension has you covered. On April 28 they’ll be holding a “Vegetable Garden Basics” class at Dade City Watson Park Community Garden from 9 AM to 10 AM.

The answers to the mysteries of choosing the right location, testing your soil, and planting various vegetables will all be revealed. You’ll learn Florida-friendly pest control methods too.

This is an interactive class. You’ll be doing some digging. Bring a shovel and some gloves. You’ll also walk away with your own gardening kit to get you started.

The class is free, and you can get more information about it here .

If a vegetable garden sounds like more work than you want to put in this year then consider this Florida-focused container gardening class instead. The container garden class will be held on May 17th from 12 PM to 1 PM at the Garden of the Five Senses at 4299 Pan America Boulevard. A few gorgeous containers can brighten up your landscape without forcing you to break major ground.

You can even get creative with containers. Gutter gardening is one of the only smart uses for cheap, DIY vinyl gutters, for example. They’re great for growing strawberries!

For rain gutters that will protect your home, of course, you’ll want to call us. The team at Rain Control Gutters will give you a free estimate on seamless aluminum rain gutters. Pasco County is right here in our service area, and if you live there we’re eager to help you protect your home from water damage.

After all, a great garden needs a safe, undamaged home to go with it!

Answers to 4 Top Rain Garden Concerns

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 18:31:00 GMT

As such, we’ve found we get a lot of questions about them. And though our specialty is seamless aluminum gutters, we find we want to try to answer them as best we can.

Will Rain Gardens Lower My Property Value?

This rumor likely started circulating around the Pacific Northwest, where one poorly-designed rain garden project went notoriously wrong. However, there is no evidence to suggest that rain gardens lower property values in any way.

Instead, evidence seems to suggest that installing a rain garden will increase the value of your property by up to 5% .

Will I have to deal with standing water in my rain garden?

Nobody wants standing water, least of all in Florida, where mosquitoes are a persistent problem.

Fortunately, a well-designed rain garden should not create any kind of a lasting problem. However, if you find your rain garden drains too slowly for your liking you do have the option of installing an underdrain , which many experts are starting to recommend as a matter of course.

What happens to the pollutants I’m supposedly keeping out of Florida’s waterways by building a rain garden?

When people ask this question they usually mean am I then putting all those pollutants in my front yard?

A valid question, but not one worth worrying about. You’re helping with stormwater runoff from your driveway and roof. The Florida waterways are dealing with the runoff from everyone’s driveways and roofs. It makes a difference.

Evidence also suggests the plants themselves cleanse the pollutants away, break them down and even make use of them.

I have a rain garden, but my plants keep dying.

Remember you might have to water the plants for the first year. You can’t always rely on the rain to do it for you. You should make sure you’re dealing with native plants, and you should select them for the soil conditions you’re working with.

See this pamphlet from the US Department of Agriculture for more tips.

Ultimately rain gardens are easy, low-maintenance ways to beautify your yard while helping Florida waterways. Most of the work is on the front end, and you can troubleshoot any other problems you encounter. Why not give it a try?

Do You Need a Permit to Get a Rain Barrel in Florida?

Sat, 24 Feb 2018 04:42:00 GMT

This is a question we’ve heard once or twice, and we thought we should take a moment to address it here on our blog.

Here’s the short answer: no, you do not require a permit to use a rain barrel in Florida. In fact, many of Florida’s county extensions are openly and actively trying to encourage Floridians to use them. They host numerous classes and offer rain barrels you can take home with you.

So where did the rumor that you might need a permit for a rain barrel come from?

It could have come from the same place that prompts people to ask whether rain barrels are legal at all .

Cisterns are a good choice for those who want a greater storage capacity than rain barrels provide. A 6’x6’x6’ cistern can hold 1,600 gallons.

Cisterns can be above- or below-ground or partially submerged. They need to be watertight, have enclosed lids, and be made of non-reactive material (e.g. reinforced concrete, galvanized steel, or plastic).

Cisterns do often require permits, as they are larger construction projects offering a much greater chance for things to go wrong. Here are the links to the permitting offices covering cisterns in the counties we serve.

Most people who build a cistern will need a contractor to get the job done for them safely. For example, if you want an elevated cistern you’ll need someone who can build a structure that will account for the weight of the water alone. Contractors will generally have a good idea of how to get the cistern properly filtered so you can make use of it. They’ll be able to design it in a way that gives you access to it so you can clean it, too, which is an important feature. It’s not a DIY project unless you have some truly advanced skills.

Keep in mind if you do plan to install a cistern you’ll need very clean gutters. Cisterns require good pre-filtration, and since they’re still catching water off your roof this means squeaky clean gutters. You’ll get the cleanest gutters you’ve ever experienced with our Flo-Free leaf guards, so contact us about those if you’re considering the larger rainwater collection project. We’ll be happy to provide you with a free estimate which you can work into your overall project budget.

Whether you use a barrel or a cistern, collecting rainwater is a great way to stay Florida-friendly!

Do You Need a Permit to Get a Rain Barrel in Florida? is from Rain Control Gutters

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Is Collecting Rain Water Illegal in Florida in 2018?

Sat, 20 Jan 2018 17:47:00 GMT

We thought the question was a little crazy at first, just because it had never dawned on us that it might ever be illegal to collect rain water. However, after doing some research we did discover that there are some laws that make it illegal to collect rain water in some states.

For example, one Oregon resident was sentenced to 30 days in jail and paid a $1,500 fine after collecting rain water on his land. You can read the full story here .

There are several states where rain collection is restricted or illegal. It’s totally illegal, for example, in Oregon and Utah.

Some states require a permit before you can collect rain water. Laws are also changing in some states, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a thorny legal issue for some homeowners.

Some states swing in the opposite direction. In some states, certain types of new builds have to have rainwater collection systems, and some states even offer tax incentives to homeowners who adopt them.

Learning these things prompted us to double check Florida’s laws. Fortunately for Florida homeowners who want to collect rain water, we could not find any laws or statutes on the books.

However, every county is different, and the law does have nuances. For example, some counties have restrictions on how you may use the rain water or how you need to treat it.

The place to start is your county health department. To help our readers we’ve gathered up links for the health departments in each of the counties that we serve.

In addition to following health department requirements we do urge you to be safe when you are using your rainwater catchment system. Rainwater should usually be used as grey water for plants, not as potable drinking water.

Finally, remember that we’re not lawyers – we’re gutter contractors ! Laws also do change so to be on the safe side if you’re going to collect rain water, check with your city and county officials first!

Is Collecting Rain Water Illegal in Florida in 2018? is from Rain Control Gutters

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Should You Repair or Replace Your Seamless Aluminum Gutters?

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 18:30:00 GMT

You don’t have to rush to a replacement if something’s going wrong, however. Here’s what you’ll want to consider before deciding.

Loose Joints

If you’re confident in your DIY skills this is one of the easiest problems to fix on your own. Stay ladder safe, but you can prop them up with a gutter sealant, which you can find at any hardware store.

You will want to wash the area with denatured alcohol first, since dirt and debris can impact the sealant’s ability to work.

Don’t want to get up on a ladder? We’re happy to take care of this repair for you, and it won’t cost you very much.

Leaks

First, you’ve got to determine the reason for the leak . A ridiculous number of leaks happen simply because the gutter is clogged, which can happen even if you stay on top of gutter cleaning. Remove the clog and go on with your day.

A leak can also happen at your corner seams; the only potential leak sites on any seamless aluminum gutter installation. Again, a silicone-based gutter-sealant will get the job done.

But leaks can also happen if the gutters are loose, or if the initial installation was done incorrectly. We can repair the first, but the second problem will probably require a full-scale gutter replacement.

Dents

Minor dents happen, and for the most part you can ignore them.

However, if you’ve got a major dent warping the run of a gutter you could experience overflow problems and leaks. You won’t have to replace the entire gutter system, but you will need to replace the gutters on that side of your house. We’ll come out and custom-create the new gutter run for you.

Rust

Aluminum is designed to resist rust, but it’s still metal and its job is to get wet. Eventually 20 years of minor scratches, dents, and weather are going to take their toll. Rust spots become leaky holes all too quickly.

If the gutters are old enough and are rusting you’re looking at a replacement job.

Fortunately, seamless aluminum gutters are affordable, and they’re an investment you won’t have to make again for another 20 to 30 years.

If you live in Clearwater, Spring Hill or anywhere else in the Tampa Metro Area and you’re having gutter problems, we’ll be happy to have a look. We’ll be honest about the course of action that will protect both your home, and your wallet. Call us today.

Caring For Your Yard During a Drought

Tue, 16 May 2017 19:39:00 GMT

If you live in our service area, your gutters likely haven’t been seeing a lot of use lately. It’s been a dry couple of weeks for Central Florida. Like many of our neighbors, we’re doing our part to conserve water. However, if you’ve put a lot of care into your landscaping, you might be worried that your perfectly planned yard will suffer during the drought. Use these tips to keep everything looking its best until the rain comes again.

Your first step is to examine your water usage. Chances are that your lawn is actually overwatered in your quest to keep it green. If you’re using old-school sprinklers, it may be time to consider getting a timer or switching to an automatic irrigation system. This will allow you to closely monitor your water usage and strategically reduce it. Your lawn might not be as green as it once was, but you’ll keep it healthy enough to bounce back in rainier times.

If you have a wider variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees, you’ll want to read up on each plant’s watering requirements. Some plants are relatively hardy and can go for fairly long stretches without a drink. Others require a strict schedule of upkeep. Do what you can to keep your prized plants satisfied, but always be conscious of the amount of water you’re using.

Consider cutting your grass a bit longer or less frequently than normal. Letting the grass grow higher allows photosynthesis play a larger role in its nourishment. A grass height of about three or four inches should be just right for your grass to weather the dry season.

Another way to keep grass and other plants going strong in dryer weather is to examine your soil choice. Water is important, but plants can only grow as well as their soil allows. You want to be using loamy, nutrient rich soil that isn’t too strongly compacted. You should also check your soil’s pH with a test picked up online or at your local store. If the acidity is off, you’ll want to adjust it. Even slight variations in pH can make a big difference in the health of your plants.

Remember, it’s dry now, but the rain will be back in no time. Take the time to clean and check your gutters. Damaged gutters leave your home at risk for water damage, so get them repaired before the next storm hits. Keep your fingers crossed for rain and remember to call Rain Control Gutters for all of your seamless aluminum gutter needs.

How Much Do Seamless Gutters Cost in Tampa, FL?

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 22:01:00 GMT

Seamless gutter installation may be less expensive than you expect! We know you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck, but this guide can give you an idea of what to expect when shopping for gutters in Tampa. Keep in mind that most houses need between 100′ and 150′ of guttering, although you’ll need someone to measure your home to get an exact quote.

Vinyl Gutters

Cost-conscious homeowners may look to vinyl gutters as a less expensive alternative to aluminum, at around $4 per foot. It may look like a great deal, but don’t be fooled. Vinyl gutters are less effective and don’t last as long as other options, you’ll need to either replace them more frequently or risk expensive water damage to your home. Vinyl gutters also clash with the beautiful exterior of most homes and clearly show their wear and tear. Most gutter companies in our service area no longer carry vinyl gutters, but they remain a popular DIY option. Residents of our stormy Tampa service area often find themselves paying to have them replaced with higher quality aluminum gutters in just a few years.

Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutter prices in the Tampa area range from $4-$6 per foot. Most companies sell 5″ gutters by default. They may be enough in other parts of the country, but our experience tells us that 6″ gutters are better prepared to withstand our Florida rainstorms. Aluminum seamless gutters are a little more expensive but are vastly superior in quality and much less prone to leaks. There may be a higher upfront cost to get seamless gutters but they’ll certainly prove their worth over time. Aluminum gutters, when properly maintained, last 20 years or more .

While we’ll need to take a look at your home to get you an exact quote, our installs range in price from as low as $300 to as high as $3,500 – and everything in between. It’s impossible to know exactly how much seamless gutters will cost for your home without getting exact measurements, something we do when we do our free estimates.

Call us today for a free estimate! We have a wide selection of color options to choose from to ensure our gutters blend perfectly with the exterior of your home!

How To Make Sure Your Gutters Last

Sat, 04 Mar 2017 00:45:00 GMT

Choose aluminum gutters.

While you have a number of options when choosing gutters, aluminum is the clear choice for most homeowners. Steel gutters are prone to rusting, which shortens their lifespan considerably. Vinyl gutters are often low quality, lasting only a couple of years. On the other hand, aluminum gutters are sturdy and can last as long as 30 years if properly installed and maintained.

Have your gutters professionally installed.

A proper installation of your gutters is vital. If your gutters aren’t put up properly, the simply aren’t going to stay up as long. It might seem less expensive to cut costs on installation, but you end up paying for repairs or replacements sooner.

Clear your gutters regularly.

If you don’t clean your gutters regularly, dirt, leaves, and other debris will start to build up and clog your gutters and downspout. Not only will this prevent your gutters from working properly, it can also lead to issues with mosquitos and mold. You can extend the life of your gutters by cleaning them at least twice a year.

Install a working gutter guard system.

There are a lot of gutter guard systems out there that just don’t live up to the hype. Dirt and debris still filter in and you end up having to clean your gutters after all. You, however, can be done with gutter cleaning forever with the Flo-Free Leaf Guard Gutter System. This fully keeps debris out of your gutters, keeping them in tiptop shape for years and saving you money in gutter cleaning cost .

Never prop a ladder up on your gutters!

One of the most common causes of gutter damage is putting a ladder up against the gutters on your house. Because gutters aren’t designed to hold an adult’s weight, they may buckle and break under the strain. Try instead to prop your ladder up on the roof when cleaning your gutters or doing any other roof maintenance.

Do you want your gutters to stand the test of time? Call Rain Control Gutters for your free estimate on gutters or gutter guards today!

Could Wildfires Threaten Florida?

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 22:40:00 GMT

The Florida Forest Service notes an unusually dry winter season that could set us up for a drought. These conditions cover nearly our entire service area, stretching into Pinellas County, Pasco County, Hillsborough County and Hernando County.

“We had a good summer with lots of rain,” said David Zierden, a Florida State University professor who serves as the state’s official climatologist. But the last major rainfall to hit Florida arrived with Hurricane Matthew in early October, he said. And while a few rainy days in December brought a brief respite, experts said Floridians shouldn’t get used to that.

Florida has faced wildfires before: in 2007, and in 1998. New residents of the state are often caught off guard as our state is usually associated with torrential rains, not fires.

Nevertheless, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared . If you’ve been collecting rain water your barrel might be dry, but it might be a good time to fill it with the hose now, to serve as the outdoor water source recommended by the Red Cross.

Though we’re all cash strapped from the holiday season it’s best to go ahead and make sure you have all the emergency items on the Red Cross list now.

Keep in mind that if your gutters start to look like they are in ill repair during this season you won’t want to neglect them, even if you don’t expect rain. First, dry seasons tend to end spectacularly and without warning. Second, damage to your gutters could extend to your roof.

Beyond that, stay safe, and let’s hope for the best for all our friends and neighbors here in the Tampa Metro Area.

Tips for Helping Your Holiday Lights Get Along With Your Gutters

Wed, 30 Nov 2016 20:03:00 GMT

Always use clips.

Clips allow you to hang your lights safely without nails, which are unsightly, and which will definitely damage your gutters. You can get all-in-one clips to hang your lights in multiple directions–up or out. These clips will also work on shingles, which opens you up to a host of cool design options.

You can find a lot of great information about designing hanging light displays here . It’s also a great site for scoring your supplies.

Make sure your gutters are clean.

You’re about to hang electrical wires on your gutters. While the vast majority of your fire prevention will happen when you check wires and bulbs to make sure they’re safe and in good repair, it’s nevertheless wise to avoid putting electrical components and hot lights really close to a bunch of dead leaves and pine needles.

Some of this debris is probably wet, but it still represents a fire hazard.

Make sure your gutters are in good repair.

The last thing you want to do is hang a bunch of lights when your gutters are already sagging. Do a visual inspection before you start your Christmas decorating.

If you see sagging gutters or any spots where your gutters are separating from the house, stop and get a repair first. That way, you won’t have to worry about a section of gutter falling and shattering all your Christmas lights.

This is a particularly good thing to check if you have vinyl gutters, which aren’t particularly reliable to begin with.

Worried about the hassle?

Don’t want to clean gutters when you’ve already under a mountain of holiday stress? Aren’t sure how to repair gutters, or just want to install some new ones to replace those unreliable vinyl gutters you’ve got right now?

Call us for a free estimate! We’ve got gutter solutions that won’t break your holiday budget.

November Events in Our Service Area

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 18:44:00 GMT

And though tonight is Halloween, the ghosts and goblins won’t be around forever. Tomorrow more or less heralds the start of the holiday season. Here in Tampa, that means a ton of fun is on the horizon.

Here are just a few of the cool events you can look forward to this month.

On November 12th Game of Thrones fans can enjoy the Rave of Thrones concert experience. Actor Kristian Nairn (Hodor) will serve as a DJ for a dance party so fun its positively Medieval. You’ll find the fun at 1503 E 7th Ave…tickets are $25.

On November 14 our old friends at the Pinellas County Extension are going to host a “ Sustainability Gone Wild ” event. There will be a film, plus panelists, and both will be dedicated to helping you make your home and landscape more sustainable than ever. The fun starts at 6 PM at the Vaughn Center at 200 UT Poe Parkway in Tampa.

Love Legos? Then you’ll want to make your way to the Florida State Fairgrounds on November 19 and 20. If you do, you’ll be just in time for Brickworld, a 45,000 square foot Lego exposition. Tickets are just $6–a small price to pay to see the kinds of fantastic creations you might never have imagined before.

But of them all, the Winter Village is perhaps the most anticipated event of the season. It kicks off on November 18 and continues all the way to Christmas. Curtis Hixon park gets transformed into a true winter wonderland to celebrate the holiday season. There’s even an ice rink…and admission is free! You’ll kick yourself if you don’t get out there at least one weekend…I know several of my guys are planning on bringing their families almost as soon as it opens.

And really, all of this is just the tip of the iceberg. We love living in this area…there’s always something amazing going on.

How about you? What events are you looking forward to this holiday season?

How Much Does it Cost to Clean Gutters?

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 23:48:00 GMT

At this point, it’s wise to simply hire someone like us, your friendly neighborhood gutter guys, to come and take care of the problem. Yet you might have held off on calling us for fear that gutter cleaning services will cost you an arm and a leg.

We’ve got good news.

Most houses range from $75 to $200. Smaller houses do cost less than bigger houses, but even McMansions don’t cost a lot in the grand scheme of things.

Compare that to the cost of replacing your gutters when they fall right off your house. Or compare it to the cost of water damage, which can easily set you back $10,000 or more.

When you look at it this way it kind of makes sense to go ahead and pick up the phone.

While we’re there, we can even get you a quote for Flo-free leaf guards , perfect for homeowners who don’t want to spend $100 to $400 on a bi-annual gutter cleaning project. You’ll still have to brush those off every now and then, but brushing gutters is a lot less painful for most homeowners than cleaning them.

It’s Official: the Zika Virus is Here

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 18:19:00 GMT

It’s gotten so bad that Florida theme parks are handing out free mosquito repellent .

Officials are now patrolling area neighborhoods in search of standing water. And of course, you know from past posts right here on our blog that dirty gutters are a big culprit when it comes to the creation of standing water. We get those torrential rainstorms, and the resulting water gets trapped in all the leaves and other debris that’s sitting in there.

Code enforcement may never spot the water that’s lurking in your gutters, but code enforcement shouldn’t be the only reason you’re working to get this and other sources of standing water out of your yard. You should do it to keep yourself and your family safe.

Fortunately, there is no reason why you should ever have to get on a ladder yourself. We’ve been running all over Pinellas County this week, cleaning, clearing, and restoring gutters so that people can protect themselves and their homes.

Unlike many other contractors, we don’t shy from the so-called “small jobs.” We’re happy to clean your gutters for you. Of course, we offer plenty of advice on how to DIY the job here on our blog if you feel like that’s not money you want to spend right now. Call us for a quote before you pull on the rubber gloves, however. Most of our customers are quite surprised and pleased to learn that gutter cleaning services are not nearly as expensive as they think they are.

In the meantime, stay safe.

Your Rain Gutters Could Help Fight Zika Virus

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 19:38:00 GMT

According to the Tampa Bay Times, Zika virus could be making its way to Florida (specifically, to our local area) soon. Here’s what the report had to say:

So how can your gutters help?

It turns out, they can either help the situation, or make it worse. Rain gutters that are clogged are likely to be full of standing water, which is exactly what mosquitoes need to breed. Keeping mosquito populations down and under control may be the key to keeping Zika virus out of Florida.

While Zika virus is virtually symptom free, it can cause birth defects and it can be sexually transmitted. So get your gutters cleaned and let that water flow freely. You might also take a moment to review some of our previous posts about mosquito control, just so you can take a few more steps to let the Zika virus know that it is not welcome in the state of Florida.

Even if you’re not too terribly worried about Zika virus it pays to keep mosquitoes out of your yard. After all, it’s hard to enjoy summer meals outdoors or anything else when the mosquitoes start to swarm.

Don’t want to get out there to clean your gutters in this heat? We understand. Fortunately, we do offer gutter cleaning services in addition to our gutter installation services. If you live in our Tampa metro area service area go ahead and give us a call. Our gutter cleaning services are reasonably priced, and they’ll save you from a hoard of headaches.

When Is It Time to Replace Your Gutters?

Tue, 07 Jun 2016 19:04:00 GMT

There are four signs you need to watch out for.

Your gutters are pulling or sagging.

Gutters cannot do their job if they’re not flush with the fascia. If you see them pulling away from your home or sagging then they’re not doing a good job of helping your home to shed water.

Of course, we don’t really recommend waiting until your gutters look like they’re about to fall on your head in order to make a replacement. Every now and then you should take the time to walk around the perimeter of your house and really look at your gutters. You might see some gaps between the gutter and the fascia if you do–gaps which won’t be readily apparent at a casual glance.

Catch these early enough and we might be able to help you re-hang and refasten your gutters, without forcing you to rip them off the home altogether. Gutter repair is one of the services we offer here in the Tampa metro area, so don’t hesitate to ask us for a free estimate if you see this problem.

You see big dents in your gutters.

Dented gutters are a problem because they restrict the flow of water through the overall system. They also typically have other problems.

Usually, gutters only really get dented when a tree branch or a large piece of hail hits them after a storm. This kind of blunt force trauma can also cause them to start pulling away from the house as previously discussed. At the very least, a dent in your gutters should inspire you to get out there and check.

Obviously a little dent isn’t a huge deal. However, if your gutter is crumpled like a soda can then you probably are going to have to replace that section of the gutter at the very least.

You’ve got holes in your gutters.

Once you get a hole in your gutter the entire system is compromised. The water isn’t going to flow to your downspout, which means it’s not going to get directed away from your home. Instead, it is going to drop wherever the hole is…which means you’re likely to see big puddles of water sitting directly against your foundation.

It’s not even hard to tell if your gutters have a hole in them. Usually you’ll see a sort of “waterfall” effect whenever it rains.

Remember, this doesn’t have to be one big tear in the gutters, either. If you don’t have seamless aluminum gutters then this could mean that any of the dozens of leak points you’ll find in a traditional gutter system has finally begun to shed water in earnest. At that point, you might want to consider the upgrade just so you won’t have to deal with gutter seams any longer.

Your landscape is starting to erode away.

If you’re starting to see channels in your yard which resemble miniature canyons then you’ve got a problem. In fact, you’ve got a very big problem, because this means water is going where it is not meant to go.

The problem is not going to go away on its own. At this point, the only answer is to get your gutters replaced.

Have you seen any of these major problems in your own home? If you live in Clearview, Largo, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area just give us a call. We’ll give you a free estimate, and we’ll show you just how affordable a new seamless aluminum gutter system can truly be.

Who Cleans the Gutters on a Rental Property?

Tue, 10 May 2016 18:46:00 GMT

Keep in mind we aren’t lawyers and we’re not equipped to give legal advice on landlord-tenant disputes. We’re just central Florida gutter guys who have been around the block a few times, which means we have a few thoughts to share.

Leases are contracts, and a contract can demand just about anything.

There is no “standard lease,” and while there are laws governing property leases these laws do not necessarily stop your landlord from trying to make you responsible for gutter cleaning.

If you don’t read through your lease or if you knowingly sign on that dotted line after spotting some sort of gutter cleaning clause then, yes, you could be held legally and financially responsible for the state of your gutters. And since letting gutters get out of control can lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage, then you might just want to take a deep breath, accept the fact that you agreed to a bad deal, and call someone to clean those gutters for you safely so you don’t have to get out there on a ladder. Why? Because you’ve signed a contract, and contracts are enforceable.

However, if you are a landlord, including this clause might not be the brightest idea you’ve ever had.

You might think, Oh, I’ll just slip this in here and save some cash on gutter cleaning services.

However, many renters won’t consider paying someone to do this job. They will jump up on the ladder themselves, which opens you up to a whole host of liability issues should they get themselves injured while trying to do this job. And while it’s not a complicated job, it is, in fact, still a job that puts them up on a ladder. If your lease didn’t specify that they had to hire a professional to get the job done then you have to account for a certain percentage of DIY-minded renters who would rather risk anything than pay even one extra dime maintaining your property.

So let’s say that tenant falls.

Paying for a tenant’s medical bills and lost wages will cost you far more than paying to have the gutters cleaned professionally on a biannual basis. You may even have to pay for these injuries out of pocket, since you probably do not have any insurance policy which will actually cover a tenant’s participation in that kind of work.

In fact, those are the kinds of mishaps that could ruin you. You might even end up having to sell your property and other assets in order to cover the costs.

If you really don’t want to deal with cleaning the gutters, there is a better solution than injuries and protracted legal battles.

If you are a landlord, take note. If you are a tenant, consider sharing this information with your landlord.

Flo-free leaf guards can reduce your need to clean gutters. It’s still necessary to brush debris off of them every now and then, but for the most part they allow gutters to function without all of the work.

This might just be the solution that keeps everyone happy while keeping tenants off ladders. It’s a smart financial choice too as the system will pay for yourself as you are able to skip gutter cleaning sessions (and as you are able to dodge costly liability issues).

If you are a landlord in the Tampa metro area and you’d like to explore this possibility, give us a call. We’ll be happy to tell you more about how this gutter guard system works and why it might be a great solution for your tenant properties.

Four Reasons Why Vinyl Gutters Are a Terrible Idea

Tue, 05 Apr 2016 13:40:00 GMT

Drainage gutters isolated on white

It’s also a good time to take a look at your gutters. Most people don’t think of them beyond the dreaded chore of cleaning them out twice a year, which is a terrible mistake to make. Your gutters are important for the protection of your roof. Without a good gutter system, rain water can get beneath the shingles, causing rot and other forms of damage.

It’s also important to have high-quality gutters installed.

Lately, a lot of folks have been turning to vinyl gutters for various reasons. They’re cheaper to make, they’re cheaper in cost, and they won’t rust or corrode. However, what most people don’t realize is that there are some down sides to installing vinyl gutters.

Limited Colors

Unless you like white or brown for your gutter colors, you’ll need to look elsewhere than vinyl for your needs. These are the two typical colors that are available for these types of gutters, which obviously doesn’t work for a lot of houses. Aluminum, on the other hand, comes in a whole host of colors.

Sagging and Brittleness

The old adage of, “You get what you pay for,” definitely holds true with your gutters. You might buy some vinyl gutters for about five dollars per linear yard, but… In a few years, after repeated exposure to intense sunlight, heat and rain, the plastic is likely to grow old and very brittle. Vinyl gutters also have a tendency to sag under a lot of weight, and while we might not get a lot of snow like northern locations do, it can still become a problem later on down the line.

Slapdash Installation

Vinyl gutters are easy to install, making it tempting for novice DIYers to give it a try and save some money. Unfortunately, you have to know what you’re doing. Gutters need to be installed properly, with careful attention paid to the hanging and sloping, otherwise they won’t function the way they should. While this might not apply to the more seasoned homeowner who has some experience in construction or home improvement, most people haven’t been taught the basics. It’s best to contact a professional to prevent any potential damage.

Environmentally Questionable

Vinyl gutters are actually made from PVC, which is polyvinyl chloride. With the addition of chlorine to the vinyl, the plastic is far more durable, but it’s also environmentally damaging. PVC is not biodegradable, and some scientists believe that it may actually leach harmful chemicals into the water.

Given the climate of Florida and our incredible diversity of wildlife, this could actually have an impact on our environment.

Given all the pitfalls that lie in wait for the average homeowner, it could seem overwhelming, trying to find the right gutters for your house. Rain Control Gutters is happy to help you get the job done right. Give us a call, and our experienced, professional installers will walk you through the process step by step.

The Best Ways to Clean Your Gutters

Tue, 15 Mar 2016 16:10:00 GMT

Well, we talked about the Looj and all of its pitfalls, and why we don’t recommend them when it’s time to clean your gutters. Today’s market has expanded considerably over the past four years, and now there are more robots available. None of them have impressed us too terribly.

So what do we recommend for our clients? First and foremost, it’s important to clean out your gutters on a regular basis if you intend to do it yourself. The longer you leave them, the harder your job will be when you do get around to it. Usually, we recommend cleaning out your gutters twice a year: spring and autumn. With March upon us and the spring equinox just around the corner, that means you should be thinking about adding this to your To Do List.

However, if you’ve got a lot of trees standing over your gutters, or if you have pine trees, you may need to do it quarterly.

The Old-Fashioned Way

The best way to clean out your gutters is the way most folks do it. Invest in a sturdy, extendable ladder and go around the perimeter of your gutters with a scoop or a trowel and a garden hose. It’s best to start near the downspout, then remove all of the larger branches and twigs. To save your yard and your flower beds, put your debris into a bucket, a heavy-duty bag, or into a plastic tarp.

Once you’ve got all of the larger materials out of the gutters, you can then go to the opposite end of the gutter from the downspout with your hose. Insert a small nozzle onto the end of the hose so that you can get some good, hard pressure when you turn it on. Once it’s going, just wash out the finer debris and let it go flowing into the downspout. If you don’t see water coming out, turn off the water, and go back to cleaning. You’ve got a blockage in there.

For safety reasons, don’t ever try to get up onto the roof and work on cleaning the gutters that way. Use a ladder.

Useful Tools

If you have trouble with getting up onto a ladder, you may find that some of the gutter-cleaning tools on the market are helpful for reaching those high places.

Gutter-cleaning tools, like the Gutter Sense tool , are often paddles attached to telescoping poles. While they’ll prevent you from having to get up on a ladder, they are often slower to use. One customer remarked that it was difficult to pull out thickly-growing maple sprouts, and a job that could have been finished in 20 minutes instead took several hours.

Some gas-powered pressure washers can also be fitted with a gutter-cleaning attachment. You’ll still need to remove large debris from your gutters before you can use it, and they have a tendency to blast leaves and other debris everywhere… right onto your yard.

Hire a Professional

If all else fails, and you don’t have the time or the ability to get up onto a ladder to clean your own gutters, we’ll be happy to come out and clean your gutters for you. Hiring a professional ensures you’ll get the job done right and for a reasonable price.

Call today for pricing information!

How Much Does It Cost to Install Seamless Aluminum Rain Gutters?

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 17:03:00 GMT

This seamless aluminum gutter installation in Lutz, FL probably cost way less than you think it did.

First, let’s start by understanding what you’d be paying for. At Rain Control Gutters, we always install 6″ seamless aluminum gutters, so that’s what we’ll be quoting.

Some companies install 5″ gutters because the material is cheaper. We refuse to do that because our torrential Tampa-area rainstorms require bigger gutters. Narrow gutters will be unable to contain the overflow. As a result, you’ll get water spilling out over the gutters, which will then work its way right back to your foundations. That’s exactly the kind of thing we don’t want.

We mention this because we expect you will probably research around a bit to see what other websites have to say. We want you to understand that when you do this, you might see someone else quoting a cheaper price per foot than we’re going to quote. Just understand that many of those sites will be talking about 5″ gutters by default. While the gutter installation cost is going to be roughly the same for either type of gutter, the materials cost will be just a bit higher.

With that being said, the average price per foot is about $9.00 (give or take a dollar higher or lower). Most homes will need 100 to 150 feet of guttering, which means most homeowners can expect to pay $900 to $1350…probably far less than you were expecting to pay!

With that being said, you still need to call us for an estimate. Your actual price may vary depending upon several factors. For example, the shape of your house could create some difficulties in the process which could make a difference. Obviously, you’ll pay more if you have a bigger house, too.

But even if you have to pay $1500 for seamless aluminum gutters (150 feet of guttering at $10 per foot) you’re still getting a great deal. Seamless aluminum gutters last 20-30 years, which means you are actually paying $50 to $75 per year (or less), or $4.16 to $6.25 per month in order to protect your home from developing tens of thousands of dollars worth of water damage. That’s about the price of a gourmet cup of coffee at your local Starbucks, and it’s a lot more important, too.

Bottom line…seamless gutters are very affordable for most homeowners, and they are absolutely worth the price.

Helping Your Lawn Survive the Winter

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 17:29:00 GMT

Dormancy is Normal

To better prepare for the winter, it’s important to understand the natural cycles of grass growth. Warm season species of grass will experience a period of dormancy during the winter, where growth is slowed. Your lawn may remain green, or it may turn brown. Both are perfectly normal during the winter months.
During this time, it’s important not to encourage growth with too much fertilizer. In Central Florida, it’s recommended that you fertilize no later than late September and no earlier than late March.

Don’t Cut Too Short

Some lawns need to be mowed all year round, especially the further south you go in Florida. Just remember that winter is a stressful time for grass, and you shouldn’t further add to the stress by cutting your lawn too short. Keep your mower at its highest setting for the winter months.
For most St. Augustine grass cultivars and Bahia grass, the height should be at about 3.5” to 4”. If you have centipede grass and coarse-textured Zoysia grass lawns, you can reduce the height to about 2” to 2.5”.

Treat Cold Damage When You See It

Don’t neglect to water your plants and your lawn after a harsh freeze. Just be sure to check the soil first. If it’s dried out or frozen, your plants won’t be able to get the moisture that they need, and watering can help with that by defrosting. Just be careful not to over-water. Winter is a drier time in the state of Florida, and when your lawn is in a state of dormancy, it doesn’t require so much care. Scale back on any irrigation systems you may have implemented.

It’s also important to resist the temptation to fertilize! This can’t be emphasized enough. Winter is not the time for new growth.

If your plants are showing signs of cold damage with dead foliage, resist the temptation to prune it. Despite how ugly it might look, the damaged leaves and branches provide insulation for the parts that are still living. The only time you should prune is if the plant begins to collapse. Herbaceous plants like impatiens and begonias are especially susceptible to this.

If Your Lawn Dies Anyway

Even with precautions, your lawn might experience patches where the grass dies, turns brown or whitish, and begins to rot. It happens to everyone, and it’s best to be prepared to deal with it.
To reduce the chances of further damaging your lawn, stay off of it. Excessive foot traffic can stress out what grass still remains, especially if it’s all still frozen. Don’t mow until the lawn’s had time to recover too, and when you finally do have to mow, do it at the mower’s highest setting possible.

There’s not much that can be done with a frozen lawn until winter passes. For those patches where the grass has died and isn’t coming back, you can get sod pieces or plugs, which you can lay down in the spring.

How to Help Wintering Wildlife

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 23:52:00 GMT

The winter season is coming closer every day, and officially, it will hit on December 22nd. Although historically, snowfall is a rare occurrence here in Florida, it can still get pretty cold. As you winterize your backyard and get ready for the longer nights and shorter days, don’t forget to put in a little effort towards migrating butterflies and birds that have come to live for the season.

Provide Water

Finding fresh water is a challenge for a lot of birds, small animals and insects. Whether it’s spring, summer, autumn or winter, you can give your backyard visitors a helping hand by providing them with a fresh drink. Consider installing a small pond if you have the time, space and resources. Smaller ponds offer moisture to amphibians and reptiles, as well as to birds and small mammals, who need these sources in order to survive.

For smaller yards or smaller budgets, a bird bath is a great alternative. Just be sure to go out and refill it occasionally, especially if temperatures drop below freezing.

Plan to Have Native Plants

There are a lot of plants native to the state of Florida that will attract wildlife by providing cover and a habitat. These species have best adapted to Florida’s climate and soil conditions, growing in harmony with the animals around them. Many of the flowers and fruits of our natural plants provide food for species of animals, which is always a better alternative than providing human food for them.

It’s also a good idea to plan some shrubs or trees near to where you have your feeders. During the winter months, small animals and birds are susceptible to predation. By providing them cover, not only will they have shelter from the cold, but they’ll also be given some places to hide from predators.

Build a Brush Pile and Provide Snags

If at all possible, consider building a brush pile for birds and other small mammals who come into your yard. Trimmed tree limbs, bushes, and piles of leaves provide homes for animals seeking shelter from wind and storms.

A snag is nothing more than a dead tree. If you have one on your property, consider leaving it. These are often wonderful homes for all sorts of animals, including small birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects.

Provide Houses and Feeders

The loss of habitat is the greatest threat to wildlife. You can help mitigate some of this damage by providing birdhouses, bat houses and nesting boxes for them. Depending on how big you build the box and where you put it, you’ll attract different specimens.

There’s some great information for building a bat house at the Bat Conservation International website .

If you’re interested in getting the right kind of bird house built or made, be sure to visit the Cornell University’s Lab of Ornithology.

Even if you can only implement a few of these suggestions, you’ll be doing wonders to help over the coming winter months.

Four Ways to Reduce Storm Runoff

Thu, 22 Oct 2015 15:18:00 GMT

Hail, fall leaves and debris block up sewer hole restricting runoff flow.

Florida has a wonderful, diverse, unique geology and climate that sustains an abundance of wildlife and tropical plants. The downside is that it’s also highly susceptible to pollution, and even small traces of phosphates and nitrates can cause a lot of damage. Not to mention, we get a lot of our drinking water from ground supplies.

Just think about it for a moment. All of those pesticides and herbicides that people put onto their lawn can end up inside of you.

Heavy rainfall during the wet season causes a lot of leaching of these pollutants into our water sources. Leaching happens when the ground soil can’t absorb storm waters, causing sediments and pollutants to rush right over it and into rivers, lakes, and streams.

You can help prevent this in your own backyard. By implementing a few changes, you’ll help to stop leaching from carrying storm water across your garden and into the ground water. Since many homes are built on highly-compacted fill soil, any little change can make a big difference.

Check Your Gutter Downspouts

Leaching happens when the soil just doesn’t have enough time or capability to absorb the sudden rush of water when it comes during a storm. Check your gutters and your downspouts. Make sure the spouts are aimed at a porous surface, which helps to diffuse the water and lets it soak into the soil.

Splash blocks are especially important for this. They’re readily available at any hardware store, and they protect the soil just beneath the spout from erosion while helping to diffuse the flow.

If you do a lot of gardening, when planting around the downspouts, be sure to choose plants that can cope with extremes of wet and dry weather.

Reshape the Yard

As mentioned above, many homes are built on compact, hard fill dirt after the natural soil’s been ripped out and hauled away. A lot of land is left flattened out by the process. Not only does it get dull and monotonous when you look at yard after yard, but it’s detrimental for the absorption of storm water.
You can incorporate swells and dips into your yard to help. Raised (or technically, berms) and dipping ground (swales) can divert flows of rain water and trap it for longer, preventing it from rushing away so quickly into other sources. This option will take a lot of work and possibly the purchase of some soil, but not only will it help prevent leaching, but it will help to make your yard look more natural and pleasing to the eye. In addition, if you incorporate native plants into your landscaping, you’ll create a waterfront-friendly yard.

Rain Barrels and Cisterns

This is a topic that we’ve covered in previous months , but what we said then still holds true today. Building or buying a rain barrel to collect the water is a great way to conserve water, protect our rivers and lakes, and make your yard look a little more attractive.
Just remember a few important things:

Use Porous Surfaces in Landscaping

Take a look at the type of paving materials you’ve got for your driveway, patio, and walkways. Whenever possible, choose porous surfaces instead of the usual asphalt or concrete. Some great choices are brick, gravel, turf block, mulch, or pervious concrete.

Materials like these help water to seep into the ground, preventing the pollutants from getting into our groundwater sources. Best of all, many of these materials are cheaper to use than the more common varieties.

Need help checking your gutters and downspouts? We’re a seamless aluminum gutter installer working in Ocala, Land o’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and throughout the Tampa Bay Metro area. Call us today to schedule a free estimate.

Will a “Grey Hurricane” Strike Tampa in the Near Future?

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 15:50:00 GMT

What is a “Grey” Hurricane?

It’s a funny term for a kind of super hurricane . It’s called a “grey” hurricane as a reference to the “grey swan” theory–the idea that the world can hold extreme outliers which deliver a massive impact.

In other words, sooner or later there’s going to be a storm which is far stronger than the norm, and which causes massive devastation.

Why Tampa?

Tampa isn’t the only city which is a candidate for catching this so-called grey hurricane, but it is one of the best candidates.

With such a fearsome storm looking so statistically likely, what can Tampa residents do to protect themselves?

Stay on top of news coverage.

You should at least be checking in with your local news and weather teams once a day during hurricane season. You can’t afford to be caught off guard or unawares.

Set up alerts on your cell phone so you get severe weather notices and evacuation orders, too.

Be ready to evacuate.

Make sure your car is in good working order. Make a plan for where you will go — a hotel, or relative’s house, or wherever. If you have pets, scout pet-friendly shelter options.

Create an evacuation fund so you’ll always have money set aside for food, gas, and shelter. Know where some of your closest hurricane shelters are, just in case. There are a group of city pages on our service area web page . They all list shelter information for the various suburbs of the Tampa Bay Area.

During hurricane season, make sure your gas tank is never less than 3/4ths full. Pack a “go bag” for you and your family members. Store it in the car, not in your house.

Look out for your neighbors if you have a little bit of extra space in the car. For example, you might know an elderly person who doesn’t have access to a car. Consider making this disadvantaged neighbor part of your plans.

Finally, make sure you know how you’ll gather all your family members if an evacuation order comes in while everyone is at work or at school. Make sure smaller children carry an index card with them which lists vital information like your name, phone number, and third party emergency contacts. This can be safety pinned to a backpack.

Check your insurance coverage.

How much will your insurance coverage help you in the event of a major storm? Chances are if you bought a policy with an eye towards paying the lowest possible deductible every month you won’t actually have enough coverage to take care of yourself after this kind of a storm hits.

Now might be a good time to call your insurance agency to increase your coverage. Make sure you have flood insurance, too.

These are all just precautions.

Obviously there isn’t any grey hurricane heading our way right this second. The Weather Channel is simply making the point that a hurricane like this is highly likely at some point in our future. That could be a month for now or it could be 8 years from now. We just don’t know.

However, it’s always good to be aware and prepared. Even if there is no super storm this year we still live in hurricane country, and we’re still right in the middle of hurricane season. Taking these precautions could save your life or the lives of loved ones. It may feel all feel a little silly while nothing’s happening, but on the day something does happen you’ll be ready.

At Rain Control Gutters we install seamless aluminum gutters around Ocala, Land o’Lakes and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. We also offer gutter cleaning and repair services. We’re concerned about the home and property of all of our Tampa area neighbors, which is why we offer this kind of information on a regular basis. We also offer free estimates, so contact us today!

Four Natural Herbs Which Repel Mosquitos

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 16:07:00 GMT

Admittedly, advances in health care and medicine have greatly reduced the number of fatalities due to malaria, but prevention is still the best cure. So what can you do to help reduce the numbers of mosquitoes in your own back yard?

Chemical repellents are growing less popular over the years as people become more aware of the health risks they can pose. Fortunately, there are a number of plants that naturally repel these pests, and many of them are suitable for growing here in Florida.

Lemongrass

If you’ve ever been to the hardware store, you’ve surely seen citronella candles. They do wonderfully in repelling mosquitoes, and the source of citronella is lemongrass. Planting this around your house will not only beautify your yard, it can also provide fresh flavoring for your cooking while keeping the bugs out.

Lemongrass is usually planted as an annual in other parts of the United States, owing to its rather delicate nature, but here in Florida, it can be treated more like a perennial, as long as you’re in Zone 9 or Zone 10. Make sure that you plant it somewhere it can get plenty of sun, has well-drained soil, and plenty of space to spread out. In one season, it can grow up to about four feet in height and three feet wide.

Lavender

Long-renowned for its sweet scent and delicate flavor, lavender is a wonderful herb that also has naturally repellent properties to combat insect infestations. It’s also been said that lavender does not grow well in highly humid climates, but don’t listen. Lavender can grow wonderfully in Florida’s heat and humidity as long as you keep a few things in mind.

Be sure to provide excellent soil drainage for lavender. Raised beds are great for this. Protect lavender from the extremes of afternoon sun by placing larger plants beside them and provide them with some shade.
Meanwhile, lavender will be a great addition around the doors and entryways of your homes, discouraging insects from going near to those locations.

Mint

The sharp-scented oils of mints are despised by mosquitoes, which is great news for anyone who loves this fragrant herb in their teas, desserts, and lamb dishes. However, be forewarned that mint is a highly aggressive plant. If planted directly into the ground, it will spread out and slowly take over everything.

Just grow it in a pot, and you’ll do just fine. Mint is like a weed. It grows anywhere and everywhere, under just about any soil condition. When you harvest your mint, you can extract the oils, and when infused with apple cider vinegar, vodka, or witch hazel, and you can make your own natural, organic mosquito repellent spray.

Rosemary

Delicious when added to meat or vegetables, rosemary is also wonderful when used to repel mosquitoes. This member of the evergreen family prefers dry, rocky, alkaline, well-drained soil, so planting it in beds or large pots is advised here in Florida. They need full sunlight, though, so keep them out of the shade and be prepared for them to grow quite large.

While the plants and cuttings of rosemary will deter the presence of insects, you can make your own infusion to spray over your skin while outdoors. Boil one quart of dried rosemary in a quart of water for about twenty to thirty minutes. Strain the liquid into a large container with another quart of cold water, and chill it in your refrigerator. When you go out, just squirt some on yourself, and discard the repellent when the rosemary scent begins to fade.

A Bonus Way to Reduce Mosquito Populations: Clean your Gutters

Standing water gives mosquitoes plenty of places to breed. Dirty, clogged gutters create lots of little pools of standing water you’ll never see.

While ideally you’d have taken care of this task in the spring, not everyone does. Fortunately you don’t have to get up on the ladder yourself! If you live in Ocala, Land o’Lakes or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area, call Rain Control Gutters. We’ll be happy to clean your gutters for an affordable price.

Organic Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:01:00 GMT

One of the principles of Florida-friendly landscaping is avoiding synthetic chemicals as much as possible, whether those chemicals are acting as fertilizers or pesticides. These chemicals tend to strip the nutrition from the soil because they only replace nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous while ignoring all of the other minerals that are required to keep soil healthy.

Chemical fertilizers can also poison the ground water supply. Florida has enough water problems, so we thought we’d take a moment to talk about some natural alternatives.

Composting – Fertilizer the Easy Way

Turning away from synthetic fertilizers takes some time and preparation, but the rewards are well worth it. One of the easiest, cheapest and best ways to fertilize your garden is to start a compost pile.

Composting works so well because it’s a process that occurs naturally. It’s Mother Nature’s way of fertilizing the soil, relying on bacteria, fungi, and other helpful microorganisms that break organic matter down into rich, dark earth.

You can compost just about anything as long as it was a plant. Grass clippings, black and white newspapers, leftover vegetable scraps from the kitchen, wood chips, and some certain kinds of manure work great in a compost pile.

Safe kinds of manure to use are those that came from vegetarian animals, such as horses, cows, rabbits, hamsters, mice and gerbils. So yes, you could take your kids’ hamster litter and droppings, toss it on the pile, and recycle it naturally instead of dumping it in the trash!

But beware of other types of organic matter. Meat, dairy, bones, and the manure from meat-eating animals require hotter temperatures to safely decompose than most compost piles can provide. While you could compost these types of materials at home, it’s best to do some more research into the matter before trying to start. Improperly decomposed materials of this type can lead to the spread of pathogens and illness.

If you’re interested in composting, check out Florida University’s tutorials for more details.

Oils, Extracts, and Insect Allies – Natural Pesticides

It’s important to realize not insects are your enemy. A healthy garden needs insect allies for proper pollination.

These allies include bees and butterflies. However, most chemical pesticides can’t really distinguish between a butterfly and an aphid.

Alternatives include:

Plant Oil Sprays: You can spray citrus oils, neem oils, and other plant oils onto your plants to help kill off unfriendly insects. These oils clog up the insect’s spiracles, suffocating them. They also prevent gas exchange through the membranes of larvae and eggs.

Plant Extract Sprays: Some plants, like chrysanthemums and hot peppers, can be broken down and used in sprays to kill harmful insects.

Mineral Insecticides: Diatomaceous earth, sulfur, and iron phosphates are all useful here. Sulfur has been in use since Ancient Rome, but is incompatible with other forms of insecticides.

Microbial Insecticides: There are many forms of these. They rely on various viruses, bacteria, fungi and other micro-organisms to produce toxins which target a specific species of insects.

The University of Florida h as a wealth of information about natural pesticides, too .

Florida-friendly landscaping does require a different way of thinking about landscaping and a different approach to tasks you may have been doing the same ways for years. But ultimately it’s worth it–we all love the beauty of our natural state, and these are very easy ways to preserve it.

We’re not landscapers–we’re professional gutter contractors who happen to have an interest in keeping Florida beautiful. We serve Ocala, Land o’ Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Ask us how seamless aluminum gutters can also help you keep Florida beautiful!

We’ll Put Seamless Gutters on Anything You Want Us To!

Sat, 27 Jun 2015 23:46:00 GMT

What’s the weirdest thing we’ve ever put a gutter on? As it happens, it’s this turtle hut, below.

What is a turtle hut? Well, in this case it is home to a gopher turtle which lives in the home owner’s back yard. The owners went ahead and put up a fence and a roof over the entry hole. They offer food and water and treat it like a household pet. We had hoped to get a photo of the turtle as well, but after a day of listening to us mess around with his roof he wasn’t feeling terribly sociable.

But these homeowners wanted to protect their little structure from rot, so they called us out to put a gutter on a downspout on it! It’s okay for some water to go into the turtle yard, of course, but they didn’t want it flooding the turtle’s little hole.

We were happy to be a part of protecting this turtle’s house just like we protect human houses throughout the central Florida area every single day. Rest assured that we won’t blink or think twice if you ask us to put gutters on just about any type of building you can think of.

In fact, this turtle hut demonstrates one of the greatest advantages of using a seamless aluminum gutter company. We can custom cut these gutters to any home. You never would have found the right gutter lengths for a turtle hut by going out to your local hardware store.

So if you live in Ocala, Land o’ Lakes, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area, just call us for a quote on your seamless aluminum gutter project. No job is too big–and as you can see, no job is too small, either. If you want to protect it from water and water damage and want to control where the flow of water goes in relationship to your building, gutters are paramount no matter the building size.

The Ultimate Guide to Downspouts

Sun, 31 May 2015 02:20:00 GMT

Where should downspouts be placed, and how many should there be?

Many homes have just one downspout, but in reality there should often be more of them. You should have a downspout for every 20 feet of gutter. This allows the gutters to drain enough. Beyond the 20 foot rule it doesn’t really matter where they come down from the primary gutter system, just so long as they are installed professionally and held firmly in place.

Usually your gutter installation professional will handle downspout placements, but it might be good to step outside to take a count. If you don’t have enough downspouts right now then this may be a sign it’s time to get a new gutter installation–your original gutters were not installed properly.

Are decorative downspouts okay?

Most decorative downspouts are not up to the challenge of handling central Florida’s torrential rains. If you’ve come here from some other part of the country that gets a whole lot less rain they may be okay.

But for those of us in Ocala, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and the rest of the Tampa Bay Metro area, the cute downspouts and pretty drain chains must remain little more than a pretty picture on Pinterest. The rain chains are especially problematic as they will leave rain pooling around your foundation, which is exactly what you do not want.

We also covered cute, decorative downspouts in this post .

When do I need to extend my downspouts?

If you notice water pooling around your home and everything else is right with your gutters then it may be time to think about extending your downspouts. There are a couple of different ways you can do this.

One way is to use a splash block. That’s the little concrete tray that people place under downspouts. It gives the water an additional guide, sending it farther from the house.

Finally, you can just add a full length of downspout pipe to the existing downspout.

You can also extend the downspouts by attaching a new length of downspout pipe–though this won’t work for all gutters. You won’t want to do it to a seamless aluminum gutter, for example, since they’re custom made for your home. On the other hand, custom-made gutters typically won’t have this problem.

A full, recessed downspout drainage system is another option.

How do you clean and maintain your downspouts?

Cleaning your downspouts should be a regular part of cleaning your gutter system. Often, you can just run water through them to unclog them, but sometimes more drastic measures are called for…usually a plumber’s snake, inserted into the downspout to dig out the clog. If you can’t get it on your own then it’s time to call the professionals–you can’t afford not to attend to this problem as a dirty downspout is just as bad as dirty gutters. It will result in a serious backlog which ultimately sends water cascading over the sides of the gutters and back to the side of the house.

We included more details on this in the blog post: How to Clean Your Gutters.

So how are your downspouts doing? For that matter, how do you feel your entire gutter system is performing? If you live in central Florida and you don’t feel as though your gutter and downspout system is performing properly, just call us, the professionals at Rain Control Gutters of Central Florida. We’ll be happy to swing by and give you a free estimate.

7 Reasons to Embrace Florida Friendly Landscaping

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 02:48:00 GMT

So now is the time to really give Florida-friendly landscaping some serious thought. It may seem to take a little more effort than the landscaping you’ve grown used to doing, but it doesn’t have to. In fact, you may be pleasantly surprised by how much work Florida-friendly landscaping saves you in the long run.

But if you’re not convinced yet, here are 7 great reasons why you should make a Florida-friendly yard one of your priorities this year.

1. You’ll spend a lot less time maintaining your landscape.

Some people love getting out to lawns, gardens, and landscapes. They love digging, tending, and planting. If this is you, then admittedly, spendijng less time out there isn’t much of a benefit.

However, if gardening isn’t really your thing then this is a great way to free up some time in your schedule. A Florida-friendly garden typically uses native plants, which need less water, less fertilizer, and less attention overall. Why? Because they’ve already adapted to our climate and our soil. They’re meant to survive here, and they don’t really need much help to do so.

2. You’ll spend less money on water.

Florida-friendly landscaping is all about preserving water. That means taking advantage of rainwater harvesting , rain gardens , drip irrigation and other methods that help you do more with less.

Obviously, if you’re running your hose less then your water bill goes down–a win-win both for you and for the environment.

3. Your yard will look better during watering bans.

Most people in the Tampa metro area are pretty familiar with watering bans and watering days. We’re all also pretty familiar with the dry, dead lawns that result.

Then there are those people who always seem to have great yards. They’re probably not violating the watering ban. They’re probably using Florida-friendly landscaping principles to keep their yards healthy and happy. After all, a watering ban doesn’t cover the contents of a rain barrel. They’re free to use those to keep their lawns looking as nice as they like.

4. Your yard will come alive.

Birds, bees, and butterflies will flock to your yard, which means you’ll have a vibrant, healthy yard that’s naturally low on insects. It also means there will be much more to enjoy. Imagine sitting out in your yard and drinking your morning coffee as a bird lands on the nearby feeder. Imagine seeing a flock of butterflies as you relax in your garden chairs.

Who wants a flat, boring, sterile yard when they can have their very own relaxing, thriving ecosystem?

5. Your family members and pets will be healthier.

You won’t have to spray down your yard with as many harsh chemical pesticides and herbicides. You’ll learn how to reduce the weeds. Birds will eat your pests, and you’ll have other pest-control methods at your disposal, too.

Admittedly, many pesticides and herbicides are supposed to be safe. But imagine spraying down your yard, then watching your beloved dog roll around in the chemicals you just used. Cringe a little as you think about your child carelessly coating his or her skin in it. It stops seeming so safe. Chemicals can have an unpredictable impact on anyone’s health, particularly the very young and the very small.

It certainly never hurt anybody to have fewer chemicals in their life!

6. You’ll get to continue enjoying everything Florida has to offer.

Most people in Florida enjoy our sparkling waterfronts and lagoons, our beautiful wildlife, and all of the sporting and recreation opportunities that come along with them. Many people move to this state simply because they want to experience these things.

However, like it or not, our water use habits are threatening these resources. If you enjoy them, it makes sense to work towards preserving them. We may not have much control over what other people do, but we always have control over our own actions–and when a lot of people decide, all at once, that they’re going to make a chance they tend to create a big impact.

7. There are a ton of tools to help you.

Florida-friendly landscaping doesn’t have to be hard. There are dozens of tools to help you, including:

Hopefully all of this will help you get started, so you can enjoy a Florida-friendly lawn all year long.

We are gutter contractors in Spring Hill, FL who care deeply about Florida’s natural resources. We also know that our gutter systems can be a big part of your Florida-friendly landscape. Our seamless aluminum gutters work great with rainwater catchment systems and rain gardens. Call for a free estimate.

The Ultimate Guide to Florida Rain Gardens

Mon, 16 Mar 2015 14:59:00 GMT

We also wanted to give you a comprehensive resource which would guide you through the process of creating your rain garden. Rain gardens are a simple concept, but they’re ultimately somewhat tricky to execute. If you don’t get it right you could wind up with a big mud puddle instead of a beautiful new addition to your landscaping.

What is a Rain Garden?

It’s a garden planted in a shallow depression, planted in a position that will allow it to catch storm water run-off. Often, you’ll place yours downstream from your downspout. You might even build a little rock bed stream to gently guide the water from the downspout to the garden.

You’ll fill your rain garden with beautiful, water-resistant native plants. These plants will never need extra watering. They also don’t require any fertilizer. They’re quite used to making the most out of Florida’s natural habitat, so they don’t need quite as much help as an imported species does.

How Do I Get Started?

You should actually begin with a series of phone calls. The local county extension can be a great resource.

They can give you a lot of great tips on how to make your rain garden a success. Every rain garden is a little different, and it might take some expert help to choose the right diameter, depth, soil composition, and plants.

Here are the links to every county extension in our service area.

Your second call should be 811, since there is going to be some digging involved. You want to be sure that you aren’t going to hit any buried gas lines.

Next, take the time to really sit down and design your rain garden. As you might predict, there is an app for that.

How Do I Actually Do the Work?

First, understand that a rain garden actually has a series of zones inside of it. You’re going to need this knowledge when it comes time to plan yours.

The innermost ring is Zone 1, and it’s reserved for plants that can tolerate the wettest conditions. Zone 2 is for plants that can tolerate some standing water. Zone 3 is for plants that like the damp, but who prefer not to be soaked down.

As you can see, you’re going to need to count on purchasing a variety of plants. There’s no such thing as a really good monoculture rain garden.

Use spray paint to mark off all three zones. This is going to be your dig zone.

You should either create an underground drain system or your little downspout riverbed at this time.

Once you’ve got the area excavated you’ll fill it with whatever sod mix the county recommended. You’ll also ring the outer area with stones.

Finally, the fun part! You can begin planting, adding each group of plants according to its zone. Once they’re in, make sure that you mulch them to protect them from weeds.

If none of this sounds workable this post will offer a few alternative rain garden designs.

Maintain and Troubleshoot

Rain gardens are low-maintenance, but they’re not no-maintenance. We’ve written quite a few posts on the subject of maintaining and troubleshooting a rain garden. Here they are, for your reference.

Choosing Gutters for Historic Homes

Fri, 27 Feb 2015 15:12:00 GMT

A recent seamless gutter installation on Rackley St. in Brooksville, FL. This home in particular is not a historic home, but Brooksville plays host to many stately, historic homes nevertheless.

After all, historic homes need water protection just like any other homes do. In fact, they may be even more vulnerable to water, so they definitely need good gutters.

Fortunately, getting the appropriate gutters for your historic home is not necessarily as tricky as it sounds.

Authentic Gutter Materials

Historic gutters are typically made of either metal or wood.

Obviously, wooden gutters are going to be a challenge. You can certainly find them if you have a home that had them once, and you absolutely must put the exact same gutters back on that home.

These gutters would be made of either fir or redwood. Believe it or not wood gutters do last like crazy–they have up to a 50 year lifespan so long as they’re made with the right materials. They’re also super expensive, even more expensive than copper, which is another common historic choice.

Zinc and steel gutters are also quite authentic.

Now, aluminum gutters are newer. But they are still metal, and may just be “authentic enough.” Most people don’t spend a great deal of time inspecting gutters, after all.

We also have the ability to color gutters any way you want. Don’t want to pay $11 to $26 per foot? Get copper colored seamless aluminum gutters at $5 to $9 per foot instead.

Note that we do work with copper if you prefer to go all out. We just know that many customers are cost-conscious these days, and we want to offer as many alternatives as possible.

Authentic Gutter Shapes

Prior the 1960s most gutters were made in what’s called a “half-round” shape, which is just what it sounds like. These semi-circular gutters were quite pretty.

These days, however, the K-style gutter is a lot more common. The K-style does a better job of sticking tight to the roof and thus shunts water more efficiently, unless your home happens to have rounded roof lines.

Our machines are set to cut K-style gutters. Fortunately, again, the shape of the gutters is not usually the first thing the eye picks out. It might technically be a historical inaccuracy, but if so, it’s a very small one.

However, aluminum gutters can be customized. You’ll pay more to get custom cut half-round gutters, but it’s not outside the realm of possibility, either.

Working with Preservation Societies and Programs

You might just have a historic home that you want to live in while keeping it as reasonably authentic as possible. If so, you can do pretty much what you want to do, especially when it comes to gutters. You can even put some flow-free leaf guards in there, because they’ll be super hard to see and they’ll protect the home.

However, you might also be applying for loans or grants specific to restoring historic homes. They exist on the local, state, and federal level.

Each and every one of them has their own rules. So it’s a good idea to double check these rules or to call your program before making decisions about your home’s gutters.

You can find a full list of programs specific to Florida residents, including residents of the Tampa Bay Metro Area, here at The Craftsman Blog . Some of the links do appear to be broken, but a quick check showed that the programs themselves continue to exist. Most notably, the Tampa Preservation Trust Fund; we’ve updated the link here , though they don’t appear to be taking applications as of this writing.

Still, there are plenty of other programs to choose from. You might also want to check out the Historic Hernando Preservation Society if you happen to live in Brooksville.

The Ultimate Guide to Water Damage

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 15:25:00 GMT

In fact, if you let water have free reign in your home long enough, you won’t have much left, because that list pretty much covers the entire house from top to bottom.

On top of all of that, unchecked water damage ensures that your home will suffer from an infection of mold and mildew , which comes with its own set of headaches, heartaches, and health hazards.

Causes of Water Damage

You already know that we’re going to tell you that a poorly built or maintained gutter system causes water damage. It does, and lots of it.

However, since that one was a given we’ll spend a few more minutes discussing the other forms of water damage instead.

Burst Pipes

Yes, burst pipes can happen here in the Tampa Bay metro area. Every now and then we wake up to frigid mornings where temperatures have dropped well below freezing.

It only takes a few hours for pipes to burst. Ironically, this is more likely to happen here in the south than in the north where such temperatures are a consistent threat. That’s because a home that was built in a cold climate was designed for a cold climate, pipes and all…and ours wasn’t.

You can get a full list of instructions that will tell you how to protect your pipes here .

Plumbing Problems

This can include leaky tubs, damaged, leaking toilets, problems with appliances like washing machines, and more. If it uses water in your home then it definitely has the potential to cause major problems, so make sure you get a plumbing inspection done each and every year.

HVAC Problems

Did you know that a lot of modern heaters and ACs work by collecting condensation from the air? This is why you should have your AC drained twice a year. Otherwise, the water will start backing up inside of your air ducts, which means water damage is sure to follow.

Natural Disasters

Floods and hurricanes are both persistent dangers here in Florida. You of course can’t do much to prevent this type of water damage. You can only keep a really good insurance policy, and deal with the problem when it arises.

How to Spot Water Damage

First, you need to check the places where water is flowing in your home. Your gutters are a good starting point.

Are your gutters overflowing when it rains? Are there big puddles of water right next to your foundation?

If so, you need to address the gutter situation right away. Check for signs of decay or rot in your foundation, siding, and windows, too, as you might have some serious repairs to make. Hopefully you’ll catch the gutter problems in time to avoid this.

Next, check your pipes and your faucets. Do you smell an unpleasant damp odor when you open up your cabinets? If so, you’ve got a problem somewhere.

You should also check appliances. Hoses, in particular, can become problematic. A hose that’s gone brittle is surely leaking, even if there’s no water around when you check it.

Finally, look for dark spots on your walls, ceilings, or carpets. Again, you might not feel any dampness or wetness at the moment you check them, but discoloration means there’s a slow leak at work somewhere. If the discoloration is on your ceiling then you are going to want to call a roofer to check your roof. A slow leak can become an uncontrollable fast leak in the very next severe storm.

How to Deal With Water Damage

Hopefully, you’ve lifted the prevention tips from this article, such as checking your gutters, protecting your pipes, and keeping your appliances in good repair. And hopefully, as a result, you’re less likely to suffer from any water damage that isn’t storm-based.

However, the storm-based water damage is always a possibility. It’s also possible that you’ve alraedy got some water damage in your home. Either way, you need to know what to do about it.

First, you’ll need to kill any mold that’s begun growing as a result of the water damage. You might be able to take care of it yourself with a bit of bleach or vinegar. It’s more common to have to call a mold specialist, however, if that doesn’t do the trick.

Second, of course, you’ll need to repair whatever is causing the water damage. You will also have to repair and replace anything that got damaged. If there is any standing water, this will have to be mopped up, as it can’t be allowed to remain.

Obviously, all of these repairs can get quite expensive. That’s a good argument for performing the routine maintenance and check-ups that keeps all of this from happening. Obviously water damage can also make your home unlivable for vast periods of time…another reason for doing whatever you can to avoid this nasty experience altogether.

We help you prevent water damage in your home by installing seamless aluminum gutters in Ocala, New Port Richey, Homosassa and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us for a free estimate today.

The Ultimate Guide to Gutter Guards

Wed, 17 Dec 2014 20:22:00 GMT

This misinformation has meant that some people purchase gutter guards that don’t really help them. Others refuse all gutter guards, thinking they’re going to be wasting their money.

That’s why we decided to put together an in-depth, ultimate guide to gutter guards. We’ve talked about them on our blog, here and there, but we’ve never really pulled all of the information together and put it in one place for you.

We’re going to remedy that today, so you can make informed decisions about gutter guards from here on out.

Types of Gutter Guards

You’ll see a lot of different gutter guard names and concepts, but most of them fall into one of four basic categories.

Gutter Screens are designed to fit over your gutter. They’ll usually have very small holes in them to let the rain through.

Inserts fit right into your gutter. Some of them look like big pieces of foam, and some of them look like brushes. The idea is that they’re permeable, so that water can get through, but nothing else can.

Gutter Covers are designed to cover most of the gutter. Supposedly, they’ll divert the water into the gutter while keeping all of the debris out and on top.

Permeable gutter covers like the Flo-Free leaf guards we use here at Rain Control Gutters. These are actually the only gutter guards that do exactly what they’re supposed to do. You’ll find out why in a minute.

Why Most Gutter Guards Fall Short of Their Promises

Most gutter guards simply have serious design flaws.

Let’s take gutter screens, for example. The person who designed those was thinking of great big leaves and neglected to think about fine debris.

That designer also didn’t think about torrential rains, like the type we get here in the Tampa, FL metro area. Those rains can actually drive bigger debris through the holes.

Once debris is in the gutter it builds up just as it did before the gutter guards went on. Sure, it’s building up at a slower rate, but the build up is still happening.

What about the inserts? Great idea, like putting big sponges in your gutters…until the insert rots. Some of the inserts also are more like brushes, and they just turn into big, mucky messes because stuff still gets in there.

Then you actually have to reverse the installation on your gutter guards to get to the debris. That makes the gutter cleaning task twice as bad as before, even if you don’t have to do it quite as often.

A rotted or clogged insert still prevents the free flow of water, which means that it’s just as bad as having dirty gutters. Eventually you’re going to have to get up there and get rid of them, and that means you’ve wasted your money and your time.

Gutter covers just don’t leave enough space for the water to actually get into the gutter, so they’re like these overzealous guards that do their job a little too well. Nothing gets in the gutters, which is great. Unfortunately, “nothing” includes “the vast majority of the water the gutters were designed to catch.” That stuff just goes right over the side, and you’re back at square one.

Flo-Free is Different

Flow-free acts as a permeable gutter cover. The inside of the gutter is clear and clean. The industrial nylon lets water right through, but that’s the only thing that comes through.

You’re left with a nice channel of water running under the gutter guard. Leaves–even pine needles–just fall on top.

You don’t have to worry about this stuff rotting and clogging up your gutter, either. It will last for 25 years, about as long as your roof will. Yes, you’ll have to replace them eventually, just as you’d have to replace anything on or in your house eventually. But their long lifespan and effectiveness makes them more than worth the money.

Maintaining Your Industrial Nylon Gutter Guards

Many people get disappointed with gutter guards simply because they’re sold to them as being “maintenance free” options. However, no gutter guard is maintenance free entirely.

As discussed, the “screen or mesh” guards will require you to get up there and clean the gutter eventually, because there will be all of this fine debris in there. The inserts will rot eventually, or will need to be cleaned out eventually.

Industrial nylon gutter guards do require you to get up there and brush the leaves off of them from time to time. Remember stuff is piling up on top of the guards. If too much piles up on top then the water can’t get through the debris to the guard and into the gutter, which means you’ve got water cascading over the side of your house again.

Fortunately, this is a very quick, simple task, and is nothing at all like getting up there with your gloves and your shovel to spend your entire weekend on a full scale gutter cleaning.

The Right Gutter Guards are An Investment

Gutter guards eventually pay for themselves.

Right now, you’re either spending your time on gutter cleaning, or you’re spending your money on it. Either way, this has to be done twice a year.

If you purchase the right type of gutter guards then you can skip all of that. It won’t be long before they pay for themselves.

If you’d like to get a free quote on yours, call us. We’re working in Homosassa, New Port Richey, Ocala and everywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area. Flo-free leaf guards may be even less expensive than you think they are.

Seamless Gutters in Homosassa

Wed, 26 Nov 2014 22:55:00 GMT

Here is a new project photo from a job we did in Homosassa, FL.

Hey Homosassa residents, have you scheduled your installation yet?

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Seamless Gutters in New Port Richey

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 22:14:00 GMT

This was another cool project that we did out in New Port Richey. As you can see from the construction of the home it was definitely a place where you didn’t want to see any water anywhere near the home. Reducing potential leak points and replacing the sagging set of gutters had to be a big priority.

Here’s the shot of the work that we did.

This is a good shot for anyone who is still worried that installing “seamless aluminum gutters” means having this big, ugly strip of metal up on your home. As you can see, these gutters are white and they match the home just fine.

Seamless Gutters Before and After New Port Richey

Mon, 10 Nov 2014 20:03:00 GMT

Here are some photos of a job we recently did in New Port Richey. As you can see, there were no gutters on this house to begin with. This beautiful home clearly needed some protection from the elements, and we were happy to provide.

This is what the home looked like after we were done. Notice that we were able to offer seamless aluminum gutters in white to easily match the home’s exterior.

This is something we can do for you as well; seamless aluminum gutters come in all kinds of colors. You can paint them, but you don’t have to.

We’re so glad that we were able to protect this homeowner’s property!

Are you ready to protect your property? If you don’t have any gutters at all, like this homeowner, it’s definitely mission critical for you to do so.

We serve New Port Richey as well as the greater Tampa, FL area. You can call us today for a free estimate. We’ll tell you how much the job will cost and how long it will take us to get the job done. By choosing to install seamless aluminum gutters you will be making a choice to protect your home’s foundation, driveway, windows, siding, and more.

The money you invest today could literally save you from having to make thousands of dollars of repairs to your home. Gutters are so important, especially here in central Florida where we get fourty to fifty inches of rain every single year.

Call us or fill out the contact form today.

How Long Does it Take to Install Seamless Aluminum Gutters?

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 18:35:00 GMT

You’ll be happy to know that we’re often able to complete an installation in just a single day. There are some variables of course. For example, as you might expect, bigger houses take longer.

However, for the most part the machines that we use to create your customized set of seamless aluminum gutters runs reasonably quickly. And even though we’re obviously very meticulous and careful about our measurements and the way we hang our gutters, in general we’ve got the expertise to get in and out without causing additional headaches.

After all, we also know that you might have to take some time off to be home when the installation takes place. And we know that you don’t necessarily want all of the noise and fuss that any kind of contracting work can generate invading your space for too terribly long.

That’s why we’ll always complete your job in a timely, workmanlike manner.

We’ll be able to provide a time estimate along with your cost estimate should you require one. That way you can schedule your service for a time that’s convenient for you.

If you live in New Port Richey, Land O Lakes, Wesley Chapel or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, why not give us a call to schedule your estimate? The faster you do, the faster we can get your gutters on your home!

Pinellas County Extension Offers New Water Wise Workshop

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 18:47:00 GMT

If you’ve missed previous “Water Wise” workshops then you might want to register online to catch the latest one. It will be held on Saturday, November 8 from 9 am to 12 pm at the Pinellas County Extension office in Largo, FL.

You may even want to register again if you’ve attended this workshop in the past, since topics do rotate from month to month. This time the extension office will be covering Rainwater Harvesting as well as a few other important topics.

The workshop is totally free.

This is a great place to go if you still have questions about rainwater harvesting. You also get a free food grade rain barrel out of attending the program, which means you can go home and get started right away.

There are a lot of benefits to rain water harvesting. You save money. You can also help your landscape look much nicer, since there are no water use restrictions on hand watering your flowers with harvested rain water. Obviously, making this move helps our environment, too.

If you can’t make the workshop you can still get a wealth of information about rainwater harvesting here on our blog. Here are the posts, for your convenience.

Types of Rainwater Shut-off Device

Mon, 20 Oct 2014 18:28:00 GMT

Rain gauge systems – A rain gauge system collects water in a small cup. When the cup fills up, the weight of the water in the cup trips a switch. Once the switch is tripped your sprinkler system gets shut down.

The system is a little bit primative. You would want to place the cup out in the open, far away from anything which might drop debris into it. A single sweet gum ball in the cup could shut down your sprinklers, since weight is weight as far as the sprinkler system is concerned.

Conductive basins – These sensors still use water basins. Two electrodes are positioned in the basin. This time, when the water reaches a certain level it actually completes a circuit which, in turn, shuts off your sprinkler systems.

Again, you’ll want to try to place this somewhere where debris isn’t likely to plunk inside of it. This time the issue isn’t the weight. The debris just raises your water level prematurely.

Hydroscopic disks – These disks are made of a cork-like material that gets bigger when the disk gets wetter. The expansion of the disk flips the switch.

Debris doesn’t have any particular effect when it falls on one of these, since debris isn’t going to make the disk any wetter.

Remember, it’s the law.

Whichever device you choose, remember that you must pair a rainwater shut-off device with your sprinkler system in the Tampa Bay metro area, including Land o’ Lakes , Wesley Chapel, and other parts of our service area.

We don’t sell rainwater shut-off devices. We’re gutter contractors! However, we do care deeply about Florida’s water issues, and we will continue to offer information about water use and conservation here on our blog.

This Device Will Let You Use Rainwater for Everything

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 19:28:00 GMT

The device is called the Rain Safe , just like the company name. Unfortunately, you can’t just run up to the website to buy one yet. You’ll have to wait until they find some distributors here in the states.

The device uses UV filtration to get the job done. You just hook it up to any existing water harvesting system. You can then run the treated rain water right through your faucet. It’s not very big, so it doesn’t have to take up a whole lot of space in your home.

We’ll be keeping an eye out to see when the device may become available for sale. Just imagine what would happen if most of the homes in Florida were able to take advantage of this technology! We could ease the burden on our aquifiers that way, and perhaps avert a major water crisis in our state.

It’s certainly worth thinking about.

Of course, good rainwater harvesting starts with great gutters. Are yours clean and leak free? If you live in Ocala, Largo, or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, just give us a call. Our durable seamless aluminum gutters and industrial nylon gutter guards are the perfect compliment to any rain water harvesting system.

New Seamless Gutters in Brooksville, FL

Tue, 07 Oct 2014 18:14:00 GMT

Here’s a recent job that we did out in Brooksville, FL. We went to this mobile home in Brooksville and replaced the old sectional gutters with a brand new set of custom cut seamless aluminum gutters.

Mobile homes almost always need gutters, just as physical houses do, even if they have a pan roof as this home does. In fact, we’d argue that mobile homes need even more water protection than stick built homes, as they’re not quite as sturdy and would express the effects of water damage that much sooner!

Mobile homes have come a long way and can last a long time, but only if you take the steps that are necessary to protect them for the long haul, such as installing seamless aluminum gutters like these. They need a little extra care and TLC to keep them nice and livable. This one, of course, is both, and we really enjoyed meeting the homeowner and working to protect it.

You can also see how long this home is. Those old sectional gutters had plenty of potential leak points.

How about you? How well are your current gutters protecting your home? If you live in Brooksville or in any other part of our Tampa Bay metro service area, call us. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate on what it will take to upgrade your gutters–no matter what kind of home you live in! Call us today, or fill out the handy form on the right. We’ll see you soon!

Custom Gutter Job in Tampa, FL

Tue, 30 Sep 2014 14:14:00 GMT

Check out our most recent seamless aluminum gutter job on a house in Tampa, FL. This was a unique job for us because we had to fabricate and install a custom roof collector box. You can see it in the photograph below.

We had to do this because, as you can see, there’s this very small area corner area to contend with. This corner was in a position that all but ensured that it would receive a lot of water–much more than normal gutters are expected to handle. A collector box is a funnel large enough to catch and reroute this overflow.

This is one really huge advantage of getting custom-made seamless aluminum gutters. We can note possible problem spots like this one, and create solutions for your unique home. We also have the expertise to know when these sorts of measures are necessary. We’re more than installers–we’re problem solvers and experts.

Can you imagine what would have happened to this area of our customer’s home had he gone with pre-fabricated gutters from a big box store? Those gutters would be overwhelmed every time it rained. Water would go cascading down the side of the home. Sooner or later, this homeowner would have been looking at some serious damage.

Every home is different. Every home also represents a major investment. You wouldn’t slap a piece of filet mignon between two cheap hamburger buns, so why would you want to slap cheap gutters on your brand new home? If you live in our service area and your gutters aren’t getting the job done, call us for a free estimate as soon as possible. Your house will thank you!

We’re Offering a Scholarship!

Tue, 23 Sep 2014 18:18:00 GMT

The more we thought about it, the more we liked it. We want to see Florida’s economy grow and flourish. And we want to give back to our local Tampa Bay Metro area community.

Granted, our scholarship reaches to every corner of Florida, because we also just like the idea of helping students out. That’s why we launched the Rain Control Florida Works Scholarship.

Choosing an essay question was probably the hardest part. We couldn’t think of anything that would appeal to a broad range of students by focusing on gutters or home improvement. We initially thought about tackling ecological or water-use issues, but again, that wouldn’t necessarily apply to the interests and aspirations of every student who might apply for the scholarship.

That’s why we finally focused on Florida’s economy. That has an impact on all of us, especially since we’ve opened this scholarship to Florida residents who intend to pursue educations in Florida post-secondary schools.

For our part, we’re looking forward to hearing what the students have to say in our essays, and are looking forward to helping at least one of our Florida students forward his or her educational goals in the days ahead.

Seamless Gutters We Installed in Lutz, FL

Tue, 16 Sep 2014 19:00:00 GMT

We have completed many installations of seamless gutters in Lutz, FL over the years. We recently had a lot of fun installing gutters on this gorgeous home in Lutz. The weather was beautiful throughout the job, as you can see from those stunning skies above the roof.

As you can see, this homeowner really takes care of his property in every possible way.

Notice how the gutters actually enhance the look of the home? That’s because we can offer seamless aluminum gutters in a variety of different colors.

As we do on all of our installs, we custom cut each section of gutter to fit each side of the home precisely in order to eliminate as many leak points as possible. A seamed system would have quite a few potential leak points on that front portion of the house alone.

This house is obviously a very valuable investment, and we’re glad to have been a part of protecting it! The homeowner now has the peace of mind that comes with knowing the water is flowing well away from his home’s foundations, windows, and driveway when we start getting torrential rain instead of bright blue skies.

If you have a home in Lutz or the surrounding area and you need a brand new gutter system to protect your home from expensive water damage , give us a call! We install seamless aluminium gutters and gutter guards throughout the Tampa, FL metro area, and we’ll be happy to help you out. We do offer free estimates on every job so that you know exactly how much you need to budget for.

Why Flo-Free Leaf Guards Are So Effective

Mon, 08 Sep 2014 14:06:00 GMT

What are these problems? There are several of them:

So how do Flo-Free gutter guards solve all of these problems?

First, these fit right into your gutters like foam gutter guards do, but they don’t rot. That’s because they’re made out of 100% industrial nylon which lasts for 25 years.

Furthermore, the only thing capable of passing through these gutter guards is water. As you can see on the photograph, the holes just aren’t big enough to let so much as a single pine needle through.

That means they actually keep you off of your ladder. They just need their surfaces cleaned every spring and every fall (obviously they don’t work so well if they’ve got a bunch of leaves blocking them). This means they really are capable of saving you a lot of time and a lot of headaches.

If you’re sick of cleaning your gutters and you live in Land O’Lakes, Homossassa, or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay Metro area, call us! We’ll give you a free estimate on your new Flo-Free gutter guards today!

4 Reasons to Install New Gutter Guards

Tue, 02 Sep 2014 19:20:00 GMT

1. Cleaning gutter guards takes way less time and effort than cleaning gutters does.

Here in the Tampa Bay metro area we see gutters get filled up fast. Torrential rains and wild winds mean that un-guarded gutters wind up sagging under the weight of cold, wet, mushy, heavy debris. It happens all the time.

Every spring and every fall, people without gutter guards have to either call us for a cleaning or get up on the ladder, risking a fall as they take on this dirty, unpleasant job for themselves. A few people forget all about it…and suffer the consequences later.

When you have the right gutter guards you can skip all that. Your task will mostly be to scrub the tops of the guards so that they can continue taking in water. That’s it. You could do it with a brush on a pole if you wanted to, and stay off the ladder altogether.

2. Extend the Lifespan of Your Gutters

When gutters fill up with debris they start dealing with some stress. Pockets of standing water can form, which then become breeding grounds for mosquitos. More urgently, the weight of the debris can start to detatch your gutter attachments.

Especially if that weight is a living thing. Many animals love gutters.

Pretty soon your gutters may be leaking, and by that point, they may just be beyond saving.

3. Improves the Value of Your Home

Yes, gutter guards are a selling point, and appraisers do take them into account. You’ll typically recoup your investment when it’s time to sell your home.

4. Rainwater Harvesting is More Effective

If you’re going to be harvesting any kind of rain water than gutters are a good bet. After all, they will act as a filter, keeping debris from entering your rain barrel.

This means less stress on your rain barrel filtering system. It also means more water overall, since wet leaves and muck aren’t going to be trapping as much of your water.

Which gutter guards are the best?

Here at Rain Control Gutters we offer customers in our service area (Brandon, Ocala, Homosassa and the rest of the Tampa Bay area) Flo-Free Leaf Guards to protect their homes. These guards don’t even let fine debris through, but they don’t block rain either. That means they’re well-equipped to handle Florida’s torrential rains.

Got questions? Call us! We’ll be happy to come out to your home, offer a free estimate, and answer any questions you might have about adding gutter guards to your home.

Save More Water With Residential Rainflow Shut-Off Devices

Tue, 26 Aug 2014 16:20:00 GMT

After all, you already know that you don’t really need to keep your sprinklers going when it rains. But if they’re on a timer, it’s very easy to get busy and to forget all about them.

That’s when water gets wasted. Stormwater runoff is also increased, since the ground can only hold so much water.

Fortunately, there’s an answer–the rainfall, rain flow, or rain shut off device.

You Need a Rainflow Shut-Off Device: It’s the Law

You may not know that Florida state law actually requires anyone with an automatic sprinkler system to use a rainfall shutoff device, or a similar device called a soil moisture irrigation control device. Both of these device types are armed with sprinklers which tell them that the lawn really doesn’t need watering right now.

This means the sprinklers just don’t come on when they don’t need to, preserving Florida’s water supply and cutting your water bill by a considerable margin.

A Rain Shutoff Device Saves Money In Other Ways, Too

You’ll see less wear and tear on your sprinkler system, which means it won’t have to be replaced so often.

Where to Buy a Rain Shutoff Device

You can actually buy rain flow shutoff devices on Amazon.com. Garden stores may have them as well, and there are a couple of online sprinkler stores that have them, too.

Bottom line–you should absolutely get one if you don’t have one already.

We don’t sell rain water shutoff devices, but our experience as licensed rain gutter contractors in Ocala, Largo, Land o’Lakes and the rest of the Tampa metro area means that we care deeply about Florida water use issues. After all, protecting your home from costly water damage is our business!

7 Gutter Mistakes That Will Really Mess Up Your Home

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 20:32:00 GMT

In central Florida there’s just no room for making these mistakes. Not in an area that gets torrential rains. Let’s look at each one in turn so that you don’t have to deal with costly water damage later.

1. Deciding the house just doesn’t need gutters.

There are definitely some homes that do not need gutters. Unfortunately, your house is unlikely to be one of them.

One of the major criteria for a home without gutters is living in an area that doesn’t get much rain. That does not describe anyone living in our service area. Largo gets around 46 inches of rain every year. Ocala gets over 50 inches every year. Homosassa gets nearly 52 inches.

See:

2. Buying the wrong type of gutters.

We get it. You can put up gutters for $1 a foot if you go with vinyl gutters. We also get that you get what you pay for.

Is it really that big a shock that your vinyl gutters aren’t strong enough to handle gale force winds and torrential rains? That they’re falling off your house once more in just a few years? Do yourself a favor. Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish. Get the right kind of gutters–long-lasting gutters that will protect your home.

3. Attempting to install your own gutters.

Improperly installed gutters cause leaks. It’s as simple as that. Loose gutters, improperly installed gutters, and a poor grasp of proper slope can all cause major issues.

A licensed gutter contractor can ensure that your gutters actually work once they’re on your home.

See:

4. You don’t clean your gutters.

Water can’t flow through your gutters and out the downspout if they’re full of muck and debris. Instead, it will spill over the side, where it will damage your foundations, your siding, your windows, your driveway, and your landscape.

Your gutters must be cleaned every spring and every fall.

See:

5. You try to take cleaning shortcuts.

Gutter cleaning is a nasty job. So we totally get the impulse to try to find some quicker, easier way to do it. Unfortunately, shortcuts can often do more harm and good.

If you really want to make it easier on yourself, just hire a licensed gutter contractor to clean your gutters instead.

6. You bought the wrong gutter guards.

Gutter guards can cut down your cleaning time by keeping almost all of the debris out of your gutters. However, you’re going to have a problem if you get those old fashioned metal guards with the big holes in them.

Pine needles and other fine debris slip right into the gutter with those things. Then you’re stuck having to uninstall and re-install these faulty guards, which is a pain.
Go for Flo-Free leaf guards instead. These gutter guards are made out of an industrial nylon that has a lifetime guarantee and has been around for over 25 years. They really work! They need a good scrubbing every once in awhile, but they don’t let much through other than water…which is the purpose of having a gutter guard in the first place.

See:

7. You try to use a cheap gutter contractor.

A “handy man” shows up at your house and offers to fix your gutters. He wants the total cost up front in cash. He either never finishes the job–or never even starts it.

This scam is more common than you think.

Sure, he’s charging less than licensed gutter contractors do. He’s also not doing the job, so you’ve basically thrown thousands of dollars away.

See:

All of these mistakes have something in common. They stem from people trying to take shortcuts–trying to save either time or money on a task and a purchase that is not very fun. We totally get it.

But paying over $10,000 to repair your foundation won’t be much fun either.

Give yourself some peace of mind. Get the job done right the first time. Call us for a free estimate on your gutter cleaning, replacement, and repair. You won’t regret it!

4 Reasons to Start a Florida Rain Garden

Tue, 12 Aug 2014 18:45:00 GMT

1. Rain gardens help recharge ground water

Here in Central Florida we have a real groundwater problem. It’s ironic, because we get so much rain, and because we are in a state that is surrounded by water.

In spite of the irony, these depleted aquifiers endanger our state’s beautiful natural springs, cause sinkholes, and threaten our access to clean drinking water in the future.

If we can put even a little water back into the system we can slow this process considerably. If every Florida homeowner were using this simple method for restoring ground water we could see some dramatic results.

2. Filters Pollution

Stormwater runoff sends polluted water into our streams, lakes, and rivers. But each rain garden acts like a mini treatment plant.

As rain water soaks into your rain garden the toxins inside of the runoff are rendered inert. The water passes harmlessly back into the supply after a portion of it nurtures your plants.

It feels pretty awesome to know that in two very real ways, you’re part of the solution–not part of the problem.

3. Creates a habitat for birds.

Normal lawns are ecologically dead. They may look green and pretty, but they’re deserts as far as birds and butterflies are concerned.

Some of these species are disappearing. Your rain garden, stocked with native plants, could make a huge difference in the outcome for these species. You also get to enjoy the beautiful birdsong in the morning.

4. Rain gardens save money.

Maybe you’re just not moved by the eco-argument. Maybe you want to know that you’re going to benefit.

Fortunately, you are!

They are beautiful landscape features that you rarely have to water. You’re letting your rain gutters do the job of watering your plants instead.

It’s saving you a lot of hard work, too, because you will rarely have to get out there with a watering can.

Rain Control Gutters doesn’t build rain gardens for customers. But we do offer you clean, long-lasting seamless aluminum gutters to ensure the free flow of water straight to your project. If you live in Largo, Clearwater, Land O’Lakes or elsewhere in the Tampa Metro Area call us for a free estimate on rain gutter cleaning, repair, or replacement today.

4 Reasons to Start Harvesting Rain Water

Tue, 05 Aug 2014 14:48:00 GMT

So we wanted to give you four reasons why you should make rainwater harvesting into your next home improvement project.

1. Rainwater harvesting helps you save money.

Did you know that rain water harvesting saves you up to 6 months in outdoor watering costs? That’s a pretty significant chunk of change, particularly if you don’t already have an ultra efficient micro-irrigation system.

Obviously people who go all the way, treating and filtering their water so they can use it for all water purposes end up with an even greater cost savings.

2. Rainwater harvesting helps you keep your lawn nice.

Most of the water use restrictions that you see during the Tampa metro area dry season all revolve around watering your yard. While everyone else is struggling with a dry, shriveled up old landscape you’ll have a barrel full of rain water to use to slake its thirst.

You might need a very large rain barrel to take you through the dry season, but you still get to use more water than most of your neighbors who did not decide to harvest rain water.

3. You can get a free rain barrel.

Even the Tampa Water Department wants you to harvest rain water–and they make their money off of selling you water! TWL customers can get a free rain barrel whenever they attend one of the Hillsborough County Extension’s rain water harvesting workshops. These are workshops we’ve covered here on the blog before.

Since the rain barrel is often your biggest expense this is a smart way to take care of it.

4. It’s free to learn!

Oh yeah, most of those county extension office workshops are absolutely free. They just require you to register in advance. So you don’t even have to pay to get real-time advice from the experts.

Did you know? Seamless aluminum gutters are the best gutters for rainwater harvesting. Most other gutters are sold in 10 foot pieces, which means there’s a seam at every 10 feet where water can leak away.

Our gutters only have seams at the corners of your house and are custom made for your home. That means that more water gets into your barrels, helping you save even more money. Seamless aluminum gutters are the green choice–both for your wallet, and for the planet!

If you live in Ocala, Largo, or St. Petersburg you can get a free estimate on our seamless aluminum rain gutters right now. Call us today and we’ll get you taken care of.

Check Out this Cool Rain Garden Video

Sun, 27 Jul 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Having trouble visualizing rain gardens? Still not sure whether or not you want one in your own yard?

Then check out this video from the Hillsbourogh County Extension.

You’ll get to see just how beautiful a finished rain garden can be. The Extension office also takes you through the process, step-by-step.

I’m a bit sorry we didn’t find this video last year, when it was first made. However, the information is still relevant!

Why would you want a rain garden? Remember that they help reduce the pollution from rainwater runoff. Rain water is also a very cheap way to maintain a decorative flower garden, unlike traditional methods, which just run up your water bill.

The crew here at Rain Control is fascinated with rain gardens in particular just because they are a great way to use your gutters to create something beautiful. You don’t normally hear “gutters” and “beauty” in the same sentence!

Of course, you should remember that rain gardens don’t work unless your gutters do. Please make sure that your gutters are clean and in good repair before you invest any time or money into the process. Otherwise, your beautiful rain garden is likely to die, right along with the foundation of your house.

Do you need to have someone come and take a look at your gutters? Are they leaking, sagging, or pulling away from your home? We serve homes throughout the Hillsborough County area, and we’ll be happy to come out to your home as well. We offer free estimates and reasonable prices, so call us today!

Are There Granules in Your Gutters?

Tue, 22 Jul 2014 16:41:00 GMT

Roof shingle granules.

Most asphalt shingles are covered with little granules. When they start washing into your gutters it is a sign that the roof probably needs to be replaced.

You see, your roof, soffits, fascia, and gutters all work together as one big system designed to help your home shed water. When it all works properly the water flows out of your downspouts instead of into your house.

If any part of this system is not maintained properly then you get expensive water damage somewhere in your home.

Granules don’t start appearing in your gutters until your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. There are other signs of a roof in decline, of course: you also would need to replace your roof if the shingles are blistered or curling, or if your roof is sagging. But granules in the gutters are one of the early warning signs.

Some people go into denial when they see roof granules. They say that they had a 25 year roof warranty, and it’s only been 18 years, so clearly, the roof must be fine. Unfortunately, a warranty can’t tell you how much wear and tear your roof has dealt with.

Especially here in Florida. People who live in Clearwater or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay Metro area have to deal with harsh weather conditions on a regular basis. Those severe storms can make a significant impact on the lifespan of your roof.

Bottom line? Get it checked out before it becomes an even bigger, more expensive problem. Your homeowner’s insurance or existing warranty may well let you pay for the replacement, so don’t let that stop you. At this stage you may only need to replace some worn shingles.

In a few months, you might have roof leaks and water damage all over your home.

Best Gutter Sealant Search | Rain Control Gutters

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 13:44:00 GMT

Last week we talked about a quick, easy fix for sealing leaks at the corner seams of an aluminum gutter system. Today, we thought we’d take a look at several of the sealants which are available on the market. That way, you can make the best choice for your home if you are ever facing a corner seal leak.

There are three best-selling gutter sealants out there: General Electric Metallic Silicone II Caulk , GE Lighting White Paintable , and Rust-Oleum Rubber Sealant .

Rust-Oleum Rubber Sealant

Rust-Oleum might have a lot of merits, but right away we wouldn’t recommend it because it isn’t a silicone based sealant. We’re only including it because it’s a current best seller, and “best-seller” was a useful starting place for evaluating gutter sealants.

As the full name of the product implies, this is a rubber sealant in an aerosol can. Rubber on metal is not going to stand up to the torrential rains that we see anywhere in our service area–if you live in New Port Richey this is the last thing you’re going to want to put on your gutters.

Another problem that we see with this sealant is that the spray-paint application doesn’t necessarily allow for precision leak coverage. A lot of people get very “hit and miss” results with this product thanks to the application method alone.

GE Lighting White Paintable

This product is iffy. It’s an acrylic sealant with a silicone additive. It is not a pure silicone sealant.

People often reach for a sealant like this because they’re concerned about painting over the patch. Of course, you can paint your seamless aluminum gutters any color you want. That’s one of the advantages of having them. But they need to handle water first and foremost, so we wouldn’t choose a sealant based on your ability to make it match your paint color.

Truthfully, if you’re applying your caulk carefully and properly any patches that you make should be barely noticeable from the ground anyway.

Overall it seems to be a solid product, one that works well for a variety of other tasks. We just wouldn’t recommend it for your gutters.

GE Aluminum & Metal Silicone II

This product is totally silicone based and is ready to take on torrential rains with just three hours of drying time. It can handle UV rays, as well.

This is pretty much the only caulk that is truly made to work with something like an aluminum gutter. When you’re sealing a gutter leak you don’t really want a product that’s trying to be an all-purpose item.

We feel pretty confident calling this the best gutter sealant out there. It only costs a couple of dollars more than the other sealants–and we think it’s well worth the cost.

Of course, if your existing gutters are broken well beyond a sealant’s ability to repair it you just need to call us for a free estimate on getting them replaced. Sometimes that’s all you can do!

How to Repair a Leak at the Corner Seam

Mon, 07 Jul 2014 18:43:00 GMT

Seams are all potential leak sites. Aluminum gutters eliminate the problem, because the entire length of gutter is custom-made on-site.

So if you have a thirty foot length of gutter, you’ll get a thirty foot gutter to cover it, which means no seams along that length of house. This persists until you reach a corner.

There is no way to simply bend the metal around a corner. You have to keep going.

This means the installer has to fit one end to another end at the 90 degree corner. That creates one of the very few potential leak sites in the entire system.

And while seamless aluminum gutters don’t leak very often, we thought we’d take a moment to discuss how you might deal with this problem if you ever come across it.

First, you’ll need to pick up a silicone-based gutter sealant. You can find them in any box store.

The silicone makes your patch strong enough to withstand the sorts of torrential rains we experience here in the Tampa Bay Area.

Next, you’ll want to clean the leak site itself. Sealant needs a clean, dry surface.

Then, just follow the directions on your bottle of sealant and plug that leak!

Make sure to choose a dry day for this work. Your sealant will need to dry for at least two hours, and a sudden thunderstorm could wipe out all of your hard work.

That’s pretty much it! Now you’ve got fully functional gutters again, to the tune of $7.00 or so. It sure beats replacing entire sections of gutter, which is why you should consider switching to seamless aluminum gutters the next time that you replace yours.

When you do, call us. We serve every part of the Tampa Bay area from Homosassa to Ocala. We’ll give you a free estimate on a long-lasting gutter system that works.

Handling Dents in Seamless Aluminum Gutters

Mon, 30 Jun 2014 20:47:00 GMT

If your gutters don’t look this bad you’re probably in the clear.

Since we’ve gotten questions about dealing with these dents from time to time we thought we’d take a minute to discuss your options when this happens.

First, understand your seamless aluminum gutter system.

Remember that each side of a seamless aluminum gutter system consists of a single, unbroken piece. The only seams you’ll ever find are all at 90 degree turns–that is, at each corner of your house. This is true whether the piece is three feet long or 30 feet long.

Each piece is custom made, right on site, when the gutters are installed.

That means that you can’t just cut away a dented section of gutter and “splice in” some new gutter piece. Fortunately, you may not have to.

Try removing the dent yourself.

The truth is that most dents are not that severe. You can usually tap them out with a small hammer, or work them out with a pair of pliers.

And if the dent isn’t interfering with the functionality of the gutter or the aesthetic of your home, then you may even opt to leave it alone. The key question is whether or not the water is continuing to flow through that section of gutter without leaking or spilling over the edges.

Get help with severe damage.

The only time a gutter dent is cause for concern is when the gutter is collapsed or crushed to the point where it can no longer do its job. When that happens, the entire “run” of the gutter may well need to be replaced.

If you live in Brandon, Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area and have a severe dent in your gutters, call us. We’ll give you a free estimate and a fast repair!

Two Interesting Community Events from Pinellas County Extension

Tue, 24 Jun 2014 19:06:00 GMT

Did you know that “upcycling” is a major gardening trend? A few minutes on Pinterest will show you the truth of this statement.

People are doing all sorts of cool things with old bicycles, old wheels, even old doors. It’s all about taking so-called “trash” and turning it into items of beauty and value in your landscape.

Of course, there’s an art to this. If you aren’t careful, “upcycling” could look a lot like filling your yard with trash, something neither you nor your neighbors would ultimately appreciate.

That’s why the latest event from Pinellas County Extension is so interesting. It’s a Trash to Treasure course with Florida-Friendly Landscaping Extension agent Brian Niemann.

The class is free, and will be held tomorrow from 2:00 to 3:30 PM on 500 Sunset Drive South in St. Petersburg, FL. You do need to register for the event, which you can do here .

We know this is kind of last minute, but we only just saw the event recently.

If you don’t have time to attend that one we also spotted a July 12th event that nearly all our readers might be interested in: how to keep cooling costs low this summer. This one is taught by three different extension agents.

It also comes with some free stuff: an insulated tote bag, a manual powered LED flashlight, a solar calculator and additional educational materials.

That one’s from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the Pinellas County Extension building. Register here .

We’ll continue to keep you updated on interesting community events happening throughout the Tampa Bay area!

Is Your Fascia Board Rotting?

Mon, 16 Jun 2014 18:28:00 GMT

What’s going on? Are the gutters the problem? Should you rip them down, concluding that they do more harm than good?

Believe it or not, some homeowners actually do this. And it’s a terrible idea!

Now, that’s not to say the original gutters may not have been a problem. Poorly installed gutters can certainly endanger your fascia.

Poorly maintained gutters can be a problem, too. A saggy, leaky gutter isn’t protecting your home.

So what’s the solution?

Properly installed seamless aluminum gutters should put an end to this problem. They’re custom-made to fit snugly on your home, and the seams are only at the corners, so there are fewer potential leak sites.

From there, it’s merely a matter of keeping your gutters clean. To make this easier, we recommend our fine-mesh leaf guards . These allow water to flow while keeping debris out.

Ours fit right in the gutter. They’re not just a “gutter screen” that lets a whole bunch of stuff in.

Protect your fascia–and the rest of your home–by addressing the problems with your gutters and installing seamless aluminum rain gutters and fine mesh leaf guards today. If you live in Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey, or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area, call us! We’ll give you a free estimate on what it will take to protect your home.

Is the Gutter Sense Cleaning Tool a Good Buy?

Tue, 10 Jun 2014 14:17:00 GMT

While we no longer provide gutter cleaning services in Tampa or any of the areas we serve, we’re always on the lookout for tools, gadgets, or services that can help our customers maintain the seamless gutters we install for them. We recently came across this tool, and we thought it might be worth checking out.

Gutter Sense Overview

The Gutter Sense tool is another tool designed to keep you off your ladder when it’s time to clean your gutters.

This is an impulse we applaud, because every year people wind up in the hospital thanks to gutter cleaning accidents.

The idea behind the Gutter Sense is that it’s a telescoping rod with a pair of polycarbonate tongs on the end of it. The tongs can grab about 14 inches of leaves and debris at a time.

The video below was made by the guy who invented the tool.

Gutter Sense Pros

The tool is lightweight and adjustable. It can get the worst of the debris out of your gutters.

You can typically get around your home pretty quickly, using the tool to give yourself a basic gutter cleaning. It’s certainly superior to avoiding the job altogether.

Note that the inventor suggests taking at least two passes around your home with the tool to make sure you get everything. We’re especially concerned that the tool might leave debris at the very bottom of the gutters, so we recommend following this advice.

Gutter Sense Cons

Many people have reported that the pole that comes with the Gutter Sense isn’t as sturdy as it should be. It seems to be a good idea to buy a sturdier telescoping pole to use with the Gutter Sense.

A lot of reviewers also reported that their arms and neck became fatigued very quickly as they tried to clean their gutters. It seems a lot of rest breaks are in order, especially if you’re using it on second story gutters.

All in all, however, it seems to be a pretty good little tool.

What’s the easiest way to maintain your gutters?

You wouldn’t be reading this review if you weren’t interested in finding an easy way to clean your gutters.

That’s why we want to take a moment to remind you that you do have the option of installing fine mesh leaf guards. Fine mesh leaf guards work better than most gutter guards on the market because they just don’t let the small debris through.

However, they don’t clog your gutters either. Water can get through the mesh, even though debris can’t.

This vastly reduces the amount of time that you’ll have to spend cleaning or maintaining your gutters, either on a ladder or with a tool like the Gutter Sense.

If you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, feel free to call us. We’ll show you exactly how effective our leaf guards are, and we’ll give you a free estimate too!

Are You Prepared for Hurricane Season in 2014?

Mon, 02 Jun 2014 20:04:00 GMT

Don’t Let the Quiet Fool You

It’s been 8 years since the last hurricane struck our shores. But as The Miami Herald points out, Florida is still the state that is statistically the most likely to be struck by a hurricane.

So it stands to reason that our lucky streak has to end sometime, and 2014 could be the year.

There’s Still Good News

Forecasters are predicting just 8 to 13 named storms this year, so we could get lucky again (even if that means other states are not so lucky).

We may get to enjoy year 9 of a hurricane free existence!

Did we miss something? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll address it in a future post.

We’re not hurricane experts. We’re just gutter guys working in New Port Richey, Homosassa, Beverly Hills and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Whether we get hurricanes or not we’re going to have torrential rains this summer, so make sure your house is ready! Contact us for a free quote on your new seamless aluminum gutters today.

The Easiest Way to Spot a Fake Gutter Contractor

Mon, 26 May 2014 18:18:00 GMT

This so-called “contractor” cheated his customer out of $7,600. And since he’s been at it for awhile, you’ve got to wonder how much he’s really put in his pocket, and how many people just felt embarrassed and never complained. The story said there were at least a dozen, but we’re willing to bet that there were even more.

The big red flag? He asked for that $7,600 up front.

Real gutter contractors do not do this. We write up a contract. That’s why we’re called “contractors.”

We do the work and we do an excellent job. Then you pay us.

You typically would need a building permit for gutter repairs. Well, we help you get one of those. We’d never suggest you go around them.

They’re part of the process, and that extra $45 actually protects you. It means that you can get an inspector to come and look at our work. If your particular city doesn’t require a permit for gutters, that’s one thing, but most do.

So if you’re looking at a gutter contractor who says, “just pay me up front,” and “you don’t have to worry about permits,” think twice. Do your research and see what your city or county really has to say about building permits.

You should always check a contractor’s license, too. In Florida you can do that at https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp.

For example, if you go in there, do a name search, and type “Rain Control Gutters” you’ll see all of our information pop right up, both for our current licenses and for the expired licenses of previous years. So the residents in our service area from St. Petersburg to Ocala can hire us with confidence.

Don’t rely on the contractor’s advertising alone. Don’t even rely on the scammer’s reviews or references. These things can be faked. But a license number can’t be faked, and neither can a permit.

Just be careful!

Do You Really Need .032 Gauge Gutters?

Mon, 19 May 2014 20:32:00 GMT

You will probably never see this in Tampa.

“Gauge” is a measure of the thickness of the aluminum in a seamless aluminum gutter.

Believe it or not, a lot of our customers are pretty worried about gauge. Many take the time to educate themselves about gutters online before they start calling contractors.

That’s great! It’s the reason we have this blog up.

But sometimes it can lead to some additional confusion.

When customers start trying to learn about gutters online they inevitably run across some webpages which tell them that they absolutely need .032 gauge gutters – that nothing else will do. Those pages usually don’t tell people why they need gutters that thick.

That’s because only a certain portion of the population actually needs gutters that thick. That would be the (admittedly very large) portion of the nation that deals with heavy duty ice and snow every winter.

In other words, those other websites are not talking about Florida.

In Florida, the industry standard is a lighter .027 gauge gutter. Florida suppliers don’t sell the aluminum any thicker than that, because it would simply be overkill.

It’s simply not possible to accommodate a request to place .032 gauge gutters on a Florida home.

It just goes to show that you have to be a little bit careful about what you read online. Sometimes what applies to one area does not apply to another…and sometimes you just are not getting the whole story.

If you are a Florida customer living in Largo, St. Petersburg, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, call us! We’ll give you a free estimate on your new, seamless aluminum gutters so that you can protect your home from costly water damage.

Summer Gutter Maintenance

Tue, 13 May 2014 01:34:00 GMT

After all, torrential rains and 100+ degree temperatures do take their toll. So as the warmer months arrive it is more important than ever to ensure that your gutters are in tip top shape.

Start with a visual inspection.

Take a walk around your house and look for loose hanging fixtures. You should also look for clogs or leaks of any kind.

Obviously this visual inspection will only be truly effective after your gutters have been thoroughly cleaned .

Remember, if your gutter system isn’t working properly then it could lead to thousands of dollars of damage .

Assess Property Drainage Too

Remember, gutters are part of a total water management system. So the warmer months are a good time to assess drainage on your entire property.

It might be time to regrade your landscape, or to extend your downspout drainage system in order to make absolutely certain that no water is collecting near your foundations.

What do you do if you find problems?

Obviously it’s important to get these problems addressed right away.

Now, you could just try to repair the damage. But it might be a good idea to go ahead and upgrade your gutters now, so that you face fewer problems in the future.

For example, if you have cheap vinyl gutters right now you are inviting trouble. Vinyl is prone to some serious leaks.

By contrast, having us come out and install some seamless aluminium rain gutters in your home means having a long-lasting, durable set of gutters that are virtually leak free.

And if you’re tired of watching your gutters get clogged it might be time to think about reliable gutter guards, too.

We know you’d rather be thinking of swimming, BBQs and camp-outs. But handling these issues now will ensure that you do not lose all your “fun money” to costly repairs in the future.

The Truth About Decorative Downspouts

Tue, 06 May 2014 00:12:00 GMT

We can’t deny that there are a lot of really cool, creative options and downspout ideas out there.. We certainly understand the visual appeal, and the desire to place something special on the home.

However, we don’t install them. And we don’t recommend them.

First, decorative downspouts are typically only available through online artists. Most suppliers don’t carry them, which means most gutter companies won’t touch them. We’re not the only ones who say, “no way!”

So when you opt for a decorative downspout you are choosing to install this element yourself. There’s no guarantee that it will be particularly compatible with your system.

Second, decorative downspouts do not perform well in Florida’s summer torrential rains. They tend to get completely overwhelmed.

Instead of creating a system that sends water flowing nicely through the spout and away from the home the decorative downspout typically starts to leak in short order. The water then washes right back up to the foundation, where it begins doing its inevitable damage.

Ultimately, it’s your home. But our advice? In Brandon, Ocala or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, at least, gutters are the wrong place to express your creativity. You can, however, turn vinyl gutters into a variety of creative projects, or hanging gardens , instead.

You might also express your creativity in the form of a rain garden, which draws the eye away from the gutters entirely and towards beautiful, Florida-friendly native plants.

Hey, we didn’t want to burst your bubble without offering at least a few nice alternatives!

Community Event: Florida-Friendly Landscape Class

Mon, 28 Apr 2014 22:46:00 GMT

If you’ve missed previous Florida-friendly landscape classes you’re in luck, because there’s a new one on the way. On May 8th, Pinellas County Extension will host “Ten Easy Steps to a Florida-friendly Landscape.”

The class will be taught by Doriss Heitzmann, the Florida-friendly Landscaping Community Outreach Coordiantor for Pinellas County Extension. You can’t get much more expert than that!

You’ll learn important info about building a landscape that is less water-dependent than most “traditional” landscapes. You’ll also learn how to make your landscape a haven for local wildlife. You’ll even learn how to save some money, both on water and on fertilizer.

The class starts at 2 pm and will be held at the Palm Harbor Library in Palm Harbor, FL, which is halfway between Clearwater and New Port Richey. The class is free, and you can register online . You do have to register at least 24 hours before the event in order to participate.

It’s almost true summer, which means full-tilt landscaping efforts will be underway in many households. If you’re committed to creating a sustainable garden with Florida-friendly native plants it is absolutely the right time to start planning and learning.

Can’t make the class on the 8th? The event notice does state that the class takes place on “multiple dates,” though there’s currently no information online about the status of those dates. You can call the Extension office at 727-585-2100 if you want to find out about future classes.

You can also look over this handy resource , which offers 100 pages of information about Florida-friendly landscapes.

And don’t forget one of the first steps–putting your gutters to work! After all, if you can catch rain water for gardening purposes then you’ve already won half the battle.

(Psst. You can’t collect rainwater in dirty gutters. If you haven’t cleaned them yet, just call us already!)

How to Devalue Your Home by $35,000

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 16:57:00 GMT

After all, it’s always easier to destroy something’s value than to build something’s value.

And if you want to reduce the value of your home by $35,000 or more, it’s dead easy. Just don’t clean, repair, or replace your gutters for awhile.

In a year or so, your home will start to experience several very costly problems. You’ll either have to repair it yourself…or hope that you can sell it to someone for less than you bought it for.

The Foundation

When you don’t see to your gutters water goes cascading back towards the foundations of your home. Water erodes the mountains into sand at the beach.

And it erodes your foundation, too, causing big cracks that will allow the home to shift. Once the foundation has cracked the walls start to buckle and the home itself becomes unsafe, so this is not a problem that you will be able to ignore for long.

The cost of foundation repair? Hefty. $10,000 is a reasonable estimate.

Windows

Water from dirty gutters tends to rot the wood around window frames, too. There’s nothing that turns a home into a chill, damp place faster than water running in through the windows during a rainstorm.

The price of an individual window isn’t so terrible…think $700 or so. But if your home has ten windows then you’ve got $7000 reasons to make sure your gutters become a priority right now.

Siding

Water damages siding, too. Siding repairs are no joke either, with the average repair sitting at around $8400.

The damage here is very visible, which means selling your house later may become even more of a challenge.

The Driveway

Gutters are also designed to shunt water away from your driveway. Your driveway is just like your foundation–prone to becoming pitted and cracked over time if water damage is allowed to accumulate.

The cost of repairs? Another $10,000 if you want to replace the whole thing.

Compare the Costs

Getting your gutters cleaned for you is a pittance compared to these costly repairs. Even getting a full, seamless aluminium gutter replacement is not going to stack up to these kinds of costs.

Without seeing your home I can’t tell you exactly how much the job would cost. But I can tell you that you’ll pay less than you’d pay to fix all of these issues. Do you live in Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey, Brandon, or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area? Then call us for a free estimate and find out just how much sense it makes to maintain great gutters this year.

Automate Your Garden With this Nifty Water Saving Gadget

Mon, 07 Apr 2014 19:34:00 GMT

Now this trend is exploding into gardens and landscapes as well, thanks to this nifty water saving gadget called the Droplet Sprinkler . It’s a pre-release item that automates your ability to water your plants.

And while we don’t think you should use a robot to clean your gutters , the little garden robot is pretty cool. You attach it to your hose, use a phone or computer to input information about your plants, and let it move around your yard, deciding when, where, and how much to water.

It pulls online data from weather stations to know that it rained yesterday, which means it won’t go out and do its job when the lawn is already soaked.

This little gadget can replace your entire sprinkler system. The manufacturers also note that it can shave $200/year off of your water bill, which means that the device will be able to pay for itself in just 2 years.

Check out the video below to learn more.

As we’ve discussed, water issues are a big deal here in Florida. Sometimes it’s hard to conserve water, but this time it’s pretty easy.

We may not be able to help you preserve water or automate your home, but Rain Control Gutters can help in other ways. For example, we can install gutter guards to vastly reduce the amount of time and money spent on cleaning and maintaining your gutters. We can also clean, repair, and replace your old gutters with state of the art seamless aluminum gutters. If you live in St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, Beverly Hills or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, call us today for a free estimate.

Fun Gutter Facts: Gutters on Cars

Mon, 24 Mar 2014 17:12:00 GMT

Of course, anyone who has lived here in Florida understands how great gutters on cars could be. Each of us has probably had the experience, at least once, of having a cascade of water come in just by opening the doors out into bad weather. Given most modern cars have a slew of electronics right on the car door this always causes me a moment of worry.

Blagg referenced a Detroit Free Press article that I thought I’d share directly.

Thank goodness we don’t worry about making houses more aerodynamic, and that aluminum rain gutters do a good job of taking care of the aesthetic problem. As it stands, both pieces point to the potential for a new sort of “rain gutter” design on cars in the future.

If you want a car with a gutter you’ll have to look to the 2015 Mustang coupe or convertible, since these are the car designs that are being slated to receive the rain gutter improvements.

Fortunately, you probably won’t have to clean out your car’s “rain strips” every spring and fall like you have to clean out your rain gutters. Speaking of which, have you gotten yours cleaned and checked yet?

If the answer is “no, I have not cleaned my gutters yet,” then don’t waste another minute. If you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, call us for a free estimate. We’ll keep you off that roof!

Spring Rain Garden Maintenance

Mon, 10 Mar 2014 13:01:00 GMT

First, you need to remove any debris that’s made its way into your rain garden. Dead leaves, dead pine needles, and other muck can keep your garden from draining properly or thriving.

You should also check for sediment build-up and erosion. Remove them as necessary.

Next, trim back your perennials a little bit to let new growth flourish. Get rid of any dead plants! If you need to divide your perennials now is the time to do it.

You might have to replace a few plants if you have too many dead ones. You always want your rain garden to have a neat, clean look–it’s neither fun nor attractive to let it grow wild.

Next, it’s time to spread a fresh layer of mulch. Rain gardens perform best when you use shredded bark for this task. That’s because shredded bark won’t float away and clog your drains the way that wood chips will.

Don’t go nuts with fertilizers. Native plants don’t necessarily require them the way an import might. If you must, call your county extension for some Florida-friendly fertilizer tips. If you don’t you might just undo all of the good work you did by placing a rain garden in the first place!

Finally, it’s time to start adding any annual plants that you might want to place in your rain garden. Again, choose natives for best results.

You can get a list of native annuals and perennials here .

Of course, it’s also important to remember that your rain garden is part of a total system that starts with your rain gutters! Spring is also the season for cleaning your gutters .

If you don’t, your rain garden won’t get the water that it needs–and your home’s foundation will get water it absolutely does not need.

Don’t want to do it yourself? If you live in Ocala, Brandon, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, call us. We’ll give you a free quote on gutter cleaning, and we’ll keep you off that ladder.

Leaf Guards – Are They Worth It?

Fri, 07 Mar 2014 16:35:00 GMT

Often it can be difficult to know whether or not upgrades on home renovations are worth-while. Yet, in the case of adding a leaf guard to your homes gutters, it can save you a lot of head ache and money in the end. Rain Control Gutters can offer a great solution for your gutters in Central Florida.

Why do I need one?

Open gutters can cause many issues that most don’t tend to think about. When leaves fall into your gutters they clump together and cause clogs which can result in the gutter becoming useless. To keep this from happening, people must regularly climb up high ladders in order to clear the gutter of debris, which can be bothersome and dangerous.

If you don’t clear them frequently enough, these clogs can lead to leaks and flooding, which may cause damage to your home. This water damage can be costly and result in numerous other issues, such as mold and rot. In some cases, rain water will pool near the foundation of a house and seep into the basement, causing flooding inside your home.

Leaf guards will solve all these issues by blocking the gutter from debris, such as leaves and pine needles, forcing them to flow off the roof and onto the ground. There are several options when buying these guards, but ours is made of industrial strength nylon that allows the entire mouth of the gutter to collect rain, which is what your gutter was designed to do. The porous material allows the rain to easily flow into the gutter while its smooth texture allows debris to simply slide off. It is thick and extends to the bottom of the gutter so it will never collapse and becomes stronger in colder weather, preventing buildup of snow and ice.

Because of its design, this guard will eliminate the need to ever clean out your gutters again and protects it from cracks and leaks. It can handle any amount of rain without worry of overflow onto your home and comes with a lifetime guarantee!

Where do I go from here?

Leaf guards can reduce the amount of maintenance and repairs that uncovered gutters require and are a great investment for any home. If you have any questions about leaf guards, how they work, or you would like an estimate, please feel free to contact us today for more information!

Home Gutters – When to Replace

Fri, 07 Mar 2014 16:32:00 GMT

When doing repairs on a home, most people don’t pay much attention to the gutters, but they should be an important aspect of anyone’s to-do list. Ignoring issues that your gutters present can be more costly than repairing or replacing them. Rain Control Gutters offers a seamless, maintenance-free alternative that will protect your home from the harsh Florida downpours.

What to Look For

Make sure that when buying a new home you check the gutters to make sure they are sound and do their job. If a home-owner did not maintain their gutters, there could be damage to the house due to neglect.

There are several things to look for when checking your gutters for problems that may need to be repaired or replaced. The most obvious is if your gutters seem to sag or are not flush against your roof. Sometimes, with age, gutters can separate from your house and look like they are turning down. This is a sign that the gutter was not secured correctly and could cause them to pull away from the roof and cause further damage to your home.

Another problem you should check for is rust in the joints and corners of your gutters. Rust or discoloration is often the result of leaks or cracks in the seams of the gutter and should be mended immediately to avoid them collapsing and causing water damage.

Our seamless gutters will solve all of these problems and have a cleaner look than our competitors. Sectional gutters require a lot of maintenance and up-keep to eliminate leaking, while seamless gutters ensures a leak-proof solution. The gutters are secured with hidden, rust-free fasteners making your home look more modern and will help avoid any problems with separation. Our downspouts are also seamless, preventing flooding around the foundation of your home and in your landscaping. This flooding could cause water damage, rot, and mold.

Replacing Your Gutters

Replacing the gutters on your house can be very rewarding in not just preventing future damage but in the appeal of your home itself. Seamless gutters are eye-catching and can make an older house look new. They will reduce regular maintenance and repairs that can be costly and time consuming.

Rain Control Gutters offers the best seamless gutter options available in the Central Florida area, and our experts can easily walk you through the process. If you have any questions about our products, want more information, or would like a free estimate please feel free to contact us today!

Tampa Home and Garden Show Coming Soon

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 19:21:00 GMT

This is a big event and we don’t want you to miss it, so we’re giving you the information early. On March 28 through March 30th you can visit the Tampa Home and Garden Show at the Tampa Convention Center.

There will be all sorts of vendors at the show, including landscapers, builders, and just about every sort of contractor you can imagine. If you’ve been thinking about making any sort of improvement to your home or landscape this year this is going to be the place to be.

There are also going to be a whole bunch of seminars. Several of them will be run by celebrity guests, too.

Here’s a video from the April 2013 show. The video is mostly contractors talking about the show, but you can sort of take a peek at what the show looks like as they talk.

We couldn’t find any information yet on ticket prices for the public. However, this may be because organizations, particularly news outlets, often sponsor attendance so that the price of admission is free to the public for the duration of each show. We’ll keep an eye out to see whether or not anybody is going to step forward and offer that sponsorship.

We suspect someone will, because with over 900 exhibitions it’s one of the biggest events of the year.

The Tampa Convention Center is located at 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. Mark your calendars and get ready to go and have a great time! Maybe we’ll see you there!

Visit the Florida Learning Garden

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 18:58:00 GMT

The Florida Learning Garden (located at the State Fair near Gate 3) caught our attention this week. A creation of “Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful,” the garden will give visitors a chance to get up-close and personal with many of the things we talk about on our blog: rain gardens, hydroponic gardening, rain barrels, and Florida-friendly native plants.

Since some of these gardening methods are a bit touchy (rain gardens in particular) it’s not a bad idea to learn everything that you can learn before you start excavating your own yard.

You can learn a little more about the garden by watching this video:

The garden may be located at the fair, but it’s going to outlast it. According to The Tampa Bay Times the Learning Garden recently received an $100,000 grant that’s going to allow it to construct seating areas so they can comfortably hold educational seminars.

They plan on having the seating complete by the end of October. The gardens will be open all year, however.

Not that the lack of seating is stopping them from offering quite a bit of education right now. They’ve got some kind of educational event going on every day that the state fair is in session, usually around 1:00 pm.

For example, on Saturday you can catch a Rain Barrel Painting class between 1:00 and 2:00 pm.

The learning garden is only a part of the very good work that “Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful” does. Be sure to like them on Facebook so that you can learn more about what they are doing throughout the year.

Have You Checked Out Sustainable Floridian Training?

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 17:37:00 GMT

Sustainable Floridians is a regular Pinellas County Extension class that teaches you just about everything you need to know about living a sustainable lifestyle. It is, of course, geared towards the special concerns that come along with trying to live a sustainable lifestyle in Florida.

And you can register for the next set of classes right now.

The course doesn’t start until April 9th, but it’s 8 weeks long and fairly popular. It’s a good idea to get in the door now, and of course to plan ahead so you can attend all of the sessions.

There’s a lot to cover. The classes teach you about energy conservation, local food, land and water use and conservation issues, and how you can be a community leader that helps to spread the word about living a more sustainable lifestyle.

This is not just pie in the sky training. As some of our previous blog posts have covered, Florida is in trouble. We’ve got serious water and land issues. If you’re worried about sinkholes and drought then this is a great place to start.

We’ve tried to cover some of these issues on our blog by talking about rain water conservation , micro-irrigation and rain gardens. It’s all just sort of a natural outgrowth of our work as gutter contractors: we think about water, where it goes, and what it’s doing every single day.

However, there’s just no substitute for hands on training and experience.

And by the time you’re done with this program you’ll be positioned to work with a lot more than your own back yard. This training actually prepares you to offer your own educational programs to the public, to research emerging policies and technologies and to participate in other outreach events.

Are you a graduate of a Sustainable Floridians class? Are you running any upcoming events that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments section below! We want to help you spread the word.

In the meantime, you can register for the next group of classes by clicking here . Tickets are $50 (which is a low price at $6.25 per week).

Pinellas County Extension Hosts Landscape for Life

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 18:07:00 GMT

Here on our blog I spend a lot of time talking about good landscaping and water practices. It’s just sort of a natural outflow (no pun intended) of our calling as gutter contractors. All of those issues are inter-related, and we can’t help but think about them.

Still, there’s nothing like attending a live seminar with real experts. That’s why we thought we’d give you the heads-up about the Pinellas County Extension “Landscape for Life” classes.

This is actually a series of 6 different classes that will be held starting February 4th. The final class will be on March 18th.

All of the classes take place at the Pinellas Extension at 12520 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

And you actually need school supplies! You need to bring graph paper, trace paper, colored pencils, and a ruler. I gather that you’re going to be creating your own landscape plan.

The class will teach you how to create a landscape that works with nature instead of against nature. And, of course, your awesome landscape will still look great, too.

It’s actually pretty amazing just how much damage we can restore just by tending to our own lawns and gardens. And, in contrast, how much damage we can cause by being careless or by failing to understand the impact that we can have.

You’ll be receiving instruction from Master Gardeners and Extension personnel, so you’re going to be in very good hands. It’s always cool to go to these things in person if you can since you get a chance to ask questions of people who are really good at what they do.

Tickets for the entire 6 week event cost $37.92. You can order them online .

Do You Have a Lawn Fungus?

Mon, 30 Dec 2013 18:24:00 GMT

A lawn fungus can be a difficult thing to deal with. It tends to stick around, even if you don’t actively see it working or attacking your lawn. This means that it can come back again and again. And it’s hard to diagnose, because the symptoms typically look similar to any other patch of dried out grass.

However, you can catch fungal symptoms. Mostly, you have to catch them at the right time of day, by looking at them in the early morning when the dew is out. You’ll see white, cottony patches or spots on your grass.

At this point your best bet is to gather up a sample and send it on to the local county extension. They’ll be able to correctly identify the disease so it can be treated properly. If you try to treat it and guess incorrectly you’ll simply wind up wasting an awful lot of time and money!

But dealing with a fungus is not just a matter of spraying your lawn down with the proper chemical and hoping for the best. It’s often a matter of adjusting your landscaping to account for the environment you have.

For example, sometimes it is a good idea to change the type of grass that you use. Other times, the issue may be how much or how little you mow. And at other times, irrigation might be the problem.

The University of Florida Extension offers a rather extensive discussion on what they call “cultural practices” at this website. They share a wealth of ideas for preventing fungal outbreaks on your lawn.

Your gutters and downspouts, of course, may also play a role in fungal management. If your downspouts are draining in problematic places, for example, then they may be harming your lawn. Often, you can manage this process with downspout extensions, or even with french drains.

Of course, if your gutters are dirty or in poor repair they’re going to spill water all over your lawn and foundation anyway, damaging it in uncontrollable ways. This is yet another reason why it’s so important to keep your gutters in the best possible shape!

If you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay Metro Area, call us. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate on cleaning, repairing, or replacing your gutters so that your lawn doesn’t have to suffer from a persistent fungal infection.

Homosassa Springs State Park Celebration of Lights

Mon, 23 Dec 2013 18:28:00 GMT

With Christmas fast approaching you might not be in the mood to get out and about. However, if you are , and you’re looking for, say, some nice family fun to offer to out-of-town-relatives, then the Celebration of Lights festival at the Homosassa Springs State Park might just fit the bill.

The celebration will run for three more nights–tonight, Christmas Eve, and December 26th. Every celebration night has something different.

Tonight it’s Nashville’s Brittany Bolger for “A Country Christmas.” On Christmas Eve the Nature Coast Community Church hosts “Candlelight Christmas.” And on the 26th there will be an after-Christmas party.

The park does suggest a donation of $3 for adults and $1 for children ages six through twelve.

You can view the entire flier here .

The park has plenty to offer any other week of the year as well. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out: there’s a 45 foot deep natural spring there, and the park spans 210 acres. Florida wildlife is plentiful within the park. There are even manatees, which might be an awesome sight for your out-of-town guests.

There’s also a hippo. A movie star hippo. He’s not native to Florida, of course, but Florida adopted him anyway.

The park admission itself is $9 per adult. However, trams are running to the Christmas celebration since the pricing is different.

The park is located at 4150 S. Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, Florida, 34446. You can call 352-628-5343 to get information about anything going on at the park, or you can simply visit their website .

In the meantime, everyone here at Rain Control Gutters wishes you and your family Happy Holidays!

Should Tampa Pump Water from Sinkholes?

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 18:09:00 GMT

It’s a valid question and a valid concern. The Water Department seems to feel that the impact will be minimal and that homeowners won’t have anything to worry about.

It’s no secret that Florida has serious water challenges. That’s one reason why we’ve focused so much on water use issues and rainwater reclamation use issues here on our blog.

And we don’t pretend to be engineers.

However, we can’t help but worry right along with the residents that they might see more sinkholes under their homes after the Tampa Water Department makes this move. It seems ripe for unintended consequences.

What are your thoughts on this project? Share them in the comments below. After doing so much coverage on sinkholes, too, we’re quite interested!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Brandon, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us for a free estimate on your gutters today!

Other Places You Might Need Gutters

Mon, 16 Dec 2013 18:31:00 GMT

Remember that gutters are a vital part of keeping water away from your foundations. They protect siding and windows as well. If you have any outbuildings those buildings will also need well-maintained gutters to defend them against the rain.

One of the most common buildings that we see people overlooking are detached garages. A detached garage absolutely needs the same gutter protection for a home.

Another time that we see gutters overlooked is when people add new buildings, such as an outdoor office. For the most part, those buildings, too, will need the additional protection of gutters.

Those gutters will need to be treated just like the main home’s gutters are: cleaned twice a year and repaired as soon as there’s a problem. Otherwise you could be looking of thousands of dollars in repairs.

You might be tempted to save a couple of dollars on your outbuilding gutters by trying to install them yourself. Don’t do it! Without a professional’s help you could set up a total gutter system that diverts water back towards foundations. You can also cause some considerable damage to your landscape.

If you’re starting a new project that you think might need gutters and you live in Homosassa, Beverley Hills, Ocala or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay area, call us. We’ll help you determine whether or not your new outbuilding actually requires gutters, and we’ll help you create a system that works with your existing home gutter system instead of against it.

Problems With Green Roofs

Mon, 09 Dec 2013 18:30:00 GMT

This prompted me to do a little bit more research into them. And it turns out there are a lot of problems with them that you might want to be aware of.

A Poorly Designed Green Roof Can Cause Damage

If you’re going to take the plunge and get a green roof then you will need to hire a professional green roof engineer. Some people have just gotten up there with plants, water, and soil and have tried to do it themselves.

These people pay the price. Your roof isn’t necessarily designed to bear the heavy load of a living roof. You could get a roof collapse if you try to DIY this project.

If you don’t get a collapse you could still get leaks, as well as water damage to other areas of your home.

Pesticide Run-Off

Unless your new “green roof” is 100% organic you’ll probably be spraying it with pesticides and herbicides. The runoff of those products isn’t any more environmentally friendly than normal roof run-off is.

They Attract Wildlife

You’re basically putting an animal’s habitat on your roof. Some of them are bound to get inside, and that means you could be facing a serious pest problem. In Florida, that’s a real issue.

Your Roof May Have Too Much Pitch

A green roof does best when there is little or no pitch. Most houses have a roof with too much pitch to accommodate this type of roof.

No, They Will Not Replace Your Gutters

A lot of green roof contractors try to sell this type of roof on the idea that you won’t have to worry about gutters anymore.

In a place like Arizona, that might be true. However, in the Tampa Bay area those plants are never going to absorb so much rain water that you won’t need gutters to divert and deflect some of it as normal. If you’re considering this in the hopes of avoiding the bi-annual gutter cleaning then you might want to reconsider.

There are Better Options

“White” roofs help to reduce urban heat spots without all of the risks. Environmentalists have also forwarded the concept of a “blue” roof.

A blue roof reduces stormwater runoff by focusing on rainwater collection. This is not so much a change in your roof type as it is a commitment to rainwater catchment , which we’ve been talking about on this blog on a regular basis.

I’m all for sustainability, but not at the expense of safe, livable housing. I think there are better places for your garden than your roof, and I think that there are better cool roof designs.

But I have to admit, I’m disappointed. Green roofs are really, really pretty.

Florida Friendly Fertilization Seminar

Mon, 02 Dec 2013 18:26:00 GMT

You’ll be able to take advantage of a free seminar on Florida-friendly fertilization practices that protect Florida’s water supply. There will be some special focus on Weeki Wachee Springs, but the principles could apply to any of Florida’s springs.

If you need more information you can call (352) 540-6230.

If you can’t make the seminar here are a few fertilization tips from The Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Here’s another tip: know your numbers. Every sack of fertilizer that you buy will be labeled with 3 numbers representing the ratios of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium.

According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District:

As you can see, you don’t really need to make a lot of sacrifices to practice Florida-friendly fertilizing. You just have to be conscious of best practices!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Ocala, New Port Richey, Land O’ Lakes and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Contact us for a free estimate on gutter repair, gutter guards, or brand new seamless aluminum rain gutters.

Hillsborough County Extension Offers Landscaping Class

Thu, 28 Nov 2013 18:49:00 GMT

Have you struggled to put together a great landscape in the past? Do you find that your plants die before you get the lush, green, beautiful landscapes that you dream of?

Is all of our blog’s talk about Florida-friendly landscaping, native landscape, and advanced techniques like rain gardens frustrating because you’re having trouble keeping a basic garden alive?

Then the Hillsborough County “Landscape Pitfalls” seminar might have some answers for you. This seminar is designed to cover some of the “common gardening mistakes many homeowners make, and strategies for correcting those problems.”

The class will be held at the Bloomingdale Regional Library on December 4th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The address is 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, FL, 33596.

Like most of the county extension seminars, this one is free.

Hillsborough County Extension is also offering a canning class on Wednesday, December 4th. This one will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. They’ll take you through two types of canning processes while telling you what kind of equipment to buy.

They’ll also make the new USDA Guide to Home Canning available for sale. So if you’ve got your landscape covered but want to enjoy more of the fruits of your garden, this could be the class for you!

The location is .5 miles south of Exit 10 from 1-4, east of Tampa. You can contact the University of Florida Hillsborough County extension if you have additional questions.

Each of the county extension offices in our service area do such a great job of providing excellent educational services! It’s always exciting to see what’s going to be offered next.

White Christmas in Florida?

Wed, 27 Nov 2013 18:45:00 GMT

Is it possible that we’ll see snow in Florida this year?

Instead, it’s a free holiday event sponsored by Clearwater’s Cleveland Street District.

There will be all sorts of great things to do. Families can enjoy the snow slide, train rides, inflatable attractions, and outdoor skating rink.

There will be the chance to enjoy holiday crafts. And they’ll be lighting up the new Capitol Theatre sign.

They’re even playing Santa. The first 250 kids ages 12 and under will be gifted with Winter Theme plush toys.

This is an event that you might not want to miss. It’s all happening at 5:30 pm on the 400 block of Cleveland Street.

If the Hernando County Fairgrounds are closer for you then you might head out that way at 6:00 PM (6426 Broad St., Brooksville) on Friday or Saturday evenings starting November 29th and continuing through December 21st. The event, called Candy Cane Acres, will be taking place at the fairgrounds.

This one does carry a modest price of $10 per car load. But there will be plenty to do, including Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, a parade of trees, a kid’s play area, sleigh rides, and plenty of food. Santa’s workshop will also be available.

Don’t fret if you miss both of those, however. Tampa’s Downtown on Ice is already open. You’ll be able to lace on your skates and enjoy outdoor skating fun from now until January 3rd, every day starting at 4:00 pm.

These things are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t miss out on all the great December fun going on throughout the Tampa bay area!

What is an Aquaponics Garden?

Mon, 25 Nov 2013 18:48:00 GMT

An aquaponics garden is another “water-wise” gardening set up. This literally combines “hydroponics” with an “aquarium” set-up to create a food producing unit that gives you both vegetables and fish.

For example, you can stock your aquarium with tilapia and then grow lettuce, cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes. You’ve virtually grown several fresh meals for yourself!

Usually the plants are kept in a trough of some kind. They’re placed in soil cubes that might contain some additional fertilizer. They’re then placed in the trough and held in place with a foil covering.

You can also use hydroponic stones instead of soil cubes, the same way you’d do in any hydroponic system.

The foil covering also serves to help you keep algae out of the water.

The water then flows through the trough and back into the aquarium where the fish live. You also need a pump to keep the water moving and clean.

The nutrients from the fish waste will feed the plants to keep them healthier and stronger. You’ll have to keep feeding the fish yourself.

The video set-up is more suited towards housing smaller fish. You’d need a much bigger pond to grow a food fish like tilapia.

Be sure to check with your local county extension before setting up your own system. Some systems and some types of fish require special permits before you can buy them or grow them.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey, Homosassa and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. If you need your gutters cleaned, repaired, or replaced, contact us for a free estimate today!

Pasco County Amaryllis Seminar

Thu, 21 Nov 2013 18:35:00 GMT

The seminar will cover everything you need to know about making amaryllis landscape beds. They’ll also teach you how to extend bloom periods.

You can pre-register for the seminar online. The seminar is free! It will take place at the Pasco County Extension Office in Clayton Hall at 36702 State Road 52, Dade City. You can call 52-518-0156; 813-996-2411 or 727-847-2411 to ask any questions that you might have about this or any other county extension class.

While you’re growing your amaryllis you might consider starting a rainwater harvestin g plan. It’s relatively easy to turn your gutters into a basic rainwater collection system.

Doing so eases the burden on Florida’s water supplies. It also allows you to cut your water bill and fight pollution.

Of course, to do so you will need to have good, clean gutters that are in good repair. If you’re in the Pasco County area or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay area, call us. We’ll be happy to help you clean your gutters, repair them, or replace them with good seamless aluminum rain gutters. We’ll also be happy to offer you leaf guards so you don’t have to clean your gutters as often.

Tampa Times Investigates Failing Florida Springs

Mon, 18 Nov 2013 18:18:00 GMT

But we really started sitting up and taking notice when we started talking about rain water harvesting , rain gardens, and sinkholes.

So when The Tampa Bay Times started talking about our disappearing Florida springs, we took notice.

It’s worth reading the whole story , but here are some of the highlights.

The report also mentioned that saltwater is encroaching into Florida’s aquifiers, directly impacting the water that we use and drink every single day.

This is why it’s so important to monitor your own water footprint, and why we encourage residents in our service area to “use their gutters for good” so to speak.

Tampa Sees More Rain than Usual This Year

Thu, 14 Nov 2013 18:40:00 GMT

The rain is good news for Florida’s water system.

Gutters do not necessarily stay 100% clean during a drought, so don’t neglect yours if we have one. Dirt, roof debris, and animal waste can accumulate in gutters when there’s no rain to wash them back out again. And the lack of rain can encourage animals to nest in what they perceive to be a great little space, too.

The dry season is a good time to implement your rainwater catchment system or rain garden, too. The effects of stormwater runoff are even worse when those May showers start hitting dry ground. If you’re not careful the water will also pool around your driveway, patio, walkways, or garage foundations, simply because it has nowhere else to go.

Whether the season is wet or dry you should call us if your gutters need attention. We serve the entire Tampa Bay Area, from St. Petersburg all the way to Ocala. Call us today for a free estimate.

Micro-Irrigation Class in St. Petersburg

Mon, 11 Nov 2013 18:24:00 GMT

The entire series is held every Thursday night at 6:00 p.m. at the City of St. Petersburg Water Resources department at 1650 Third Avenue North. All of these classes are absolutely free, though seating is limited. If you want to go, you’ll need to register online .

Micro-irrigation is a subject we’ve discussed on our blog before. These irrigation systems are one of the best ways to lower your water bill, especially if you have a vast landscape that needs a lot of care.

As gutter contractors we spend a lot of time around water and water issues, so it’s only natural for these sorts of things to catch our attention! We also care about preserving Florida’s natural resources so we always enjoy showcasing these classes from the local county extension.

If you’re interested in this kind of information you should definitely like the Extension on Facebook, too. This will help you keep track of all of the awesome classes and events that they have to offer. They also offer some outstanding information and photographs of Florida-friendly plants and shrubs that you can add to your landscaping.

This post on the Beautyberry was one of their most recent. It’s a native plant with brilliant pink berries that grows well all year. It’s drought-tolerant, so it would certainly work well with your new micro-irrigation system, should you choose to use one!

How to Grow Citrus Trees

Thu, 07 Nov 2013 18:54:00 GMT

Growing citrus trees is also not as difficult as you might think, especially if you’re not trying to start them from seeds. A strong nursery tree that’s been grown in a container up until now is likely to thrive in your back yard.

Choose a Sunny Spot

Citrus trees really prefer to be in full sunlight. They also need a lot of space–up to 15 feet away from trees or other buildings.

Though little miniature container trees are cute, a truly fruitful citrus tree can get pretty big, so you want to give it as much space to thrive as you possibly can.

Give it Lots of Water

New trees will be very thirsty! The University of Florida Extension suggests a very rigorous watering process for young trees.

Weed it Well

Don’t let your new citrus tree compete for resources. Give it lots of love by weeding it diligently.

Spreading a layer of mulch around your citrus tree can also help discourage weeds.

Prune It

You should remove shoots from the base of the tree to encourage the tree to produce fruit. After all, fruit is the whole point of the exercise!

This is often the scariest part of the exercise for new citrus growers. Fortunately, the Pinellas County Extension is hosting several free citrus growing classes throughout the year. You can register online . They happen on multiple dates. They’re the perfect events for asking about how to prune your citrus tree, or for addressing any other concerns you might have.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Beverly Hills, Wesley Chapel, Largo and the rest of the Tampa metro area. Call us today for a free estimate.

What are the Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles?

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 18:12:00 GMT

If you’re thinking about replacing your roof you have a lot of options to choose from. Here in stormy Florida, one option you should consider is using impact resistant shingles for your new roof.

Impact resistant shingles are specially designed to resist hail and other weather hazards. This means you reduce your chances of major roof damage.

There are some other benefits as well. For example, you can get major discounts on your homeowner’s insurance by installing this type of shingle.

Because impact-resistant shingles resist the amount of storm damage that your roof receives, homeowner’s insurance companies are usually willing to offer pretty significant discount. As of this writing the average ranges from 5% to 30%, depending upon the company that you’re dealing with.

When you buy impact resistant shingles you do have some options. There are four classes, from least resistant to most resistant.

If you want the most protection you’ll get the Class IV shingles, because those are the ones that truly work against hail. The Class IV shingles also entitle you to the biggest discounts.

If you’re going to get the best types of shingles that a roof has to offer you should get the best gutters, too. Seamless aluminum gutters are virtually leak free and last as long as a good roof does! If you live in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, contact us today for a free estimate on your new gutters.

Pasco County Extension Garden Events

Thu, 31 Oct 2013 18:10:00 GMT

Pasco County extension is hosting four awesome garden events during the month of November. We thought we’d share them with you!

The first event is a Community Garden workshop. Community gardens are a great addition to any neighborhood. If you’ve ever wanted to start one, this is the workshop for you. It takes place on Saturday, November 2nd from 9:00 until noon, and will be held at 36702 State Road 52 in Dade City from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. You can register for free online.

If community gardens aren’t your thing then you might want to check out a Garden Pond workshop instead. This seminar also takes place on November 2nd. You’ll learn how to build the pond, the materials that you will need, and how to maintain your new pond. This also will take place at 36702 State Road 52 in Dade City, in Clayton Hall, from 9 am till 11 pm. Click here to register.

On the 5th there’s a slightly more exotic seminar. This one teaches you how to incorporate fast-growing, colored bamboo into your landscape. This free, short seminar takes place from 6:30 pm until 7:30 pm. This one will take place at Hudson Library at 8012 Library Road in Hudson. Register here .

Finally, if you’ve ever been interested in starting a container garden then you’ll want to attend the fourth seminar. Pasco County Extension is going to teach you everything you need to know about making your container garden a success, even during the winter months. This one happens at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd (US 41) in Land O’ Lakes from 9:00 to 10:30 am on November 9th. Click here to register.

It’s always awesome to see what our local county extensions come up with. If you’ve never tried one of their seminars, you should!

Rain Garden Maintenance in Autumn

Mon, 28 Oct 2013 18:59:00 GMT

But they can benefit from some basic winterizing, even here in Florida where it doesn’t get terribly cold. If nothing else, you want your rain garden ready to handle increased rainfall during the cooler months.

First, you need to do a bit of weeding. If you let your rain garden go to the weeds now you might well find the beneficial native plants that your garden relies on becoming choked and crowded by the unwanted vegetation come spring.

Next, you’ll want to check the plants themselves. If there is any kind of dead growth, you’ll want to cut that growth away to keep your plants healthy and strong.

Next, it’s time to replenish your rain garden’s supply of mulch, both to discourage additional weeds and to keep the roots of your plants healthy and strong. Mulch helps the roots remain at a consistent temperature, which means that they’re going to be more resistant to the weather throughout the colder months.

Finally, take a moment to take stock of your rain garden. How did it do? Did some plants fare better than others this year? You might want to make some adjustments as you plan for next year so that you can create a rain garden that’s even healthier and more beautiful next year!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Land O’ Lakes , Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay Metro Area. Contact us today if you’d like a free estimate on sturdy, leak free gutters that protect your home from the consequences of heavy rainfall.

Pinellas County Extension Presents Seminar

Mon, 21 Oct 2013 18:13:00 GMT

Are you interested in learning more about marine science? On November 7th you’ll have a great chance to do just that. Pinellas County Extension is hosting a seminar called, “Sea Level Rise: What We Know, What We Don’t Know, and What We Need to Know.”

The free event features a presentation by Dr. Don P. Chambers, Associate Professor at the College of Marine Science, University of South Florida. Dr. Chambers is an internationally recognized expert in his field.

Pinellas County Extension describes the event this way:

The event starts at 6:30 PM. Light refreshments will be served. It will be held at the Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center at 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, 33702.

You will need to register online if you’d like to go to this event. There are sure to be some fascinating discussions, so if you’re interested you won’t want to miss it!

How to Repair Your Driveway

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 18:56:00 GMT

If that’s the case, you might have a driveway full of cracks and splits as a result of improperly diverted water. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to fix your own driveway if you’ve got the time and inclination to do so.

here’s what you’ll need.

Step 1: Clean Out the Cracks

There is often a lot of dirt in debris in driveway cracks. There may also be weeds.

So before you try to repair them you’ll want to remove as much of this mess as possible. A 5-in-1 tool is very helpful for digging these things out of tough cracks.

Clean Your Driveway

It’s important to get rid of as much dirt as possible before you try to repair the driveway simply because dirt can interfere with the compound’s ability to bond with your concrete. So sweep it down, then hose it off.

Let your driveway dry, then move on to the next step.

Step 3: Mix Top n’ Bond and Apply

Sakrete Top n’ Bond is by no means the only product out there, or even the only method for fixing a concrete driveway. However, it’s a solution that’s more or less headache-free.

Pull on some gloves. Mix the Top n’ Bond with water (water first, then powder). Then trowel the compound over the cracks. Use your paintbrush to smooth out your application, and let it dry.

If you have much larger cracks you can start by sort of souping the mixture in, just like the man in the video below does as he repairs a sidewalk.

That’s it! You’re done! Of course, if you haven’t done anything about those troublesome gutters yet then it’s also time to call a gutter repair professional who can help you make sure your driveway won’t be in danger of major water damage in the future. Gutters protect the major areas of your home from water damage, and some of those (like the foundation) don’t have a quick and easy fix.

We’ve installed seamless aluminum rain gutters in Clearwater, Land O’Lakes and St. Petersburg for over 37 years. Call us today for a free estimate on your new gutters, and protect your home today!

An “Off-the-Charts” Hurricane Could Be In Our Future

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 18:30:00 GMT

Maybe not even next year.

But scientists are predicting what could be an “off-the-charts” hurricane in the future.

Will we need a new, Category 6 designation for these types of storms? Mashable reports:

Here in Florida, hurricanes can seem almost commonplace. There’s a temptation to take them lightly.

But it’s worth remembering that they are deadly, unpredictable forces of nature that should command a certain amount of respect.

Make sure you stay on top of your hurricane preparations, even during this year’s seemingly mellow hurricane season. Remember that the season now lasts 20 days into December–and that it will start 20 days earlier, at least, next year.

Keep a full tank of gas in your car, and be prepared to evacuate. Don’t take any storm lightly. The seasons are getting more unpredictable than ever, and you don’t want to be caught off-guard.

When storm season hits there’s no better protection for your home than seamless aluminum rain gutters. We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Largo, Brandon, Ocala and the rest of the Tampa Bay Metro area. Contact us today for a free estimate.

How to Spot a Contractor Scam

Mon, 14 Oct 2013 18:41:00 GMT

After all, they give us legitimate contractors a bad name.

Most of these scams actually revolve around roof repair. I think this is because homeowners rarely want to get up on the roof to see for themselves whether or not there’s a problem, especially if they’re elderly.

I also think that there’s a lot of fear in general about roof damage. After all, if the roof goes the whole house will be in trouble soon after.

But in truth, any kind of home repair can become the focus of a home improvement scam.

How do the Scams Work?

Usually it starts with a knock on the door. The “contractor” may helpfully tell you that he’s noticed some damage, and he may try to talk you into an inspection.

In some versions of the scam, the contractor then tries to charge you an inspection fee, or tries to pressure you into hiring them because they performed an inspection. They may try to convince you that your insurance will pay for it.

In some cases, the scammer will actually cause damage to your home in an effort to ensure that you hire him, or keep hiring him. This happened to a lady here in Florida recently . The lady in the story lost nearly $13000 to a scammer who was actively causing problems in her home so that there would always be something for him to come back and “fix.”

How Do You Spot Scammers?

First, be wary of anyone who knocks on your door. Legitimate contractors don’t usually use door-to-door sales. We’re certainly not driving around peering at people’s homes trying to spot problems.

We’re too busy doing work! We usually get that work when a homeowner calls us , or when we get a referral.

Legitimate contractors also have references and license numbers. Ask for them and verify them!

Check the contractor’s website, too. Do they even have one? Does it inspire you to trust their business? What do their former customers have to say?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and if anything doesn’t seem right, walk away. If you really think you need that work done, consider calling someone who didn’t try to solicit the work from you.

Your home is your greatest asset, so don’t take any chances with it!

We’ve installed seamless aluminum rain gutters for homeowners in Beverley Hills, Wesley Chapel, and Largo for over 37 years. Contact us for a free estimate on your new gutters today.

New Port Richey Public Library Hosts Seed Exchange

Thu, 10 Oct 2013 18:38:00 GMT

You knew you could borrow books at the library. But did you know that you can also find seeds at the New Port Richey library?

You can check them out. Take them with you. And use them to make your garden grow.

The seeds are each stored in a drawer. Each seed is pure and chemical-free.

So how does the library expect to keep offering seeds if everyone shows up and takes them? Well, once you’ve planted a seed and once you’ve harvested a plant, the hope is that you’ll bring some of those seeds back to share.

The seeds are arranged alphabetically, and are further arranged by how difficult they are to grow. If you’re new to gardening, just choose “easy” seeds. If you want a bit more of a challenge, pull something from the “advanced” drawer.

The seed exchange is part of a larger program, one that encourages residents to plant gardens on vacant lots that they own throughout the city. This kind of gardening increases the food security of each resident here while helping to produce more sustainable food.

What makes locally grown food so sustainable? Well, for one thing, it won’t have to travel is far to get “from farm to table.”

By contrast, the average piece of produce will travel 3000 miles from its point of origin before reaching your local grocery store.

You can watch a short video about the seed exchange here:

You don’t need to be a resident of New Port Richey to get a library card, but you will have to get a library card to check out those seeds. As the video mentions, you don’t rack up any fines if you don’t share any seeds yourself–though, of course, this would be a nice thing to do.

There are 168 seed varieties to choose from right now, so there’s a good chance that it will be easy to find something you want to grow. Check out the seed exchange today!

What is Florida Friendly Landscaping?

Mon, 07 Oct 2013 18:52:00 GMT

Why Does Florida-friendly Landscaping Matter?

Using Florida-friendly landscaping helps to reduce pollution.l It also helps to reduce water waste. A Florida-friendly landscape also helps you save money by reducing a need for pesticides and commercial fertilizers.

What you do in your yard has a big impact on water-use issues, which in turn has a big impact on many of the issues Florida faces, such as sinkholes .

From UF/IAS:

How Do I Build a Florida-friendly Landscape?

There are many methods. We’ve already talked about some of them on the site: using native plants, for example, to reduce the amount of watering that you need to do.

UF/IAS suggests adhering to nine principles in your quest to create a Florida-friendly landscape. They are:

You can get more information about how to adhere to each of these principles in this document .

Remember, UF/IAS also runs a lot of Florida-friendly landscaping classes. Take advantage of some of them if you’d like to help our state preserve its natural resources!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Ocala, Land o’ Lakes, Beverley Hills and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us today for a free estimate.

The Rainwater Terrace

Thu, 03 Oct 2013 18:58:00 GMT

Design 4 Plastics has designed a new rainwater collection system that really intrigued me. While it’s not out on the market yet, I think it’s worth signing up to be notified when you can purchase them online.

This is a British product, so you’ll probably need to factor the international shipping into your budget. We can hope it becomes available in the states, however, simply because the product is rather ingenious.

Here is a copy of the video that Design 4 Plastics has put out about the Rainwater Terrace.

As you can see, the Rainwater Terrace is completely modular. You can stack multiples together if you want to, creating an entire garden wall display.

Note the overflow that sends water back down the drain if the barrel gets too full. This is a nice feature, as it means you don’t have to disconnect your rainwater collection system just to go on vacation, and there’s no danger that the system will send any water to your foundations.

The ability to plant herbs and flowers that will turn your rain barrel into a nice garden feature also struck me as a really ingenious solution as well. You won’t even have to move some of your garden water to some of your plants.

The system also seems to keep the water flowing pretty nicely, which means there’s less of a chance for it to develop algae or to house mosquitoes.

I’m looking forward to seeing this product in action, and in seeing how well it actually interacts with gutters of all types.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in New Port Richey, Beverley Hills, Homosassa and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us today for a free estimate.

5 More Ways to Conserve Water

Mon, 30 Sep 2013 18:24:00 GMT

#1. Water Plants with Cold Shower Water

First, the Eco-Plumbers tip that inspired the post:

Just keep a small bucket in your bathroom and give this tip a try.

#2. Pay Attention to Laundry Loads

Laundry can use up a great deal of water. Make sure you run a full load every time. Or, if you have a washer with adjustable water levels, make sure that you adjust the levels of your water to the levels of your laundry each and every time.

#3. Reuse Fish Tank Water

Don’t just dump the water the next time you clean out your aquarium. That water is now chock-full of nutrients! Instead, use it freely to water any plant you don’t intend to eat.

#4. Don’t Wash Dishes Before You Wash Dishes

Do you rinse dishes before you put them in the dishwasher? You don’t really have to do that job twice. Just scrape off the food and let the machine do its job. And, of course, you should always make sure that your dishwasher is completely full before you run a load.

#5. Learn 100 More Ways to Conserve Water

There are many, many other ways to conserve water, both to lower your water footprint and your water bill. Check out this website to get more ideas.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Brandon, Wesley Chapel, Land o’ Lakes and the rest of the Tampa metro area. Contact us for a free estimate on new gutters today!

Florida Gets More Sinkholes

Thu, 26 Sep 2013 18:39:00 GMT

A sinkhole nearly swallowed a woman’s smart car while she was in the middle of driving it. She thought that she was merely driving over an area of street that was moderately flooded by a broken water main. That “mild flood” turned out to be hiding a sinkhole.

Another sinkhole drove five families out of an apartment complex early this month. And some people who have Florida timeshares have been fighting insurance companies in the hopes of getting their sinkhole losses covered.

Sinkholes even went to Disney World this August.

There are several more sinkhole stories from around the state. And the sinkhole repair industry is experiencing a big boom.

While you can’t control sinkholes you can take precautions against them. Review the signs of sinkholes and make sure that you get your home checked out if you see any of them. Check your insurance policies to make sure that you have sinkhole insurance coverage.

Be sure to avoid streets that look like they might have a broken water main on them. That water could be hiding a sinkhole.

You can help with Florida’s sinkhole problems by paying more attention to water use issues. Empty aquifiers are one of the reasons why sinkholes appear.

Experts won’t confirm that there are any more sinkholes than usual, but it can’t hurt to be mindful of our own potential impact on the problem, either. In the meantime, stay safe.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in St. Petersburg , Largo, Clearwater and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us for a free estimate on gutter installation, replacement, or repair.

Our Surprising 2013 Hurricane Season

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 18:17:00 GMT

So should you quit worrying? Toss out all of your preparations and figure on getting a break this year?

Not so fast! A CNN report warns that there could still be more to come. Many hurricane seasons get truly serious in September, or even October. The season’s not officially over until November.

And it’s not even unheard of for storms to come late, striking coasts in December, just as everyone starts breathing a sigh of relief.

It’s hard to understand why weather doesn’t necessarily act as predicted or planned. The CNN article certainly lists a lot of different theories.

But we know that central Florida is always going to be a hurricane-prone area. It’s best to just stay prepared.

So check your emergency plan. Make sure that your gutters are clean and are prepared to handle as much water as they might have to. It’s not over until it’s over, and while nobody wants to see a hurricane it would nevertheless be a mistake to assume that the worst is behind us.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters and gutter guards in Ocala, Homosassa, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. We also clean and repair gutters. Call us for a free quote if your gutters aren’t ready to face down a hurricane. Protect your home today!

Learn About Your Water Footprint

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 18:57:00 GMT

That’s why we were very interested to learn about Waterfootprint.org .

Waterfootprint.org is designed to help people understand their own water footprints. This is similar to your carbon footprint. It measures your consumption of this precious resource.

Many of the posts that we have offered on this blog can help you reduce your water footprint. For example:

We will continue to offer suggestions for lowering your water footprint here on our blog. If nothing else, lowering your water footprint saves money!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Wesley Chapel, Brandon, Largo and the rest of the Tampa Bay Metro Area. Contact us today for a free estimate on gutter cleaning, repair, or replacement.

Check Your Home After Hail Storms

Mon, 16 Sep 2013 18:39:00 GMT

Hail can do a real number on your gutters, downspouts, siding, and roof.

That’s why it’s very important to check your roof and your gutters after a hail storm.

Here are some of the things you’ll be looking for:

Even seamless aluminum gutters can become damaged after a hailstorm.

For the most part, insurance companies do cover hail damage. Take plenty of pictures of both the damage and the hail itself, if you get the chance to. First, call a licensed gutter contractor to give you an estimate on repairing the damage. Then call your insurance company as soon as you can.

You want the estimate first, because otherwise you won’t know whether the insurance company’s offered claim is a fair deal or not.

Don’t assume that there is no damage just because the hailstones seemed small! Even very small hailstones can create very big problems.

Finally, be sure to check both your roof and your gutters. Sometimes damage will show up to one but not to the other.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Ocala, New Port Richey , and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us for a free estimate on gutter cleaning, gutter repair, or gutter replacement, especially after any kind of major storm.

How Long Should Aluminum Gutters Last?

Thu, 12 Sep 2013 18:33:00 GMT

If installed properly and cleaned regularly most aluminum gutters can last 20 or 30 years, just about as long as a good roof. Compare that to vinyl gutters, which may begin to twist, leak, or pull away from the roof of your home within 1-2 years of installation. Sometimes, vinyl gutters don’t even make it that long.

Do You Need to Replace Your Gutters Right Now?

Gutters aren’t “fun,” so it’s natural that you might want to put off a replacement as long as possible. However, there are a few common signs which indicate that this task can’t wait any longer.

Look for:

You should inspect your gutters periodically, especially if you don’t already have aluminum gutters. Steel gutters rust, and vinyl gutters get torn up very quickly.

Some of these problems can simply be repaired, of course. But in many cases it is better to just replace the whole system rather than risk damage to the foundation, windows, doors, or other vital areas of your home.

Bottom line? Gutters are an investment that protects your entire home.

If you’d like long-lasting seamless aluminum gutters for your home and you live in Brandon, Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay Area, call us. We offer 35 years of experience and free estimates.

How to Hurricane Proof Garage Doors

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 18:15:00 GMT

At best, the doors buckle. At worst, they let those hurricane-force winds right into your garage. This can lead to the destruction of your roof. Indeed, a great deal of the damage that your home might sustain will usually come from a weak garage door.

Here are 3 ways that you can solve this problem.

Braces

Garage door braces are probably the least expensive option. Each brace only costs around $160, but you’ll only get minimal protection.

You need one brace per number of cars that your garage is capable of holding. In other words, if you have a two-car garage, you need two braces. If you have a three-car garage, you’ll need 3.

Hurricane Panels

Hurricane panels are another option for protecting your garage. These panels are attached to the garage door itself. They come in either metal or aluminum.

The panels can range from $300 to $700, depending on the materials you use and the size of your garage. You may also need a building permit in order to use them.

Impact-Resistant Doors

Though buying a special garage door is the most expensive option that you can pursue, it is also the option that offers you and your home the most protection. These doors can take some of the toughest winds that a hurricane can dish out.

Expect to pay $1200 to $2000 for an impact-resistant garage door. It will be worth it, however, when the hurricanes come.

Save Your Receipts!

Any improvement that you choose could entitle you to a homeowner’s insurance discount. You might even want to talk to an agent before you choose any of the options. Your agent will be able to tell you how much money you can expect to recoup in discounts for any given option, which will help you make the right decision for your home.

Hurricane-proof garage doors protect your home from damage. So do gutters! We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in St. Petersburg, Largo, and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us today for a free estimate on your new gutters.

5 Mosquito Repellent Plants

Wed, 04 Sep 2013 18:57:00 GMT

Plan enough of these for your garden and you might just avoid mosquito problems altogether. They might just choose some other yard, one with friendlier environs.

1. Citronella

You’ve heard of citronella candles, but what about citronella grass? The grass has a smell that’s stronger than the candles and torches do, and is thus quite effective at getting rid of mosquitoes.

Citronella grass is also a pretty perennial plant. It grows in clumps of 5 to 6 inches and is easy to care for.

2. Catnip

Sure, you might entice a neighborhood stray to come and play in your yard. But Science Daily says that catnip is more effective than DEET , which is the active ingredient in OFF! and many other commercial insect repellents.

3. Marigold

Marigold is a powerful deterrent to all kinds of insects and mosquitoes. They work well in containers which means you can place them in trouble spots throughout your yard.

4. Lavender

Lavender’s scent is lovely to human noses, but mosquitoes hate it. It offers a gorgeous burst of color to just about any yard, too.

5. Peppermint

If you love the thought of having fresh mint for your tea then you now have an added excuse to add a bed of mint to your yard. The plant is offensive to mosquitoes! You can also crush up the leaves and rub it on your skin to create a natural, personal repellent that actually smells good to your own nostrils, too.

Mosquitoes are a fact of life in Florida, but they don’t have to ruin your enjoyment of your yard.

We install seamless aluminum gutters in Largo, Clearwater, Brandon and the rest of the Tampa metro area. Contact us today for a free estimate on your gutters.

Create Your Own Miniature Park in Clearwater

Mon, 02 Sep 2013 18:09:00 GMT

Clearwater is offering a unique opportunity: the ability to turn a downtown parking space into a miniature park. Clearwater considers this to be a kind of “Love Note” from the city to its residents.

It’s called the “Reclaim Your Space” event. The event itself takes place on November 7th, but there are quite a few deadlines and events between now and then that you should be aware of.

First, Clearwater is giving you a chance to see an example mini-garden at the Clearwater Farmer’s Market on September 4th between 9 AM and 2 PM.

If you get inspired you will need to apply to create a mini-garden of your own on September 27th. If you’ve been selected to participate you’ll know by October 18th. According to the website , “All mini-parks must be designed to promote love of Clearwater, recreation, green living, alternative transportation, or some combination there-of,” so you’ll want to think along those lines when you put your application in.

Though similar events have been held in other cities this is Clearwater’s first time. Getting in on the very first Clearwater Reclaim Your Space event should be a blast!

You’ll get assigned a metered parking space along the Cleveland Street District in downtown Clearwater. Then you’ll be able to create an awesome mini-park and hang out in it as long as you want.

Still confused? Here’s a video of a similar event that took place in Tampa.

We’re looking forward to seeing all of the cool reclaimed parking spaces in Clearwater in November! What kind of mini-garden will you put together?

Need more info? Contact Lauren Matzke, City of Clearwater Planning and Development Department, at 727-562-4547 or lauren.matzke@myclearwater.com . She’ll be happy to help you out.

Upcoming Events in Pasco County

Thu, 29 Aug 2013 18:24:00 GMT

If you’d like some hands-on instruction on building a better landscape then there are some great events going on in Pasco County this fall. See if you can squeeze any of these events around your back-to-school schedule!

For example, you could attend a Florida Friendly Garden Workshop at Spring Hill Branch Library on September 11. The workshop starts at 10 am.

The library is located at 9220 Spring Hill Drive. Call Jim Moll at (352) 754-4433 for more information.

Pasco County Extension is also running some worthwhile events. I really enjoy everything that our various County Extension offices do: they’re excellent resources.

“Landscaping with Florida Natives” is going to be held September 3rd from 6:30 to 7:40 pm. This class will teach you more about reducing water use in your yard by using native plants.

Landscaping with Florida Natives will be held at the Hudson Library at 8012 Library Road. You can register online .

Pasco County Extension is also hosting a Hydroponics workshop on September 28 at 10:00 am. This one will be held at the Home Depot on 10017 US 19 in Port Richey. It will give you the basics of starting your own Hydroponics Project.

If you’re not familiar with Hydroponics, it’s a way of growing food without soil while cultivating fish at the same time. You essentially create a mini water-based ecosystem that can grow a lot of food in a very small space.

You can register online for this seminar, too.

These programs are a great way to learn great new gardening and water usage skills. Best of all, they’re free, though participation and seating is of course limited. Register early to take advantage of them!

Rain Garden Problems and Solutions

Mon, 26 Aug 2013 18:13:00 GMT

The answer to the problem is generally found in the soil. If the soil isn’t draining properly, the rain garden can’t do its job.

If you haven’t actually built your garden yet you can head this problem off at the pass. You can call the Natural Resources Conservation Service at (352) 338-9500. The NCRS can tell you how well your soil drains.

You can also do a simple drainage test. Dig a one foot hole. Fill it with water. Return to check the hole every four hours. It should drain an inch at a time every four hours. If it drains too fast or too slow then you may need some professional assistance to set up your rain garden.

What if you’ve already built your troublesome rain garden?

You may need to fix it by “amending” the soil. Amending the soil simply means that you’re going to add some new things to it to help it do a better job.

Low Impact Development suggests using the following amendments:

Don’t give up on your rain garden if you are having trouble with it! You can fix most problems, and you can still have a rain garden that you can enjoy, even if it got off to a rocky start.

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Brandon, Largo, Clearwater and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Call us today for a free estimate on gutter cleaning, gutter guards, or gutter installation.

How to Handle Mosquitoes in Rain Barrels

Thu, 22 Aug 2013 18:04:00 GMT

However, sometimes mosquitoes start laying eggs in rain barrels in spite of your best efforts. Given our mosquito season this year is particularly nasty I wanted to address an additional step that you can take to keep this from happening. After all, those little buggers are persistent!

Fortunately there’s a relatively easy solution. Mosquito dunks, or Bt, is a safe and effective solution. It’s one that I’ve talked about in the past. You can put the little tablets right in your rain barrel.

Bt is not a chemical. It’s a bacteria that attacks the mosquito larvae. The bacteria has no effect on humans whatsoever.

If you’re still nervous, remember that it’s better to use your rain water on the soil and roots of your plants, not leaves, flowers, or fruit. And remember that you should never drink rain water that hasn’t been specifically treated for that purpose.

For most people, rain barrel water is always going to be grey water only.

In fact, some experts even caution you against using rain barrel water on any edible plants. The type of roof that you have plays a big role in those safety concerns. Algae-resistant shingles are not compatible with rain water collection efforts meant for edible plants, for example.

If Bt doesn’t keep mosquitoes away from your rain barrel you might want to temporarily halt your program until the mosquito population is a bit less aggressive. There’s no sense taking all of the other mosquito control steps only to leave them with the perfect breeding ground right at the end of your gutters!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters and leaf guards in Largo, Clearwater, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area. We also clean and repair gutters. Call us for a free estimate today.

Rain Barrel Maintenance Tips

Mon, 19 Aug 2013 18:47:00 GMT

But they do need a little bit of attention if they’re going to perform at optimum levels. This is especially true when there are so many mosquitoes around . Handle your rain barrel incorrectly and it can become just another breeding ground.

Safety starts with your barrel’s filter screen, if you have one. You should check the screen at least once a month to make sure that it’s still securely fastened to your rain barrel. If the screen has holes then you need to replace it.

Industrial nylon gutter guards are a good addition to a rain barrel system. Gutter guards will help you reduce stress on your filter screen. You get cleaner water flowing throughout the rain water collection system.

Obviously it’s important to keep the gutter portion of that system as clean as possible. If your gutters are nasty then your rain water will be nasty too, and you’ll get less than you could have.

It’s also important to actually use your rainwater. Store it if you need to, but leave room for the next rain fall.

This means you should pay close attention to your rain barrel during periods of heavy rainfall!

Are you going on vacation? Then open the spigots on your barrel. At that point it will function like just another downspout. The last thing you want to do is return home to a rain barrel that is overflowing. That’s a recipe for standing water that pools right next to your foundation.

If you find you just don’t have the time to keep the rain barrel in regular use then it’s not the best solution for you. Consider a rain garden instead.

Finally, you should always inspect the interior of your rain barrel for signs of algae. Yes, it’s grey water, and yes, you never planned to drink it in the first place. But you don’t want to water your plants with algae-infested water either.

If you see algae, scrub the interior of your rain barrel down with a little bit of apple cider vinegar. If you haven’t bought your rain barrel yet you can also combat algae by choosing a black one, like this recycled plastic rain barrel from RainwaterSolutions.com.

Rain barrels don’t have to be super labor intensive, but it is good to stay on top of their unique needs.

We install seamless aluminum gutters in Wesley Chapel, Brandon, and the rest of the Tampa Bay Metro area. We also install the gutter guards that can help you maintain a clean rain water catchment system. Contact us for a free estimate!

New Invention Could Save Lives During the Next Hurricane

Thu, 15 Aug 2013 18:13:00 GMT

One of the dangers that you might face during a hurricane are tumbling traffic lights. They can and do snap right off of their cable and go flying.

However, there’s a new invention that might be changing all that. Bob Townsend is a Florida native who has invented a device to predict traffic light collapse during hurricanes.

The device doesn’t look that impressive at first. As this article mentions , “it’s only two feet long and made solely of cast aluminum.” Impressive-looking or not, the device can withstand winds of up to 110 miles per hour.

If they work in Palm Beach County I could see FDOT rolling them out to the rest of Florida in short order. In the meantime, it’s quite impressive to see the ingenuity that went into making this idea a reality.

We’re a trusted installer of seamless aluminum rain gutters and have been in the business for over 35 years. So while we can’t solve traffic light problems, we can help you clean, repair, and replace your gutters. Call us today for a free estimate!

Upcoming Events from Pinellas County Extension

Mon, 12 Aug 2013 18:37:00 GMT

The Pinellas County Extension nearly always has something cool going on, and they’re running quite a few events during the next several weeks. Check out these classes and symposiums.

Shade Loving Plants

This event is coming up on August 28th. You’ll get a chance to hear from Master Gardener Pam Brown.

Sometimes, our Florida heat can kill full sun plants. If you don’t want your plants to wither than taking advantage of cool, shady spots in your yard may be the answer. To do this, you of course need plants that thrive in shady conditions.

This event starts at 2 p.m. and lasts just 1 hour. You can register here .

Citizen Scientist Workshop

If you are interested in volunteering to collect local ecological information then this is the class for you.

How would you help as a citizen scientist? Andrew Yuan, a Pinellas County Extension 4-H Youth Mentor, describes the process in Timely Topics .

This training is on September 7th, starting at 9:00 at the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. Register here .

2013 Energy Symposium

Finally, there’s the 2013 Energy Symposium. You’ll get to learn plenty of tips and tricks for making your home more water-and-energy wise.

How to Solve Downspout Drainage Problems

Thu, 08 Aug 2013 18:39:00 GMT

There are a few things you can try. For some people, a little concrete downspout extender will provide plenty of protection.

Other solutions I’ve covered on this blog include:

Today I came across another solution on a blog called Growing the Home Garden. The owner of this blog has opted to create dry creek beds under his downspouts.

The solution is elegant and contributes a nice new feature to his landscape. It also lets him water plant beds near his house without endangering the foundation. It’s almost like creating a different type of rain garden.

Here’s a description of his method:

As you can see there are all sorts of creative solutions to help you deal with downspout drainage problems. But before any of them will help you’ll need clean, leak-free gutters that aren’t clogged on the inside.

If you live in Brandon, FL or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area, call us first! We can provide you with a free estimate on gutter cleaning, gutter repair, or seamless aluminum gutters that will protect your home from rain water damage.

Be Careful Buying Gutter Guards from Big Box Stores

Mon, 05 Aug 2013 18:25:00 GMT

However, some gutter guards are little more than overpriced gutter decorations. Consider this story from the Lansing State Journal, all the way up in Michigan.

Sears charged Barbara Siler $4,770 on a system that was poorly designed and poorly installed. As you can imagine this created some big problems. Here is a snippet from the original story:

The moral of this story? Go to a professional gutter contractor who installs high-quality industrial nylon leaf guards, not to a big box store.

If you’d like gutter guards you can actually rely on, call us. We install gutter guards throughout our service area in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us today for a free estimate!

Is Energy Efficient Roofing Worth the Money?

Thu, 01 Aug 2013 18:00:00 GMT

You may not have given energy efficient roofing much thought because a roof does not actively use any energy. However, your roof does impact the amount of energy that your home uses.

How Does an Energy Efficient Roof Work?

These roof systems are designed to reflect the heat of the sun. As a result, your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home and you use less energy.

SF Gate’s Home Guides describes the kind of difference that a cool roof can make:

This can be accomplished either through the use of energy efficient roofing materials or by use of a white roof coating. You could also install a “green roof.”

These roofs have the most benefit in a hot climate, of course, though Florida certainly qualifies as one of those!

Costs and Savings

As for being worth the money, Energy.gov reports that installing a cool roof typically doesn’t cost any more than any other roof does if you’re going to be installing or replacing a roof anyway. If your existing roof is still in good repair then you may want to consider a roof coating instead of a full roof install.

You also stand to save quite a bit of money on your electric bills. Energy Star notes that the cooling demand drops by 10% to 15% when a cool roof is present.

But if you need specific figures, check out this savings calculator. Duke Energy also offers an $150 rebate to homeowners or mobile home owners who install an Energy Star reflective roof product.

Bottom line? Energy efficient roofing is a good financial decision, especially if you’re in the market for a new roof soon.

Protect your home with seamless aluminum rain gutters. If you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay metro area call us today for a free estimate.

The Dangers of Pressure Washing a Roof

Mon, 29 Jul 2013 23:47:00 GMT

Pressure washing a roof is a very common mistake. However, it will damage your roof faster than just about anything else you can do to it.

The high-pressure treatment damages the shingles. It can create cracks in the material. It’s also not very good for your gutters, since those little granules can wash into your gutters, creating more debris for you to deal with.

What’s more, the damage doesn’t really show up right away. This is probably why so many people keep making this mistake.

The damage can be significant enough to produce major roof leaks, so we’re not talking about a cosmetic problem here!

You may need to consult professional roof cleaners if a brush and a roof cleaning solution doesn’t get rid of the moss on your roof on its own. Professionals have access to stronger solutions than you can purchase or make, and they have several techniques that they can try. You might also want to hire one if you simply want to avoid having to get up on the roof in the first place.

If you’ve been fighting an uphill battle against algae and moss on your roof then algae-resistant shingles might be a great solution to consider.

Because you are right in thinking that the moss and algae have got to go. It’s only a matter of time before this stuff gets right back into your gutters.

It’s just important to handle the problem the right way.

We clean gutters in Brandon, FL and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us for a free estimate on gutter cleaning, replacement, or repair.

Gutters Make the Best Bath Toys!

Thu, 25 Jul 2013 18:30:00 GMT

The Brooding Hen took a series of PVC pipe elbows and Ts and combined them with suction cups to make a sort of whimsical tumbling waterfall on the side of the tub. Play at Home Mom actually drilled holes into the lip of a section of vinyl gutter and threaded suction cups through the holes.

Play at Home Mom added a few PVC Pipe sections to her water play array as well. They originally tried this with a toy called Waterway Pipes, but the set-up wasn’t strong enough, resulting in a system that eventually fell off the wall. They were more colorful, however!

Darrenlers absolutely love to play with water. They can pour the water into the gutters and watch what happens. As little natural scientists this teaches them a great deal about the way the world works.

And if you have a toddler who doesn’t enjoy taking baths something like this may become the solution. They might welcome the bath if it means they can play with their water works!

Obviously, you’ll only want to use vinyl gutters if you want to construct a water play station of your own. That’s just as well since, as I’ve observed before, vinyl gutters are really only good for crafts and projects to begin with! I’m just constantly surprised by all the creative ways people find to use them.

We install seamless aluminum gutters and gutter guards in Ocala, Florida and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. If you need to repair or replace your gutters contact us today to get your free estimate!

How to Grow Strawberries in Gutters

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 18:17:00 GMT

It’s time for another cool gutter project! Just looking at these lush strawberries pouring out of these gutters made me wonder just how this was done.

So I did a little research to figure out how this was done. You will need:

Start by cutting your gutter sections and gluing on the end caps.

Next, drill a drainage hole along the gutter at six inch intervals. Then, decide where you’re going to place your gutters. Mounting and elevating the gutters works well. Make sure the gutters in a location that gets six hours of full sun every day.

Fill the gutters with potting soil, then plant your strawberries. Each gutter section should take three plants.

Using the proper amount of soil and planting your strawberries at the right depth really matters. From SF Gate :

And there you have it! Keep them watered and you can have fresh strawberries in your garden!

While vinyl gutters are fine for strawberries they’re not the best type of gutter for your house. If you live in Homosassa, Beverly Hills, or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, contact us today for a free estimate on the seamless aluminum gutters that will do the absolute best job of protecting your home from the effects of stormy weather.

How to Remove Tiger Stripes from Aluminum Gutters

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 18:03:00 GMT

Tiger stripes are difficult to simply scrub off. By the time you see the stripes these deposits are already built up heavily enough to resist anything other than a strong gutter cleaning solution.

There are a couple of choices out there. Streak Getter Gutter Cleaner gets good reviews. So does Krud Kutter and Gutter Zap. Some people really like using Simple Green, and I’ve even heard of people who have found some success using Oven Cleaner.

Once you’ve chosen the product you’ll want to use a soft bristle brush to apply the solution. Use a brush with a long extension handle so you don’t have to get on the ladder.

You don’t have to scrub the gutters very vigorously. The chemical should cut most of the gunk for you.

Once you’ve scrubbed off the stripes you can rinse your gutters with the hose to get rid of the chemical.

Keep your gutters cleaned out and protect them with gutter guards to try to keep the problem from reappearing. Tiger stripes usually only happen when the gutters have been left too long without any attention.

Want your gutters cleaned? Ready to enjoy gutter guards to make the job easier? If you’re in Homosassa, Beverly Hills, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, call us for a free estimate!

How to Fix a Leaky Hose

Thu, 18 Jul 2013 18:46:00 GMT

Recently, I spent some time talking about how you can conserve water and lower your bill. One of my tips was that you need to check for leaks.

While most leaks come from the toilet your hose can be a culprit as well. Here’s how to fix a leaky hose.

Determine the Source of the Leak

The leak’s either going to be at the hose bib, at the hose connector, the sprayer, or in the hose itself. The location of the leak determines the nature of the fix.

Hose Bib

Usually you’ll have to tighten the packing nut with a wrench. If this isn’t work, check the washer inside the hose bib and replace it.

Remember to shut off the water before replacing the washer since you’ll have to pull the whole hose bib out of the wall in order to get the job done.

This video shows how to tighten the packing nut:

The Sprayer

A leaky sprayer is almost always due to a worn out or missing washer. Remove the sprayer from the hose, then pop a new washer in. It should get rid of the leak right away!

The Hose Itself

You’ll need a hose repair kit to do a proper job of this, and you’ll have to cut away the damaged section of the hose in order to use it.

Here’s a video that shows how this repair works:

Do It Quick!

Your hose could cost you a lot of money if you allow the leak to persist, so be sure to take care of the problem as quickly as possible.

We install seamless aluminum gutters for people Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us today for a free estimate.

Natural Mosquito Control for People Who Don’t Like Pesticides

Mon, 15 Jul 2013 18:22:00 GMT

Though Pyrethrum is EPA-rated for safe use around the home, there are plenty of people who have concerns about using it. So we thought we’d take a moment to discuss a few alternatives.

One alternative is the Mosquito Magnet , which we already discussed in a previous post . But there are also some natural methods of mosquito control that you can try.

Bti

If you’re not into chemical warfare then you might try biological warfare instead. To do this, reach for Btis.

Insect-a-Peel Traps

These bright yellow traps provide 20-25 weeks of mosquito protection. The color attracts mosquitoes and other pests.

The sticky plastic tape catches mosquitoes and kills them because they starve or dehydrate, unable to escape.

Add the Right Plants

Some people repel mosquitoes by introducing the right plants into their landscape. You would need generous portions of multiple types of plants to really get a lot of relief, but it’s certainly worth thinking about.

Remove Breeding Grounds

While removing standing water won’t kill mosquitoes directly it at least ensures that you’re not actively encouraging them. Be especially vigilant after a storm, since water can collect in children’s toys or other containers spread around your yard.

And, of course, we’ll say it again – there is no better breeding ground for mosquitoes than clogged gutters. If you live in Brandon or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay area just contact us for a free quote. Why should you get eaten alive trying to clean your own gutters when you can get us to do it for you?

How Mosquito Misting Systems Can Help You Take Back Your Yard

Thu, 11 Jul 2013 18:10:00 GMT

This system works on a series of pumps that can be installed in various places in your yard. You can place landscape risers around your landscaping or you can attach misting nozzles to your fence.

At various intervals that you control with a timer the system pumps Pyrethrum through the air. Pyrethrum is actually a very safe insecticide that’s derived from Chrysanthemum flowers.

It’s biodegradable and water based, and attacks both adult mosquitoes and their eggs. It also works on other problematic summer insects like fleas and ticks.

You won’t have to install the system yourself. Mosquito misting contractors handle that so that it’s covering your yard in a safe, effective way.

Here’s a video that we found that discusses the mosquito misting system in a lot more detail.

There are companies that offer mosquito misting systems here in the Tampa Bay area. BuzzOFF Mosquito of Tampa Bay , for example, installs these systems. You can also get these systems from Mosquito Nix , Bug Free Backyards , Bug-Slayer.com , and SWAT Mosquito Systems , just to name a few.

Given how everyone in our service area is getting eaten alive this year it’s no surprise that there are so many people offering these safe, effective systems.

Don’t forget, of course, to attack the mosquito problem from every possible angle. A clogged gutter holds plenty of standing water, acting like a condominium for these pests to breed and grow. There’s no sense putting in a mosquito misting system if you’re going to leave them any kind of a safe haven to breed and thrive.

So if you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, call us to clean your gutters while you’re considering which mosquito misting system to install. That will give mosquitoes the old 1-2 punch!

5 Ways to Conserve Water at Home (To Cut Your Water Bill)

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 18:52:00 GMT

These methods are generally inexpensive and easy to implement. It takes all 5 of them to really cut your bill, however.

1. Track Down Leaks

A leaking faucet is pretty obvious. However, just because you don’t hear or see a leak doesn’t mean that one doesn’t exist.

To find out, turn off every faucet in your home. Now, go out to your water meter.

Is the white triangle on your water meter moving? Then you’ve got a leak somewhere in your home.

One of your toilets is probably the culprit. You can use a leak detection dye tab to find out.

Simply remove the tank from the back of the toilet and drop in the tabs. Wait about ten minutes, then look in the bowl.

If the water in the bowl is blue then your flapper has gone bad. Replace the flapper to stop the leak.

2. Replace Your Toilet

Speaking of toilets, make sure you don’t have an older one. If your toilet was installed before 1994 it could be using up to seven gallons of water per flush!

By contrast, newer toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush. Some use even less.

The $200 or so that you spend on a quality low-flow toilet will generally pay for itself in short order.

3. Install a Low-Flow Shower Head

Low-flow shower heads use just 2.5 gallons of water per minute. If your shower head was installed prior to 1992 it’s probably still using 3-12 gallons per minute.

That’s money that you’re washing down the drain. Low-flow shower heads offer a good cheap fix, since you can buy one for less than $10.

4. Tackle Your Kitchen Sink

You can find kitchen sink aerators that are as efficient as 0.5 gallons per minute. Even newer kitchen faucets may only be equipped with a 2.2 gpm aerator, so there’s lots of room for savings.

5. Reduce Wasted Water in Your Back Yard

During the summer you may be spending a lot of water on your lawn and garden. Rainwater harvesting or micro-irrigation are two ways that you could lower your bills.

The money that you save on water could be used on doing fun things this summer, so consider tackling your water use today!

We install seamless aluminum rain gutters in Ocala and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Good gutters are another way to save money by keeping your home’s foundations safe from excess water. Fill out the form on the right to contact us for a free estimate today.

How To Stay Safe Swimming in Florida’s Freshwater Lakes and Ponds

Mon, 01 Jul 2013 18:34:00 GMT

However, this type of swimming can be very dangerous, especially here in Florida. That’s because of a little bug called Naegleria fowleri, a type of of amoeba that can cause a severe infection.

The infection is called amebic meningoencephalitis. It travels up the nasal cavity until it can attack the brain and spinal cord.

The infection can cause death in less than 10 days. It starts with headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, and a stiff neck.

The same danger can arise in swimming pools that aren’t maintained properly. So make sure you keep your pool clean!

You’ll also want to make sure that you’re maintaining the proper water chemistry and chlorination. Test your pool regularly to make sure that it’s absolutely safe.

You can take safety measures with freshwater lakes and ponds, too. For example, you should avoid these water sources when water levels are low, particularly when it’s hot outside.

You should also keep your head and nose out of freshwater. Avoid digging at, or stirring up, the sediment at the bottom of lakes and ponds as well, since that’s where the amoeba lives.

Finally, obey all posted warnings. If a sign says that the water isn’t safe to swim in then it probably isn’t!

We install seamless aluminum gutters and gutter guards in Homossassa, Beverly Hills, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area, so we stay well aware of all kinds of water issues. We’d like you to have a safe and happy summer. And if you want to keep your house safe from water damage, fill out the form on the right for a free estimate – gutters are they key to protecting your home from Florida storms!

How To Control Those Pesky Mosquitoes in Your Backyard

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 18:36:00 GMT

First, make sure you’re going through your back yard to drain or remove any sources of standing water that you might find. This will keep mosquitoes from laying their eggs near your home.

You can also try a machine called the Mosquito Magnet. This is one of many natural methods promoted by BeyondPesticides.org. This PDF is full of a lot of other great ideas, too.

A mosquito misting system is another option that you could pursue. These systems are safe, but they do have to be professionally installed. These systems works similar to a sprinkler system but instead of spraying water on your lawn, it sprays a safe insecticide in various places throughout your yard.

Both backyard mosquito control and personal mosquito control are important since the pests carry West Nile Virus and malaria, as well as other diseases. Right now you should limit your outdoor exposure at night, when mosquitoes are most active. If you do have to go out, consider wearing long sleeves and use a good mosquito repellent.

By the way, if you haven’t cleaned your gutters yet it is now past time to do so. Wet, clogged gutters are like a big mosquito breeding condo, one you won’t even see as you go around your yard.

Need your gutters cleaned now? If you live in Homosassa, Beverly Hills or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, fill out the form on the left for a free estimate so we can get to you ASAP.

Chain Downspout Pros and Cons | Rain Control Gutters

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 18:28:00 GMT

Aesthetically pleasing as a rain chain might be, however, there are some things you should know about them before you install one into your Florida home. Remember that here in the Tampa Bay area any part of your gutter system needs to be capable of handling a large volume of water – and rain chains simply cannot handle as much water as a standard downspout can.

Rain chains also don’t do anything to move the water away from your foundations. They don’t help you prevent erosion – which is the whole point of having a gutter system in the first place.

Traditional rain chains use a small pot or catch basin to handle the water that travels down the chain. This would quickly be overwhelmed by a good Florida downpour unless you were diverting the chain directly into a rain barrel (which is certainly one option).

We do install rain chains for our customers when aesthetics are an issue, such as on a plantation style home with round porch columns. But since they can’t handle a downpour we only place them in areas where there isn’t going to be very much water run-off. And we certainly wouldn’t recommend using them as a whole-home replacement for a normal downspout system.

If you’re really distressed by a downspout’s lack of basic visual appeal you might enjoy this presentation from HouseLogic which provides some interesting ideas for dressing them up.

Looking for new gutters or downspouts? Need your gutters cleaned or repaired? If you live in Wesley Chapel , Land o’Lakes, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, give us a call or fill out the form on the right to get your free estimate today.

How to Install a Drip Irrigation System

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 18:09:00 GMT

Drip irrigation systems range from the very simple to the very complicated. There are lots of different options that you can choose from.

However, there is one option that stands out as a beginner’s best bet. Here’s what you’ll need.

Start by attaching the Y connector to your hose. This will let you put a normal hose on your faucet as well, so you have it if you need it.

Next, you’ll want to install your backflow prevention device. This will keep the water from washing back into your water supply.

Now add the 2-in-1. The filter keeps debris from clogging your system. The pressure regulator is important because most hoses produce 70-85 psi whereas most drip irrigation systems require 20-50 psi.

Now you can add your drip tubing. Since the drip tubing on your list has pre-installed emitters you can simply place the hose where you want it – wherever the lines will be most effective at getting the water directly to the plant’s roots.

You can use the tie downs and elbow fittings as you run the tubing through your garden. The tie downs will keep the irrigation system in place, and the elbow fittings will let you run corners.

The Home Depot video below offers a ton of other options, and plenty of drip irrigation systems are sold as kits.

If this installation won’t work for you, just check out some of the other kits and options to find the one that meets your garden’s needs a bit better. It’s easy to do – and you’ll enjoy a low maintenance garden and a lower water bill for your troubles.

We install seamless rain gutters in Ocala and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Contact us today for a free estimation on your new gutters.

Do Algae Resistant Shingles Work?

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 18:43:00 GMT

Because algae can destroy a roof’s appearance and a home’s value, many of our customers ask our opinion about algae resistant shingles. We decided to take a few minutes to explain what these shingles are and how they work.

What are Algae Resistant Shingles?

Algae resistant shingles were created by the 3M company. They achieve the resistant effect by embedding copper granules into the shingles.

The copper makes it difficult for algae to grow. When it rains, trace amounts of the copper will wash over your roof, killing the algae and helping your roof look newer, longer.

Do Algae Resistant Shingles Work?

For the most part, algae resistant shingles do work. In some parts of the country, algae resistant shingles may be all that you require to keep algae away from your roof.

Here in Florida, however, we’ve got a perpetually hot, wet environment that algae really loves. The humidity is especially friendly to algae.

This means that in Florida, algae-resistant shingles sometimes are successful only at slowing algae growth rather than removing them altogether.

Cleaning Roof Algae

If roof algae does start to show up on your roof you can usually get rid of it with an OxyClean wash. Wet down the entire surface of your roof in the early morning, while your roof is still cool.

Let the solution sit for half an hour. Then you can use a scrub brush to get rid of any visible algae before rinsing the mixture away with your hose.

You should not have to do this task very often if you have algae resistant shingles. In this, they’re like gutter guards. They don’t free you from unpleasant chores entirely, but you don’t have to do these chores as frequently.

We’re gutter contractors serving Land o’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us today if you’d like a free estimate on new seamless aluminum gutters.

How to Get Ready for a Hurricane When You Have a Pool

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:43:00 GMT

Now, we’ll take a moment to talk about swimming pool preparation.

First, start by removing all the furniture, toys, and accessories that are in and around the pool. Store those items in a safe place.

Next, avoid damage to your pool by pruning any nearby trees or shrubs. If you haven’t done this anywhere else in your yard, now is a good time to do so.

Next, you’re going to cut the power to your pool equipment. Just flip the circuit breaker that corresponds to your pool.

Then, be sure to remove the pool pump, storing it somewhere safe and dry.

Reduce the water level in your pool by 1-2 feet, but don’t drain it.

Don’t worry. Your pool is not going to flood your property so long as the pool’s overflows are working correctly.

Believe it or not, the water that you leave in your pool will actually protect your pool from damage.

Once the storm has passed, you’ll have some work to do. Debris will create the most pressing issue, but again, don’t drain your pool. Just scoop it all out of there.

Then, treat the water. Balance the pH. Superchlorinate. And then run your filter. Remember to wait a day or so for the pool to become safe again.

We install gutters and gutter guards for residents of Brandon and the Tampa Bay metro area. Interested in seamless aluminum gutters? Then fill out the form on the right for a free estimate!

Gutters and Gutter Guards Before and After a Hurricane

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 18:33:00 GMT

Let’s talk “before,” first. If you haven’t cleaned your gutters yet there is no more time to waste. Get it done professionally if you don’t have the time, but get it done.

Remember, hurricanes produce profound amounts of rain. If your gutters are clogged all of that rain is going to spill over like a waterfall, where it will attack your foundations, your roof, your siding and more.

As it is, you’ll need to clean your gutters again after the hurricane. While normal weather makes gutter cleaning a twice-annual task, a hurricane will absolutely blow debris right back into your gutters.

You will, of course, want to work when it’s safe to do so. Don’t tackle your gutters when there are downed trees and power lines everywhere. But get the job done ASAP.

What about your gutter guards? Before the first hurricane arrives you’ll need to take the time to do a visual inspection.

Make sure the gutter guards are installed evenly and enclosed at the end. This will help you reduce damage later.

After the storm you’ll want to check those guards again. Gutter guards can get blown off of your home. If this happens, it’s prudent to replace the missing guard sections right away.

Next, take a look at your downspouts. Make sure they’re sending water far away from your home. If not, consider building a downspout drainage system.

After the storm, you’ll simply need to check that your downspouts are not clogged and that your drainage system is working correctly. Make adjustments and repairs as necessary.

If you live in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater or Tampa you’re within our service area. Reach out to us for help with your gutters if you need it! Simply fill out the quick contact form to the right to get a free estimate on any pre-or-post hurricane gutter cleaning or repair services that you might need.

Forecasters Predict Extremely Active Florida Hurricane Season in 2013

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 18:59:00 GMT

Last week we talked about getting prepared for hurricane season. If you skimmed over the post before, it might be a good idea to go back over the list, just to make sure you didn’t forget something important.

That’s because the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted 13 to 20 named storms for the 2013 year . You can watch the Associated Press video below.

NOAA predicts that 7 to 11 of these storms will become hurricanes. 3 to 4 of those storms are likely to reach Category 3 or higher.

It’s important to stay very alert about weather conditions until hurricane season ends in November. You do not want to be caught unawares or unprepared.

It’s also important to know your evacuation zone. You can use this online tool to search evacuation zones by address.

The tool says “City of Tampa,” but we tested it with a Largo address and it worked just fine.

According to National Geographic , NOAA’s predictions are likely to be more accurate than ever. They’ve got a brand new predictive analysis program called the Hurricane Weather Research and FOrecast System (HWRF) on their side.

In short, NOAA’s warnings probably should not be ignored.

As far as making sure your gutters are ready for this active season, you’ll need to clean them out . This is also a good time to think about extending your downspouts if you haven’t done so already. Later we’ll devote a specific post to your gutters and downspouts and what you should do about them both before and after a hurricane.

For now, we felt it was more important to give our readers the heads up. This hurricane season is going to be rough.

We’ve been installing gutters, repairing gutters, and cleaning gutters for over three decades. If you live in Homosassa, Beverley Hills or anywhere else in the Tampa metro area give us a call for a free estimate.

How to Get Rid of Love Bugs

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 18:13:00 GMT

Though we call them bugs they are actually flies, and around this time of year they decide to mate. They love to congregate around highways where they slam into car windshields and grills, becoming a traffic hazard.

They like the highways because the fumes remind them of rotting leaves and vegetation, two things they really enjoy. They’re attracted to lawnmower fumes and the smell of fresh paint, too.

It’s a really good idea to clean up the swarms right away, whether they’re on your car or stuck to your gutters. Their bodies are acidic and they can do permanent damage.

And if you let dead love bug bodies dry then you’ll get to deal with a mess that’s akin to leaving oatmeal in a bowl overnight. They turn into a kind of nasty cement product.

But there’s actually a specific Florida product for keeping these things off your car. Appropriately enough, it’s called The Love Bug Solution.

The idea is the solution creates a clear coating that keeps the love bugs from sticking. If a few do manage to get on your car you can just wash them away.

Take a look.

You can even visit their site to track love bug outbreaks.

You can also discourage love bugs from entering your yard with a few simple steps:

One thing’s for sure. Between love bugs, sinkholes, giant snails and hurricanes , life is never dull around here.

We install seamless aluminum gutters in Ocala, FL and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Contact us today to get a free estimate on your home gutter project.

How to Prepare for Hurricanes

Thu, 30 May 2013 18:37:00 GMT

First, you’ll want to stock up on these items as soon as possible to make sure you’re ready to tackle power outages and other problems that come with hurricanes and other severe storms.

It’s also not a bad idea to keep all of your important documents such as bank information, identity documents, and insurance information in one place, stored in something that’s easy for you to pick up and take with you. A 3 ring binder with plastic inserts works pretty well for this.

You can even take this a step further. Travelers are often advised to take pictures of these documents and upload them to a secure Cloud-based server like Google Docs, Skydrive, or Dropbox. This means that even if you get separated from your documents you’ll be able to access them again as soon as you can get to a computer or a working cell phone.

We’d also urge you to take this time to take some indoor and outdoor photographs of your home. Upload these to the cloud too. This can really help expedite the insurance claims process.

And not to sound self-serving, but if you didn’t do your spring gutter cleaning you’ll want to get that taken care of now. You want gutters that are going to be able to stand up to the heavy downpours that storm season can bring.

Keep a full tank of gas in the car and keep an eye on local news and weather conditions. It’s really important to stay informed during hurricane season!

We are a trusted gutter contractor serving Brandon, New Port Richey, and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Call us for gutter cleaning, gutter repair, or if you need new gutters.

Hillsborough County Extension Teaches Citizens to be Water Wise

Mon, 27 May 2013 18:27:00 GMT

Here at Rain Control Gutters we are gaining more and more of an appreciation for our county extension offices and what they do for residents in the Tampa Bay metro area. They hold lots and lots of cool educational events which address many of the issues that we’ve touched on in our blog.

Hillsborough County is holding a whole bunch of these on June 1st.

First, there’s a free “Water Wise” workshop for Hillsborough County residents:

The workshop is from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. You can register online .

There is also a Rainwater Harvesting workshop on the same day, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. Again, this workshop is for Hillsborough County workshops only and is free to attend.

Learn how Rain Barrels are useful for collecting rain water for irrigation while reducing erosion and storm water runoff and how to make your own barrel using a 55-gallon plastic food-grade drum. Hillsborough County residents may receive 1 free rain barrel (per household, and the representative of the household must be an adult) when they attend the workshop.

You can register for this workshop here .

For non-residents there are 3 events from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, each available for $26. One is a composting class, one is a paid Water-Wise event and one is a Rain Barrel event similar to the ones for resident.

The same giveaways are available at the paid workshops. The composting workshop comes with a compost bin and a thermometer.

Each event is located at the Hillsborough County Extension at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner, FL. Call (813) 744-5519 if you have any questions about the events.

How to Maintain a Rain Garden

Thu, 23 May 2013 18:23:00 GMT

However, we’ve never talked about how to keep a rain garden healthy. We’ve stressed how low-maintenance they are, but it’s important to be clear that “low” maintenance does not mean “no” maintenance.

First, you will need to plan on adding mulch to your rain garden every year. Mulch helps direct the flow of water towards plant roots.

Mulch also helps to reduce weeds. It also helps plants stay stable and strong inside of the bed.

However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you don’t need to weed just because you’ve got mulch! All rain gardens need a little bit of weeding so that the plants you mean to keep around in them will thrive.

In addition, you can’t neglect watering–at least not at first. New plants need some time to get established, and you can’t ensure that it will rain the moment you put them in the ground.

Once they are established, local rain garden plants will generally thrive on normal rain patterns, but you still have to be vigilant about those patterns. If there’s a drought you’ll have to go water them yourself.

Finally, you’ll need to work to remove dead vegetation and debris from your garden. This is an important part of keeping your garden attractive. You might also need to replace some plants from time to time as plants fail.

Remember! Rain gardens work best with local plants that thrive in moist environment. And since local plants are such an important part of our eco-system you’ll be tackling Florida conservation issues on two fronts!

We’ve been offering seamless aluminum rain gutters in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater and the rest of the Tampa metro area for over 35 years. If you’d like brand new gutters to feed your rain garden, call us today for a free estimate.

Marion County Extension Hosts Micro-Irrigation System Class

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:48:00 GMT

On Tuesday, June 11th from 10 am till noon, gardeners in and around Ocala will have the opportunity to get hands-on micro-irrigation training from the Marion County Extension. This is a hands-on workshop located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala.

Registration is free. You need to call Donna Redner at 352-671-8400 if you want to reserve your seat.

Micro-irrigation is also known as drip irrigation or trickle irrigation. It is a form of irrigation developed to make good use of small water supplies.

These systems are easy to customize. They’re also incredibly efficient because they deliver water straight to a plant’s root systems.

How do they stack up to regular irrigation systems? Most irrigation systems measure flow rates in gallons-per-minute. Micro-irrigation flow rates are instead measured in gallons-per-hour.

Micro-irrigation prevents you from losing water to run-off. Like rainwater conservation and harvesting, it’s an inexpensive way for those who are concerned about Florida’s pressing water-use issues to chip in.

The class can help you build a truly effective system for your garden. This is the only time this year that the Marion County Extension is running a micro-irrigation program.

If you can’t get out there, the Noble Foundation has a 14 part series online:

You could also take a look at this micro-irrigation guide from Lowes, which may help you get a better understanding of the systems and whether or not it will be worthwhile for you to attend the class.

And if you do miss this class or find that it’s not a good fit for your garden or landscape, you might still want to check out the full Marion County Extension calendar of events. They run gardening classes every month!

Will Storm Damage Insurance Claims Raise Your Rates?

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:44:00 GMT

Why? Because we’ve had clients who were reluctant to have damage to their gutters or other parts of their house fixed. They couldn’t necessarily foot the bill on their own, but they didn’t want to reach out to their homeowner’s insurance companies because they feared a rate increase, or being dropped altogether.

So we looked into the issue, and we found good news.

Homeowner’s insurance isn’t like car insurance. With car insurance, your premiums are almost guaranteed to go up just about any time you file a claim.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies, however, make provisions for “acts of God.” That is, they know that there isn’t much you can do to mitigate the risk of a storm yourself (other than deciding not to live in Florida at all, in which case, they wouldn’t have your business).

Making a storm damage claim, especially a single storm damage claim, usually won’t raise your rates at all. And, if you think about it, when you do make a storm damage claim you’re probably not alone. Many other homeowners in your zip code are probably doing the same thing.

Before you file a claim, it’s always a good idea to call your insurance company and ask if your claim would have any negative repercussions on your rates. If your insurance policy does have the “acts of God” provision, then you’ll like be fine.

Keep in mind, making two or more claims too close together will raise your rates, especially for things like dog bites or slip-and-fall issues. Again, it’s best to check with your individual insurance company to find out what will happen before you file any claims.

And, as we’ve already covered, in spite of the fact that they are beyond most people’s control, sinkholes are not treated like an act of God in Florida. A sinkhole claim can raise your rates or even cause your insurance company to drop you.

Every claim that you make is also included in the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE). This is a national homeowner’s insurance database. Your rating in the CLUE database is used alongside your credit rating to determine your rates.

So while you shouldn’t hesitate to file a claim for major storm damage you might want to be more careful about filing other types of claims. One good rule of thumb would be to avoid filing any claim that will cost less than three times your deductible to fix.

Once you feel comfortable filing a claim, it’s best to get contractors out for a free estimate on anything that’s damaged, document everything with pictures, and be ready with hard numbers of your own. Adjusters are notorious for low-ball offers, and it’s important to get the damage to your home fixed and done right the first time!

What to Do About Giant Land Snails

Thu, 09 May 2013 18:27:00 GMT

In reality, The Patch was referring to giant land snails, an invasive species which is causing some major problems here in Florida.

These snails are quite the menace. They’ll eat just about anything.

They’ll eat paint, plaster, and stucco right off of your house. They’ll eat your garden plants. They’ll eat your fence.

Their shells can grow as large as a half a foot wide, which means they’ve been known to blow out car tires when someone runs over them. Lawnmowers can turn them into a mess of disgusting and even dangerous shrapnel.

They also leave enormous disgusting slime trails, which is one of the signs that the Department of Agriculture uses to determine whether or not they’re around.

Unfortunately, giant land snails reproduce incredibly fast. A single female snail can lay as many as 1200 eggs each year. That’s why there are hundreds of thousands of them in the area. They’re more prevalent in Miami, but they’re here in the Tampa Bay area, too.

When you see these snails do not touch them yourself, and don’t let your kids touch them or play with them either. If you must move them for some reason make sure you’re wearing latex gloves. They spread meningitis.

It’s best to simply call the Department of Agriculture at 1-888-397-1517. They’ll round them up for you and get rid of them.

This video will show you what they look like and will offer more details:

The Florida Department of Agriculture has also released a giant land snail ID sheet.

We are a gutter contractor serving Homossassa, Ocala, and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area. Call us for a free estimate if your gutters need cleaning, repair, leaf guards or replacement.

Pinellas County Extension Hosts Rain Harvesting Class

Mon, 06 May 2013 18:16:00 GMT

Here at Rain Control Gutters we’ve been spending a lot of time talking about various methods for rain water harvesting . So our interest was piqued when we found out that Pinellas County Extension is going to hold a rain harvesting class this month.

This class will be held at the Oldsmar Public Library at 400 St. Petersburg Drive East, Oldsmar FL 34677. It will be on May 11th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The class is free for anyone who wants to attend.

The class has a fairly narrow focus since it doesn’t cover all of the different methods of rain water harvesting. However, if you’ve been delaying your project because you’re not entirely sure how to install a rain barrel then this is going to be a great place for you to go and learn. You’ll also get a free reference book and a list of places where you can go to buy the barrels so you don’t have to shop all over town.

You’ll learn how to cut the tops of them (usually with a power saw) and how to install the mosquito screen that keeps the water safe to use.

Pinellas County Extension will also be giving away a 55 gallon rain barrel as a door prize. It’s a recycled, food grade barrel that is specifically meant for rain harvesting purposes. Why buy if you can win?

If you have questions about the event you’ll simply need to call the Pinellas County Extension at (727) 582-2108.

Pinellas County Extension offers all sorts of lawn, garden, and urban farming help to residents of the Tampa Bay metro area. They also offer many other helpful classes throughout the year.

Right now they’re also taking lawn and garden questions via e-mail. You can send your question, along with any photographs of the problem, to hort@pinellascounty.org .

How To Build a Small Backyard Pond

Thu, 02 May 2013 18:28:00 GMT

Some people have used rather ingenious methods to use the water from their gutters to fill their ponds, topping them off with water from a hose only as necessary. A pond is a viable option for harvesting rainwater .

Here’s what you’ll need.

Be sure to call 811 before you begin the project. You do not want to knock out underground utility lines!

The first step is to find a place for your pond. It’s best to keep it at least 10 feet away from your foundation.

You also need to keep it away from overhead trees. If you’re hoping to have your gutters flow into your pond you’ll want to keep the placement of your downspouts in mind as well.

One of the most common configurations is to run a gentle slope from your downspout to your pond. These can be lined with soft-form pond liner, sand, gravel, and larger rocks to create a terraced waterfall that flows down to the pond in a controlled fashion. Keep this in mind if that’s the kind of set-up you want.

Once you’ve chosen your location you will need to mark out the inner and outer shape of the pond. Then you’ll need to dig deeply enough to fit your pond shape into the ground. Leave the outer lip just above the ground.

Then you’ll actually take the pond shape back out so you can even the ground out with a layer of sand. You can use the rake to smooth the sand down.

Once the sand is in place you can put the pond liner back into place. You’ll need a little more sand around the outer rim, and then you can start filling the pond with your hose to get it started.

Once the pond is full you’ll need to install the pump and UV clarifier. Each of these will have their own set of instructions depending on what you buy, so be sure to read them thoroughly.

After you’ve got the pump and clarifier in place you can add rocks and gravel to hide the pond liner. Then you can add any vegetation, fish, or accessories you like.

Here’s a video which outlines the entire process.

We’ve been installing seamless aluminum gutters in Brandon, FL and the rest of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years. If you need help with your gutters don’t forget to call us for a free estimate.

Clearwater Beach Restaurant Walk Kicks off May 10th

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:11:00 GMT

The Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 4th annual Restaurant Walk. Restaurant Walk lasts until May 18th – but you won’t want to miss the kick-off event on the 12th.

Admission to the kick-off event is $20 per person. You’ll get 20 taste tickets (you can buy more if you want) to sample food from each of the restaurant booths on the Walk. You’ll also be able to sample a host of different wines.

Guitarist Nick Colionne will play live at the kick-off event. If you’re not familiar with Colionne’s music you can view a video here:

Restaurant Week itself comes with a long list of participating restaurants. When you sign up to participate you’ll get a passport. As you visit each restaurant to enjoy their special Restaurant Week three course meals you’ll get a stamp for your passport.

The meals themselves are pretty awesome, too! Three course meals at each restaurant, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 per person.

Four stamps from four different restaurants allows you to enter your passport into the Restaurant Week Dream Beach getaway contest. The Grand Prize is a two-night stay in a Gulf-front two bedroom suite at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa – a nice vacation or “staycation” depending on where you live in the Tampa Bay area.

There are also raffle events at the kick-off, so you can be a winner even if you’re not the “big winner.” There are dozens of raffle baskets on offer from area restaurants and businesses.

Tampa Bay Night Life TV did a video on last year’s event, too. Check out all the delicious food footage!

This looks like it’s going to be a ton of fun!

Rain Garden Design? There’s an App for That!

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:42:00 GMT

This app will help you plan out just about every facet of your rain garden, including:

There doesn’t appear to be a similar app for the Android yet, but Android users might not have to wait too long. The app’s website says that the Android version is supposed to come out sometime this year.

If you’re still having trouble picturing a rain garden and how it works, here’s a short video. This rain garden incorporates a gutter-based rainwater harvesting system (as most do in some form or fashion).

April is actually water conservation month, so this is a great time to think about starting your first rain garden. Florida may be a coastal state, but we have growing water problems. Some of those water problems also contribute to the sinkhole problem which so recently made the news.

Planting Pinellas has offered even more rain garden resources to encourage the residents of Pinellas County to plant their own rain gardens. We thought that might be interesting to our customers and friends in Largo, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg.

While we don’t build rain gardens directly we can help you out with clean seamless aluminum rain gutters, gutter cleaning, gutter repair, and leaf guards that make it much easier to feed your garden. A good rain garden actually starts with great gutters, so contact us today for a free estimate.

Q & A Florida Rain Garden Guide To Get You Started With Confidence

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 18:58:00 GMT

In response, we decided to take some of those questions and create a rain garden guide for those thinking about adding one to their landscape this year.

Will I Get A Huge Puddle if I Make a Rain Garden?

Nope! You don’t have to worry about ponds, puddles, or ugly pools of standing water forming up in your back yard.

You won’t attract unwanted critters with your rain garden, either, not even mosquitoes. You can have a permanent pond if you want to, but you’d have to specifically design your rain garden that way to get it.

This is simply because the plants in your rain garden will drink up the water as it enters the garden. The action of the plants is also the reason why the water stays out of the storm drains.

At most, you should see water on the ground for a few hours after a storm, and no longer.

Can I Grow Edible Plants in my Rain Garden?

Some people do grow edible plants in their rain gardens. Blueberries have been known to do reasonably well in these types of gardens, for example.

Much depends on the design of the rain garden itself. Some designs are more conducive to edible plants than others.

Are Rain Gardens High Maintenance?

Rain gardens may still need some watering if there isn’t much rain for awhile. Like any garden it will also need to be weeded from time to time.

However, they are no more high-maintenance than any other kind of garden. When the rains are good (and they usually are here in Florida) they may be considerably easier to maintain than most other types of gardens.

What’s the Ideal Size for a Rain Garden?

University of Florida recommends gardens of 100 to 300 square feet that are at least 4 to 8 inches deep.

We hope these answers help you with your rain garden!

Rain Control Gutters is a trusted gutter contractor serving St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. Call us for a free estimate on new seamless aluminum gutters, gutter guards, gutter cleaning, and gutter repair.

Turning Vinyl Rain Gutters into a Fun Kid’s Project

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:12:00 GMT

The first was a “soap boat on a gutter river” back yard fun project created by Lowes. The idea is to turn soap into sailboats before racing them down a gutter. Simply send water down the gutter with a garden hose and voila, instant river.

This is a good back yard summer project, or a good project for a homeschooling family. It’s a very hands-on way to learn about water pressure, flow, angles, and the way that changing any of these parameters affects the speed of the boat.

Of course, gutter races aren’t exactly new ideas. Local area Cub Scouts have enjoyed “Rain Gutter Regattas” for years.

In a Rain Gutter Regatta the scouts create derby boats, then race them down a gutter. These are sailboats on wheels, and this time the power comes from a fan placed at one end of the gutter track.

We actually found a video of Tampa’s Cub Scout Pack 45 hard at play during their 2012 event. Check it out:

Vinyl gutters are the safest and cheapest type of gutter to use for this kind of project. (We love vinyl gutters. Just not on houses. Aluminum gutters are better for houses.)

You can use vinyl rain gutters for other projects, too. Here are a few of the ones we’ve covered here on our blog.

We will of course keep you informed as we find more cool things to do with gutters. Until then, happy sailing!

We are a trusted Tampa Bay Area seamless aluminum rain gutter contractor serving Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa metro area. Call us for a free estimate on new gutters, gutter cleaning, gutter repair, and gutter guards.

How to Paint Aluminum Gutters

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 18:30:00 GMT

Painting your gutters is a simple job, if not exactly an easy one. Here’s what you’ll need.

Before you go to the paint store you need to note a couple of paint tips. First, you need to look for ammonia-free primers. Ammonia reacts with aluminum to create a layer of gas between the aluminum and the paint, which can create a bubbling effect. Eventually, this bubbling will ruin your paint job.

Second, you need to make sure your enamel is satin or gloss because these will help your gutters repel water simply because they are non-porous.

You might want to make sure that you’re going to have a few days of dry weather before you tackle this project. Check the forecasts!

Start by performing a standard gutter cleaning, getting rid of all debris. You’re also going to need to remove any previous paint. That means that you’re going to have to take the sandpaper or the scrubber to your gutters until every scrap of the old paint has been removed.

Once you’ve done that you’re actually going to have to scrub down your gutters with soap and water. Sadly, you can’t simply pressure-wash them for this project.

Once your gutters are squeaky clean you can start with the primer.

Then, you’ll need to let the primer dry. This will take about 48 hours.

The enamel comes next. You’re going to need two coats, and, again, you’re going to need to let each one dry. 48 hours is a safe number once more — you can see why you were looking for several days of good weather.

You can then apply the paint in its final color. This will make your whole exterior look fresher! It’s not a bad project to take on if you’re planning to sell your house, since it will help make everything look a lot fresher.

If you’d like a professional gutter cleaning before you start painting, call us! We help homeowners throughout the Tampa Bay Area, from Brandon to Ocala. We offer free estimates, so call us today!

Building Rainwater Capture Systems in India Improves Lives

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:07:00 GMT

Here in America our gutters often represent a “honey-do” chore that we’d rather not think about unless we have to. But in six Indian villages gutters have ensured safe water by providing rainwater capture systems.

These villages had no running water, poor sanitation, no ground water and no surface water. Women would walk four hours a day or more just to fetch safe drinking water, bringing it back to the family.

Rain was the only other source of water, but there were few ways to harness it effectively until an engineer named Bhagwati Agrawal helped the villagers build and use rainwater systems. The video below provides a nice shot of the gutters that are now installed and in use.

Agrawal also installed faucets. Between the two systems each village now has plenty of safe water. Water security is leading to greater economic security as the women are now free to pursue a job or an education which can help lift their families out of poverty. Without these systems, water had to be their first priority.

Agrawal is one of 5 winners of the Encore.org “Purpose Prize.” The award was an $100,000 cash prize which was invested back into his project. You can read more about the other winners here .

Sometimes big problems require very simple solutions, along with the will and the funds to execute those solutions. Here in America rainwater harvesting is still a nice, optional way to help out the environment. In other parts of the world, however, it represents an incredible technological development that helps people lead better lives.

We’re betting nobody ever complains about cleaning those gutters!

Rain Control Gutters is a trusted Tampa Bay Area gutter contractor serving areas such as St. Petersburg, Largo, and Clearwater as well as the city of Tampa itself. Call us today for a free estimate on new gutters, gutter repairs, or gutter guards.

How to Make a Rain Garden

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 18:02:00 GMT

There are a couple of ways to go about creating your rain garden.

Create an Underground Irrigation System

An underground irrigation system is the easiest way to handle a garden that already exists. You’ll need a couple of things to make this work.

A soaker hose, if you don’t already know, is a type of hose that is made out of recycled car tire. It has tiny holes in it, which means the water will seep slowly into the ground.

Before you do anything you’ll need to call Miss Dig at 811. Obviously we don’t want to knock out any underground utility lines while creating our irrigation system.

Once you’re free and clear to dig you’ll want to attach the flexible drain pipe to the end of your downspout. Then you’ll want to run it out for a few feet. The length will depend on the length of your soaker hose as well, since you want to make sure everything can reach your garden.

Cut your plexiglass to fit into the other end of the tube. Seal it in with some silicone caulk.

Now, drill a hole in the middle of the plexiglass that is big enough to fit your soaker hose. Push about two inches of the soaker hose inside and then caulk the soaker hose into the plexiglass.

Now you’re going to bury the whole thing across your yard and under your garden. As your water flows out of your gutters and into your downspouts it will travel through this irrigation system to slowly and efficiently wet your garden soil.

Create a Downspout Garden

Some people just use the downspout directly by creating a downspout garden. There are a couple of ways to manage this.

One way is to create a raised garden bed with some sort of wall directly under the downspouts. Fill it with soil, mulch, and the plants you intend to grow. Let the downspout water the garden directly.

This method still lets some water get awfully close to your house, however. Building a small waterfall, or a depression in the ground that slopes away from your downspout extender, will solve this problem.

Either way, you’ll need to be sure to plant things that really like moisture. Otherwise you’ll just get a muddy spot full of dead, over-watered plants.

Build a Downspout Planter

A downspout planter is a fairly simple alternative. They support only a small number of plants, but they still filter sediment and pollutants while providing a pretty addition to your landscaping.

You can purchase versions of the planter, or you can simply build your own. Here are some instructions from the Philidelphia Water Department.

Other Rain Garden Resources

Here are a few more useful rain garden sites to help you plan as you figure out how to create a rain garden.

Rain Control Gutters is a trusted gutter contractor working in Brandon, FL and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area. We’ve been installing gutters and helping homeowners for over 35 years. If you’d like a free estimate on gutter repair, gutter guards, gutter cleaning or brand new gutters give us a call.

10 Signs of Foundation Problems

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:38:00 GMT

It’s especially good to acquaint yourself with this list if you’re buying a home for the first time. Some homeowners opt to sell their homes when they notice foundation problems rather than handling the expensive repairs themselves.

Sure, you’ll have a home inspector come look at the home of your dreams eventually, but if you know the signs of foundation problems you’ll never get that far. You’ll simply move on to the next home before putting down your earnest money and paying the inspector.

Some of the signs of foundation problems are similar to the signs of a sinkhole. This is not surprising since they are both signs of problems underneath your home.

If you’re not sure which you are dealing with it’s best to just call someone out to have a look at your home. An engineer can help you tell the difference. Don’t assume one or the other. You want to be accurate when dealing with your insurance company since this could affect the way the claim is handled.

The signs are:

These foundation problems will not always be caused by issues with your gutters. There are other things that can cause foundation problems, including the expansion of tree roots that are planted too close to your home.

There are a few sites on the internet which encourage you to do “diy foundation repair.” This is a terrible idea.

Unless you are a professional foundation contractor yourself you should always get help with this kind of problem. A damaged foundation can create an unsafe home, and if you don’t know what you’re doing you will just give yourself a false sense of security. Contact your insurance company and do whatever it takes to get the problem fixed.

Rain Control Gutters has been a trusted gutter contractor serving St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area for over 35 years. We help homeowners protect their homes by installing seamless aluminum gutters to prevent water damage to major structures like home foundations. Call us today for a free estimate.

Soffits, Fascia, and Guttering

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:25:00 GMT

The soffit rests under your roof overhang. It is typically filled with small holes beause it’s designed to ventilate the attic.

The fascia is a vertical finishing edge. This edge creates a layer of protection between the elements and the soffit. Ideally it keeps any water that does not manage to make it into your gutters away from your soffits.

Of course, ideally the water would not touch your fascia at all, because it would all flow into your gutters. However, when the water does not flow into your gutters that’s not necessarily the fault of your gutters.

Normally, water flows off of the roof and falls into your gutters. However, left to its own devices a small portion of that water will backwash onto your fascia.

This usually isn’t a lot of water. However, it doesn’t take much water to rot wood over time.

Sooner or later, that rot can lead to the breakdown of the whole system. Soffits typically rot next, and gutters can ultimately sag and fall right off your home because the fascia system which upholds it loses its strength.

All of this can be avoided through the installation of a part known as a “drip edge.” The drip edge helps you make sure that all of the water that runs off of your roof makes it into your gutters, down to the very last drop.

This isn’t very easy to visualize. This is a video from a Toronto roofer which gives a nice visual. He’s worried about ice and animals. We’d be worried about heavy rains (but animals are a concern , too).

He actually talks about how water can end up running behind your gutter when you don’t have a drip edge installed. Obviously if water isn’t getting into your gutters because of a problem on your roof then you’re going to start seeing some water damage, even if you have the best gutters in the world.

The next video shows you what a drip edge actually looks like:

Most roofers do install a drip edge when they put your roof in. Some don’t in the hopes of cutting costs.

If your fascia and soffit are rotting and your gutters are fine then this is the most likely culprit. You’re going to need to install a drip edge, or you’re going to need to be sure to have one installed when you call the roofer for your soffit and fascia repair.

We’ve been a trusted gutter contractor in Homosassa , Beverley Hills, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years. We offer free estimates on gutter repairs, gutter guards, gutter cleaning and gutter replacements.

What Causes Sinkholes in Florida?

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 18:53:00 GMT

Sinkholes are a natural geologic phenomenon. They happen all over the world and they’ve been happening for thousands of years.

However, certain human activities do make sinkholes occur more often when those activities have an effect on underground geology.

As water flows underground it dissolves underground rock. This can happen very slowly in areas where the underground rock is very hardy.

In Florida, however, our rock is mostly limestone, which is very porous and which erodes easily. We also have dolomite, which is another soft rock.

When this happens, an underground hole or cavern eventually forms. The sediment above ground eventually falls into the hole, creating a sinkhole.

Extreme rainy weather can have a serious effect on this underground landscape. Our Florida floods and rains don’t do anything to help this situation.

This is especially true because acidic water is particularly good at eroding the underground stone. Most rain is at least a little bit acidic, and it takes on more acidity by passing through decaying vegetation and debris on the ground.

However, the danger from extreme weather does pale in comparison to the man-made activities which can exacerbate sinkhole problems. Specifically:

There are also some other problems which can exacerbate sinkholes, things that we don’t do on purpose but which happen anyway. Collapsed and broken sewer lines can also be causes of sinkholes, for example.

This can be challenging as all of these man-made activities represent things that we need to do in order to make sure everyone has water to use in their homes and businesses. This has caused a lot of debate about the ways that our state water resources are used and managed.

Our groundwater has been steadily declining for some time, for example. From the USGS :

You can make your own decisions about the way you use water if you are concerned about sinkholes and other water use issues in our state. For example, you can decide to use a rainwater catchment system , which will help conserve our state’s water resources.

Rain Control Gutters is a seamless gutter company serving Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay area right in the heart of Florida’s “sinkhole alley.”

Do You Have Florida Sinkhole Insurance Coverage?

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:13:00 GMT

The answer is a bit mixed. In Florida all homeowner’s insurance policies are required, by law, to provide some sort of sinkhole coverage. We’re one of only two states that requires this coverage: if you don’t live here, or in Tennessee, then you might need to purchase sinkhole coverage separately if you want it.

However, there are also loopholes in Florida’s law that can make sinkhole coverage problematic. It’s simply not the perfect protection you might hope for.

For example, there’s no law that keeps insurance companies from dropping your coverage if they feel there’s too much of a sinkhole risk. Insurers can also deny you coverage if there is a verified sinkhole “near” your home. The law doesn’t define what “near” means in this case.

Fortunately, there is a state-run alternative if you do lose your coverage: Citizen’s Property Insurance. Citizens is a “good news, bad news” scenario.

On one hand, you can get homeowner’s insurance. On the other hand, Citizens can charge anything it wants, and they’ve been raising premiums and deductibles on sinkholes. In many cases, residents of “sinkhole alley” just don’t have anywhere else to turn.

In addition, there are state laws which can make it harder to file a sinkhole claim. That’s because between 2006 and 2010 there were dozens of sinkhole claims. Not all of the very large claim checks were used to actually fix the homes.

Instead, some of the homeowners paid off their mortgages, sold the homes, and made a profit while leaving the damage to become somebody else’s problem. This has led to still more changes in the laws.

For example, if your insurer denies your sinkhole claim then you will need to pay $2500 to get tests that prove there is a sinkhole – and that your home wasn’t simply designed with whatever flaw sparked the claim. This is refundable if you turn out to be right, but it’s a large, out-of-pocket expense.

What does all of this mean for you and your home?

First, be sure that you understand the differences between sinkhole coverage. Comprehensive coverage can help you with minor sinkholes that are damaging your home but which do not necessarily represent a clear and present danger to you and your family.

Catastrophic sinkhole coverage only helps you if you have a severe collapse. It would have to swallow your car or take out one of the rooms in your home before the insurance would respond.

Second, understand that it might be a good idea to consult a sinkhole lawyer before you talk to your insurance company about sinkhole problems in your home.

An attorney can help you get a better outcome then you might get on your own, since these laws are so complex. There are several here in central Florida that only deal in sinkhole problems.

Finally, be safe! Don’t just ignore sinkhole problems because you’re reluctant to deal with the insurance issues.

We are a Tampa Bay area gutter company with a service area that stretches from Ocala to Brandon. We offer free estimates on gutter installations, repair, and fine-mesh gutter guard technology and we are committed to protecting homeowners and their most precious investment: their houses.

16 Signs of a Sinkhole in Florida

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:39:00 GMT

In fact, our entire service area is considered “sinkhole alley,” especially in Hernando county, Pasco county, Hillsborough county, and Pinellas county. Florida has 15,000 sinkholes, and most of them are right here.

We’re also coming right up on “sinkhole season.” Most sinkholes develop during the spring or during the summer.

Fortunately, sinkholes aren’t entirely random. Here are 16 signs of a sinkhole:

Obviously some of these issues could be caused by other things. We’ve often explained how improper gutter maintenance can eventually lead to foundation cracks, for example.

However, if you start to see three or more of these signs together then it is a good idea to contact your insurance company. You may need to get your home tested. You can often get sinkhole repair done before they open up to damage your home and property further.

Of course, you might also need to get repairs done to the areas of your home which are already affected, such as your foundations.

We urge you not to take any chances with sinkholes! Though sinkhole fatalities are rare they can cause a great deal of damage to your home, and they’re still a safety issue.

How To Keep Gutters From Clogging

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:11:00 GMT

A clogged gutter downspout is often more difficult to deal with than a clogged gutter. While we covered ways to unclog your downspout when discussing how to clean your gutters , it’s sometimes better to simply prevent the problem in the first place.

Of course, we’ve also discussed “no-clog” gutters. We were able to demonstrate that these products just don’t produce the promised results.

We’ve also found another “no-clog” product worth taking a look at, one that is meant to keep downspouts from clogging instead of the gutters themselves. This product is called the gutter pump.

The gutter pump is a relatively simple piece of equipment. You drop the part that looks like a faucet into your downspout and put the box part in your gutter.

Here is a video that demonstrates how it works.

Leaves get trapped on top of the gutter pump. There’s also a side flap that lets the water push through into the downspout without (theoretically) allowing any debris to go through.

In truth the product isn’t terrible. It’s won many awards, and even reviewers say it’s good at keeping larger debris out.

However, smaller debris, like seeds and pine needles, still gets through. You can’t rely on this product to always keep your downspouts from getting clogged all the time. Your gutters will still need maintenance.

Industrial nylon gutter guards will be far more successful at preventing downspout clogs. That’s because they keep most of the debris out of the gutter in the first place, before they can ever get to your downspout.

Of course, if you’re not feeling ready to install gutter guards then the $25 gutter pump investment isn’t a bad one. The pump won’t hurt your gutters or downspouts, and as long as you have realistic expectations and continue to clean your gutters and downspouts every spring and fall then you may find them helpful enough.

Just don’t buy one thinking that it’s a magic bullet that will prevent all possible downspout clogs. They aren’t fix-it and forget-it solutions.

Just remember, the gutter pump won’t do anything to make the overall job of gutter cleaning any easier or faster, but gutter guards will!

If you are ready to enjoy the benefits of the leaf guards we offer and you live in Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay area, then give us a call. We’ve got over 35 years of experience and we offer free estimates, too!

How to Create a Working Downspout Drainage System

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 21:13:00 GMT

The issue is soil. Some soil absorbs and drains the water very well, so a downspout that diverts water just a few inches away from your home works pretty well.

Other soil doesn’t perform so well. If your soil is the latter type you’ll see puddles pooling next to your home during a storm. This can result, eventually, in a great deal of erosion around the base of your home.

If you see erosion around the base of your home them you can bet that all of that water is getting pretty close to your foundation, too. That’s exactly what you don’t want.

You have a couple of options when it comes to building a downspout drainage system.

One of the simplest is to simply add a splash block. You can find splash blocks in vinyl, plastic, or concrete. The concrete ones do last the longest, of course. Some companies make decorative splash blocks that can at least make your downspout drainage system a little bit more visually appealing.

The rainwater collection systems we’ve already been talking about are also great ways to take care of the problem. You not only make the water useful to you but you keep it off the ground entirely.

Pipe extensions are another easy way to handle the problem. You can use above-ground pipe extensions or you can use underground pipe extensions.

The flex-drain system that’s outlined in this video by Lowes creates a very easy DIY pipe extension system that is also incredibly effective. As you’ll see, this system makes it easy to run the water right to the curb:

As the video mentions, you should always call Miss Dig at 811 before doing any digging whatsoever. You may also need a permit, so call your county building department to make sure that you’re in the clear before you begin.

Of course, no downspout drainage system is going to be very helpful to you if your gutters aren’t clean, leak-free, and in good repair to begin with. How are yours doing? If you live in Brandon or anywhere else in the Central Florida area then give us a call for a free estimate so you can find out!

Choosing the Right Gutter Cleaning Tools

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 17:48:00 GMT

Having the right tools can make the difference between an unsafe, unhappy project where you get injured and an afternoon where you simply work hard to protect your home from rainwater damage. We’ve already talked about how to choose the right ladder for cleaning your gutters , but there are other tools you might want to consider, too.

Protective Eye Googles
You wouldn’t believe some of the things that come out of gutters sometimes! Animals and insects are the biggest concerns , but sometimes debris can fly around as you scoop it up, too.

A Rake
Most people don’t stop and think about their roof when they begin their gutter cleaning job. Sometimes, however, the roof has a lot of debris on it, too. When it does you’ll need to rake it off before you clean the gutters.

The rake keeps you from having to do the job twice. Imagine getting your gutters nice and clean, only to have all the stuff on your roof fall back down into them during the very next rainstorm. Yuck.

A Spray Nozzle for Your Hose
If you’re using a standard garden hose to wash out your gutters then you’re going to want the spray nozzle for a little extra power.

As a safety concern, be sure that you’re always spraying towards the downspout. Work with the gutters. Don’t ever work against them.

A Gutter Scoop and Gutter Scoop Extension
Grabbing that stuff with your hands is no fun at all, even when you’re wearing gloves.

We recommend a plastic gutter scoop, since it does less damage to the gutters. The extension is helpful simply because it keeps you from having to constantly move your ladder, allowing you to reach further without endangering your safety.

A Good Sense of Humor
We’ve found all sorts of weird and crazy things in people’s gutters; sometimes they’re actually pretty funny!

Besides, cleaning gutters is a dirty task. Losing your temper isn’t very safe, and it just makes the job even less fun.

The Willingness To Call a Professional
Sometimes the best gutter cleaning tools are your good judgment and your phone.

For example, some gutter cleaning tasks are so intense that they require you to walk around on the roof to get them done. This is a time when it might just be a good idea to get someone to do the job for you.

Sure, there are special shoes you can buy to make walking around on your roof safer, and we don’t doubt that you’ve got the grit to get it done, but a professional gutter contractor also has a lot of extra safety equipment that they can use to prevent accidents.

Is your gutter cleaning task looking a bit too tough this spring? Then call Rain Control Gutters for a free estimate! We’ve been cleaning gutters in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years, and we’re happy to help you out, too.

Choosing the Right Ladder to Clean Gutters

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:05:00 GMT

You’ll also need to give some thought to the right way to handle your ladder, since this is vital to your safety during the gutter cleaning process. At Rain Control Gutters we want your gutters to be clean, but we want you to be safe too.

Choose the Right Ladder Material

You have three basic options when it comes to ladder materials.

The first option is the traditional wooden ladder. While wooden ladders are cheap and traditional they are not the option we typically recommend.

The reason is a matter of balance. Wooden ladders have a tendency to wobble more than any other ladder. People fall off ladders while cleaning their gutters precisely because they lose their balance.

Fiberglass is another option. It’s good and sturdy, so it’s not a bad choice.

However, fiberglass is also heavy . Remember, you’ll have to move the ladder around the entire perimeter of your house to get your gutters thoroughly clean.

A fiberglass ladder could thus turn a job that takes a day into a job that takes three weeks, just because fatigue will set in early.

There is an exception however. If you have power lines near your home then fiberglass is just safer, heavy or not.

We may just seem a little biased towards this particular metal, but the truth is that an aluminum ladder is often the most advantageous for cleaning gutters. Aluminum is strong enough not to wobble but is light enough not to make the gutter cleaning job any more tedious than it has to be.

Choose the Right Ladder for your Weight

You need to take your own weight into account when you’re choosing a ladder. Different ladders are rated for different weight capacities.

Don’t push this to its limits. If you remember our earlier post on gutter cleaning you may be taking one or more buckets up there: one filled with tools, and one to hold the gutter muck if you’re not simply flinging it onto a drop cloth on the ground.

Every ladder has what’s called a “load capacity.” You’ll need to be very careful to know your load capacity before you get on the ladder.

There are ladders with load capacities for just about anyone. You can find extension ladders capable of bearing up to 500 lbs (not that we’re saying you need one that hefty)!

The key is to know what you need before you buy the ladder.

Inspect Your Ladder Thoroughly

Ladders are subject to wear and tear like anything else, and if they’ve got enough damage than they can be unsafe no matter what material they’re made of or what advertised load capacity they have. That’s why you should always check your ladder before climbing it.

What are you looking for? Check for the following:

If the ladder has loose screws it may still be okay, so long as you fix and tighten the screws before climbing it.

Secure the Ladder Properly

Even the right ladder needs to be properly secured in order to ensure your safety. Start by checking the extension arms. Are they fully extended?

Next, place a piece of plywood under the ladder’s legs to steady it. This just gives it a little extra support.

Test your ladder by bouncing lightly on the ladder’s lowest rung. Does the ladder seem steady or does it continue to wobble? If it wobbles, adjust it.

Call on the help of a partner to hold the ladder secure while you’re on it. Now you can climb the ladder to secure it at the top.

Three bungee cords are very helpful here. You can wrap the cord tightly around the ladder and secure it to the edges of the gutter. This is only as strong as the cords and the gutter, however, so don’t rely on this method alone to keep you safe.

Use the Ladder Correctly

While you’re on the ladder you need to make sure that you’re observing ladder safety at all times. In the gutter cleaning business we have something called the “three point rule.”

This means, basically, that three parts of your body should be touching the ladder at all times: both feet, and one hand.

Never reach or stretch to get debris out of your gutter. If you have to reach or stretch then it’s time to descend the ladder and move it. Reaching and stretching are the most common reasons why people fall off ladders.

Finally, don’t get on the ladder if you’re intimidated by the process. Find another method, or call a gutter contractor to handle the job for you.

Rain Control Gutters has been providing gutter cleaning services to residents of Ocala and central Florida for over 35 years. If you’d like to stay off that ladder just call us today for a free estimate!

How To Prevent Mold and Mildew In Your Home

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 18:59:00 GMT

Like mold, mildew is far easier to prevent than it is to remove. Here are some of the steps that you can take to prevent these from overtaking your home.

Promote Air Flow

Preventing mildew begins with air flow. Mildew likes dank places where the air is still.

Run your ceiling fan. Be sure to run your bathroom fan after a really hot shower, too.

Even the placement of your furniture can matter to your air flow. Put a little space between your furniture and the wall whenever possible.

Reduce Moisture in the Air

Reducing moisture is vital to mildew prevention. We don’t just mean the moisture that comes in from the outdoors, either. After all, if your roof, gutters, soffit and fascia are in good repair than not much moisture should be attacking your home from outside.

The air indoors can still grow very moist, however, which is where using a humidifier comes in. It’s also helpful to use silica gel. Simply place packets of the gel in closets and in drawers.

Watch Your Laundry

Wet clothes are a huge source of mildew. Don’t store clothing when it’s wet, and don’t leave wet clothes in the washer too long.

Mildew will start on wet clothes. Then it will spread, easily, to other areas of your home.

Fix Leaks Fast

Ruthlessly eliminate leaks wherever and whenever you find them. Water damage is water damage, whether it comes from a leaking pipe under your sink or from a windowsill that’s seeping thanks to gutters that are in poor repair.

Once you discover the leak you’ll also want to clean up the associated water as soon as you can. Standing water is an open invitation for mold and mildew to enter your home, and once it’s there you’ve got a whole new set of problems on your hands.

Rain Control Gutters has installed, repaired, and protected gutters in Ocala and the rest of the Central Florida area for over 35 years, keeping homeowners safer from mold and mildew alike. Call us today to learn how we can work with you to protect the value and comfort of your home.

Cleaning Gutters Without a Ladder

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:09:00 GMT

Fortunately for you there are actually a couple of reliable gutter cleaning methods that will keep your feet firm and safe on the ground. Here are a few of your options.

Use Your Vacuum

With the right attachment your Shop-Vac or outdoor vacuum can become a potent gutter cleaning tool. These attachments are usually inexpensive and easy to use.

You can also use your leaf blower to your advantage. Again, you will need a special attachment to do so.

The Weed Eater Rain Gutter Attachment is one example of this kind of an attachment. As you’ll see, it’s slightly more expensive than the vacuum attachment.

Put Water on Your Side

Your hose can become a powerful gutter cleaning tool when paired with a gutter cleaning telescoping wand. However, this wand just won’t be powerful enough to help you if you’ve left a lot of debris to become impacted in your gutters over time.

Instead, you might need to switch to a pressure washer paired with an angled gutter spray attachment. The video below shows this kind of a set-up in action.

Call a Professional

Of course, calling a professional is one of the easiest strategies of all when cleaning gutters without a ladder. This is a service we perform all the time for our customers in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area.

Once we’ve cleaned your gutters we can also protect them throughout the year with micro-mesh gutter guards that reduce the amount of time and energy you’ll need to spend on gutter maintenance. Call us today for a free estimate so we can keep your feet firmly on the ground for years to come.

How to Inspect a Roof to Keep It Maintained Properly

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:11:00 GMT

Don’t wait until the roof seems to be leaking to give it attention. By the time a leak manifests inside of the home the roof is usually in real trouble. At that point, the water has gotten so bad that it’s soaking through multiple roof layers, including the insulation and the rafters.

Instead, use this inspection checklist to help you keep your roof healthy and strong. A properly maintained roof can last up to 20 years before it needs a replacement, so taking these steps can save you thousands of dollars.

If you do discover a problem it’s time to call a roof contractor right away. Sometimes locating the source of the leak can be half the battle, since leaks often manifest far away from the actual source of the problem. These professionals are equipped to locate the problem and fix it. Don’t try to put your own “roof patch” on the problem since that can trap moisture beneath the patch, leading to interior rot later.

Remember, your roof, gutters, soffit and fascia are all part of a total water management system that protects your home. If any part of the system is distressed then all of the other parts will soon start developing serious issues as well. Those issues can easily spread to other parts of your home, requiring thousands of dollars in repairs – but this can all be avoided by doing annual roof inspections!

Rain Control Gutters has installed, repaired, and cleaned gutters in Homossasa, Beverley Hills, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years. We offer free estimates on any service we provide.

The Problems with No-Clog Gutters

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:06:00 GMT

Periodically people try to sell “no-clog” gutters. These aren’t gutter guard products. Instead they are literally products that are designed to keep the gutter from developing any kind of clog or debris.

Some varieties of gutter guards don’t work very well, which is why we’re very careful about the ones that we sell. The problem with no-clog gutters, however, is that they typically work too well.

No-clog gutters don’t just keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of your gutters. They can actually keep the water out of your gutters, too, defeating the purpose of the entire exercise.

There are a couple of different types that people try to sell. One form would be the awkwardly designed gutter hood.

These hoods have only very small, narrow channels for water to pass through. They also create the kind of dark, moist environment that moss loves.

If moss or other debris does get into these kinds of gutters they can be impossible to clean. You’d literally have to pry the hood back off of your gutters.

There are also inserts that are meant to go inside of your gutters. The triangle type, for example, is meant to hold back debris.

The triangle works pretty well until the debris build-up gets really heavy. At that point the water stops seeping through the filter. You essentially create exactly the same situation that you’d create if you never cleaned your gutters at all.

Brush-guards are similar except they add long, spiny brushes to the inside of the gutter. Here, the debris build up happens on top of the brush.

At that point you don’t just have a clog. Brush guards can cause a huge cascade of water to come sweeping over the side of the gutter.

There, it will wash directly towards your foundations.

It’s far better to get well-designed gutter guards and to remember that you will never get out of cleaning your gutters entirely.

Understand that not all gutter guards are created equal. Some actually trap debris. The ones that we use, however, use an industrial nylon gutter guard that prevents the problem.

If you’re trying to reduce the amount of time and energy that you put into gutter maintenance then call us for a free estimate on micro-mesh gutter guards. We serve Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay area.

Dealing With Moss in Your Gutters

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:01:00 GMT

Moss on your roof and in your gutters can clog your gutters and retain water as surely as old, wet leaves can. Moss also requires a little extra effort to get out of your gutters as it is a very persistent little plant.

Start by creating a vinegar and water solution. You’ll need one part of vinegar to four parts of water, and you’ll need enough of it to treat the entire affected area.

You’ll also want to get a power washer for the later stages of the process. Review the video below for power washer safety tips.

Next, you’ll have to get up on your ladder. You’ll start by pulling up the moss by hand.

Be aware that the moss will have an entire root system that needs to come up. If you leave the root system in place the moss will come back.

If the moss is up on your roof as well then you’ll need to get up there to remove it from the roof, too. Otherwise it will grow right back into your gutters. However, do not use your pressure washer on the roof under any circumstances. You will damage your roof. You may need to consult a professional roof cleaner if a brush and your vinegar solution doesn’t help you.

Once you’ve pulled up all of the moss you can spray down the affected areas with your vinegar solution. THe acid in your vinegar will keep the moss from growing back.

You could also use bleach in your power washer, as mentioned in the video, since the next step will be to power wash your roof, gutter, and drainpipe.

Installing gutter guards can help keep the moss out of your roof in the future. You will, of course, want to continue to clean your gutters in the fall and in the spring to catch anything that got past the guards. (There will be far less than you’d have dealt with without the guards, but no gutter guard is 100% capable of keeping everything out).

If you find the thought of cleaning moss from your gutters to be daunting or you’d like to take advantage of a professional gutter guard installation you can always call us. We’ve helped homeowners as far North as Ocala down through St. Petersburg with issues just like this for over 35 years. Call us today for a free estimate!

Does Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Cover Mold?

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:45:00 GMT

Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case unless you consciously took the time to build mold coverage into your policy. Very few homeowner’s insurance policies cover mold.

A basic policy, in fact, usually specifically excludes mold coverage.

You can sometimes still get mold dealt with under a basic policy, but only under specific circumstances. For example, a pipe bursts in your home through no fault of your own. Mold results.

The policy might cover cleaning up the mold as a side effect of the burst pipe, but in the eyes of the insurance company they’re covering burst pipe damages, not mold. They won’t cover mold that’s your own fault, such as mold that shows up in your home because your gutters weren’t cleaned or properly repaired.

Flooding isn’t usually covered either, as most of us here in Florida know. Flood damage, and the mold that comes with it, can usually only be covered by a specific flood rider.

This is all pretty scary when you consider the fact that 22% of all homeowner insurance claims are water-related. The dollar amount of the average mold claim ranges between $15,000 to $30,000.

When the typical policy covers mold at all it usually covers it only up to a limit of $10,000. Yikes.

You can sometimes deal with the problem by purchasing a special “mold rider” for your policy. You can expect to pay $800 to $1500 annually for such a rider.

If your home has made a mold claim before, however, it can have an adverse effect on your ability to get such a rider. It can also make it difficult to get homeowner’s insurance at all. When you do get the insurance it’s likely to be pricey.

All of these are just more reasons why you should prevent mold in your home by keeping your gutters clean and in good repair.

Don’t want to clean your gutters yourself? We understand. We offer gutter cleaning and repair services to homeowners in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area. Call us today for a free estimate.

How to Control Pests in Your Yard

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:00:00 GMT

Clean Outdoor Trashcans

Sometimes garbage slips out of garbage bags and into trashcans. Eventually the bottoms of trashcans become tempting food sources for bugs and rodents.

If your trash cans have started to smell, hose them out. You might want to do this periodically anyway, as a matter of habit.

Look for Standing Water

Insects love standing water. Mosquitoes, of course, are especially fond of it.

It’s not good for your landscaping either. So fill in the holes, create a drainage ditch, or build a rain garden to soak up water run-off.

Keep Decks and Fences in Good Repair

Rotting wooden decks or fences attract termites. Those are problems in their own right, so it pays to replace rotted wood as soon as you find it. It’s also a good idea to use a sealant to protect the wood.

Clean up After Pets

Insects feed off of feces, so if your pets use the yard as their bathroom it’s a good idea to just go ahead and scoop the poop. Besides, that will make your yard a nicer place to be, too.

Eliminate Hiding Places

Weeds, debris, and old lawn junk are attractive hiding places for rodents. Good yard maintenance isn’t just a matter of aesthetics.

These tips and measures are good for more than your gutters. Insects and rodents carry disease, so it’s a good idea to discourage them in principle.

This is especially true here in Central Florida, where our typical wet, warm conditions provide insects in particular with their ideal conditions. There’s nothing quite so unpleasant as walking up your driveway to be swarmed by mosquitoes, even if you don’t spend much time out in your yard.

For 35 years we’ve helped homeowners protect their investments from water damage throughout the central Florida area, servicing areas as far south as St. Petersburg and as far north as Ocala. We offer free estimates on gutter repair, gutter cleaning, gutter guard installation and new seamless gutter installations. Call us today.

How to Keep Creatures Out of Your Gutters

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 18:27:00 GMT

As far as we know, Burmese Pythons haven’t made it into any gutters, but sometimes other animals (including other species of snakes) do. This can be a distressing situation, especially if some animals are frightening to you or your family members.

Animals in your gutters also just aren’t great for gutter efficiency. Any debris in your gutter is bad for its ability to do its job.

Here are a few tips to help you keep the animals out of your gutters.

Keep Your Gutters Clean

As we covered in a previous post, animals like dirty gutters. They like to burrow down deep in the leaf and soil cover. If you do everything you can to keep your rain gutters clean then they’ll be much less attractive to visitors.

Get Gutter Guards

Animals can’t take up residence in your gutters if they can’t get inside of them. Gutter guards also help you keep your gutters clean so that they don’t want to.

Cover Your Downspouts

Sometimes animals simply climb up your downspouts. To their eyes, a downspout looks like a perfect shelter built just for them.

You can solve this problem simply by adding a hardware mesh cloth to your gutter downspout. This will let the water stream out without letting the animals back in.

Try Eco-Friendly Repellents

There are several eco-friendly bird, snake, and rodent repellents on the market. They don’t hurt the animals. They just emit smells that the animals don’t particularly like, or which scare them away. You can apply these products to your gutters to make them a less attractive home.

You can also try to scare the animals away. There are special sound wave speakers that emit frequencies many animals hate; these can be mounted near your gutters.

You can also try fright inducers like owl decoys or eagle decoys. These can be placed on or near the gutters.

Trim Your Trees

Animals use trees to leap into your gutters. Make sure to keep overhanging limbs pruned away from your roof.

As a bonus, this technique also spares your roof from damage when there are storms.

Practice Good Pest Control In Your Yard

Animals often arrive in your gutters because you’re keeping an array of tasty animal foods in your yard. Keeping insects out of your yard will cut down on lizard problems. Keeping rodents out of your yard will cut down on snakes.

Remember, if you see animals in your gutters it’s best to call professional help. We can remove these creatures safely, just as we’ve done for homeowners in Homossassa , Beverley Hills, and the rest of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years. Call us today for a free estimate.

4 Signs that It’s Time to Clean Those Gutters!

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 18:03:00 GMT

That’s why we’ve compiled four different signs that it’s time to clean your gutters. These are signs that you can spot and act on even when you are incredibly busy.

Look for Animals and Birds
As your gutters fill with leaves and debris, birds, mice, rats, frogs, lizards and snakes will be attracted to them. The compressed debris makes for good burrows and attractive nesting materials that most animals can’t resist.

If you’re concerned about encountering the animals (particularly the snakes) or if you want to ensure the health and safety of baby birds, then it’s best to reach out for professional help. A gutter contractor will know how to handle these animals the right way!

This is one thing leaf guards really help with, of course. It’s harder for critters to get inside of the gutters when the guards are blocking their access.

Plants are Growing in Your Gutters
We’ve talked about gutter gardens in the past. They’re great when you mean to create them and when they aren’t using the primary gutter systems in your home.

If weeds, flowers, and grass are growing in your gutters, however, then it’s time to take action.

Your Gutters are Sagging
If your gutters are sagging from the weight of all the debris inside of them then you are in real trouble. Your utters may well need replacement by this point.

Let your gutters sag long enough and they could start ripping away at your roof, too. These repairs can be costly.

Besides, sagging gutters are unsightly. They tell all of your neighbors that you’re not taking care of your home.

The Waterfall Effect
Water cascades over the sides of gutters that need to be cleaned. You may have noticed sheets of rain outside of your window. This isn’t a good sign!

If a gutter isn’t doing what it’s supposed to do then it needs attention. Don’t want to tackle the task yourself? If you live in Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey, Land O’Lakes or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay Area, give us a call! We’ll be happy to clean your gutters or give you a free estimate if they need repair or replacement.

How To Determine The Size Of Your Rainwater Collection Tank

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:48:00 GMT

Now we want to take a moment to give you some ideas on how you can make the most of your rainwater collection system. One thing that you can do is to make sure you are choosing a barrel that is large enough to truly serve your water needs.

Start by looking up the amount of annual rainfall your area receives. To help you out, here are some of the annual rainfall figures for some of the cities we serve.

Next, you will need to know how big your roof area is. That is called your “catchment area.”

Note that 10 inches of rainwater on an 1000 square foot roof will give you approximately 600 gallons of rainwater. So if you had a 2,000 square foot roof you’d get 1200 gallons of water per ten inches, 1800 for a 3,000 square foot roof, and so on.

The Ocala homeowner with a 2,000 square foot roof can expect to catch 61,116 gallons of rain water every year (1200 x 50.93).

Divide that figure by 12 and you’ll know that a 5000 gallon tank will probably serve your needs just fine, since you wouldn’t expect to store exactly 5093 gallons of water every month.

You’ll have some dry days and you’ll be using the water.

These calculations get a lot more complex, however, if you are actually relying on the rainwater for a great deal of your water use, or if you want a rainwater system that actually integrates with your existing water supply. At that point, it’s best to consult a professional rainwater collection contractor.

We spotted at least 15 of these contractors in the central Florida area after a brief search. We don’t currently have a relationship with any of them to recommend any to you, but the resources are certainly available if you want a more sophisticated system.

Remember, no rainwater collection system works well without clean gutters. Be sure to tackle those gutters every fall and every spring, or call us to get the job done for you!

What You Need to Know About Mold

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:35:00 GMT

How often do you peek behind your siding, for example? Yet wet spots behind your siding provide dark, nutrient-rich places for mold to grow. That mold can easily spread to the interior of your home.

There’s no such thing as a mold-free environment. Mold particles drift constantly through indoor and outdoor air whether you’re aware of it or not. Central Florida provides a particularly hospitable environment for the pesky fungus since it’s so wet.

That’s not to say mold is useless. It serves a purpose in nature: it breaks down dead plant and animal matter. You just don’t want it in your home, where it can permanently damage walls, floors, and ceilings, three things you don’t want “broken down.”

Mold can also spread to your furniture, too. Once it does, it is difficult, if not impossible to repair the damage or to get rid of the persistent smell.

A history of mold can make your home very difficult to sell, too. Don’t think you can simply hide it. Florida has laws which require sellers to disclose a mold problem.

While you can sometimes alleviate seller fears by producing documents outlining the steps you have taken to solve your mold problem many buyers simply will not take the chance. Once mold appears it has a habit of returning again and again in spite of all best efforts to contain it.

The biggest concerns that mold presents are typically the health problems that are associated with it. Mold can cause respiratory problems, sinus infections, sore throats, eye irritation and skin irritation. Babies, the elderly and anyone with any pre-existing breathing problems, like asthma, are particularly vulnerable.

Proper gutter maintenance, cleaning, and installation is one of the most powerful weapons at your disposal for preventing mold in your home. Call us so you don’t have to call the mold inspector or mold remediation professional!

What is the True Cost of Water Damage?

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 18:02:00 GMT

You can compare these costs to the costs outlined in our post: How Much do Gutters Cost? This can help you make informed decisions about the care and maintenance of your home.

Roof Leaks
A poorly maintained or ineffective gutter system can eventually cause your roof to leak. This can also mean water damage to the ceiling inside of your home.

Roof repairs can cost anywhere from $600 to $5000. This does not include the costs of repainting your ceiling or patching your sheet rock.

Foundations
Water damage eventually cracks foundations, creating an urgent situation. Cracked foundations can eventually cause cracked, warped walls. Taken to their extreme, warped foundations can cause parts of your house to collapse.

Foundation repair is never cheap. You can expect costs to start at $10,000, minimum.

Siding and Walls
Water that gets under your siding can get into your walls, too. This causes peeling paint, rotting wood, and unattractive stains. It can also cause mold.

Mold is a major health hazard that can render your home completely unlivable. Removal can cost $10,000 or more. These costs do not, of course, factor in the costs of repairing your walls or the siding itself.

Windows
Leaky, drafty windows can become a problem as water starts to rot the window sill and frame. This will cause the paint around your windows to bubble and peel. Wood window sills and frames will rot, and that rot can also be transferred to the surrounding walls.

Leaky, drafty windows create hidden costs, too. They let energy escape the home, which means you can expect your electric bill and your gas bill to skyrocket.

Windows can cost $200 to $1000 per window to replace, or $300 to $400 per window to restore. Count the number of windows in your home to get a sense of what those kinds of repairs might mean for you.

Gutters Just Make Sense
These are just a few of the areas of your home that can be torn apart by water damage when you don’t make gutters a priority. When you compare these costs to the cost of an efficient seamless rain gutter system you’ll see why gutters are such an important investment.

If you live in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey or anywhere else in the Tampa Bay Area, give us a call. We’ll be happy to give you a free estimate on new gutters, gutter repairs, or gutter cleaning so that you can prevent these much more costly problems!

How Much Do Gutters Cost?

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:20:00 GMT

While we can’t tell you how much your specific gutters will cost without seeing your home, we can give you some useful estimates. For the most part, gutters are priced by the foot, and the price depends largely on the materials you use.

Seamless aluminum gutters typically cost $5 to $9 per foot. Before getting sticker shock, remember the high quality and numerous advantages that seamless rain gutters have to offer.

Sometimes, we deal in copper as well. Copper has a lot of advantages, but it is a very expensive option at $11 to $13 per foot.

While vinyl provides a cheaper option than either aluminum or copper, remember that “cheap” carries hidden costs. Vinyl may be $3 to $5 per foot, but it doesn’t do a good job of standing up to heavy rains, driving winds, or falling tree branches. We see a great deal of all three here in central Florida.

Professional installation, of course, will always cost more than the DIY option. However, professional installation might also save you thousands of dollars in home repairs later because the job gets done correctly the first time.

Remember that gutters aren’t just about gutters. Gutters protect some of the most basic and important parts of your home, such as the roof and the foundation. Repairing either can become far more expensive than any new gutter system could ever possibly be.

In truth, you can’t really predict the price of your gutters without an estimate. We offer free estimates to all of our customers to help them calculate the costs before they begin their project.

If you’re ready to add new gutters to your home simply call us. We’ve helped homeowners in Clearwater and other parts of the Tampa Bay area protect their home with seamless aluminum gutters for years, and we can help you too!

5 Ways to Add More Value to Your Home

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 18:04:00 GMT

Many Florida homeowners simply try to guess which improvements might be most profitable. Guessing wrong can be expensive.

As Smart Money magazine notes :

Here are five “sure-fire” improvements which can give you the most for your money.

#1: Get More Energy Efficient

Installing more energy efficient windows and doors can provide an outstanding return on investment, especially as buyers become more energy-conscious. For example, the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report for 2011-2012 notes a 72.6% return on investment by replacing standard windows with energy-efficient vinyl windows (especially if you use matching trim).

You’ll also recoup part of your investment in increased energy savings while you’re actually living in the home.

#2: Update Your Kitchen

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and great kitchens certainly attract buyers. You can typically expect to recoup 70% to 80% of your investment in added home value when you take the time to update one.

However, it’s a good idea to consult an interior designer or architect before you begin. Kitchens go in and out of style.

It’s best to target a timeless appeal if you’re not planning to sell for awhile. If you need to sell fast, a designer can help you tap into cutting edge trends.

#3: More Space is Always Helpful

Adding another bedroom or bathroom can be pricey, but people love additional space. You can expect to see a 65% to 75% return on your investment if you do this.

It just makes sense – anyone would expect to pay more for a 5 bedroom house than they would for a 4 bedroom house. Even an attic bedroom can make the difference.

#4 Add a Deck

Decks aren’t quite counted as an additional room, but they do add to the square footage of your home. They also offer a great deal of appeal as a gathering place for friends or family.

A good deck offers a great return on investment. On average, you’ll see 85% of your investment into the deck added back into the overall value of your home.

#5: Fix Real Problems

None of these repairs count for much if you’ve got a cracked foundation or a leaky roof. You’ll want to address these problems first, since they’re actively dragging the value of your home down.

Of course, some of the worst problems with the home can be caused by issues with your gutters, since they protect your roof, foundation, windows, and siding from water damage. Avoid costly home repairs by properly cleaning, maintaining, and repairing your gutters.

By following these five tips, you can add more value to your home and make it easier to sell!

Since 1975 we’ve helped homeowners in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area protect the value of their homes by repairing and installing seamless gutters. Call us today for a free estimate!

The Rain Gutter Drink Chiller – One More Neat Gutter Project

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:20:00 GMT

To do this project you’d need a picnic table and a short section of gutter. Metal gutter pieces actually work well for this project as the metal will help you hold in the cold once you fill the chiller with ice.

Measure your gutter section. Then, cut a corresponding section out of your picnic table. If one of the boards on your picnic table is rotting or otherwise damaged that might be the board to use.

Place the gutter piece in the hole, then mount it. You can place the mounts under the table or directly on top of the table depending upon your preferences.

Primarily, your main concern would be to ensure that the gutter is mounted strongly enough to bear the weight of your ice and drinks. You’ll also want to drill screws through the sides of the gutter to sink them into the picnic table planks. This will give you an even more durable set-up.

Add end-caps to keep your ice from sliding out, too. The end result is a very cool conversation piece and a picnic table that looks custom made.

When you’re ready to use it just add your ice and your drinks, as well as anything else best kept cold (like mayo). You’ll get to enjoy less clutter in your back yard and you won’t get the “stuff floating in water” ice chest effect.

Cleaning this cooler is also easier than cleaning a normal cooler since you can drain it simply by temporarily removing one of the end-caps. You might have to tilt the table slightly to drain everything. It’s a good idea to wipe the gutter down when you’re done, too.

While you’re upgrading your picnic table don’t forget to take a look at the gutters on your home, too. Remember, gutters can help you avoid costly leaks and repairs to windows, doors, foundations, siding, driveways and more.

If you suspect your gutters need repair we’ll be happy to have a look at them. We’ve helped homeowners in Homosassa, Beverley Hills, and the rest of the Tampa area and we offer free estimates.

Get them checked for your peace of mind. That way you can go back to anticipating the party where you will unveil your cool new drink chiller!

Rain Gutter Gardens

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 18:06:00 GMT

In today’s post we’re going to help you really dig into this concept of gutter gardening simply because gutter gardening is more than a creative curiosity. In fact, gutter gardens can provide some real advantages that other types of gardens don’t.

Gutter Gardens Save Space

Gutter gardens can create “vertical gardens,” which help you take advantage of small spaces. This is an especially good solution for people who don’t have much yard space because they live in an apartment, condo, or duplex.

Each garden “row” is simply mounted and stacked one on the other on some available bit of wall, siding, window, or fence space, depending on your set-up. You have to choose plants that have a good tolerance for shallow soil, but that still opens you up to a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and decorative options.

Vertical gardens can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. You would simply need to hang the appropriate indoor garden lighting over your vertical gutter garden.

The blog, Hands Occupied, devoted an entire post to showing readers how to create a step-by-step gutter garden. They actually used aluminum gutters for theirs.

Note that you need to be sure to purchase end caps for each gutter. This will keep your plants and your soil inside of the system. You usually need to drill small holes in the bottom of the gutter to allow for proper drainage. You should also maintain at least one foot between each level as plants do need enough space to grow.

This particular blog post did not cover lighting, but if you wanted you could simply hang the light overhead, or you could create another gutter row specifically designed to hold clip-on indoor gardening lamps. Do this in your kitchen and you could have fresh herbs all year long.

Gutters Make Fantastic Irrigation Systems

There are dozens of different ways to use gutters as irrigation systems. They can even be used in pure hydroponic gardening.

However, they do perfectly fine with soil gardens too. Check out this video to see the kinds of fantastic results that you can achieve with some gutters and some 5 gallon buckets.

If you want a step-by-step guide to creating this kind of self-watering garden you can view this video:

There’s virtually no limit to what you can do if you’re willing to use your imagination when it comes to rain gutters. Of course, you don’t want to forget to update and maintain the actual gutters that protect your home.

Gutters help you avoid costly repairs by re-directing the flow of water from your home. While we can’t help you set up your gutter garden we can give you a free estimate on more traditional uses for gutters, just as we’ve done for homeowners in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa area. Give us a call today!

More Vinyl Gutter Home Improvement Projects

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 21:05:00 GMT

After our article on vinyl gutter bookshelves , we happened to notice a few more ways that people have been creatively using gutters, particularly vinyl gutters. As long as you don’t try to use them on your house we are 100% behind vinyl gutters – and all of the cool ideas they are generating!

Some people have carried the shelving idea a bit further, for example, by using gutters for other types of shelves. Readers who do lots of crafts might like using them to store rolls of ribbon or metal foil.

Home chefs with large kitchens might enjoy using them for spice racks, since kitchen clutter can quickly become intolerable. Fumbling through spices while dinner is burning simply isn’t any fun.

Gutter spice racks and other gutter shelves work on the same basic principle that gutter bookshelves do. Everything is neatly stored, but you can see everything that’s on the shelves because the items are facing the front. This allows for a more attractive, organized display that you just can’t get from traditional shelves.

Gutters also make nice quick, easy planting boxes. You can use these planters either indoors or outdoors.

If your office area has become a disaster zone because of power cord clutter then gutters may also be able to help. Simply run some small gutter shelving beneath your desk area. Use the gutter shelves to keep computer cords, router cords, and printer cords safe, untangled, and out of your way.

You don’t have to restrict this technique to the underside of your desk, of course. If you have to run a long cord across the room you could easily mount a gutter to feed the cord safely along the wall so that nobody will trip over it.

Of course, if you’re planning to use gutters to protect your home from water damage then you won’t want to rely on vinyl gutters. They are easily damaged by heavy winds and falling tree limbs–two things you’ll see a great deal of in the Tampa Bay area.

Aluminum seamless rain gutters are a much better choice. They can stand up to the rough south Florida weather storms without much difficulty, and they don’t leak as much as other types of gutters do .

We’ve helped home owners in parts of the Tampa Bay area like Brandon and the rest of Hillsborough county protect their homes from water damage by outfitting their homes with aluminum seamless rain gutters. If you’d like to explore the benefits of seamless rain gutters for your own home just call us for a free estimate. In the meantime, enjoy those cool DIY gutter projects all over your home!

Vinyl Gutters Make Bad Rain Gutters, But Great Bookshelves

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 17:06:00 GMT

Instead, seamless rain gutters made of aluminum are your most durable option. They are also the option that is the least prone to leaking.

That doesn’t mean you can’t do anything at all with vinyl gutters. One of our readers found this blog post detailing how one mom used vinyl gutters to make a set of bookshelves for her son’s room. It’s also the source where we got the picture of the vinyl gutter bookshelves shown in this post.

It turns out this strategy is about far more than DIY decoration. Rain gutter bookshelves make the books themselves more inviting to young kids.

Instead of placing the books in an imposing bookshelf with only the spines showing you can actually place them into an attractive display that is appealing to your kids. The idea is that you “sell” the books to your kids this way, not for money like the bookstores do, but in order to encourage them to read.

This theory has apparently been tested and it works in classrooms too. You can read about it in this article titled, The Rain Gutter Literacy Revolution . Don’t count on your child’s school to do this for you, though: just do it yourself in your own home.

Don’t try to do this project with old gutters, however. This isn’t recycling advice. Old vinyl gutters are typically pretty nasty: dirt streaked, water stained, and beyond rehabilitation.

Gutter bookshelves are probably the only project we can think of where we’d encourage you to go down to the hardware store to purchase brand new vinyl gutters. After all, your gutter bookshelves won’t have to handle water, wind, rain, and rogue tree limbs in order to be successful.

Now, if you actually want gutters that are meant to serve the purposes that gutters serve, then call us for a free estimate. We’ve helped homeowners in Homosassa, Beverley Hills, and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area protect their homes from storms and heavy rains, and we’ll be happy to help you too!

What is a Gutter Strainer?

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 18:03:00 GMT

Gutter strainers are also called downspout strainers. Their job is to keep your downspouts, one of the most important portions of your gutter system, from getting clogged up.

Clogged downspouts are a huge concern. They can cause your gutters to overflow. When that happens, water typically falls right against your house’s foundation.

Let the water fall on your foundation long enough and you’ll find yourself dealing with some of the most costly and difficult repairs that you can make to a home. Cracked and damaged foundations are no fun.

Ignore a cracked foundation long enough and you’ll soon see your floors and walls buckling too. Pretty soon the entire house can become unsafe. That’s why clogged and overflowing gutters are no small issue, and should be addressed right away.

The steel spring type of gutter strainer is well reviewed and quite effective. They’re durable, and their design lets small debris pass while keeping most of the bigger items out of your downspouts.

These strainers are important primarily if you have not installed gutter guards . You usually don’t use both types of protection at once.

Gutter guards are better since they can prevent a great deal of debris from ever entering your gutters in the first place. Still, if you don’t have gutter guards yet, a strainer can be an important part of any gutter maintenance system.

If you’ve checked your gutters and haven’t found a strainer, it might be a good idea to add on. You can usually find one at any hardware store for less than $4.

Installation is easy, but you will have to get up on your ladder. Find the hole in your gutter where the downspout begins. Push the strainer into the spout. Make sure the large “head” section is pointed upward.

Inspectapedia.com has a nice photograph of a properly installed gutter strainer here .

It’s also important to note that while strainers will keep your downspouts from getting clogged, the gutters themselves may clog quicker than without using a strainer. Still, though, it’s much easier to clear a clog in a gutter than one in your downspout.

If you’re not sure your gutters are getting the job done right for you, or if you need more protection to deal with Florida’s torrential rains, please call us. We’ve helped homeowners in St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater and the entire Tampa Bay area with issues just like these since 1975. Call us today for a free estimate!

Gutters and Rain Water Collection

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:47:00 GMT

Collecting rain water isn’t hard, but there are a few things you will need to do before you begin. You actually want to start by checking your gutters and your roof.

If your gutters have been painted with lead based paint or have lead solder in them then it’s a good idea to have them replaced before you try to build a rain water collection system. This is especially true if you think you’re going to try to purify your rain water for drinking.

You should also look at your roof. Treated cedar shake, tar, gravel, and asbestos roofing material can all contaminate the rainwater beyond any ability to use.

Next, you’re going to want to make sure your downspouts are long enough. Each downspout will need to reach into each of your rain barrels. You may need an extender. The gutters may also have to be adjusted in other ways to handle the system.

Next, choose your rain barrel. Larger rain barrels will mean a system that requires less of your time, since you’ll have to transfer collected rain water to other barrels if your barrel gets too full.

Some people choose to create and customize their own barrels, but there are plenty available at the store. These will already have spouts attached so you can get at the water from the other side. Some can hold incredibly impressive amounts of water!

You need to make sure that you’ve placed your rain barrel on level ground. Otherwise the barrel may pull at your downspouts as it fills and becomes unbalanced. This could damage your entire gutter system, so this step is important.

If you can’t find level ground you may have to create it. This can mean using gravel or cinder blocks to make sure the barrel is sitting flat when it goes to work.

Next, you’ll need to install a filter. If you’re going to use your rain water for watering the lawn, watering your garden, filling your toilet or washing your car you’ll need only a simple filter to keep debris out of your rain barrel.

If you plan on drinking your water then you’ll need a filter with a little more kick. This means a chemical filter or a reverse osmosis filter. You’ll also need to purchase a water testing kit to be absolutely sure the water is safe to drink.

Most people don’t drink their rain water. They simply reserve it for other uses.

If you plan on installing a rain water collection system make sure you speak to your gutter contractor . The contractor may have some ideas or suggestions about how to get the job done right.

There’s certainly plenty of rain to be had in the Tampa Bay area, so why not enjoy the benefits of a reduced water bill?

Should You Try a Gutter Cleaning Robot?

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:29:00 GMT

Gutter cleaning robots are made by iRobot, the same company that created the Roomba and the Scooba. It took them a long time to get those robots right too–so there may be hope for the future, but not today.

The robot is called the Looj, and it’s more like a remote controlled car than a robot. Roombas and Scoobas make some decisions: they zig, zag, swerve around obstacles, back up, and call for help if they get themselves stuck.

The Looj doesn’t make any decisions at all. It requires you to stand on a ladder, directing it with a remote control device. Most people who want a gutter cleaning solution want one that keeps them off the ladder as much as possible.

The Looj is also incredibly messy. It throws debris everywhere: on the ground, on you, and on the roof, where it will eventually slide back into the gutters.

Even the demo video below shows the amount of mess that the gutter cleaning robot makes. Note that the demo leaves are dry .

You’re not going to find nice, polite, dry leaves in your gutter. You’re going to find big clumps of wet, nasty, sticky leaves instead in a lot of cases.

Surprisingly, the reviews on Amazon are fairly positive but there are some complaints that are worth noting. Some customers reported that the robot got stuck, or flipped over onto its back.

There were also some complaints about battery life. While it charges for 15 hours some customers encountered battery lives of less than 1 hour.

This meant a lot of moving the ladder along the gutters to rescue the device. In some cases the device took more time than the old “scoop and drop” method did.

If you do decide to try it anyway, make sure you measure your gutters first. The robot won’t even fit inside of a small, tight gutter.

It’s understandable that you’d want to find some way – any way – to clean your gutters less. That’s why we recommend gutter guards to our customers.

For years, we’ve been helping customers in Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, New Port Richey and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area clean their gutters and install gutter guards to make their lives easier. Call us for a free estimate before you order a robot!

How Gutters Can Help You Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 17:17:00 GMT

Gutters Can Help You Make Great Compost
If you’re maintaining a compost pile in your back yard don’t forget to add wet leaves after you clean your gutters . You’ve got to get the debris out anyway. Why let it go to waste? The wet leaves and debris in your gutters are incredibly nutrient-rich, offering a much faster breakdown time than the dry leaves that may be sitting in your compost pile right now.

With Gutters, You Can Harvest Rainwater
Rainwater harvesting is one of the most eco-friendly things you can do. You can’t drink it, because it’s “grey water”, but it is useful in other ways.

In the middle of a drought? Use the rainwater to take on your dying lawn. Or use it regularly in your garden to conserve running water.

It may be difficult to believe in Florida, when 40 to 52 inches of rain drops down on the Tampa Bay Area in any given year, but world wide water shortages are such a concern that some experts are predicting that water will be as valuable as oil by 2030. You can do your part by recycling water that would otherwise go to waste.

Rain water collection systems aren’t hard to integrate with an existing gutter system. It’s basically a combination of your gutters, a good filter, and a storage container. Gutter guards can be very helpful to this effort as they help keep debris out of your water, offering a cleaner, more efficient water gathering system.

The Right Gutters Can Be Recycled
While aluminum gutters are hardy and last a long time, there are circumstances where they may need to be replaced. We favor aluminum gutters in part because we know that they can be recycled.

Often recycling companies will drive out to you to pick up your gutters once they’ve been removed from your home. You can also sometimes sell them for scrap.

Gutter Guards Contribute to Clean Water in Streams, Lakes, and Rivers
Gutters aren’t the only thing that contribute to a greener home. Gutter guards are also extremely helpful.

As mentioned, a lot of debris in your gutters creates a nutrient-rich grey water. This grey water can be very helpful for your plants, but if it washes out to our water ways in storm water then it can actually decrease water quality and kill fish.

The “green” answer is to keep as much debris out of your gutters as possible. Cleaning them twice a year is the bare minimum, but with gutters guards you can reduce the number of cleanings and you can help keep our water runoff cleaner.

Whether it’s helping you make your home more environmentally friendly or simply protecting your home from a Tampa Bay rain storm, we’ve helped many homeowners from St. Petersburg all the way up to Ocala. Call us for a free estimate so you can make your home a little greener with good gutters or leaf guards.

Why Are My Gutters Leaking?

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 20:02:00 GMT

Leaks Can Happen When Your Gutters Get Clogged
Even if you clean your gutters regularly unusual leaks can happen. A neighborhood kid can throw a ball into your gutters. A bird’s nest can fall in and clog it even if they’re otherwise clean.

This means that clogs are usually the first thing to check for if your gutters aren’t performing well. Of course, good gutter guards can prevent these problems by keeping large objects out of your gutter.

Leaks Can Happen When Your Gutters are Installed Incorrectly
A number of installation issues can cause severe leaks. Gutters look easier than they are.

For example, improperly installed corners can cause major leaks. This installation problem is common on DIY installs. This is one reason why DIY can actually cost time and money rather than saving it.

Improper slope is another common installation problem. Gutters that slope away from the downspout can cause water to pool in the corners of the spout. Eventually this will cause a leak.

Leaks Can Happen When The Gutters are Loose
Lots of things can cause attachment failures. High hurricane winds, mechanical damage from trees or ladders, or simple warping of the fascia can cause nails to pull loose or fasteners to weaken.

We use a floating hanger installation on our seamless aluminum gutters to prevent leaks from weakened supports caused by metal that expands or contracts in heat or (less commonly in Florida), cold.

Your Gutter Type Could Cause the Problem
Galvanized steel gutters can corrode. Gutters with lots of joints have abundant spots for leaks, including seams, end caps, and overlapping joints where water can dam.

Our seamless aluminum gutters reduce the number of places where a leak may occur by a significant margin. There will still be potential leak points at the corners and downspouts, but not in the length of the gutter itself.

Get Help With Your Gutters
Leaking gutters on their own may not cost very much to repair. However, water damage to your foundation, shingles, sidings, and windows can prove very expensive indeed. Some types of damage can even make your home difficult to live in for a time.

It’s best to get professional help with leaking gutters. That way you can get replacements or repairs that are installed correctly.

We’ve helped many homeowners in Brandon and the rest of the Tampa Bay Area repair or replace gutters the right way so that they can enjoy low-maintenance gutters. If you’d like help with your gutters just call us for a free estimate and we’ll be happy to help!

How to Increase Your Home’s Value

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 20:04:00 GMT

Step 1: Freshen Up Your Fixtures
Fixtures are cheap to replace, but they can make your home look more updated and attractive. It’s extremely helpful to make sure that each of the fixtures has the same style and finish. Whether you’re going for a contemporary feel or a country feel it’s a good idea to give your home a uniform style.

Step 2: Break Out the Paint
Paint can make an old home look brand new. A little time with an interior designer can make this step more effective, helping you choose striking color combinations that help your home stand out from the crowd.

Step 3: Touch Up the Other Interior Details
There are several other easy interior details that you can see to. Many of them are easy, quick tasks, too.

Step 4: Clean Up Exterior Details
Curb appeal makes a huge difference when you’re trying to sell. Fortunately, the measures you can take for improving your curb appeal are all very fast and inexpensive.

Another step you could take would be to check, repair, and clean your gutters, or replace them if necessary. Bad gutters can make your home look old and worn down. The advantages of our seamless gutter system could prove to be a nice selling point as you or your Realtor show a buyer around.

If you’d like us to look at your gutters as you update your home just call us for a free estimate. We’ve helped many homeowners in Homosassa, Beverly Hills, and the Tampa Bay area do the same!

What To Check In Your Home After a Hurricane

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 18:10:00 GMT

Be aware that you should rarely try to solve these problems yourself. Hurricane home damage often requires the aid of an experienced professional for the sake of safety and your home’s long-term comfort and value.

Don’t stress over the expense. Instead, put in your homeowner’s insurance claim as quickly as possible after the storm has passed so you can get the help that you need.

What to Check
Check for the following:

What About Your Gutters?

In the scheme of things, your gutters will be the least of your worries AFTER a hurricane. Ideally, you’d check your gutters prior to a hurricane as they are an important part of keeping your home safe from water damage. Make sure, for example, that you clean your gutters before the storm is expected.

Once you’ve checked all the more important things outlined in the list above, you should check your gutters and downspouts after a hurricane as well. Look for evidence that your gutters need repair, since high hurricane winds can sometimes pull them loose.

Note that standing water around your foundation after a hurricane is not necessarily a symptom of a bad gutter system, since rainfall in hurricanes can sometimes become so intense that some standing water accumulates in spite of a gutter system’s best efforts.

You should also make these kinds of home inspections after any storm involving heavy rains and high winds, since Florida can experience this kind of severe weather beyond the hurricane season.

If your gutters do become damaged in a storm then call us for a quick, timely, and free estimate on repairing or replacing them. We’ve been repairing and installing gutters for residents in Land O’ Lakes, Clearwater, Largo and all of central Florida for over 37 years. Our gutters can help protect your home from other kinds of expensive water damage associated with heavy storms and rainfall.

What Are Gutter Guards and Do They Really Work?

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 16:13:00 GMT

Here are a few things that you should know.

What Are Gutter Guards?

Gutter covers come in different styles, and not all gutter guards are created equal. Gutter guards that cover the gutter completely can be difficult to remove, and gutter guards with large, diamond shaped holes can let a lot of debris in, especially in the spring.

Some gutter guards are foam inserts that actually go inside of the gutter. Unfortunately debris can still end up trapped in these gutters and clogs can still happen.

Our leaf gutter guards are made of a micro-mesh. The holes in these guards are so fine that they trap very little debris, but all of the water can still get into the gutter. They are also very easy to remove.

Do Gutter Guards Work?

Gutter guards work under some very specific conditions.

First, gutter guards work only if you get the right type. Micro-mesh gutters are the only ones that can stand up to small forms of debris and heavy downpour conditions such as the ones that we experience here in Florida.

Other gutter guards either don’t let enough water in or don’t keep enough debris out.

Second, gutter covers work only if you maintain them. Don’t listen to sales representatives who tell you that gutters can keep you from having to think about your gutters ever again.

Instead, be aware that you’ll want to occasionally have to clean the organic debris from the top of the gutter guards. This is easily done with a scrub brush attached to the end of a fiber glass or aluminum pole.

The advantage of using a pole is that you don’t have to risk getting up on a ladder to do the cleaning as often, since this is a common way that homeowners get hurt. You can simply maintain the gutters from the ground with the right brush extension.

The other advantage is that the job will take less time. You should still do it every fall and every spring. The task should only take an hour or two and not your entire afternoon.

Every few years you may want to remove the gutter guard long enough to make sure that you take care of decomposed organic matter that might still have slipped through. Read our post on how to clean gutters for some helpful cleaning tips.

If you would like to explore the benefits of gutter guards for your home just give us a call. Our gutter company has been helping homeowners in New Port Richey , Land O’ Lakes, and throughout central Florida with gutter guards for a long time now. We’ll be happy to give you a free, timely estimate so you can spend less time on your ladder and more time doing things that you enjoy doing!

How to Clean Your Gutters

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 17:28:00 GMT

Remember that you will need to be up on a ladder the entire time. If you’re not a fan of being up on a ladder doing the work yourself, it may be time to call a professional gutter cleaning company like us. We give free estimates, so don’t be shy!

If you’re not afraid of working on ladders, however, and you have the time, here is the step-by-step method for cleaning your gutters.

Step 1: Check the Weather

You want to clean your gutters after you’ve had a few dry days so that you’re not having to deal with wet, muddy leaves. Check the forecast to make sure that the weather will stay dry throughout the entire job.

Step 2: Choose Your Cleaning Method

There are two methods for handling your debris: the scoop and bucket method and the scoop and drop method. You’ll want a good pair of work gloves for either, so keep them handy!

If you’re going to use the scoop and drop method you will need a broad tarp or sheet that can sit beneath your work area. You’ll simply scoop the gutter debris onto the tarp.

If you’re going to use the scoop and bucket method you’ll need a bucket with a hook on it. You’ll hook the bucket to your ladder so that you can easily add the debris to the bucket.

In either method you’ll need a bucket that’s designated for your tools as well. Carry the bucket up the ladder and hook it to the ladder.

Bringing your tools up in a bucket ensures your safety, as they won’t be in your pockets where they might fall out or leave you unbalanced as you fumble for them at the top of the ladder. Usually you’ll need at least a trowel.

Step 3: Remove the Debris

Next you will reach in to remove the debris. You can simply remove loose twigs and leaves with your hands. Debris that’s packed in tight might require the trowel.

Once you’ve pulled out as much as you can use a garden hose to flush the gutters. Watch the downspouts as you do this.

If the water doesn’t flow freely through the downspouts there may be a clog inside. You have two options for dealing with these clogs.

If your hose fits in the downspout you can simply run the hose straight up the downspout with an attachment that gives you a bit of pressure. Use the water to flush out the clog, moving the hose up and down.

If you can’t get your hose into the downspout then your second option would be to use a plumber’s snake, which will allow you to reach in and get to the clog.

You may have to remove the very bottom of the downspout if you can’t get the hose or snake inside. The removal is temporary and you can simply reattach the bottom of the downspout when you are done.

Check the downspout one more time by flushing the gutters once more.

Step 4: Look for Standing Water

The presence of standing water is usually evidence that your gutters will need some repairs. It’s usually a good idea to call in a professional gutter installer at that point.

Step 5: Make the Job Easier in the Future

If you’d like to put a lot less time and effort into maintaining your gutter then you should investigate the possibility of having a gutter guard installed . Gutter guards make your life easier by keeping the debris out of the gutter in the first place.

We have been cleaning and repairing gutters in Brandon and all of central Florida since 1975. If you’d like to investigate having your gutters cleaned, repaired, or fitted with a gutter guard, just call us for a free estimate.

Does My House Need Gutters?

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 20:27:00 GMT

As a leading gutter installer here in Central Florida you would expect me to say yes, every house needs rain gutters! The truth is, some homes don’t need them. Your home may not need gutters if:

For Florida residents, of course, that last criteria is the big problem. We get plenty of rain, so gutters are usually a very good investment in this state.

For example, according to Weather.com, Wesley Chapel gets 54.28” of rain annually alone — more than enough to make gutters a great idea.

Don’t make a few common mistakes about gutters. It’s easy to make some very costly assumptions.

For example, if you live in a new construction home the builder might have assured you that they’ve built the home so that the ground slopes away from the house, providing adequate runoff. They may convince you that you don’t need to worry (in reality, they often try to cut costs by leaving gutters off).

Builders do dig out the ground that way, but the ground can often settle during the refill. Homeowners aren’t always aware this has happened. If you see water pooling around the base of your house it’s probably time to call for help.

You also shouldn’t assume that you don’t need gutters just because you happened to buy a home that didn’t have them. A house can be sold without gutters for a variety of different reasons. Sometimes, homeowners just remove old gutters without replacing them, for example, because they don’t like cleaning them or they couldn’t afford the replacement at the time.

It’s a good idea to consult with a gutter contractor like ours before you take your chances. Call us and we’ll come out and take a look at your home to see if you need gutters or not. If you do, we’ll also give you a free estimate on the spot!

Why Are Gutters Important?

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 20:15:00 GMT

The primary purpose of a gutter is to move water away from the base of your house. They’re especially important here in Florida with our heavy rainfalls. For example, according to Weather.com , Clearwater alone got 52.74” of rainfall last year.

All of this rain can be extremely harmful in a variety of different ways. Here are just a few of the problems that can arise when you don’t have any gutters, or if your gutters are improperly installed or maintained.

It can cause leaks in your basement. It can also penetrate the slab or foundation to create extremely costly repairs. The average foundation repair starts at $10,000.

The rain can also erode the soil around your home. This can be very destructive to your landscaping.

Without gutters rainfall can also make a real mess of the surface of your home. When it rains very hard the dirt splashes back onto the home itself, contributing to a dirty, unkempt look.

The problems don’t just stay inside, either. Without gutters the water can hit your windows, finding its way inside through tiny cracks and crevices. Window leaks can be miserable during a storm.

The water can also work its way into the walls where mold and mildew might grow. The water damage may even be visible inside of your home, creating unsightly brown water stains on your walls.

If you have siding the water can get in the gaps in your siding. Mold can grow there too.

If you have any painted surface then water damage to the paint can result in it peeling much faster, requiring you to repaint the surface far sooner than you’d otherwise have to.

All of these damages will require still more costly repairs.

In other words, the cost of not having gutters can far exceed the price of just getting and maintaining gutters in the first place.

If you happen to have moved into a home in Largo (or anywhere in central Florida) without gutters or your home’s gutters need to be replaced then call us for a free estimate. We’re an experienced gutter company that’s ready to protect your home!

5 Common Types of Rain Gutters

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 15:11:00 GMT

Need to add rain gutters to your new home or replace your leaky gutters that aren’t performing? Trying to decide whether to go with hardware store DIY gutters, or whether to look into something more involved like hiring a professional gutter installer ?

Knowing the different types of gutters can help you make decisions about whether you want to tackle this task yourself or not. Believe it or not the materials you choose can have a large impact on your gutter’s performance. Let’s take a look at each of your options.

Steel
Up until about 30 years ago steel was the most common material for home gutters, so it’s tried and tested.

Advantages: Steel is very strong and doesn’t warp easily. It doesn’t expand or contract very much in extreme heat or cold, which reduces the chances that the gutter will pull away from your home or leak.

Disadvantages: Steel is heavy and takes forever to install, which means you pay more for labor. The soldered joints only add to the installation costs. They’re also incredibly challenging to paint and thus aren’t very attractive for your home.

Copper
Copper is a very high-quality metal for constructing gutters.

Advantages: Copper is, simply put, very beautiful. It ages well and the metal is high-quality. It’s the only metal of choice for restoring historic homes.

Disadvantages: Copper is extremely expensive. In addition, there’s a theft risk.

Right now there’s a large black market for stolen copper. You may have heard the story of people breaking into homes to steal the copper wiring. All that copper on the outside of your home might well make a too-tempting target.

Zinc
Zinc is a very European choice. It’s another high quality metal.

Advantages: Zinc looks very nice on Old World or Contemporary style homes. It works especially well with slate roofs.

Disadvantages: Like copper, zinc is considered exotic. That makes it very expensive.

Zinc is also very vulnerable to the contraction and expansion caused by extreme heat or cold. While it’s not much of a problem in Tampa, zinc does become brittle in cold temperatures.

Vinyl
Vinyl is the do-it-yourself dream.

Advantages: If price is your biggest concern vinyl will get the job done without breaking your budget. It’s incredibly easy to install.

Disadvantages: Vinyl is not very sturdy. A fallen tree branch in a Tampa hurricane could tear it down in a heartbeat.

Though it’s not much of a concern here, it also gets brittle in cold climates.

Aluminum
Aluminum has been a trusted choice for over thirty years. It’s the only metal for seamless rain gutters. Aluminum offers so many advantages that we’ve been dealing almost exclusively in high quality aluminum gutters.

Advantages: Aluminum is rust-resistant and lightweight for a speedy installation. You can choose a variety of colors for your aluminum gutters too.

Disadvantages: Of all the metals aluminum is certainly the weakest. You wan to be careful about leaning ladders against these types of gutters. Putting too much weight and pressure on the edge of the gutter can cause it to bend. In addition, aluminum does expand and contract in extreme heat or cold. That problem can be alleviated by using a floating hanger installation that takes this tendency into account and corrects for it so that there’s little chance of it causing damage.

If you have any questions about the aluminum rain gutters we install or would like a quick and timely free estimate, please call us! We’ve been installing gutters (and gutter guards) for residents of St. Petersburg and central Florida since 1975! We have the experience to provide an efficient and professional installation.

What are Seamless Gutters?

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 04:07:00 GMT

Good gutter systems protect your home by collecting and dispersing water. The better the gutter – the safer your foundations, shingles, driveways, and walkways will be from potential water damage.

DIY and “old school” gutters are sold in 10’ lengths. As a result, when they are installed there are seams every 10’. If your house is 50’ across on one side, you’d have four seams. These seams are not only unsightly, but more importantly, each one is a potential leak point.

By contrast, seamless gutters are made onsite to match the exact measurements of your home using a seamless gutter machine. A sheet of aluminum is fed through the machine and is then molded, or bent, into one large piece of gutter that runs the full length required. That means that even if there’s a 50’ gutter that has to be installed across one side of your home, all 50 feet will be one “seamless” gutter. This significantly reduces the number of potential leak points in the overall system.

It’s important to point out that there will be some seams in the overall system. Seamless doesn’t literally mean “no seams.” There are seams at the corners and downspout outlets. However, with a seamless gutter system you’ll significantly reduce the potential leak points to a mere handful.

The few seams there are, we secure and seal them to make sure they are completely leak resistant. And if by small chance the seams do leak, we guarantee our work so we’ll come out and fix them. When we install our rain gutters, our goal is to make sure they can withstand the torrential rainfalls that can be common in the Brandon and Tampa Bay areas.

The result is a highly effective, low-maintenance gutter system. It never needs painting, comes in a variety of colors and contributes to the beauty and value of your home.

Of course, low-maintenance does not mean “no” maintenance. To get the best results you will still have to keep your rain gutters free from leaves, debris, and bird’s nests. You should also have your fasteners checked periodically. Immediate repairs to damaged fasteners can prevent costly replacements.

We hope this post answers the common question, what are seamless gutters? This type of system is one that looks great on a home and is the most leak resistant gutter option on the market today.

We’ve been installing gutters and leaf guards for Clearwater and central Florida residents since 1975! If you’d like the peace of mind that can come from adding seamless gutters to your home just give us a call. We’ll be more than happy to give you a free and timely estimate!