Remember Me
forgot your password?

Choosing a Gutter Contractor

Choosing a Gutter Contractor

The first thing you want to ask when getting an estimate is what gauge the aluminum is. Coil stock is sold in several thicknesses, including .032, .027, and .025 inch. The general rule of thumb is that thicker is better so be sure to specify the thicker .032 material.

Next you want to compare the price, the durability, maintenance requirements and warranties when buying gutters. The price of gutters range from about $4 to $20 per linear foot depending on the material you choose.

Finally, check the warranty. For gutters and accessories, look for a warranty that runs at least 20 years, though a lifetime backing is preferable. For labor, one-year coverage is the minimum. Also be sure the contractor has completion insurance, which continues coverage on the gutters if he goes out of business.

To ensure proper installation, check references, and drive by finished jobs. Ask your friends, neighbors and co-workers for suggestions. Check the local Better Business Bureau website. These are all good resources. You might also contact professional associations, the yellow pages, the Internet or ads in your local area. Just make sure you choose one with extensive knowledge of and experience with a variety of gutter systems and one that has an iron-clad policy of standing behind its products and installation. You’ll also want to make sure your contractor is:


  • licensed, insured and bonded


  • financially stable


  • an approved installer of a particular system


  • committed to quality control and safety procedures



You might also look at these helpful websites:

  • National Association of the Remodeling Industry: www.nari.org


  • National Association of Home Builders: www.nahb.org


  • Better Business Bureau: www.bbb.org



  • Charlie McCurry

    S&K Roofing, Siding and Windows is Maryland's leading company in roofing and maintenance-free home exteriors. Family-owned and operated since 1980, S&K Roofing, Siding and Windows provides high-quality exterior home workmanship and customer service that is among the best in the industry. We offer maintenance-free home exteriors including roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and downspouts, custom trim/wrap, and decks.

    To learn more visit SKRoofing.com.

    Rate this Article: 0 / 5 stars - 0 vote(s)
    Print Email Re-Publish


    • Latest Home Improvement Articles
    • More from Charlie McCurry

    Wind Power

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    Wind power is a great source of alternative power. When the sun heats up parts of the atmosphere the hot air rises and cooler air from other parts blow in to replace that air. This is how wind is produced. This wind is powerful enough to drive large fan blades. These blades are the blades of wind mills.

    Why Use Green Products

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    Why do we have to use green products? The answer to this question is very clear in everybody’s mind. Climate change, acid rain, air and water pollution started this effort to reverse these conditions that is man made. The power to overturn the condition lies with us and we can do it if we want.

    Solar Power Panels

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    Solar energy is the new thing in the energy circuit. Let us discuss here how solar panels work. Solar power panels provide free electricity converted from the energy radiated from the sun. This energy is called solar energy. Special cells called photovoltaic cells are used to convert this energy into electricity.

    Solar Power And Its Usage

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    Solar energy is a dependable and well known form of alternative energy. The fossil fuels across the world are getting depleted and we have to look for a resource that is both abundant and reliable. Solar energy can be utilized to generate electricity and heat and therefore aid in slowing the depletion of the fossil fuels.

    Solar Batteries

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    Solar batteries are very convenient things. They are great sources of power when electricity is not available. For this reason hikers and trekkers often use solar batteries and chargers to charge their torches and other appliances. There are available batteries for even charging dead car batteries.

    Reduce The Amount Of Energy Needed To Warm Or Cool Your Home

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    To reduce the home insulation the house must be constructed that the quantity of energy generated from the house is the quantity consumed, therefore the energy spent will be zero. When doing this also make sure that you reduce your carbon footprint and your impact to the environment. Taking these steps will make you reduce or zero your home insulation.

    Reduce, Reuse And Recycle

    By: Jared D. Ingram | 27/12/2009
    The three friendly words for our environment are, reduce, reuse and recycle. These three words denote how people manage waste. Be a little responsible towards your home, Earth. Buy responsibly and this way you will reduce your trash. Go for products that use less packaging.

    Magnetic Generator - Viable Home Electricity Generators Or Not?

    By: Creztor Tessel | 27/12/2009
    When it comes to the subject of creating your own home electricity, there are several ways you can do it but none can compare to a magnetic generator. Magnetic power generators aren't the only way home owners can create home electricity, but it is one of the newer methods available...

    Window Parts and Cleaning

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Security
    Learn about the basic parts of a window and how to keep them clean.

    Window Terminology (a-j)

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    This article has all of the window terminology you will ever need to know from A-J.

    Energy Star Windows and Doors

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors, and skylights save you energy and money, increase the comfort of your home, and protect your valuable possessions from sun damage. They are also better for the environment because lowering your energy use means less air pollution from power plants. Read on to learn more.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Windows

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    This article provides answers to the most common questions concerning windows. Read on to learn useful information for every homeowner.

    Buying the Right Windows

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    Selecting windows for your home can be a daunting task. Like any specialized area, window technology is constantly changing and these essential home components can be difficult to understand. Before you make your decision and commit to what will likely be a substantial investment, read on and learn.

    Understanding your Window Payment Options

    By: Charlie McCurry | 21/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    You have several payment options for most home improvement and maintenance and repair projects. For example, you can get your own loan or ask the contractor to arrange financing for larger projects. For smaller projects, you may want to pay by check or credit card. Avoid paying cash. Whatever option you choose, be sure you have a reasonable payment schedule and a fair interest rate. This article provides some additional tips

    Finding the Right Window Contractor

    By: Charlie McCurry | 14/06/2007 | Home Improvement
    Whether you’re planning an addition for a growing family or simply getting new replacement windows, finding a competent and reliable contractor is the first step to a successful and satisfying home improvement project.

    Submit Your Articles Free: Signup
    Article Categories




    Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
    Copyright © 2005-2008 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved. (0.19, 4, w3)