,

NOVA’s Best Gutter Companies [TOP 4 RANKED]

best gutter companies nova

When it comes to your home – gutters are an integral part of the overall health of your exterior.

Often overlooked until it’s too late, gutters are vital for stormwater management during the heavy springs rains, summer storms, and harsh winters Northern Virginia (aka NOVA) brings us.

Without properly functioning gutters, there are a lot of issues that can arise such as foundational problems, leaks, erosion, and even mosquitos (let’s face it, no one likes mosquitos).

So whether you need to replace your existing gutters, you’re in need of new gutters, or perhaps you need to repair your gutters – today, we will cover the best gutter companies in NOVA (aka best gutter companies near you!)

Best Gutter Companies NOVA

In this article, we rank the best gutter companies in NOVA so you can easily get your gutters replaced or corrected! As a bonus, in the end, we also offer gutter guard and gutter cleaning info!

1. Gutter Gurus

gutter gurus nova

You might be wondering why we wouldn’t rank ourselves #1… well, there is a reason.

Gutter Gurus of Woodbridge, VA is a premier gutter only company that specializes in, you guessed it – Gutters! The reason why they’re number on one on the list is pretty simple:

  1. They have an instant online gutter pricing system that is free to use [see their gutter calculator tool here]
  2. Gutter Gurus has an extensive Gutter Resource Library with articles, videos, and content that helps explain everything for the everyday homeowner
  3. Their website has actually been seen on Market Watch & News Wire!

As the leader in new custom seamless rain gutters in NOVA, Gutter Gurus is on the forefront of making life easy for the homeowner.

For starters they offer a free online quoting system that homeowners can use to get an instant, haggle-free price. Simply input the amount of linear gutter feet and downspout feet needed, and boom – price is done!

Next, homeowners can add options that include picking their gutter color, gutter size, and gutter guards all in one place! And while they may not have a ton of reviews (yet) the reviews they do have speak for themselves:

If you want to learn more about Gutter Gurus – reach out here and use their chat feature!

2. Top Dog Home Pro

Top Dog Home Pro is one of the premier gutter companies in NOVA for many reasons but to give you a quick list here are just a few:

  1. Their reviews
  2. Their gutter warranties
  3. Their video pricing & haggle-free price structure
  4. Gutter pricing is online

Let us first examine the reviews;

With 64 reviews averaging 4.9 stars (63 are 5 star reviews), while we are ranking the “Best Gutter Companies in NOVA,” we can’t leave ourselves out – as cliché as that might seem. The facts speak for themselves, and let’s face it – usually clichés are true :)!

The testimonial videos Top Dog Home Pro has for their gutter division speaks for themselves too:

As if the client testimonies are not enough, one of the reasons Top Dog Home Pro is on “Top” is because of their warranties they offer homeowners for their gutter products!

Gutter Warranties from Top Dog Home Pro:

  • Lifetime labor warranty
  • Lifetime product warranty
  • Gutter Guards installed by Top Dog Home Pro come with a lifetime no-clog warranty!
  • Read more about our gutter warranties here.

Lastly, the pricing structure for new gutters in NOVA that Top Dog Home Pro offers is second to none and very transparent.

On our New Gutter page, we cover exactly how much new gutters cost – with no run around info!

gutter prices
(Pricing online – that makes us great!)

3. Summerland Gutters

Coming in at #3, Summerland Gutters (also of Woodbridge, VA) is a close friend/competitor who happens do do great gutter work too! In fact, their website may not offer the learning resources and content like the first two, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know what they’re doing when it comes to new gutters!

Summerland Gutters is known for the high quality work and communicaiton, which is why we ranked them high on the list! Most of the “Larger Gutter Companies” in Northern, VA typically have about the same pricing, but not the best communication.

In business for 15 years and locally owned/operated, Summerland gives you the small business customer service, with competitive pricing and without the hassle of a “Bigger Gutter Company.”

To visit their website, simply visit summerlandgutters.com

4. APR Gutters

APR Gutters is a phenomenal company to work with and use!

While there are certainly bigger names in the Virginia gutter business, those names are easy to find online. When creating this list we were focused on finding the best gutter companies for the everyday person that offered ease of pricing, install, and customer service.

That being said, we knew we couldn’t leave APR Gutters off the list. They always do a great job on every job and are easy to work with.

What about gutter guard companies?

Gutter guards are designed to protect gutters from leaf and debris build-up, as well as bird nests. The idea is that water enters your gutters only, not all the other stuff.

That being said not all gutters are created equally! Some gutter guards need cleaning, which is counterintuitive if you think about it. That being said when you’re looking for the best gutter companies near you to install gutter guards, these are what you want to ask:

  1. Are they self-cleaning gutter guards?
  2. Do they use Raindrop Gutter Guards?
  3. What is the gutter guard warranty?

Always ask these questions and be sure to read this article on the best gutter guards ranked.

Some gutter guard companies (cough, cough – Gutter Helmet) are super expensive and only “They” can work on them. Not to mention that water flows off the “Helmet” and birds can still nest.

What about gutter cleaning companies?

While the first few on the list for the best gutter companies in NOVA don’t clean gutters, Summerland Gutters does do gutter cleaning, and also another company, Bright Exterior Cleaning, specializes in gutter cleaning.

Gutter cleaning is vital each fall/spring unless you decide to go with gutter guards! Just make sure either way you get your gutters cleaned or gutter guards (that are self-cleaning) installed to avoid gutter issues.

Final Word on Best Gutter Companies –

To summarize, the best gutter companies in NOVA (according to us) are as follows:

  1. Gutter Gurus of Woodbridge, VA
  2. Top Dog Home Pro
  3. Summerland Gutters
  4. APR Gutters

While ultimately preferences may factor to certain rankings, to create this list we went with reviews, customer service, ease of use, haggle-free pricing, quality work, gutter pricing, and overall quality!

We hope this article helped you find what you were looking for and if you have any specific gutter questions just let us know!

/1 Comment/by
,

Everything You Need to Know About Gutter Warranties

gutter warranties

When considering any big-ticket item as a consumer, it’s important to always do your due diligence, research, and make sure you’re getting the best deal. 

On top of getting the best deal, it’s especially important to ask the foundational questions such as, “What type of warranty does this come with?” This doesn’t just apply to buy a new TV, iPhone, or kitchen table – it applies to your home as well. 

In other words, when you are considering an exterior contractor to replace your roof, or in this case, add new gutters to your home – it is vital to ask about the warranty they offer. 

Today the team at Top Dog Home Pro will explain our exact process for new gutter warranties including what they gutter warranty consists of and how it all works! 

What to Know About Gutter Warranties:

So you want to learn about gutter warranties and don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we got you covered. 

Gutter warranties can differ depending on the company, the product, and the type of work you are getting done. For example, we don’t always guarantee gutter repairs for life because a repair typically indicates that the gutter life is quickly fading. 

That being said, typically, new rain gutters come with a warranty. Here at Top Dog Home Pros, our gutter warranty is very straight forward and hassle-free:

We offer a lifetime material warranty with a lifetime labor warranty. As a bonus, homeowners can also take advantage of our lifetime no-clog warranty when they elect to install new gutter guards on their home. 

Let us take a look at what each entails: 

Our Aluminum Gutter Warranty: 

New aluminum gutters reign supreme compared to any other gutter. 

  • Vinyl gutters are a little bit cheaper, but they’re awful quality and sectional, thus they leak (not good). 
  • Copper and steel gutters look amazing and perform well, but are easily 4-10x more than aluminum rain gutters! (not kidding) 

However, aluminum gutters hit the nail on the head so to speak (even though we don’t use gutter spikes, we use screws), in that they offer: 

  • Great performance
  • Durability
  • Longevity
  • Price point
  • 16 colors +
  • 5 in & 6 in
  • Customized on-site

Top Dog Home Pro of Woodbridge, VA offers a lifetime material warranty for any new aluminum gutters we install. This means that if a section of gutters breaks, falls off your house (aside from weather impact), is not draining properly, or isn’t performing – we will come to fix it or replace it per the warranty. 

All new gutters don’t just come with a material warranty, perhaps most importantly, we also guarantee our workmanship (gutter labor warranty). 

New gutter labor warranty information:

A labor warranty of any kind is simply a warranty that guarantees that quality workmanship will be performed, back by the terms upholding that workmanship. 

Here are Top Dog Home Pros, we back out new gutter labor with a lifetime guarantee. Any aluminum gutters we install are guaranteed to be installed correctly, drain correctly, and perform the right way – or we will come to fix them! 

Since all of our new gutters are customized to fit accordingly (they are made on site, you can see a video here), they are installed and backed by our lifetime labor warranty. 

Now if you read that and you’re a little worried about cleaning your gutters each November, don’t worry. We offer the ultimate gutter warranty below in our gutter guard package: 

No-clog Warranty with Gutter Guards:

So if we install brand new gutters and you maintain them you’re all set for life, right?

That is correct. However, what if you’re someone who doesn’t want to pay to have them cleaned or you don’t think you can clean them, then what?

The simple answer to that question is to install gutter guards, but not just any gutter guards. Raindrop gutter guards to be specific, and here is why:

  1. Raindrop Gutter guards are SELF-CLEANING (meaning you don’t have to clean them they wash themselves out)
  2. They are a surface tension guard made from highly durable polypropylene
  3. Great for helping melt snow and ice in winter (eases weight on gutters) 
  4. Can easily be added to new gutters for just around $10 per foot
  5. Lifetime NO CLOG warranty with all Raindrop products we install

Here at Top Dog Home Pro, we work exclusively with Raindrop as our sole provider of Raindrop products.

Not to mention, new gutter guards cost less than a 3-4 year gutter cleaning average. This means in what you would pay to have your gutters cleaned over the next three or four years, you would have new guards that last a lifetime, literally – we guarantee it! 

Note: We do not typically install gutter guards on old/existing gutters without thoroughly inspecting the condition of the gutters. Our policy of being transparent and honest is huge, and while some companies might slap on gutter guards on old gutters – we usually don’t. The last thing we want is for a customer to have to buy new gutters and new guards again in a few years!

Final Word on Gutter Warranties: 

To recap, here are the Top Dog Home Pro gutter warranties again:

  • Lifetime labor and material warranty on new seamless gutters
  • Lifetime no-clog warranty on new Raindrop gutter guards

We assure all new rain gutter customers that their home will be outfitted with 5-inch or 6-inch gutters that will leave them happy, impressed, and most importantly carefree (so long as you get the guards).

Maintaining your gutters is still vital to keeping your gutters healthy and properly working, however, if for some reason our install or the gutters we provided don’t work like they should – we got you covered!

That being said, if you’re looking for a great way to get gutter pricing, check out our sister company and the free gutter calculator here.

Frequently Asked Gutter Warranty Questions:

What exclusions apply to my gutter warranty?

Mother nature is not covered in our labor or material warranties. In other words, if a tree falls on your gutters (or branch), or a wind storm knocks your gutters off, these type of circumstances are not guaranteed in the material or labor warranty. Specific limitations to warranties are included in contracts with each homeowner

Are gutter guards worth the price?

While we can’t speak for every company, we can candidly say that YES, gutter guards are worth the extra cost, but keep in mind they’re not all made equal. We only recommend the Raindrop gutter guard because we can offer a no-clog warranty for life. We can’t say that for the others. 

What are other gutter resources I can read to learn about gutters?

When it comes to replacing gutters, adding gutter guards, or simply learning about how much gutters cost, we have a ton of resources that can help you.

/1 Comment/by
,

Fall Maintenance Check List: How to Protect Your Exterior Home

fall roof maintenance

Fall is here, even though just like yesterday, it felt like summer. 

Each year, after the Labor Day Holiday, it’s as if summer comes to an abrupt end and all of the fall delicacies like apple spice flavors, pumpkin this, and orange leaves flood our life. Pools are drained and the mornings are cool.

There are tons of reasons why fall is the optimal time for completing things like cleaning your gutters, having fun, watching football, doing some roof maintenance, and landscaping. The cool weather makes it ideal to get outside. 

And while fall marks football season, it is still important to stay on top of your home maintenance with all the foliage falling. This includes inspecting your roof this autumn can help catch issues before winter kicks in and makes matters worse.

Here are a few things you should check off your list this fall to ensure your roof stays in tip-top shape:

1. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

With leaves falling this autumn, it’s important to keep your gutters and downspouts clean and clear to prevent issues like buildup, leaks, and more. And – with regular maintenance – you’ll be more likely to catch any current issues like pooling water or weakened brackets before they become a bigger problem.

To clean your gutters is pretty simple: 

Option 1: Call someone to do it for you

Option 2: Install gutter guards

Option 3: Do it yourself 

If you go with option 3, just be sure to practice ladder safety and do some research prior. Most accidents occur because of ladders, so please be safe! 

2. Aerate & Overseed Your Lawn

While you won’t be able to do every single thing on this list in one hour, heck even one day, September/October in Northern, VA is the perfect time to aerate your yard and overseed it. 

Lawns in Northern Virginia are “Cool Weather” grasses and this means peak growing season is spring and fall. It’s best to aerate each fall to help recondition soil and make new grass growth possible. 

You can rent an aerator with your neighbors, or simply buy a handheld aerator if your yard is small online or at a hardware store!

  • Rake your lawn some
  • Cut it
  • Aerate it
  • Seed it
  • Don’t mow for 4-5 weeks while the grass grows! 

3. Install Gutter Guards

After ensuring your gutters are clean, installing a self-cleaning gutter guard isn’t a bad ideal at all! 

In order to reduce the amount of work required to keep them clean each year, gutter guards are an easy way to minimize maintenance and ensure the longevity of your gutters – both of which will be much appreciated as more leaves come down throughout the season.

However, that doesn’t mean EVERY gutter guard is created the same. Here at Top Dog Home Pro we recommend checking out the Raindrop Gutter Guard because it is “Self Cleaning.”

In fact, we are so confident in the Raindrop Gutter Guard we offer a lifetime no-clog warranty. 

4. Schedule a Roof Inspection

Above all else, now is the prime time to inspect your roof, and you can have it done while you watch college football! 

If your roof needs replacing or even minor repairs, you want to be sure to catch it now before the snow, ice and cold temperatures make it more difficult to address. Typically, what happens when snow accumulates on a roof, it can make problems worse or roof leaks bigger. 

You can do this yourself with a pair of binoculars, simply look for loose or missing shingles. That being said, it’s best to have a professional give you a second set of eyes too! 

Schedule an inspection today and get the peace of mind you need to enjoy the rest of the season! 

Roof Inspection Video Call

5. Trim Trees & Bushes

Do you see a theme with leaves and trees? Their leaves can cause issues.

Trim back branches that seem to be getting too close to your home to keep your roof safe. This also helps avoid extra leaves clogging your gutters. Additionally, “Dead-wooding,” is a good idea to do later in fall. 

Removing the dead branches, clipping ends, trimming ornamental grasses, and cutting back your bushes will add curb appeal and prep your landscaping for the spring season! 

Adopt the mindset, less is more, and spend a few hours each spring in fall in your yard and you will avoid having to completely overhaul your landscaping every few years like your neighbor! 

6. Service Your Lawnmower

Inspect your lawnmower to ensure it is in proper working condition. 

Once you’re done mulching the leaves and grass in late October, get your lawnmower ready for spring by shutting it down for the winter! 

Clean undercarriage, sharpen blades, and ensure gasoline is drained! The former is especially important because gasoline left in the tank can get stale and a bit gummy in the winter, which can damage the carburetor. 

Refer to the owner’s manual for additional instructions!

7. Prepare Outdoor Water Spigots

As winter approaches and after you know you won’t need outdoor water anymore, be sure to prepare your water spigots. 

Typically, this takes all of 5-10 minutes. Find out where your outdoor water cut-off valves are (near furnace usually) and turn them off. Go outside and turn on spigots to let water drain out. Keep them halfway open for the winter to prevent freezing and bursting pipes (lingering water). 

It doesn’t hurt to also get a cheap $2 cover from the store to go over your spigots that are outside! 

8. Consider the Rest – 

Just because it is not on this list, doesn’t mean it’s not important. 

Some homeowners prefer to paint in the fall (though we say wait until after winter) or make crafts and decorate for Halloween. That being said, if you like to do other things each fall, go for it! 

Just be sure to complete what we call the “Big 3” for the fall homeowner: 

  1. Check gutters and clean them after leaves fall
  2. Aerate your lawn and seed it (helps property values when you have a lush lawn)
  3. Check your roof for any issues before harsh winters come! 

/by
,

What is Curb Appeal? Why Your Roof Matters

what is curb appeal

The definition of curb appeal is pretty straight forward: the attractiveness of a property (typically for sale) and its surroundings when viewed from the street.

Curb appeal can be accomplished in many ways.

Homeowners can keep their lawn short and aesthetically pleasing. They can make sure their mulch beds are edged and re-mulched annually. Front doors and shutters can be painted every few years. And while the list goes on, something that is often overlooked is the roof of your home!

When it comes to curb appeal, the biggest factor after your front door the meets the eye is… your home’s roof!

Believe it or not, a clean, new-looking, and sometimes updated roof adds a ton of curb appeal (and a great ROI). Today, we will look to answer the “What is curb appeal question,” and ways to improve it!

Need a Roof Quote? Build it here.

First Things First, What is Curb Appeal?

Curb appeal refers to the appearance of a home from – you guessed it – the curb.

More importantly, it’s the first impression someone gets by viewing your home from the street.

Is it eclectic? Modern? Classic?

There are quite a few factors that can affect your curb appeal, from your roofing to your color palette of choice.

When it comes down to it, you want the first impression of your home to be a positive one – and a lasting one. Every aspect of your home’s exterior should be well-designed and maintained to impress neighbors, family, and any prospective buyers, either now or in the future.

As previously stated, the condition of your home, the landscaping, the roof, the gutters, all of this matters.

Why Does Curb Appeal Matter?

So, now you know what curb appeal really means, but why is it important?

\Making the exterior of your home eye-catching and well-groomed is a great way to beautify your neighborhood and encourage others to upkeep the aesthetic standards that have been set.

Beyond that, standing out from other homes in your neighborhood just the right amount gives you a competitive edge in a seller’s market.

While there are a lot of different factors when it comes to the listing price of your home, curb appeal is definitely going to be one of those factors. Think of the outside of your home as the hook that will pull people in to learn more about the interior and other features of your home.

How Can You Up Your Curb Appeal?

Start with the basics.

Cutting your grass, fertilizing so weeds are gone, and giving your landscaping a trim/mulch will add some instant curb appeal in a matter of minutes.

Simple ideas to quickly add curb appeal:

  1. Move trash cans from front of home
  2. Cut grass and fertilize it
  3. Get aeration in the fall
  4. Plant some new flowers
  5. Trim your trees and bushes
  6. Pick up any junk laying around

Next, we suggest evaluating the exterior of your home itself.

  • Is your siding stained or out-dated?
  • Does your roof need new shingles?
  • What about the quality of your windows?

Plan out a color scheme for your roof and siding and maybe even install an updated front door to really capture attention.

Basically, you should be asking yourself if your home is creating a cohesive story from just a glance. Not only will these basics help bring a vision together for your home, but getting new roofing and windows is a great way to keep your home maintained if you aren’t quite ready to sell.

Whether you’re interested in transforming your house into your dream home or your planning on selling before the new school year starts in the fall, putting some time and effort in the details of the exterior of your home will make a huge difference.

Focusing on curb appeal can take your home to the next level.

Curb Appeal in Northern Virginia

The Northern Virginia real estate market never goes into hibernation. And while the market stays hot almost year-round, curb appeal still matters.

You have probably seen a house that has no occupants and it’s quite amazing how fast that house falls apart and gives the appearance of not being maintained.

For those looking to relocate or sell, you’ve probably heard the term curb appeal in your recent research, but it’s not just reserved for those in the market to move.

Curb appeal can certainly make a big impact when it comes to selling your home, but it can also affect the ambiance of a neighborhood and, simply put, the overall value of your home, whether you’re interested in selling now, or later down the line.

Keeping property values high isn’t too hard in NOVA, but it helps when you care for the exterior of your home. This includes keeping up with seasonal maintenance, preparing your home for winter, keeping up with landscaping, and checking the condition of your roof annually.

If you have any exterior remodeling projects that go beyond the scope of landscaping – like a roof replacement or new gutters, let the professionals at Top Dog Home Pro inspect your exterior to give you the best input!

/by
,

How to Diagnose & Fix Roof Leaks

roof leaks

I will never forget the morning my best friend called and said he had a roof leak.

After three straight days of what felt like non-stop, pounding rain, he noticed a blotchy, dark stain on the drywall above his bathroom sink.

My friend said as they brushed their teeth, they immediately recognized moisture penetrating their bathroom drywall on the top floor of his home. In a bit of a panic, he called me (Luke, Top Dog Home Pro) and asked what he should do.

I chuckled a bit, only because the answer to roof leak questions vary. They can range from a very quick and simple fix, to sometimes a brand new roof.

That is why today we will help you understand these things as they pertain to roof leaks:

  1. How to determine if you have a roof leak
  2. Causes of Roof Leaks
  3. What to do if you have a roof leak
  4. The best ways to repair your roof leak

How to known if your roof is leaking:

The first question I asked my friend that day was, “How big is the water stain on the drywall of your ceiling, and is it concentrated or all over?”

His answer, “A small stain in one spot” was something that immediately told me the roof leak was there, but it wasn’t urgent. Most likely a pipe collar had corroded and cracked, water was seeping in and dripping down the truss and causing a small drip.

Sure enough, the day once the rain subsided that was the case. The pipe collar had cracked and needed to be replaced – a simple fix!

All this to say, it is sometimes VERY obvious when you have a roof leak, and not so obvious other times, let’s look at how you determine if you have a roof leak:

How to find roof leaks:

  1. If you see a water stain on your top floor ceiling, this is a very evident sign of a roof leak of some sort
  2. Go into your attic annually and look for any mold or soft/rotting wood (hopefully you won’t find this)
  3. Have your roof inspected annually
  4. Look for common “Water Penetration Areas.”  Anywhere you have skylights, roof vents, chimneys, dormers or anything else that projects through the roof and cause a break in shingles it’s most likely the common cause of a roof leak. Very rarely is a wide-open space covered by unbroken shingles will you have a leak
  5. Look for missing shingles and caps on your roof

Causes of Roof Leaks

The most common cause of roof leaks is typically from missing shingles or where things like chimneys and skylights “break the chain” of shingles.

Areas, where shingles are missing or broken, can allow for moisture and water to penetrate your roof’s service. Obviously, things like rotting plywood and missing shingles can lead to bigger roof leaks.

Common causes of roofing leaks include:

  1. Missing shingles
  2. Loose or broken shingles
  3. Pipe collar seals that are cracked
  4. Flashing leaks
  5. Skylights, dormers, and chimney areas where moisture can penetrate
  6. Clogged gutters (causing heavy rain)
  7. Roof vents
  8. Holes in roof
  9. Age of roof (really old roofs that no longer work)

What to do if your roof is leaking:

If you have seen some missing shingles or you have noticed some wet spots in your home – it’s a sign your roof might be leaking. But what if you’re still unsure?

Here are the best logical steps to take to address a possible or existing roof leak:

1. Call a Roof Repair Company

Here at Top Dog Home Pro, we specialize in roof replacements and roof repairs. What we always tell homeowners is that if they suspect a roof leak – call ASAP!

While it might be something simple like fixing my friend’s pipe collar, it could be a small problem that if not addressed – could become an even bigger issue!

It doesn’t hurt to reach out and simply get your roof inspected! In fact, we recommend doing it annually!

2. Check Your Pipe Collars

Take a step back, far enough on the street to see if you’re pipe collars look “OK.”

While this might not be the most efficient check, just doing a spot check from the street doesn’t hurt. Getting on your roof, using a ladder, and inspecting your roof is something we don’t usually recommend.

However, if you insist on getting on your roof, be sure to use safety protocols and ladder safety steps!

Note: Get some binoculars! Use binoculars to check your roof and get a closer view!

3. Check your roof for missing shingles

The most common cause of roof leaks after pipe collar cracks in the seal, missing shingles are a major cause for roof leaks!

It’s really simple to check your roof with missing shingles – it’s pretty obvious, so long as you get the right vantage point.

Using binoculars is a good idea too! Be sure to be extra vigilant when heavy wind storms sweep through your area!

4. Fix your roof leak

Once you determine where your roof leak is coming from, it’s best to fix the roof as fast as possible!

WHY??

A small leak can become a big leak in a matter of weeks, and even sometimes days depending on the time of the year (think spring rain).

Waiting to fix your roof leak can lead to more damage and fixing plywood, replacing more shingles, and even some interior cosmetic remodeling can start to add up!

However, the good thing is you do have options when it comes to repairing your roof which we will discuss below!

Roof Leak Repair Options

When it comes to fixing your roof leak, the options may vary depending on the size and scope of you roof leak.

Once you determine you have a leak the best options are to:

  1. Call a certified roof company that can work with insurance companies (Such as Top Dog Home Pro of Woodbridge, VA)
  2. Determine if the fix is worth just fixing OR contacting insurance and submitting a roof repair (We can do this for you, just learn about our video call option here). This will depend on size and scope.
  3. Decide if the roof repair is sufficient, or depending on age, if the roof needs to be replaced (which is sometimes easier).

If it is determined that a roof replacement is needed, that is most likely because the cost of a repair exceeds the benefits the repair. Sometimes, depending on the age of roof, it’s best to consider a roof replacement.

Roof Replacement Cost

Final Word on Roof Leaks

As the joke goes, the Grand Canyon wasn’t formed overnight.

The same goes for a roof leak in most cases. While they might “Appear” over night or after a storm, most of the time they are slow emerging.

However, once they start, they don’t stop until they’re addressed. That is why it’s important to do an annual roof check visually and even consider having a professional roofing contractor in your area check your roof every few years – especially as your roof ages!

/by
, ,

We Answer: How Much Does a New Roof Cost?

new roof costs

Just the other day, a really good friend asked me a question about roof pricing.

His exact words were pretty straightforward, “Luke, if I want a new roof for a detached garage, what am I looking at price wise?”

While I said there are differences in roof replacement costs vs a brand new roof cost, the followup questions I asked him helped figure out just how much his new roof cost would be.

He was amazed, in fact he exclaimed he had called around and every company wanted to send a representative to come look at his roof to give him a “accurate price.”

However, based on some simple questions and some rough calculations, I was able to help him get a accurate ball park of what a new roof would cost him!

His next words were simple – you need to include this stuff on your website!

After giving it some consideration, here at Top Dog Home Pro we realized that everyone shops online nowadays, so why can’t people shop for roofs online?

So today we are excited to share with you two amazing features:

  1. Our roof replacement cost & build online page
  2. This article helping you understand all the pricing metrics behind new roof costs!

New Roof Costs (Everything to Know!)

Today, in our article we will be sharing new roof costs from a homeowner’s perspective as if they’re replacing their existing roof.

In other words, when we refer to “New Roof” we are referencing new shingles and underlayment for an existing home, not a new construction home.

Understanding what makes up a new roof or roof replacement is the key to estimating the cost of your new roof. A high-quality roof replacement will consist of the following:

  1. Removing the existing shingles and underlayment
  2. Inspecting the condition of plywood on roof (we will never put new shingles on plywood that is damaged)
  3. Installation of underlayment – Certainteed DiamondDeck
  4. Application of ice shield, CertainTeed Winterguard along edges
  5. New shingles (selected below)

This is of course standard with any new replacement that Top Dog Home Pro does and is all included, aside from any damaged plywood that requires replacing (we will dive further into extras later).

And while this seems pretty straightforward, the reason we let you know about what a new roof first consists of is because though rare, some companies in the past have simply installed a new roof on the existing roof to cut corners.

So now that you know what exactly a roof replacement consists of, let’s look at the costs.

How roof replacements are priced:

Roofs are priced by what is commonly referred to in the roofing industry as a “Square.”

A roofing square is equivalent to 100 square feet of shingles.

For example, a town home that has 1,000 square feet of roof would require 10 “Squares” of shingles.

Almost all companies use this term to price roofs and costs such as underlayment, tear off, etc are factored into the square price.

Factors that determine the amount of square required for a roof include:

  • The size of your home,
  • The pitch,
  • The slope,
  • Eaves/crevasses.
  • Hip-roofs
  • Chimneys, skylights, and areas that require more shingle usage

Now that you know how roofs are priced, let’s explore the three major components of new roof costs!

New Roof Cost: Size of Home

The size of your home’s roof matters when it comes to pricing (this is a given).

A town home with a roof that is approximately 10 square is naturally going to cost less than a single family home with a hip roof that requires 30 square.

That being said, on our Roof Build & Price page, we let homeowners pick out the features of their roof and get a rough ballpark estimate for what their roof will cost!

As you can see in this photo below, the amount of square (roughly estimated) per type of home is as follows:

Typically the following square is required (on average) for each of the following types of homes:

  • Townhome: 10-12 roofing square
  • Single Family home: 20 square
  • Extra Large or Hip Roof: 40 square

While the exacts are actually measured using GPS technology and satellites provided by EagleView so that slope and pitch are spot on, the final amount of shingles that are needed come from these reports.

However, this will help you get a roof ball park for what you will need square wise to estimate your roof cost, but first you have to pick your shingles!

New Roof Pricing: Type of Shingles

The type of shingle you select for your new roof matters in more way than just price.

For starters, the shingle warranty, the quality of the singles you select, and what type you ultimately choose all have features that can make them better (or worse) than another asphalt shingle.

Think of shingles like cars.

You have a base model car, followed by your average model, followed by the top-end model. Shingles are very similar.

Here at Top Dog Home Pro we offer three shingles, though we hardly install the first:

  1. Three-tab shingles (base model)
  2. Landmark Architectural Shingles (consumers top pick)
  3. Landmark Architectural Pro Shingles (best warranty)
  • landmark pro warranty
    Landmark PRO
  • Landmark
  • 3 Tab XT25

To help, we have included this pricing table below which includes the three shingles we offer

Type of ShinglesTownhome Single FamilyXL Home/ Hip Roof
10 Square:20 Square:40 Square:
XT25 Three Tab$3,800 $7,600$15,200
Landmark$4,000$8,000$16,000
Landmark Pro$4,250$8,500$17,000

While this is based on square footage averages for the normal roof for a townhome, single family home or an extra large home, what you will first notice is that the price difference between basic three tab shingles (XT25) and Landmark Pro Architectural shingles is typically a couple hundred more…

Why does this matter?

For starters, the material and quality of a architectural shingle is worth every penny compared to the lesser three tab counterpart, but REALLY, it boils down to the shingle warranties.

In our warranty article we explain the specifics of roofing warranties, but for a quick glance here is a comparison:

3 Tab ShinglesLandmark PRO
ProratedNon- prorated
-25-year, limited transferable warranty
-5-year SureStart™ warranty (100% replacement and labor costs due to manufacturing defects)
-10-year StreakFighter® warranty (on available colors) against streaking and discoloration caused by airborne algae
-5-year, 60 mph wind-resistance warranty		-Lifetime limited warranty
-15-year algae resistance
-10-year SureStart protection includes
-15-year 110 MPH wind warranty with an upgrade to 130 MPH available

New Roof Cost: Extras

You have your home’s roof size figured out… check.

You selected your shingle style… check.

Next, it’s time to see if any extra is needed or if you want to add extras to your roof! These types of things are always discussed prior and included in pricing, with the only thing not being discussed up front is the plywood replacement.

Hopefully we don’t have to replace any plywood, but that is something that can happen with a new roof and it isn’t known until the old roof is torn off. Our team can sometimes feel “Soft Spots” ahead of time and roughly guess how many boards may need replacing.

That said, here are common extras that can sometimes impact new roof costs or homeowners may want to add:

ExtraUnit of MeasurePrice
4 Ply 1/2″ Plywood 4×8each$65
Additional layer of tear offper square$35
Tear Off of Wood Shakeper square$55
Steep Pitch 8/12 or >
Step Flashing		per square$30
Ridgeventper foot$4
Chimney/Skylight Flashingeach$125
New SkylighteachVaries ($1,000)
Pipe Collar and Permabooteach$35
Power attic faneach$550
Eagleview Roof Report (If not submitted)per home$40

As you can see the extras vary and some are necessary (like the ridge-vents) and some are extras for curb appeal (like adding a skylight).

Things like an extra layer tear off (older roofs that have two layers of shingles) or cedar shake tear off require long amounts of time and are not included in the normal price.

As mentioned, these things are all talked about and discussed in the price up front, however, these are the extras that can be added to a new roof cost.

Final Word on New Roof Costs

As you can easily see, there are no exacts when it comes to replacing your existing roof and your new roof costs!

We are very transparent with roofing costs for the simple fact that we want YOU the customer to be able to accurately gauge your roof price without getting the run around from other companies!

This is also why we offer video call scheduling ahead of time, something most companies don’t offer!

So in parting, we hope you learned about roof replacement costs and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask below! We proudly serve Northern Virginia for all roofing and gutter needs!

/by
,

Healthy Home: Clean Your Gutters

clean gutters

Responsible for diverting water from your roof and away from your home, gutters and your roof are the first line of defense for protecting your home’s exterior.

Your roof protects your home and is peppered with rain during storms that then runs down your roof and is collected by your gutters.

Gutters tend not to be at the front of our mind when it comes to caring for your home, but if forgotten about, broken gutters or clogged gutters can cause multiple issues (which we will cover)!

However, because gutters sit high off the ground, we typically forget to clean our gutters. But clean gutters are vital to your home’s exterior condition!

Today, we will cover issues caused by unclean gutters, how to clean your gutters safely, and options besides regular cleaning.

Clean Gutters – Common Gutter Issues:

The biggest issue with clogged gutters that have not been cleaned, is that they are unable to do their job.

Gutters that can not channel water and dispose of it in the proper places (downspouts) are going to lead to issues. Here are a few of those issues before we talk about how to clean your gutters.

1. Foundational Issues:

Because a gutter’s main role is to channel water away from your home, if there’s a blockage in that system, the water has to go somewhere else – over the edges of the gutter.

Overflowing gutters can cause water to pool around the foundation of your home, ultimately creating an environment conducive to mold. Even worse, should the water freeze, it could cause cracks in the foundation, threatening a potential collapse if left unnoticed or untreated.

2. Damage to Your Siding:

Overflowing water, undoubtedly the biggest concern with unkempt gutters, can trickle down your siding before pooling by the foundation, causing wood damage and a great risk of ice dams in the wintertime.

However, your siding is actually designed to just retract water when it rains, but not let waterfall-like water run down it. Small weep holes are in the bottom of your siding and too much running water can penetrate these holes.

This can lead to water leaks in your home if gutters are not cleaned/corrected.

3. Landscaping Sabotage:

If you have any flower beds lining the side of your home, gutter blockages can lead to over-watering and erosion, ultimately diminishing the curb appeal of your home.

4. Unwanted Pests:

If a blockage causes standing water in your gutters, you can expect mosquitos and other insects being attracted to the site.

Even if your gutters do not have a blockage, a nice bed of leaves built up in your gutters looks awfully inviting for small, unwanted pests.

5. Wearing Down Your Gutters

When gutters are blocked, your foundation isn’t the only thing that can suffer from water damage. Water overflow can affect the components that make up the gutter itself. The fascia – the board that runs behind your gutter – can weaken.

Even if they are draining properly, gutters left uncleaned can hold excess debris, increasing the weight of the gutter and causing strain on the brackets.

How to Clean Your Gutters:

While cleaning gutters seems straightforward, many people don’t have the proper equipment, expertise, or time to commit to gutter maintenance.

In most cases, it is best to leave it to the professionals to ensure your gutters get the best maintenance and preventative care especially if your home is over 2+ stories.

Safety is vital when cleaning your gutters and there are also options to avoid cleaning your gutters altogether when you use the Raindrop Gutter Guard system.

Ladder safety is vital for proper cleaning and if you are the DIY type always make sure you use proper ladder safety protocol and have someone helping you!

Steps to Clean Gutters:

  1. Get your equipment – gloves, ladder, bucket, and hose
  2. Arrange your ladder and use safety first ladder tips
  3. Use your gloved hand and grab debris in gutter and place in bucket
  4. Do not lean too far, move your ladder every few feet
  5. Check downspouts with flashlight
  6. When all gutters are clean use a hose to clean out gutters and test downspouts

How often should you clean your gutters?

At least 1x per year if you do not have self-cleaning gutter guards! In fact, if you live by a pine tree or heavily wooded areas, you will have to clean your gutters at least 2x!

Of course you can always install gutter guards!

Benefits of Gutter Guards (Clean Gutters Forever)

If cleaning out your gutters regularly sounds overwhelming, you can easily reduce the amount of maintenance by installing gutter guards as a preventative measure against debris buildup and blockage.

Keep in mind not all gutter guards are created equal!

Gutter guards protect your gutters and your home by keeping your gutters free of leaves and sticks, however, some are and some are not low-maintenance!

Not all gutter guards are created equal. Look for guards that can withstand heavy storms, but that are also “Self Cleaning.”

Here at Top Dog Home Pro, the Raindrop® Gutter Guard is the only product we use because we can offer a LIFETIME NO-CLOG warranty when installed by us!

This is worth it as installing gutter guards can pay for itself within 3-4 years of annual gutter cleaning! You can get a price instantly here (you just need your gutter lengths).

Gutter Guard Price Calculator

Maintaining Your Gutters is Worth It!

While it’s not the first thing on your mind as a homeowner, it’s clear that gutters are very important.

Keep water, pests, and worry away and maintain your gutters regularly. Invest in quality installation and maintenance, and consider a gutter guard, which can help prevent future problems.

With autumn just around the corner and plenty of leaves ready to fall, planning your next gutter maintenance inspection can help prevent future damages to your home.

/by
,

Seamless Gutters 101: Everything You Need to Know!

seamless gutters near me

Let us guess, you’re searching for a company to replace your seamless gutters “Near me,” right?

Here we at Top Dog Home Pro of Woodbridge, VA and the surrounding areas, we have a motto that “Near Me” is always near us!

Now that being said, we also like to help homeowners learn and understand how seamless gutters work, why keeping your rain gutters in tip-top shape is vital for your home, and ways we can help you!

Seamless Gutters 101

In this article we aim to help you identify:

  • What seamless gutters are
  • Why you should only use seamless gutters
  • Costs of seamless gutters
  • How seamless rain gutter install works

First, let us start by answering this question:

What are seamless gutters?

Seamless gutters are exactly what the name says – seamless. 

Custom made on-site, aluminum seamless gutters are customized per each section of your home to give the perfect fit for stormwater management.

We’ll visit the pros and cons of having seamless gutters installed for your home, the costs you may come across during the installation and measuring, and why its best to leave this job to a professional rather than you doing this your own, making this not so much of a DIY home renovation. 

That being said, seamless gutters are the best for one reason = they don’t leak like cheap sectional gutters! Here is what we mean:

Why should you use seamless gutters:

Since seamless gutters are measured on-site, they fit the precise measurements on your home, it is not to say that regular gutters are not measured to the precise measurement of your home, but rather, the length of the gutter will be the exact length of the entire side of your home, meaning that the contractors will only use one long gutter.

Rather than regular gutters where they are broken into pieces or have joints, seamless gutters are just one entire piece covering the entire side of the home has less than one joint. Since regular gutters are attached together with a connector, they are prone to leaking, as for the seamless gutter, the possibility of it leaking is slim in comparison, but still not impossible.

In terms, the longevity and life expectancy of your seamless gutter will outlast sectional gutters, with proper care and maintenance.  

Keeping your gutters clean and free-flowing is key to tending your seamless gutters, of course, you can always install gutter guards that are self-cleaning.

Sectional gutters are known to cause issues because they are often made cheaply with vinyl material, they leak, and need to be replaced in some cases a matter of months!

Not to mention – customized aluminum seamless gutters are not that expensive, just see below!

Typical costs of seamless gutters:

Seamless gutter costs can vary and are priced per linear foot.

On Average, homeowners should expect to pay $5 on the low end, and up to $12 on the high end for seamless aluminum gutters.

Other gutter types – from sectional to copper – can range between $3 – $25 per foot. Of course, this depends on the material, the contractor you hire, and the area in which you live.

In total, the average you may spend on a newly outfitted home with aluminum gutters is around $1,100 with a range of $500 – $1500. This of course includes labor and material.

Ranking seamless gutter costs in order of low to high;

  • Vinyl can cost you somewhere between $3 – $5 per foot,
  • Aluminum $4 – $9, (Best Bet)
  • Steel $8 – $10, and
  • Copper $15 – $25. 

Since seamless gutters are just a single long gutter, custom made on-site, it may take a bit more time for the contractor to install gutters where they’re needed and meet the roof’s eave. Most seamless gutter companies “near me” will keep this in mind when pricing per linear foot!

Factors like the machinery utilized to create the gutters and the amount of labor required are typically included in the price. Here at Top Dog Home Pro, we are transparent with our 5-inch and 6-inch aluminum seamless gutter pricing.

We simply measure your house and tell you upfront exactly how man feet of rain gutter it will require accompanied by our price!  

How much do new gutters cost?

Want to get a price now? Top Dog Home Pro is partnered with our sister company Gutter Guru’s where you can use this Free Gutter Calculator Tool to get an instant gutter price!

Can you install seamless gutters yourself? (No, Don’t Do It!)

As we stated earlier, seamless gutters are measured and made on-site.

You can by seciontal guters and install them yourself – but this is not a good idea.

Seamless gutters require a professional to take the exact measurements around the roof of the home and create the seamless gutters then and there with machinery.

Since the gutter is typically a single long section of the gutter, it requires a few hands for the installation.

While it is possible for you to do this task by yourself with a saw (and with the help of a few friends and maybe your next-door neighbor) it is best to leave this to the professionals to avoid any injury and since they have years of experience. 

Gutter professionals like the team at Top Dog Home Pro will also:

  1. Mount gutters correctly with the right pitch using our water test
  2. Make sure we use a rain diverter if needed on your roof
  3. Install gutter guards

Not to mention – 70% of accidents in exterior remodeling occur because of ladders. Injuring yourself isn’t worth doing your gutters yourself!

Final Word:

When trying to find a seamless gutter contractor near you, just remember “Near Me” is always close to us!

While it may prove to be difficult for one person to install on their own, especially without the proper machinery, it is best for the professionals to measure, cut, and install your seamless gutters.

The extra bit of money for the gutters is worth it in the long run and helps prevent any foundational or common gutter issues.

Furthermore, the chances of your seamless gutters leaking are far less than regular gutters. Making the investment for seamless gutters well worth it for a long-term solution.

/1 Comment/by
,

Roofing Warranty: What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer?

roofing warranty

When it comes to replacing your home’s roof, we understand the importance of a comprehensive roofing warranty.

Here at Top Dog Home Pro, we also recognize that most of the questions we are asked when homeowners are considering replacing their home’s roof revolve around the roofing warranty.

And rightfully so.

Replacing your home’s roof is an investment, and like any investment, you want to make sure you’re getting the best product and ROI!

That is why we have taken the time to craft an article for you that explains all of the warranties we offer when it comes to our shingles. Today you will read about:

  • Roofing Warranties we offer
  • Shingle Product warranties
  • Labor warranties

What Roofing Warranty Do You Offer?

By far the most frequently asked question we get is, “What warranty do you offer?”

This is a very important question and as a homeowner, it’s important to know what your warranty consists of. Here at Top Dog Home Pro we are CertainTeed ShingleMaster, which means we have the ability to offer:

  1. A comprehensive LIFETIME Labor Warranty
  2. A 4-Star CertainTeed Extended Warranty

Roofing Warranty: Manufacture Warranty Info

When you use a CertainTeed ShingleMaster we are able to guarantee a full manufactures warranty. Why is this important you ask?

One reason we recommend Architectural Shingles (Landmark PRO) over 3-tab shingles installed by a certified installer is that the warranty is NOT pro-rated!

CertainTeed shingles come with a 20-year manufacture warranty,  meaning if by the off chance that during year 19 something happens to your shingles – you get the full amount.

However, if your new roof is not installed by a CertainTeed ShingleMaster, it’s a pro-rated warranty.

The manufacture warranty covers the entire roofing system – not just the shingles.

Here are a few specifics behind the LANDMARK architectural shingle series manufacture roofing warranty:

  • Lifetime limited transferable warranty against manufacturing defects on residential applications
  • 50-year limited transferable warranty against manufacturing defects on group-owned or commercial applications (Landmark PRO and Landmark Premium)
  • StreakFighter® algae-resistance warranty (10-year – Landmark, 15-year – Landmark PRO and Premium)
  • 10-year SureStart™ protection
  • 15-year 110 mph wind-resistance warranty
  • Wind warranty upgrade to 130 mph available.
  • CertainTeed starter and CertainTeed hip and ridge required

Landmark PRO Architectural Shingle Warranty:

landmark pro warranty
  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • 15-year algae resistance
  • 10-year SureStart protection includes
  • 15-year 110 MPH wind warranty with an upgrade to 130 MPH available

See CertainTeed Landmark PRO brochure here.

Landmark Warranty (Architectural Shingles):

landmark shingle warranty
  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • 15-year algae resistance
  • 10-year SureStart protection includes
  • 15-year 110 MPH wind warranty with an upgrade to 130 MPH available

See CertainTeed Landmark brochure here.

XT25 (3-Tab) Shingle Warranty:

3 tab shingle warranty
  • 25-year, limited transferable warranty
  • 5-year SureStart™ warranty (100% replacement and labor costs due to manufacturing defects)
  • 10-year StreakFighter® warranty (on available colors) against streaking and discoloration caused by airborne algae
  • 5-year, 60 mph wind-resistance warranty

See XT25 3-Tab brochure here.

Top Dog Home Pro Labor Roofing Warranty:

At Top Dog Home Pro of Northern Virginia, we offer our CertainTeed Lifetime Labor Warranty.

This means if your shingles leak, a shingle blows off it’s covered (outside of tree branch tearing off shingles or a wind gust of 130 mph). To put this in perspective as it pertains to wind gusts – the 2018 Noreaster wind storm didn’t even come close to 130 MPH.

In fact, the scope of the warranty would have protected homes with CertainTeed shingles installed by us had there been issues!

What’s the diff between a Three-Tab Shingle & Architectural Shingle?

Simply put, in addition to the look, color, and quality – the warranties are different.

  • 3 Tab = 20 year non-prorated warranty
  • Architectural = 50 Year non-prorated Warranty

As far as durability, Quality Discount Roofing of Florida put it this way:

“Three-tab asphalt shingles have one shingle tab size and shape that consists of three separate tabs that are 12 inches wide. They are coated with asphalt to shed water. Architectural shingles are characterized as dimensional or laminate and come in varying sizes and shapes. They are thicker and present a more multi-sided appearance, which is often compared to a shake- type look.”

For just $20 more a square (100 square feet) you can have a lifetime warranty. Not to mention the look and quality of architectural shingles are that much better!

The price difference is between $400-$1,200 for an average townhome or single-family home. In the long run, the extra $400, $800, or $1,200 is worth the extended lifetime labor and product warranties!

You can also use our build & price roofing page to help you gauge pricing!

Build Your Roof Here!

Final Word on Roofing Warranties

This might be the most important thing you read when it comes to your roof replacement/new roof:

Your roofing warranty matters.

Can you find a roofing contractor who can complete a new roof for a cheaper cost? Yes, that is possible.

However, especially as it pertains to replacing your roof and shingles, cheaper is not always better.

Lower quality shingles, a less or non-existent warranty are why some companies install “Cheaper Roofs” in cost, but not in quality. It’s important to recognize your home’s new roof as a long term investment.

The investment (your roof) has a better ROI when your warranty is a lifetime warranty (Using Architectural shingles with a ShingleMaster installer) vs a lesser or non-existent warranty.

While a warranty can sometimes seem like not a big deal, a windstorm like the one in the spring of 2018 that resulted in damage across the entire Northern VA region impacted many homeowner’s roofs.

However – the Top Dog Home Pro warranty would have covered these issues for many!

/1 Comment/by