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Home Improvement Construction is becoming more and more popular. Many people still lack the time or the energy to start. That’s where we come in. Rain Carriers is happy to be able to provide both quality construction and excellent customer service. As a gutter repair contractor in Richmond, we can put your mind at rest. Our team of professionals will take care of all aspects of your home improvement project. We are not only skilled at gutter cleaning and repair, but also roof cleaning and repair, siding installation or just about any other home improvement project you can imagine.

5 Ways to Protect Your Gutter System

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How to Maintain Your Gutter System in 5 Steps

gutter maintenanceIf you’re a homeowner it’s likely that you’ve spent at least some time worrying about your gutters. Rain happens. Even the most conscientious homeowners don’t have time to constantly check their gutters. It’s important to note gutter maintenance isn’t just about removing leaves and debris. Damaged gutters can lead to mold, other types of damage and costly emergency repairs. 

Rain Carriers is committed to helping all homeowners keep their gutters clean so they can enjoy their homes in Richmond , Virginia for years to come.

 

Here are the top 5 ways that you can maintain your home’s gutter systems

Clean Your Home’s Gutters

gutter cleaning rain carriersIt is recommended that you call a professional to clean your gutters so that you don’t accidentally damage them. You can also cause bodily injury or death if you are not careful, so do this at your own risk. However, in some cases it is possible to do this yourself.  

If you are choosing to clean your gutters yourself you’ll need a tall ladder, some gloves, and a hose attached to a water supply.

Setup your ladder, make sure it is damage free and you have a nice level place to brace it.  If possible, get someone to hold the ladder as you work on it for added safety.  Clear the debris from you gutters but don’t reach! If you can’t reach debris climb down and reposition your ladder. Once all the debris is cleared, flush the gutter with your hose.

Keeping your gutters clean is the first step to saving yourself time and money in home repairs.

Fix and Seal Gutter Leaks

rain carriers gutter leak fixA properly installed and maintained gutter system should last you many years. However, over time, your gutters may develop leaks that require repair. Depending on the type of gutter system you have, you may be able to fix the leak yourself or you’ll need to call in the pros to get the job done. If your gutters do have leaks you will need to seal them with a special gutter caulking product. One product you can use is butyl rubber caulk. Use a butter knife or putty knife to spread the caulking compound evenly over any holes or leaks.

If you are experiencing a leaky gutters, one of the first things you should do is contact a professional to fix gutter leaks and make repairs. While a DIY approach can work short-term, using a pro like Rain Carriers will ensure it’s done correctly, the first time.

Want to know about gutter styles?

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Make Sure Your Gutters Are Secure

secure gutters richmond va rain carriersGutters can also become detached if they’ve been loosened by tree branches or animals. When this happens, water can pool against your home’s foundation and cause damage. Small problems with your gutters can quickly get out of hand, so it’s important to have them repaired or replaced regularly. 

If you notice your gutters are loose, or even detached from your home’s roof, we recommend calling a professional for help. Don’t just let them hang. If water damage occurs, it could lead to further damages. That means more expensive repairs for you, and the need to fix something that could have been prevented.

Securing your gutters and fixing loose gutters is dangerous and most people don’t have the required tools and parts. So it’s always best to hire a professional to do this repair. Its usually inexpensive and can save you so much in the future.

Look for Clogged Downspouts

downspoutGutters are designed to channel water away from your home and divert it to the soil where it can do no harm. When they are clogged, however, they may be bypassing water directly back beneath your home, where it can cause structural damage.

When your downspouts are clogged with leaves, dirt and other debris, the water has no place to go, which results in water backing-up and spilling over the sides during rainstorms. This can lead to water seeping underneath your foundation and into your basement or crawl space, potentially causing major damage to your home.

If your downspouts are clogged, a licensed contractor should be hired to clear them out. After the downspouts have been cleaned and cleared, make sure to clean off any landing areas around your home.

Install Gutter Guards

UnknownGutters guards can help minimize the need to clean your gutters. Gutters are very prone to attaching debris, and when they become over burdened with particles they can break away from your home and end up causing thousands of dollars of damage.

Gutter guards are designed to keep leaves and debris out of your gutters and downspouts. They are great to have during the autumn months when leaves fall from the trees. Gutter guards work by creating a barrier between leaves and the rain water. Gutter guards are simply installed on top of your existing gutters

A professional installer like Rain Carriers can professionally install the guards on your home. They will keep your gutters clear and maintained for years to come!

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A Guide to Gutter Materials

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Gutter Materials They're Not All Equal

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The Gutter materials you chose are more important than you think.

Gutters are an essential part of the home’s exterior for keeping the house dry. Gutters channel rain water away from the foundation, protecting the home. These and other advantages are why gutter installation is one of the most common exterior home improvement projects in Richmond. But, there are many types of gutters, some materials are not well suited for Richmond Virginia’s weather, rainfall or position on the roof.

When someone is considering a new gutter installation, they might assume that any material will work. That’s not true. Gutter materials have varying strengths, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between gutters is an essential first step in determining if and what kind of gutter to install, that’s where Rain Carriers comes in! 

Check out The Top Reasons You Need a Gutter Contractor
DIY sounds great however, most homeowners end up raising project costs and in the long run spend more. Usually due to improper installation or simply not having the right tools or knowledge, you can find out more here...

Comparing Gutter Materials The Top 4 Types

Wooden gutters have been used by builders for many years. However, wooden gutters are susceptible to weathering and rotting. Because they corrode easily, wooden gutters have gone out of fashion for modern homes. Today, aluminum, vinyl, steel, copper, and zinc gutters are what most homes are fitted with. Half-round and K-style gutters made of all these materials but fascia gutters are mostly made from aluminum.

Here’s how the five materials stack up.

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Aluminum - The Most Popular Of All 4 Gutter Materials

Aluminum gutters have a lot of different options. Being a softer, pliable metal the thickness you chose is very important. Aluminum gutters are commonly available in three standard thicknesses: .025 inch, .027 inch, and .032 inch. While the thinner is also the least expensive, it’s more susceptible to bending or denting. Thicker metal is a bit pricier but definitely worth it in most cases. This is particularly important  if you live in a place with heavy snowfall during the winter months.

Pros and Cons:

Aluminum Gutters have tons of benefits. Firstly, they are light weight and they aren’t susceptible to rust. This contributes to the long life of aluminum as you can expect to get up to 25 years out of them. Secondly, they can greatly add to the over aesthetic of your home as they will take paint. Aluminum gutters are also available in a variety of colors. Lastly, Aluminum Gutters are weatherproof. You won’t have to worry about elements affecting them as much as some other materials. However, as mentioned above, aluminum is a soft metal. This leaves gutters made from this material in danger of being bent and dented from debris.

Aluminum gutters need a cleaning and inspection at least once per year by a certified technician like Rain Carriers. This insures the longest life from them. Ask about our maintenance services!

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Zinc - Expensive but Feature Packed

Zinc gutters come in a variety of finishes such as galvanized, which gives it a shiny silver look. However, the most popular is the natural great of zinc. Starting out as a dull gray they develop a very attractive patina over time. The material is also highly durable and, resistant to almost all types of weather. You should expect to get upwards of 50 years of life from zinc gutters. This will shorten if you live near the ocean or have a problem with acid rain. Cedar roof shingles will affect zinc as well, the runoff usually contains a high acidity level. Zinc gutters require welding and require a certified installer like Rain Carriers to properly apply them to your home.

Pros and Cons:

Zinc gutters are highly durable and won’t rust or corrode over time. They are also very resistant to warping and fading.  For curb appeal you don’t have to worry about painting. The appeal of zinc is that it develops its own beautiful patina that almost every homeowner loves. Unlike some other materials, zinc gutters have an unusually long life which makes the cost worth it. Therefore, when considering zinc gutters consult with Rain Carriers about your budget because they are pricy, but you definitely get what you pay for.  However, watch out for salty or acidic conditions as this is the only Achilles heel of zinc.

Zinc gutters need to be professionally installed by a certified technician like Rain Carriers. You risk wasting tons of time and money otherwise!

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Vinyl - Inexpensive and Easy, but at a cost.

Vinyl gutters are the least expensive option for your home. They have just as many pros as cons. They are easy to install, so labor costs are lower than other materials. Typically snapping together, they require minimal effort in getting them up. They also come in a variety of colors and will take paint, so matching your exterior is simple. However, they are prone to fading in direct sunlight. You can expect to get up to 20 years out of vinyl gutters, but this is highly subjective to the climate and elements they are exposed to.

Pros and Cons:

Vinyl gutters are a great option for many budgets, their application can be beneficial in many areas. Firstly, vinyl doesn’t rust as it contains no metal, additionally they don’t corrode. Secondly, being manufactured in a variety of styles, they can match almost any aesthetic. Since vinyl is very inexpensive this gives first time home buyers and remodelers tons of flexibility. Finally, they do not take damage from salty air. This is a quality that most all metal gutters lack. However, vinyl gutters are sensitive to direct sunlight. Fading is a big problem for most vinyl gutters and, direct sunlight over time can make them brittle. You have to be careful when working on your home as a ladder leaned against them can crack them.

It is important to use a certified contractor, like Rain Carriers, to help you with maintaining, and installing your vinyl gutter systems.

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Copper - the most expensive of all the gutter materials with the most benefits.

Copper is the priciest choice for rain gutters on your home however, it comes with a long list of benefits you can’t deny.  Copper gutters are completely unfazed by any weather. From extreme hot to the coldest cold, copper will outlast any other material, it also comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Those who install copper gutters tend to love the old-world charm that it adds to their home. Over time, copper develops a weathered patina that tends to lend value to those who are in the market for a high-end home. Homeowners can get up to 100 years of life out of copper gutters when maintained properly.

Pros and Cons:

Copper Gutters are beautiful. They have an awesome bright glowing quality that develops into an attractive weathered patina. There is no need to paint or otherwise refinish copper gutters. Importantly, they are extremely durable and can handle all types of weather and climates. Copper gutters won’t rust, corrode, or warp and, are very resistant to damage. However, nothing about copper is budget friendly but the results and the longevity of these gutters won’t disappoint.

Copper gutter systems require a certified gutter contractor for installation.  Without Rain Carriers you risk wasting tons of money and completely busting your project budget.

Installation

Licensed, Insured, and Qualified installation services for any type of Gutter System. Save money and time by getting it done right the first time!

Maintenance

Professional maintenance services for any gutter system or material type. Ensure the long life of your gutters and save money!

Customer Satisfaction

We strive to make every job fast, easy, and painless, for every one of our customers. We will go the extra mile to make sure that you are happy!

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Gutter Supplies at Lowe's
Check out all the parts you need for a basic gutter installation. Overwhelmed? Call Rain Carriers, we'll help!

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What do you know about gutters and the styles for your home?

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Does your home need Rain Gutters? And Which Style Would You Choose?

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For years, it wasn’t just about the line of defense against bad weather. Rain gutters are also an essential element in home maintenance and repair. Did you know that at least 25 percent of houses in Richmond leak? Worse still, many homeowners don’t know because they don’t have gutters. Rain gutters are often overlooked components of your property. Although they are simple in both design and construction, they come in a variety of configurations.

So, if it’s time to replace old or rusting gutters or you are installing them for the first time, read below to find out some things you might need to know!

When Do I Need Gutters?

• Is your house surrounded by concrete, patios, sidewalks, or other walkways?

As concrete serves as a protective layer between runoff and the foundation, rain gutters may be optional. 

• Is your Home raised above the landscape around it?

Having a home that is raised makes it hard for water to pool around it therefore, gutters may be optional.

american four square front• Does your roof have little to no overhang?

If this is the case then water will pool around the foundation. Furthermore, the rain can be a nuisance to guests, gardens, and other landscaping. Gutters are a must here.

• Does your roof have at least 12 inches of overhang?

In this case the roof may push the water far enough away from the foundation. However, this depends on a lot of factors like landscaping, patios, and more.\

Regardless of your home’s configuration, you should always have an expert like Rain Carriers give you a FREE INSPECTION before deciding a course of action. You need to be careful when protecting an investment like home!

Rain Gutters And the Basic Styles

K-Style Rain Gutters

K-style gutters are the type most people think of when they hear the word gutter. This is the type most commonly used on homes built within the past 50 years, though many owners of older homes still install them today.

The most common problem with a K-Style rain gutter is clogs which is why having Gutter Guards installed by a Licensed installer like Rain Carriers is recommended.

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Half-Round Gutters

Half round gutters aren’t particularly decorative, however, they are the traditional style found on homes built prior to 1960. These types of gutters might be a requirement for historic homes or neighborhoods. The problem with this style is it’s easy for leaks to form at the transition from a vertical downspout to the horizontal run. They are also prone to clogs due to their wide open top. However, this gutter has its own self-supporting lip which forces water to stay in the gutter instead of running down the wall of your house.

Custom Fascia Gutters

Fascia gutters are installed into the soffit and replace your existing fascia board. They are great because they take advantage of the area that’s already stacked with wood between the rafters. However, since they aren’t sold in sections that fit together it leaves seams that are prone to rust and leaks. Lastly, fascia gutters are pricey and must be professionally installed by a company like Rain Carriers since they are custom fit to your home’s construction.

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Home Depot: Gutter Types

You can check out this short video from Home Depot about different gutter types.

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Want to Lower Your roofing costs? Here are the top 3 tips!

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Save Money On Your Roofing Costs Here are our top 3 ways to do it!

residential home img1 2880wYour roof costs but, it works hard to keep rain, snow, animals, and bugs out of your home. After 15-20 years of this it can get pretty worn out. Research showed that the average homeowner paid $8,000 to replace their roof in recent past. 

The cost of roof replacement will also depend on the materials you choose. Conventional asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material, though many people now choose to use different materials to get a custom look, which have their own unique costs.

Check out the Top Reasons You Want to Hire a Gutter Contractor

What can I expect in costs of roof repair?

The costs of roofing can be broken down into three general categories, which can go up or down depending on your choices: Materials, Labor, & Disposal.

Asphalt shingles generally see figures from $3.50 to $5.00 a square foot, installed. When you get into higher-end products including metals, tiles and slate, the overall cost typically fluctuates from $9 to $15 per square foot.

You have control of these factors based on your budget and the look you are going for with your home.

Final prices can depend on a lot of factors. Roof complexity, size of your roof, and other design factors in your home. What you need is someone who is going to walk you through it to get the best for your budget!

Steps to Lower Your Roofing Costs Lets Do This!

Do Some Roofing Homework

You should know the size and complexity of your roof and, know the exact materials you want before talking to contractors. Research the materials that you like and get a feel for the costs of them. This will help you keep the estimates consistent when talking to contractors.

Make sure that your contracts are including cleanup and disposal fees in their estimates. You can also research the average labor rates in your area. Most people will see $100 – $300 per roofing square.

One Roofing Square is equal to 100 square feet of roofing material. This is a good term to remember when talking to contractors.

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Use Your Insurance You pay for it after all

Homeowners insurance usually covers roof damage caused by non-neglect. For example, if a hailstorm knocks some shingles loose, your insurer may reimburse all or part of the replacement cost. To confirm if you are covered, you’ll need to understand your policy so you can identify what is and isn’t covered. 

Lots of common roof problems are not covered by insurance, including faulty installation or sealing by a contractor. So chose a reputable local contractor that you can research online!

Nerdwallet has a great article on understanding your homeowners insurance.

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Don't Do It Yourself It's Dangerous and Costly

 fall off a roof ladderIf your roof fails and causes damage to your home as a result of a DIY roof repair, you could be caught holding the bill.

Firstly, as we mentioned above, insurance does not cover improper installation. This will more than likely include a DIY job. Secondly, roof work is dangerous and requires stringent safety measures and specialized tools. Most homeowners do not have these tools or the proper safety measures. Finally, Homeowners do not have the luxury of access to the correct materials. Builder grade materials available at your local hardware store often don’t cut it. They do not come with the warranties and life that higher quality materials have. Most of the time only licensed contractors have access to these name brand materials.

When working on your home it is often best to let professionals help. This protects your home and saves your costly repairs in the future.

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Can You Really Afford to Do It Wrong?

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The Top Reasons to Hire a Gutter Contractor

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Gutter contractors have the knowledge and expertise There is more to it than you think!

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If you’re interested in rain gutter installation, there are a few things to know about using a Gutter Contractor. First, you need to know that there are different types of rain gutter systems to choose from. There is not just one choice for your home, and not all systems are equal. Second, it’s critical to use the correct installation techniques. Improper technique or knowledge can ruin the system before it’s even been used! This can also lead to issues that can damage your home. Leaks and clogging are the door way to more extensive problems like foundation leaks, roof leaks, siding damage, and more: all of which can come with expensive pice tags!

When it comes to installing gutters on your home, you don’t want just anyone on your roof. You want a professional gutter contractor. This will ensure that a correctly installed gutter system protects your home. It will also guarantee that water is appropriately diverted from your home. Doing a DIY gutter system does not save you money in the long run in most cases.

Protecting your Health and Safety Roof work is the 4th most dangerous job in the US!

diy-injury-physical-therapy-guttersThere’s always a risk of personal injury or property damage when working on a roof . Gutter installation is one of the most common homeowner’s insurance claims along with injury from trying to repair them. When you install gutters yourself or you hire an amateur, you are not saving yourself money in the long run. An installation job is easy to mess up, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. That’s why, when do-it-yourself homeowners end up hiring a professional anyway, it costs them two or three times more than they would have spent initially. It’s not just about the upfront cost, either–DIY gutter installations are typically done without any type of safety equipment meaning that homeowners risk their health when doing the installation themselves.

You want to hire an expert that has all of the proper insurance and warranties in place to protect you, your home, and you wallet!

Want to know more?

Rain Carriers services the Richmond VA region and is a leading Gutter Contractor. We want you to know more!
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Gutter Contractors have access to high quality materials Hardware store stuff won't cut it

licensed-insured-gutter-contractor-rain-carriers-rvaMost high quality gutter manufacturers only trust professionals with their products. These gutter systems are far above what is available at your local hardware store and the average amateur does not have access to these products. The big names in gutter systems have researched their products to make sure they outlive others. Longer life of your gutters means less expense for you and less trouble! Your gutters will always be exposed to damaging elements. Higher quality materials and proper maintenance can extend the life of your gutters years longer.

The fast-paced rainstorms in the Richmond VA area often lead to cracked gutters, clogged downspouts, and missing materials. This can lead to leakage and mold, which can cost you even more money down the road. By bringing in a professional gutter contractor from the start you will rest assured that your home has the best quality water management it can.

Check out the top Tips on Lowering you Roofing Costs!

But Don't Worry There Is an EASY Solution! And here it is!

Gutter installation is an easy process with Rain Carriers! It can seem daunting to the homeowner who has never done it before so, here’s how our easy process works:

  1. Click the button and it’ll take you to our easy contact page. Select what type of quote you would like.  We also have virtual quotes!
  2. You will be contacted by a knowledgeable technician or the company owner to schedule a time to visit your home or give you your virtual quote.
  3. We will provide you with a plan for your home that is both cost effective and efficient. We do great work, on budget and on time!
  4. After your project is done we will go over all of the warranties and maintenance plans with you. We will help educate you and keep your home protected for years to come!

And that’s it!  Only 4 steps to a better looking and well protected home!

If you are looking for quality products installed by professionals, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re a company of homeowners, just like you, and we understand how important your home is to you. So don’t wait any longer, contact Rain Carriers today and we’ll tell you what we can do for you for FREE!

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