Is DIY Gutter Installation Worth it?

Gutters are one of the most important additions you can make to your home. DIY gutter installation may seem like an easy way to save money, but is it worth it in the long-run?

Is DIY more cost-effective?

One of the best things about DIY is that you do not need to account for the cost of labor. It may seem like a no-brainer to save the money and put the responsibility on yourself. 

However, you will need to rent or purchase installation tools and equipment that a professional company would already have. Professional companies also know where to get the best quality materials at the best prices. Further, if something goes wrong during installation, the repair and replacement is on the company rather than on you. 

DIY may seem more cost-effective up front, but it can quickly add up financially and it can also eat into your personal time.

Avoid these common DIY gutter installation mistakes

Choosing the wrong type of gutter: Gutters are not a one-size-fits all and need to be carefully measured. Remember to account for roof pitch and slope! There are also numerous types of gutters to choose, each with their pros and cons.

Incorrect positioning: Roof pitch, forward tilt, and hanger spacing all need to be accounted for. Without correct positioning, the gutters won’t be able to do their job!

Incorrect downspout installation: No gutter system is complete without the downspout. Downspouts are crucial in directing water away from your home’s foundation.

Improper gutter seams: Seams are the weakest part of the gutter, where clogs and leaks often occur. Keep the seams (where two gutter segments are joined together) to a minimum.

Damage and injuries during installation: Gutter installation can result in both damage to yourself and to your home. You may end up with unnecessary hospital bills and the unnecessary cost of replacing expensive materials due to incorrect installation.

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Gutter installation takes a skilled professional to get the job done correctly the first time. At Good to Go Gutters, we’ll offer you great deals, amazing service, and gutters that protect your home for decades. We treat every home as if it is our own and we promise “no sags, no leaks, for as long as you live in your home.” Call us today for your free estimate! 

Best Gutter Alternatives for Your Home

Gutter systems are an essential part of any home. It’s important to have something in place to direct water away from your home. Here are four gutter alternatives that may work for your home.

Rain chains work as gutter alternatives

Rain chains are both effective and visually appealing. They collect rainwater from the roof and direct the water to underground reservoirs. Also, they come in a variety of designs and sizes, so it’s nearly guaranteed to find something that will work for your space.

Keep in mind, ice build up in the winter can weigh down the rain chains and cause roof damage. 

Drip edges

Drip edges are an attachment to your roof that reduces the speed of the rainwater. They work well for protecting your siding and foundation but can cause roof damage if installed incorrectly. 

Ground gutters are gutter alternatives too

If you are looking to hide your gutter system, ground gutters are the way to go. To install ground gutters, dig a small trench around your home in the spot where rainwater falls off the roof. Then, fill the trench with a waterproof lining and a pipe, and fill the rest in with gravel or pebbles making a clean border around your home.

Drip paths

Similar to ground gutters, drip paths are installed directly under your roof where rainwater hits the ground. Rather than digging a trench, use bricks or blocks to create a drip path. Rain hits the hard surface which protects the soil from erosion. Installing the bricks at an angle will help direct water away from your home.

Do gutter alternatives really work?

Often, gutter alternatives end up being more time consuming to install and maintain. They also cost just as much as, if not more than, traditional gutters.

If you want the project done quickly, with minimal maintenance, and to last for decades, go with seamless gutters. While you can install gutters yourself, hiring a professional will save you the most time and money in the long run.

Call Good to Go Gutters today

Good to Go Gutters has been installing gutters in the south metro for over two decades. We’re experts in the business and will be happy to answer any questions and provide you with a free estimate. Give us a call today!

Are Seamless Gutters Worth it?

Are you ready to install or replace your gutter system? You may be researching your options and discovering that seamless gutters are not the cheapest option on the market. So, before you commit, are seamless gutters really worth it?

What are seamless gutters?

Seamless gutters are one of the best ways to protect your home. Rather than connecting multiple gutter pieces, seamless gutters are a continuous gutter system that directs water and snowmelt away from your home’s siding and foundation. 

Seamless gutters are easier to maintain

Because seamless gutters have very few seams, the chance of leaks is much lower than other gutter options. Leaves and debris are less likely to get clogged in your gutters for the same reason. 

Seamless gutters boost your curb appeal

Having seamless gutters will boost your home’s curb appeal because the gutters lay seamlessly against your house. They look like they are a part of the home’s original design rather than an afterthought that clashes with the outside appearance.

They are customized to fit your house perfectly

Seamless gutters are worth it because they are customized to fit your roof perfectly. Good to Go Gutters uses aluminum gutters that only have joints or miters at the corners along the roof. With seamless gutters you won’t have gaps between sections or between the gutter system itself and the roof because the gutters are cut on-site after measuring your home.

And because all the work is done on-site, you can expect to have your gutters installed in one day!

Seamless gutters: you get what you pay for

It may feel like seamless gutters aren’t worth it, but remember, you get what you pay for. With traditional, sectional gutters you will spend more time and money cleaning and repairing your gutters. Seamless gutters are a bigger expense up front, but they’re more cost effective in the end.

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Good to Go Gutters is a small, local business that believes in treating every home as if it is our own. We are seamless gutter installation experts, and we promise, “no sags, no leaks for as long as you live in your home.” Give us a call today to set up your free consultation!

How to Prevent a Basement from Flooding: Gutters

Gutters are one of the best ways to prevent a basement from flooding. Now that it’s springtime, the ground is soaking up a lot of water. A flooding basement is a real concern, but gutters can help!

How can gutters prevent a wet basement?

Without a gutter system, water will have nowhere to go. The water will collect around the base of your home, eventually causing damage to the foundation and allowing water to flood into your basement. 

Gutters will prevent your basement from flooding because they are designed to direct water away from your home and foundation.

How else can gutters help?

Not only do gutters protect your basement, they also…

  • Protect your home’s foundation
  • Ward off mold and mildew growth
  • Keep mosquitos and other infestations away
  • Prevent your siding from rotting

Gutters are an investment upfront but they will be well worth your time and money in the long run. It is much cheaper to install and maintain a gutter system rather than needing to replace your foundation, siding, roof, and/or interior of your basement. 

Keep in mind, if you have a gutter system but are not regularly maintaining it, you may still experience flooding in your basement. It’s important to keep your gutters free of leaves and debris so that they can do their job of keeping your house dry.

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Installing gutters is the first step to protecting your basement, but if they are not installed correctly, they won’t be able to do their job. It’s important to have your gutters and downspouts installed professionally to avoid costly mistakes

Good to Go Gutters is a local gutter installation company. We treat every home as if it is our own and we guarantee your gutters will do their job for as long as you live in your home. We’d love to help you install or replace your gutter system today. Give us a call for your free estimate!

My Builder Didn’t Install Gutters

New construction has many perks, but sometimes things get overlooked, or they aren’t included in the original build. Installing gutter systems is one of those things. If your builder didn’t install gutters, that’s where we come in. 

Why didn’t my builder install gutters?

Many builders do not include gutters in the base price. Confirm this with your contract. If a gutter system is included in the price and the builders did not install one, call them immediately to install as soon as possible.

If gutters were not included in your contract, it’s likely because builders need to complete the homes as soon as possible, and gutters are not seen as an essential. Your home is technically habitable without a gutter system. 

Do I really need them?

Yes, although your builder didn’t install gutters, they are essential to your home. Gutters direct water away from your home and protect it from water damage. While gutters are an extra expense up front, they will end up saving you money in the long run. Gutters also…

  • Preserve your home’s foundation 
  • Protect your basement from flooding. 
  • Prevent mold and mildew growth. 
  • Keep mosquitos and other infestations away. 
  • Prevent erosion.
  • Prevent siding damage.

The pros of installing a gutter system far outweigh the cost. Installing a gutter system is one of the best choices you can make for your home.

How can I get gutters on my home?

The quickest and most reliable way to install gutters on your home is to contact a reputable professional. There are DIY options available, but the quality and effectiveness of the system may suffer.

Make sure to avoid these costly mistakes if you decide to DIY.

Don’t forget the downspouts

A gutter installation job is not complete without the downspout. Downspouts assist the gutter system in keeping water away from your home. They guide the water farther away from your foundation and aid in preventing soil erosion. 

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

While we will install gutters on any home, we specialize in new construction. Good to Go Gutters understands the importance of gutters and equips your home with a gutter system to protect it from water damage. We treat every home as if it’s our own, and we promise no sags, no leaks as long as you live in your home. Give us a call today to schedule your free estimate. 

Installing Gutter Screens for your Gutter System

Installing gutter screens is one of the most important things you can do for your home. Gutter screens protect your gutters which in turn protect your home. Invest in gutter screens today to increase the longevity of your gutters.

Installing gutter screens will save you money

Although there is an upfront cost of materials and labor, gutter screens will end up saving you money down the road because you won’t have to pay to repair damaged gutters or hire someone to clean out your gutters for you. Gutter screens increase the value of your home as well! 

Gutter screens will keep unwanted critters away

Small critters like mice, birds, and squirrels will build a nest in your gutters if they have access. They might get curious and find a way inside your home too. 

Leaves and debris cause water to stay in your gutters which becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. A gutter screen will keep these pests away from your home.  

Gutter screens will protect your gutters

Most importantly, gutter screens reduce clogging which allows the gutter system to continue to do its job. If water cannot get through the gutters freely then they will rust. If the gutters are unable to direct water away from your home, then your whole home will be susceptible to water damage.

It’s a safety measure

Gutter screens keep you from climbing up a ladder to clean out your gutters. Ladders are dangerous and a fall could result in serious injury. 

Did you know gutter screens also protect your home from fires? Twigs and pine needles that are clogged in your gutters will eventually dry out in the summer sun and turn into a perfect fire starter. Don’t let this happen!

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

It’s time to keep your gutters free of debris and take all the measures to protect your home and your family. Good to Go Gutters is an expert in seamless gutter and gutter screen installation, and we’ll treat your home as if it’s our own. Give us a call for your free estimate!

Why Installing Gutters in the Spring is Worth it

Installing gutters in the spring is worth it. Since gutters direct water away from your home, you’ll want to have the gutter system in place for the upcoming rain and thunderstorms. 

Installing gutters in the spring prepares you

Spring is the most popular month for installing gutters. This is often because homeowners spot problems with their gutters while the ice is melting and during regular spring cleaning. Installing gutters in the spring means you’ll be able to get the job done ahead of the seasonal rush.

Installing gutters in optimal weather

With the snow quickly melting, and the temperatures warming, it’s the perfect time to work outside. Early spring is a great time to repair, replace segments, or install a new gutter system because the weather is nice, and the seasonal rain hasn’t begun yet. 

Spring is time for a fresh start

It’s a great idea to start the season off with a clean slate. If your gutters have ice build-up and/or debris and leaves left over from the fall, now is the time to de-ice and prepare your gutters for the coming rain. You want your gutter system to do the job it was designed to do, and if it’s clogged, there is no way for it to direct water away from your home.

Now is also a good time to assess the quality of your gutters. While the gutters may be free of debris, they might not be functioning properly. Gutters are built to last for decades, but that doesn’t mean they won’t experience wear and tear over time, especially if they are not properly cared for. Now may be the time to repair or replace your gutters.

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Good to Go Gutters is an expert when it comes to installing gutters in the spring. We’re a small local business that believes in treating every home as if it is our own. We promise no sags or leaks for as long as you live in your home. Consider installing seamless gutters today! 

The Importance of Gutters on Your Home

When building your home, gutters may seem like an unnecessary expense and add-on. However, the importance of gutters is significant in providing a safe and dry home for you and your family. 

Gutters protect your home from rain and water damage

Gutters direct water away from your home. If you don’t have a gutter system, then water runs off the roof and directly touches the siding. Overtime, this will cause rot and mold growth.

Do you have vinyl siding? Even though vinyl is considered waterproof it is not built to withstand water running down the side of your house every time it rains. 

Without gutters, water will pool around the foundation of your home, potentially leaking or flooding into your basement. 

With spring coming soon, it’s important to take preventive measures and install gutters before the snowmelt and rain begins.

Gutters prevent soil erosion

The soil around your home protects the foundation from damage. If the soil gets too much water exposure, it will gradually wear away and your foundation will become exposed and damaged.

Any landscaping or flowerbeds you have around your foundation will be damaged and washed away over time. 

Gutters keep infestations away

Mosquitos and other insects love standing water. Installing gutters, and especially downspouts, will keep water away from your home. Don’t let your home be a breeding ground!

Gutters protect your roof

Without gutters, rain will collect on your roof, causing rot, deterioration, and mold. This will weaken your shingles, soffit, and fascia overtime. It is smarter to install a gutter system rather than replace an entire roof, and potentially more (i.e. siding, foundation).

The importance of gutters

The benefits of gutters are numerous.

  • Protects your siding, windows, and foundation
  • Prevents mold and mildew growth
  • Keeps infestations away
  • Protects your roof
  • Prevents soil erosion
  • Protects the integrity and structure of your home
  • Prevents basement flooding

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Don’t underestimate the importance of gutters! Let us help you install gutters today so that your home will be long-lasting and beautiful for years to come. Call Good to Go Gutters today for a free estimate. 

How to Prep Your Gutters For Winter

The leaves are quickly falling off the trees and, unfortunately, landing in gutter systems. This means it’s time to prep your gutters for winter. Although a nuisance, it’s important to keep your gutters clean and free of debris so that they can do their job of directing water away from your home.

It’s especially crucial to prep your gutters for winter so that the leaves don’t contribute to damage and dysfunction. Make sure your gutters are ready for winter!

Clean out leaves and debris to prep for winter

Cleaning out your gutters is one of the most important things you can do in preparation for winter. Leaves will clog your gutters and make it impossible for the water to flow through the gutters, leaving your home susceptible to water damage. Soggy leaves are heavy, then add the weight of snow and ice and your gutters will end up bearing a significant load. Gutters are not designed to hold too much weight, so it’s important to keep them clean and functioning!

Prepping your gutters for winter is a precarious job and requires a sturdy ladder. Make sure you don’t lean the ladder against the gutter as that will dent and damage the gutter. You can use a small plastic shovel or scoop to dig out the debris and leaves. Then, you’ll want to use a hose and rinse out your gutters. This will also act as a test to ensure your gutters are moving water the way they’re supposed to. 

Inspect your gutters to prep them for winter

While you are prepping your gutters for winter, it’s a great time to make sure your gutters are in good working order. If there are any dents, gashes, or signs of rust, it’s important to replace and repair as soon as possible.

Install gutter guards

As a preventative measure, installing gutter guards or leaf screens will keep regular gutter maintenance to a minimum. As previously mentioned, cleaning gutters is a dangerous task, so gutter guards will keep leaves and debris out of the gutters and keep you off the ladder. 

Call Good to Go Gutters today

Gutter maintenance can be a hassle and is very dangerous. Good to Go Gutters is more than happy to inspect your gutters and clean them out (free of charge) and replace broken or dented pieces if need be. We’re a small, local business and we’d love to help you prep your gutters for winter!

Drain Tile Solutions for Eliminating Gutter Kickouts

Drain tile is a great alternative for gutter kickouts. Gutter kickouts can be dangerous because they stick out into the yard, acting as a tripping hazard. Not only is it dangerous, it’s also a nuisance to mow around and it can be an eyesore too.

What is drain tile?

A drain tile system is an ancient agricultural technique used to remove excess water from the soil and improve crop growth. Despite the name, a drain tile isn’t made of tile anymore. It was originally made of clay but is now made from plastic PVC pipe or flexible plastic pipe laid underground around the home’s foundation.

What is the purpose?

Drain tile is a good option if you live in an area with heavy rainfall. Because the system moves water away from your foundation, it will keep your basement dry and free from water damage. In some systems, the piping may run to a distant drainage pit buried underground. In other systems the piping carries the water to open ground where it can run into storm sewers or filter into the ground.

How do I install a drain tile system?

Systems can either be installed around the outside of the foundation or around the inside of the foundation, under the floor slab.

The pipe should be sloped at least ¼ inch per foot, but steeper is better. This is an effective and efficient way to keeps water far away from your foundation and basement.

When should I install?

Drain tile systems are affordable and easy to install during the early phases of home construction. Installing the system is well worth the time and money since you will be protecting your home from water damage. 

If you are looking at buying a home, it’s a good thing to inquire about. You can have peace of mind knowing your home is protected from significant flooding and water damage.

Call Good to Go Gutters today!

Good to Go Gutters is a small, local business that believes in treating every home as if it is our own. We promise quality work and a quick turnaround time. Because we specialize in new construction, we would be happy to discuss options with you for both drain tile and gutter installation. Give us a call today for your free estimate!