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Roofing Extras – What to Know About Optional Add-Ons!

roofing extras near me

Roofing Extras, What to Know-

Just the other day, I saw something peculiar right in front of me. Parked at the light ahead of me were two trucks, identical models. The significant difference was that one seemed to have just about every optional add-on possible. 

From the black rims to the gun smoke decals, all the way to the grille and headlights, the second truck looked very different with some of the optional upgrades the owner elected to add. 

The reason I share this typically irrelevant story is that to be quite honest, your roof is no different. Whether you have an existing roof in good condition or you need a brand new roof, the truth of the matter is that you can add a ton of extras to it. 

Roofing extras commonly refer to adding things like skylights, upgrading shingles, or replacing the existing fascia boards! Today, we will go over all the roofing extras you can consider for your new (or existing) roof AND the roofing extras that can sometimes factor in your roofing price!

>> Related: A Complete Guide to Roof Pricing 

9+ Roofing Extras to Always Consider

Before we dive into all the possible roofing extras, keep in mind that some of these extras are sometimes optional, sometimes necessary. 

For example, sometimes people elect to replace their fascia boards and gutters while they’re getting a new roof, which can be optional. On the other hand, there are times when gutters are falling off the house, and it makes sense to replace them. 

Additional items will be noted below that are included in to a new roof price, such as flashing and ridge vents. 

1. Roof Decking (Plywood Replacement)

roof decking

Depending on the age of your home, sometimes the roof decking, aka the plywood under your shingles, might need to be replaced. 

Some homeowners will elect to replace the roof decking simply because of the age of the home. However, there also instances where the roof decking MUST be replaced due to moisture penetrating the plywood. 

Roofing companies will not install a new roof on old plywood. That said, we are always transparent and let the homeowner know how many pieces of plywood must be replaced, in addition to also doing a pre-inspection. 

The pre-inspection can give us an idea if there are going to be boards that will require replacing. Soft spots are usually a tell-tale sign! 

How much does this cost? Installed, a 4’x8’ sheet of plywood will cost $65. 

2. Fascia Boards

fascia boards
Photo Credit – Gutter Gurus

Where the drip edge of your home’s roof meets the edge of your home, this area (board) is called your fascia. Fascia boards surround the edge of your roof and are typically made from wood. 

Some people will now use a PVC material on occasion, but in the past, most fascia boards are made from wood and painted. Typically, the wood has a shelf life, depending on mother nature and other factors. 

When that shelf life is up, it is really obvious when sections of fascia boards require replacing. We offer fascia board replacement in eight-foot sections with the option of having the boards wrapped in aluminum that can match your gutters! Your home’s fascia boards are important because they are where your gutters are mounted. 

How much does this cost? To replace an eight-foot section of fascia board will run you $8 per foot, or $64 installed. To wrap that same board, the cost is the same per foot.

3. New Gutters (Seamless Aluminum)

gutters

In most cases, when we look at a new roof we are always sure to inspect the condition of the existing seamless gutters. 

Old aluminum gutters were installed with “Gutter Spikes” which were basically really long nails, that over time will pull away from your home’s fascia boards. That said, in some cases well taken care of gutters are just fine. 

Either way, when replacing your roof, it’s good to consider new gutters. Additionally, if you replace your fascia boards due to rot – old gutters cannot be reinstalled, new gutters are required. 

How much do new gutters cost? Gutters cost $5.50 to $6.50 per linear foot including the downspouts. Gutter guards are $10 per linear foot and come with a lifetime no-clog warranty. >> Use this gutter calculator!

4. Skylights (Roofing Extra)

skylight

Custom skylights are all the rage right now! 

While providing natural light and simultaneously reducing energy bills/increasing your home value, skylights are a great feature many homeowners will add to their new roof replacement. 

This is 100% an add-on that is optional, but skylights are a great feature to add some natural light to your home AND some curb appeal!

How much does this cost? While this typically requires a custom quote, on average a new skylight can run from $1,200 to $1,600. This is due to the high level of expertise required to install a skylight on a home’s roof. 

5. Flashing (Required for new roofs)

flashing

You may have seen your roof’s flashing – especially if you live in a townhome – but known it’s purpose, which flashing is used to prevent water from entering the openings and cracks of a roof.

Flashing is required around chimneys and some vents as well as where your roof buts up against a wall (think townhome) and where water could possibly penetrate!

How much does this cost? Step flashing cost costs $4 per foot and flashing around a chimney or vent is $125 on average. 

6. Ridge Vents (Required for new roofs) 

ridge vents

Your roof’s ridge vent is the area where your roof meets at the top. This requires an extra layer of shingles on top of the vent itself so that your home’s roof can “Breathe.” In some cases people need just their ridge vent replaced. 

In the new roof replacement process, this is a required roofing extra. 

How much does this cost? The price for a ridge vent is $4 per linear foot. That means a 40’ ridge vent would cost $160. 

7. Upgraded Shingles (Three options) 

asphalt shingles
Landmark

Your roof will most likely have asphalt shingles in 9 out of 10 cases, but did you know you can upgrade your shingles? 

Roofing shingles are commonly mistaken for only being flat and limited in options, but that isn’t the case. Most homeowners are pleasantly surprised when they find out that asphalt shingles come in many different colors and thicknesses. 

Traditional three-tab shingles are very flat and get the job done, but almost all of our homeowners elect to upgrade to Landmark architectural shingles. Why?

  • For one, architectural shingles are thicker, meaning they’re more durable.
  • They look better from the road and give the appearance of cedar shake.
  • The roofing warranty is MUCH better
  • The difference in price is very minimal! 

How much does this cost? The difference between three-tab shingles, Landmark architectural shingles, and Landmark Pro shingles is $20-$45 more per square. Three-tab shingles typically run $380 per square, with Landmark costing $400, and Landmark Pro $425 per square. 

8. Attic Fans

attic fans

The last thing on your mind is replacing your home’s attic fans! We get it – replacing windows or adding a new colored gutter system is way more appealing. That said, there are times when your attic fan cannot be salvaged. 

In that case, when we replace the roof of any home that is approaching that 25+ year mark, we sometimes recommend considering attic fan replacement. Though rare, this can sometimes be a roofing extra! 

How much does this cost? We can sometimes refurbish an attic fan and salvage the existing fan, but a new attic fan for material and installation is $550 when installed by Top Dog Home Pro. 

9. Pipe Collar Replacement

pipe collar perma boot

When you get a new roof or you think you might have a leak, the first thing to keep in mind is that you will also need to replace your pipe collar(s). 

A Perma boot pipe collar encases pipes sticking out of your home’s roof and is factored into a new home’s prices as well! 

How much does this cost? Replacing a pipe collar with a Perma boot is only $35 (when replacing a new roof). A service call for just this item can run around $150. That said, it’s much better than having to deal with a roof leak! 

The Verdict – Roofing Extras Matter

As you can see, in some cases roofing extras may be required -OR- they may be optional. The required roof extras are not always within your control because you can’t control rotting wood, roof leaks, etc. 

However, if you want some luxury roof features like skylights, that is 100% up to you! Either way, when we price a brand new roof, in addition to the shingle pricing, the extras such as flashing, ridge vents, and pipe collar replacements are included. 

Here at Top Dog Home Pro of Virginia, we also make sure we let homeowners know about other exterior options to consider like gutters, fascia boards, and any problems we might see! We also take pride in educating our homeowners so they’re informed consumers, that is why we have created an entire Roofing & Gutter Learning Library for you to read more about! 

If you have a question, reach out below! ~ Luke Mitchell, Owner of Top Dog Home Pro VA

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Spring Cleaning? Find Your Exterior Cleaning Checklist Here!

exterior cleaning checklist

It looks like it is that time of the year again! The quintessential season where winter begins to fade away, the weather begins to warm up, and you sure are excited to start it off on a new leaf, a new leaf of becoming aware of the things you should have been aware of forever ago! Let’s be honest, it happens sometimes. 

If you haven’t caught on, Spring Cleaning is what I’m talking about! During this period of time, it is important to be vigilant in being aware and understanding your exterior part of your property, and the last thing you want to do is have to open up your wallet and shell out hundreds of dollars in preventable damages. 

That being said, listen up!

Today, we are going to give you an exterior checklist to ensure your spring cleaning in a productive, cost-effective way that’ll save you time, money, and a whole lot of heartache! 

Spring Cleaning Exterior Checklist

roofing and gutters near me

Here are 5 things you can do to make your Spring Cleaning productive as can be! 

1. Check Your Roof (or get someone too!)

Your roof is a very delicate part of your home’s exterior, which means that it is vulnerable to a whole host of problems! However, just to get up off the ground to check it is a safety risk in itself, so proceed at your own risk with a well-hinged double ladder firmly planted on the ground and angled on the side of your house. 

CAUTION!: The risk of falling and potential death is associated with this checklist objective, so we would recommend calling a professional to properly inspect and diagnose the health of your roof. No need to take unnecessary risks! 

Here are a few things to check for:

  • Broken/Missing Shingles 
  • Algae/Moss
  • Mold

If you see any of these on your roof or are not sure and need an extra pair of eyes to confirm your suspicions, it doesn’t hurt to get in contact with your local power washing company to check it out. You’d rather be safe than sorry! Soft-power washing is usually the desirable cleaning method.

2. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts! 

One of the things you want to make sure to do is to get up on a ladder and check to see the condition of your gutters! Overtime, your gutters can get clogged by fallen debris including, but not limited to, sticks and leaves. Pests, such as rodents and bees can make their home in your gutters, so being aware is key! 

A clogged gutter can wear down the foundation of the gutter itself, causing water damage to the foundation of your house! Ouch! Depending on your situation, should be an easy fix by hand and only requires to be checked 1-2 times a year (may vary).  

Also, you want to be sure your downspout is not clogged as well, don’t be afraid to check it often. It ensures rainwater to pour down instead of building up in your gutters. Safely detach the downspout to check if any blockage is present and remove it at once. Clear ‘em both out and you’ll be in the clear! 

Read more about the most FAQ gutter questions to help you here!

3. Remove Weeds from Mulch Beds and Yard! 

Landscaping is on everyone’s spring Hunny-do list, sorry for bringing it up again!

But… weeds are the type of pests that just keep coming back year after year and don’t give you a break. However, there is a quick fix to it!

You can use a shovel and/or rake to pry them out of your lawn to allow your plants more breathing room. Afterward, feel free to apply a safe weed killer and top your mulch beds off with a new layer of fresh mulch to be able to prevent weeds from popping up down the road.

These strategies are amazingly simple, and with some concentrated effort on the front end, you’ll be able to save time doing it down the road! 

4. Clean your Exterior Siding! 

Since Winter, the elements sure have not graced the siding of your house one bit! Since we usually are not out and about too often, it is easy to miss the build up of organic matter like mold that can wreak havoc on the exterior foundation of our house.

One of the things that is recommended is to give your house a nice, soft-wash along the exterior to get all that gunk off and protect its health. Contacting a professional is the easiest way to go than going out of your way to buy/rent a power washer, and plus you only have to clean the siding only a handful of times depending on your situation. 

However, take note of the safety risks, a power washer is heated and is highly pressurized, so it can cause harm if it hits your skin! Always use low pressure when cleaning siding (unless it is a brick/stone surface) or you’ll damage the exterior material. You can also contact a power washing company.

5. Check Lawn Equipment! 

Routine maintenance is necessary for lawn equipment such as edgers, lawnmowers, weedwackers, and so forth. When spring hits, so does the growth season of grass and you don’t want to be caught off guard when it gets crazy! 

First and foremost, make sure all are starting and running properly, with blades that are sharpened, and adequate levels of oil and functionality of levers, buttons, and chains. Prepare even though you may not need it now, so you don’t have to repair it when you can’t afford to do so! 

Exterior cleaning checklist:

Real quick, here is a quick exterior cleaning/spring checklist you can use to make sure you’re on the right path:

  1. Check all outdoor mechanical equipment (AC Unit, Pool Pump, Light fixtures even)
  2. Make sure lawn equipment is working & check oil
  3. Check your gutters, roof, siding, windows for leaks, caulk issues, soft-spots or missing shingles
  4. Consider power washing if needed
  5. Edge and cleanout mulch beds, lay down 1-2″ of new mulch
  6. Trim bushes
  7. Deadwood trees every other year
  8. Fertilize preventatively

Final word:

Spring cleaning is coming around sooner than later and although it may not be the one thing that’ll get you fired up and out of bed, but it’ll sure motivate your wallet who won’t have to take a beating because you decided to prepare in advance. 

Take some time out of your day to assess your situation, bring attention to issues that you’ve noticed, and never hesitate to reach out for help, especially if you’re not a professional (think getting on your roof). Small steps do make an impact if we are willing to work toward the future. 

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We Answer Your Most Common Gutter Questions

gutter questions

You’re a homeowner, not an exterior contractor. So we get it if you have a few gutter questions pertaining to your home!

Whether you are looking into how to clean your gutters, what your options are when it comes to replacing your home’s gutters, or you simply just love learning – about gutters – in this article we aim to help you accomplish the following: 

  • Become informed when it comes to gutter care and gutter replacement
  • Answer all of your most common and FAQ gutter questions
  • Determine whether or not gutter guards are needed and more!

Let’s get right to it by answering the most common gutter questions!

The Most Common Gutter Questions Answered

Other Gutter info you might find resourceful!

1. Why do I need gutters in the first place?

Gutters are not something you notice unless there is a problem. Your home’s gutters take the “Out of sight, out of mind” saying to a new level simply because we don’t pay attention to them.

However, your rain gutters are vital when it comes to protecting your home from rainwater. In fact, your home’s rain gutters protect your home by preventing rainwater from draining down the side of your home and causing leaks. They (gutters) also prevent erosion and flooding around the base of your home!

Your gutters work with your roof system to be sure that your home stays dry. Common gutter problems like clogged or missing gutters lead to more issues than you might imagine. 

On our Facebook page we have a video of gutters that were leaking and causing erosion on the homeowners driveway!

2. What are rain gutters?

Let us first start by asking the most basic question, what are rain gutters?

Rain gutters at troughs that are mounted on the fascia boards of your home where your roof meets. They are installed flush against your home to collect and distribute rainwater from your roof during storms. 

Gutters are essential for rainwater management during storms and they are commonly made out of aluminum, which is hardy and inexpensive overall. Most gutters are “Seamless” meaning they are custom fit for your home and this prevents leaking! 

3. How do I know if my gutters need to be cleaned?

If they look dirty from the ground, it’s probably worse when you get up there! Cleaning your gutters is not always simple but as a general rule of thumb, if you see the following, they need to be cleaned: 

  • Leaves sticking out of gutters
  • Rainwater flying off the roof
  • Sticks in gutters
  • Plants growing in gutters

It is best to make sure you check your gutters at least 1x per year, but ideally 2x to make sure they’re not getting clogged, especially if you live in an are with mature trees!

Bonus Gutter Question: Do I need a gutter repair?

So let’s say you go to clean your gutters and you notice they’re in a state of disarray. You might think to yourself you need a gutter repair. However, in most cases, a new gutter is the better option.

There are some cases where a gutter repair is warranted, but in most cases, once the problem is to the point of repair, it’s simply better to replace the gutters. And as you will see below, they’re not very expensive to replace:

4. How much do new gutters cost?

New aluminum gutters and downspouts are pretty reasonable – $5.50 to $6.50 per linear foot. Slap on Raindrop Gutter Guard for $10 a foot and now you have a lifetime no-clog, self-cleaning gutter system!

On average a seamless aluminum gutter will run the average homeowner anywhere between $5 to $10 per linear foot depending on size, and sometimes color. 

At Top Dog Home Pro we offer custom aluminum gutters in the 5” and 6” variety, running homeowners $5.50 per foot and $6.50 per foot. That means if you needed 150’ of gutters your costs would be:

5 Inch$5.50 x 150 Feet$825
6 Inch$6.50 x 150 Feet$975
Guards$10.00 x 100 Feet$1,000

You can use this gutter calculator tool for free to estimate your costs. Gutter guards are only installed on the gutters, not the downspouts, and keep in mind these prices are with the gutters installed! 

5. Where can I go to buy seamless gutters near me?

You can’t buy seamless gutters at the store, but you can have a local gutter contractor like Top Dog Home Pro install them for you. Seamless gutters are made on-site and are custom fit to the appropriate dimensions. 

Unlike their sectional counterparts, seamless gutters require at least two people to install in most cases and they’re installed with screw-in hidden hangers to prevent them from pulling off the house (this was common with old school gutter spikes). 

If you want to get a quote for new gutters, simply estimate your approximate linear feet and downspout length and use this gutter calculator to get a quote! 

6. How do I find gutter installers near me?

Obviously, if you’re reading this article and you live in the Northern Virginia area you have found yourself a gutter company near you! The steps to finding a gutter contractor near you are simple. 

  1. Click here and contact us if you’re in the Northern Virginia region 
  2. If you’re not, go to a search engine and type in “Gutter Company near me” 
  3. Go to Facebook and “Ask for a recommendation”
  4. You can also use this article which ranks gutter companies in the Northern, VA area!

7. What are the cheapest gutters? 

The cheapest gutters in both quality and price are vinyl gutters. Vinyl gutters are not much cheaper in price, but they are typically the lowest since the material is weak and breaks easily.

That is why we recommend aluminum gutters. Aluminum gutters are fairly priced ($5.50 to $6.50 per linear foot) and they’re extremely durable when installed by gutter professionals.

More expensive gutter options do exist such as cooper or steel gutters!

8. Do gutters come with a warranty?

Some gutters come with a warranty, others do not. When it comes to new gutters installed by Top Dog Home Pro, we offer a lifetime warranty on our gutters. 

Our lifetime gutter warranty includes a labor and material warranty. Additionally, we offer a lifetime guarantee backed by a no-clog warranty when we also install gutter guards.

That said, warranties have stipulations and terms detailed here under our warranty information here because gutters do need to be cared for and regularly cleaned to qualify for a warranty. 

9. What color gutters are there to choose from?

You name the gutter color – we got it! In all all seriousness, gutters come in a wide variety of colors and we have over 16 seamless aluminum gutters to choose from.

Most of the time the gutter colors are simple; either white or eggshell. However, black gutters are very popular too. Just remember, if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, color changes have to be cleared according to most HOA by-laws.

10. What sizes do gutters come in?

The seamless sections of gutters are custom made in two sizes:

  • 5 inch gutters
  • 6 inch gutters

The downspouts are subsequently matched, with 2×3 inch downspouts connecting to the 5 inch gutters and 3×4 inch downspouts connecting to the 6 inch downspouts.

We always recommend the bigger gutters – 6 inches – because they come with the larger downspouts, thus they can displace more water and do it faster during storms! In fact, the extra inch on the downspouts leads to 400% more water volume, thus preventing gutter issues!

11. Do I need gutter guards?

We are biased, but we always say YES to gutter guards, and here is why:

  1. Gutter guards (like Raindrop) that work are worth every penny
  2. Raindrop Gutter Guards are self-cleaning meaning you don’t have to clean them
  3. You can do away with cleaning but also having to clean the cheap gutter guards others will install
  4. They’re durable
  5. They come with a lifetime no-clog warranty!

But don’t take out word for it, read this entire guide that analyzes the pros of gutter guards! We also have this awesome video to help!

Gutter Questions (Final Take):

We understand that most homeowners want to make the MOST INFORMED buying choice when they’re buying anything for their home. This includes gutters!

Knowing this, we hope this article helped you with all of your questions and we encourage you to check out our Gutter Learning Center here. Our learning center contains more articles and videos to help you learn everything about your home’s gutters/exterior needs!

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rain gutters

Real quick, on a scale of 1-10, if I were to ask you how important your home’s rain gutters are what would you rank them?

Two…? 

Four…? 

Or, perhaps eight…?

The true answer is that working rain gutters are 10 out of 10 in the importance of protecting your home’s exterior. While at times we often tend to overlook our home’s gutters, ask someone who has experienced issues with their gutters and they will tell you rain gutter issues are very noticeable. 

Today, we will share with you everything you need to know about rain gutters including: 

  • What rain gutters do
  • What type of rain gutters you can get
  • How much rain gutters cost, & more! 

Everything to Know About Rain Gutters

Let us assume you’re not the rain gutter expert (don’t worry, most are not), in that case, we can start by asking the most basic gutter question, however, before we do that checkout with Preston had to say about his home’s gutters!

What are Rain Gutters in the first place?

Rain gutters are long, horizontal trough-like fixtures that are attached along the edges of your roof and home that typically come in 5-inches or 6-inches. They are attached to your home’s fascia boards.

The purpose of your gutters is to collect rainwater during storms from your roof, channel the water to the gutter downspouts, and finally, the downspouts disperse the rainwater away from your home’s foundation. 

In a working gutter system, this is a smooth and efficient operation. However, in the event your home’s rain gutter system is compromised, there are possible issues which include: 

  • Falling gutters & missing rain gutters
  • Clogged gutters 
  • Gutter leaks
  • Loose gutters

When one of these problems occur the result can be: 

  • Exterior water leaks
  • Foundational issues & leaks
  • Erosion
  • Sitting water in landscaping  

Are rain gutters worth it?

You can read more about the value of rain gutters here, however, unless you have a home that is designed to recycle rainwater (such as a deckhouse styled home), rain gutters are not just worth it – but they’re required for inspection and home protection. 

Without gutters, homeowners experience water leaks within their walls and the very high possibility of foundational issues. Now some ask the “Are rain gutters worth it?” question in reference to the value of the gutters. 

In this case, we will say that the best looking gutters might be cooper or steel, however, these cost thousands. In that case, most people opt for durable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing aluminum gutters. 

Which, we will share those gutter costs below after first discussing the best types! 

What type of rain gutters are the best?

Preference goes into deciding what the best type of rain gutters are best since there are plenty of types of rain gutter materials including:

  • Aluminum,
  • Copper, 
  • Steel, 
  • Zinc,
  • Vinyl

The most common and durable material for rain gutters – at a great price – are seamless aluminum rain gutters. 

Styles of gutters include the most common “K Style” gutters and half-round gutters aka “European Style” gutters. For cost-saving and customization purposes, typically your best bet for price and durability is aluminum K-style gutters. 

Copper, steel, and even ceramic type gutters are extremely expensive. They are pleasant looking and commonly seen on old mansions and in European type homes, however, aluminum gutters are the most common for many reasons. 

While vinyl gutters are the cheapest, they are sectional, which means more leaks. Not to mention vinyl gutters are easily damaged, as they are naturally weaker than their counterparts. Not to mention that aluminum gutters come in a wide variety of colors in addition to being the most affordable. 

How much do rain gutters cost?

Most people want to know the price of rain gutters and we make that easy. New Seamless Aluminum gutters cost somewhere between $5.50 and $6.50 per linear foot. Gutter guards cost $10 per linear foot. 

  • 6-Inch Gutters: $6.50 Per Linear Foot
  • 5-Inch Gutters: $5.50 Per Linear Foot
  • Raindrop Gutter Guard: $10 Per Linear Foot

This means if you need 100 linear feet of gutter, you would pay $550 for 5-inch gutters and $650 for 6-inch gutters. If you added 50 feet of gutter guard you would add another $500 (which is well worth it as we explain later). 

These are rough averages of rain gutter pricing: 

  • Townhome: Aproxiamtely $1,000
  • Single Family Home: $1,500 to $2,000 +
  • Large Homes: $2,500 to  $3,000+ depending on size, proches, etc. 

Factors that determine the price for new gutters include things like the number of levels, the length of downspouts, porches/garages with gutters & hip roofs.

What color rain gutters are there?

The best thing about selecting aluminum rain gutters aside from the price and durability is the color options. Traditionally, most people select “K-Style” seamless gutters, because they can customize their rain gutter color to just about anything! 

While typically eggshell and white tend to be the most common colors for homes, homeowners do have the ability to select the color of their custom seamless rain gutters. For example, black gutters are becoming more and more popular to offer contrast against the lighter siding. 

The rain gutter colors listed above that Top Dog Home Pro offers include: 

  • Wicker
  • Dark Green
  • Dark Grey 
  • Eggshell
  • White
  • Ivory
  • Light Grey
  • Mucket Brown
  • Red
  • Cream
  • Clay
  • Brown
  • Bronze
  • Black

Are gutter guards worth it?

Now you know what rain gutters are, why they’re vital for your home’s stormwater management, how much they cost, and all the possibilities of color you can choose. The last question you might have is the common, “Are gutter guards worth it?” question. 

Let us help you with that answer. 

When we wrote this article here about the best gutter guards, what readers found out was that like most things in life, gutter guards are not all created equal. 

There are certainly extremely cheap options that claim to offer your gutters “Leaf Protection,” however, these tend to cause more issues than they do help. On the other hand, there are also countless instances where extremely pricey gutter guards selected and they do a great job protecting gutters from leaves – but they don’t allow water to get in or they need cleaning!

What is the point in having a gutter guard if you have to:

  1. Clean the gutter guards
  2. Water can’t enter your gutters

So, if you make the wrong selection, there is the possibility that gutter guards are not worth it. However, there are solutions.

The perfect gutter guard should be: 

  1. Affordable
  2. Durable
  3. Self-cleaning
  4. Hassle-free

Luckily, you now know about Raindrop Gutter Guards, which offer all four! Using a polypropylene material combined with a full mount surface tension guard, Raindrop provides maximal protection from leaves, requires no cleaning, and is durable as any guard! Just see below: 

Not to mention, because the Raindrop gutter guard is so powerful and effective, we can offer a lifetime no-clog gutter warranty! 

So as you can clearly see, the rain gutters that do the best are usually protected by the best!

As a final note on rain gutters, we would like to let you know that if you have any questions feel free to reach out! A cool tool you may want to consider using includes this gutter pricing calculator.

Lastly, here are the rain gutter areas we serve:

See our complete gutter service area page here and be sure to check out our learning resource hub! We also proudly serve the following cities for your gutter needs: Stafford, Dumfries, Woodbridge, Lorton, Springfield, Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Haymarket, Gainesville, Nokesville, and many more!

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Roofing FAQ – The 7 Most Frequently Asked Roofing Questions

roofing FAQ

Do you have a roofing question? We probably have the answer. 

As one of the premier roofing companies in the Northern, VA area, we understand your concerns when it comes to replacing your roof, repairing your roof, and simply navigating the home exterior remodeling industry. 

That is why we put together this article that contains some of the most frequently asked roofing questions, or call it a “Roofing FAQ.” 

The 7 Most Frequently Asked Roofing Questions 

1. What are the signs my roof has problems? 

Perhaps the most common question we get (and any roofing company for that matter), is the question about knowing when a home’s roof has issues. 

The simple answer is that the signs are obvious, the complicated answer is that the roof issues signs aren’t so obvious. 

At first glance, you can see common roofing issues such as: 

  • Missing shingles
  • Water stains inside of the home
  • Exposed roof components that look out of place

However, there are also times where you might not see apparent roof issues such as rotting plywood, pipe collar cracks, or leaks. In this case, you have options, which lead to our next question. 

2. I have a roof leak, what do I do?

Perhaps you do your springtime maintenance and notice a few missing shingles or one morning you wake up and the bathroom ceiling has a leak stain. 

In the case of a roofing leak, you have options. Sometimes people ask if they need a new roof because of a leak, and the answer is always it depends. 

Factors such as the age of your current roof, the current warranty (if there is one), and the scop of your roof leak will ultimately determine the next steps. In either case, the first step is to always get the issue inspected by a roofing company… an honest roofing company. 

Depending on the damage on your roof causing the leak – a few missing shingles or a serious problem – will then determine your appropriate actions:

  1. Sometimes a simple roof repair is an answer
  2. Calling insurance to see if your roof qualifies for a replacement 
  3. A new roof

3. How much does a new roof cost?

In the event that it makes sense to move forward with a brand new roof, you have a few options, but the most common question we get is, “How much will a new roof cost?”

The answer varies depending on a few factors. One, the size of your roof will ultimately determine how much a new roof costs first and foremost. Roofs are measured by what is called “A Square” and this means 100 square feet. 

Pricing is done per square, which includes tearing off the existing shingles, laying the new garment, followed by the asphalt shingles. The cost per square is determined by the type of shingles a homeowner selects. 

In our complete roof pricing guide here, we share that shingle prices per square include: 

  • Three Tab Shingles – $380 per square
  • Archinetcutual Shingles – $400 to $425 per square

Using these numbers, an average size home at about 20 square would run a homeowner anywhere from $7600 to $800. 

While this is just an estimate and assumes there are no extras needed (like replacing plywood, fixing flashing, etc) the price is determined by the size of your roof! A townhome is much cheaper than $7600 just like a larger home with a hip roof will be more. 

4. Do new roofs have warranties? 

Whether you just got a new roof or perhaps you have a roof that is a few years old and you are still covered by a warranty, most roofs do have warranties. 

Similar to roofing prices, roofing warranties vary depending on the company that roofs your home and the type of shingles you select. 

For example, the Landmark Pro Archinetcutral shingles (the best) come with a 15-year 110 mph wind-resistance warranty in addition to a 50-year limited transferable warranty against manufacturing defects. 

That being said, product warranties are determined by the shingle supply company like Certainteed or Ownes Corning. The labor warranty depends on the shingle installer, but for example, here at Top Dog Home Pro, we offer a lifetime labor warranty. 

Always do your due diligence when it comes to a roof warranty before getting a new roof! You can read in full detail how roof warranties work here!

5. What are the different types of asphalt shingles? 

The most common roofing material is asphalt shingles, which happens to also be the most durable and affordable. But not all asphalt shingles are created equally. 

Asphalt shingle technology has increased tenfold over the years and shingles from 2005 pale in comparison to asphalt shingles in 2021. That being said the most common type of asphalt shingles are your common “Three Tab Shingles.” 

Three-tab shingles are hardy, affordable, and very common. However, they don’t look or perform as well as the super-durable architectural shingles. 

Architectural shingles give the look of cedar shingles, however, hold up as asphalt shingles do. They also are more durable because they are thicker. Shingles come in a variety of colors. 

>> Read all about our shingles here!

6. How long will it take to replace my roof? 

One day. 

A good company can replace a single-family home’s roof in one day. This includes removing the old roof shingles and underlayment, followed by replacing both with new underlayment and shingles, followed by a thorough clean up! 

7. What should you ask your roofing contractor before hiring?

Perhaps the best question we get, and the one you should ask the most before ever selecting a roofing company to install your new roof, is the right hiring questions! 

Making informed purchasing decisions is vital, especially when it’s an item like your roof, which we recognize is not a small investment. Anything costing a few thousand dollars is a large investment for most households. 

That is why we put together this quick “Hiring a Roofing Contractor Checklist:” 

Hiring a Roofing Contractor Checklist: 

  • Is your company insured?
  • Is your company licensed?
  • Are you certified by the shingle manufacturer? (We are a certified Certainteed Shingle Master for example) 
  • Is your roofing company a BBB Accredited Business?
  • Do you have references and reviews? 
  • What does your roofing warranty look like? 

Final Word

When it comes to your roof, the investment is large, but so is the actual roof, however, the return on investment is also worth it! It is said that in the resale process a new roof can have over an 80% return on investment!

That is why we take roof replacements and new roof consumer knowledge seriously by promoting the concept of an informed buyer. We want our customers to know EVERYTHING about their home’s roof before getting one.

So if you found this article helpful let us know! If you have a question about your roof we didn’t answer, feel free to submit your question here and we can add it!

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The Best Gutter Guards For Your Home [Ranked]

best gutter guards

Ever driven down the road and seen your check engine light come on?

After the initial shock of wondering what the heck could possibly be wrong, the next logical step for most is to get the problem addressed. And sometimes, the problem isn’t major – perhaps a bad sensor, a small mechanical error or something similar. 

On the other hand, there is always the real possibility that your car has been telling you for sometime it is having some issues and the light was the straw that broke the camel’s back as the saying goes. 

Now, we get it… you’re wondering what this has to do with your home’s gutters. Similar to that check engine light, oftentimes warning signs are there when it comes to our gutters. But just like the car trouble, we don’t always see gutter problems (for a plethora of reasons, one being height). 

That is why today, we will teach you how to never have to worry about your gutters again! Here is what we mean:

  • You will learn what the best gutter guards do
  • Today, we will teach you the type of gutter guards
  • Lastly, we will share with you the very best, ranked gutter guards! 

The Best Gutter Guards For Your Home

What do gutter guards do?

Every fall, leaves fall, and some eaves will inevitably find their way into your home’s gutters every year. 

In addition to leaves in the fall, birds love nesting in gutters each spring and regardless of the season, sticks and pine needles  also clog downspouts and gutters. The correct gutter guard will protect your gutters from these issues – birds, leaves, sticks, pine needles – and prevent your gutters from clogging. 

As we will explain later in this article, some gutter guards can do all three, but many can do one, perhaps two of the three. So the trick to finding the best gutter guards is finding a guard that can protect your home’s gutters from everything! 

Lastly, options as homeowners is to either clean gutters 1-2x per year on your own, pay someone to clean your gutters (approximately $300 per year on average), or install gutter guards and let them do the work for you. 

Now, if you’re thinking your gutters are not important to protect, obviously we are bias, but think again. An intact gutter system is vital to making sure rainwater and melting snow are displaced appropriately throughout the seasons. Protecting your gutters is a must to prevent bigger problems like foundational issues and leaks. Those brittle, dry leaves can become heavy monsters when they’re soaking in your gutters and downspouts for a few days! 

All this to say, if you’re in the market for gutter guards, what are the best gutter guards?

The best gutter guards must do the following:

Rightfully so, some homeowners are turned off by gutter guards. They have had poor experiences with what we call low-quality gutter screens or vinyl gutter guards that simply don’t do anything but cause more issues. 

While gutter screens, gutter mesh, and vinyl gutter guards are certainly the cheapest option, they do not last long, they need to be maintained, and they break easily. Simply put, you would be better off just cleaning your gutters instead of putting a cheap, low quality gutter screen on your gutters. 

So if that is the case, what should be the best gutter guard for you? 

  1. Look for a gutter guard that is self cleaning. This means you don’t have to clean the guards, which if you have to clean the gutter guards, why get them?
  2. Ideally, you want the entire gutter protected. Some gutter guards will protect your gutters from leaves, but not birds. And bird nests are one of the leading causes of gutter issues!
  3. What kind of warranty do they offer and can you adjust them? This last statement might seem silly, but some gutter guard companies have strict policies about their warranties. If you were to adjust a guard or get a new roof, you would have to call them to do it or it can void your warranty. Instead of you owning your gutters, these companies make money off service calls, and really they own your gutters! 

All of this to say, we now know why you need gutter guards, what they do and what kind you need – so where do you start?

Common Types of Gutter Guards

Gutter guards can come in several forms including screen guards, surface tension gutter guards, and fine mesh gutter guards.

While the materials and design of each can vary, of the three, surface tension guards are your best bet. As you will later see when we rank the best gutter guards, our top pick is a surface tension guard. 

Surface tension gutter guards are typically more expensive, but they do the best job. We will not rank any gutter screens or gutter mesh simply because they’re not real guards.

They are screens that are simply placed on top of gutters that usually break and sag, thus not doing their job (see below in photos).

Gutter screens we removed from a gutter installation in Alexandria, VA 2020:

What was underneath these “Gutter Guards” from the same job above:

That being said we will quickly explain each:

Screen Gutter Guards:

Screen gutter guards are the most common gutter guards you will find because they are easy to install. Pros for screen gutter guards include easy installation, inexpensive, work with all types of roofs and keep leaves out. 

Cons: Easily damaged by sunlight and branches, can be seen protruding from gutters, REQUIRE maintenance/cleaning, difficult to clean, not durable. 

Surface Tension Gutter Guards:

Surface tension gutter guards are the most durable on the list, but typically the most expensive. They are designed to withstand branches, snow, ice, and windstorms while keeping the bigger debris out. The positive with surface tension gutter guards is they last long and require zero maintenance when installed correctly. 

Cons: Surface tension gutter guards are the most expensive on the list and have to be installed by contractors (sorry Home Depot DIY people). Sometimes, the difficult installation includes adjusting gutters, thus causing more work and they are easily underperforming during heavy rains. Homeowners report “Water flying off” their house during heavy rainstorms. This also depends on the specific surface tension guard! 

Fine Mesh Gutter Guards

Similar to the screen gutter guards above, fine mesh gutter guards do not let anything inside the gutter system. Pros include easy to install, can withstand weather, customizable for roof types, simple to clean when compared to screens. 

Cons: Still need cleaning and maintenance, limited availability and selection, and leaves can easily accumulate on top. They are usually just as expensive as surface tension guards, but they don’t work as well. 

Ranking the Three Best Gutter Guards

3. Gutter Helmet

Gutter Helmet is a surface tension gutter guard that comes in at number three for a few reasons.

Harry Helmet® | The Best Gutter Helmet, Gutter & Roofing Company

For starters, Gutter Helmet does a nice job of making sure leaves don’t enter your gutters, but they have quite a few cons:

Cons of Gutter Helmet:

  • Birds can still enter and nest
  • Rain water doesn’t always get into gutters
  • Complaints of rain flying off roof during storm
  • Over $20 per linear foot!
  • Have to have them fix, adjust, and take off if you want to get work done to your house!

2. LeafGuard

LeafGuard is a popular selection by many homeowners because overall, it does do a good job of keeping leaves out and protecting gutters. The design is made so leaves don’t enter the narrow entrance, however, water is supposed to flow right into your gutters.

However, the issue with LeafGuard is that when it rains hard, they don’t do so well!

LeafGuard Gutters | Seamless Rain Gutter Protection

The biggest issue with reverse curve gutter guards is that during heavy rains, multiple homeowners report water flying off their roof. Put another way, they don’t handle rain well, the most common complaint.

The small channel reverse curve surface tension gutter guards provide for the water through simply can’t manage all the heavy rain. Not to mention, they too are more expensive than #1 on the list!

So if the gutter guard can’t manage the heavy rain that accompanies spring and summer storms, what is the point? 

Finally, we have your #1 gutter guard solution:

1. Raindrop!

Products by RainDrop Gutter Guard - RainDrop Gutter Guard Systems

And here is your number one gutter guard for leaf protection – Raindrop Gutter Guards!

Raindrop checks the box for every single one. Unlike screen guards that are cheap but need cleaning, or surface tension guards that don’t require cleaning but don’t always perform, Raindrop gutter guards are known for their superior quality and performance. 

Raindrop® is made from its own unique blend of polypropylene.

This special blend of polypropylene and UV stabilizers can and will withstand the harshest storms, hottest climates and coldest seasons imaginable. This means it’s perfect for any region and location. Not to mention the durability the polypropylene provides! 

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB6TkjdhhgE&feature=emb_logo

Raindrop Design:

Raindrop gutter guards are designed to cover the entire gutter and prevent leaves, sticks, and birds from ever entering. Small debris such as some pine needles and other organic particles that enter are easily washed out by rainwater. 

This is why we offer a lifetime no-clog warranty! 

The gutter guards are installed under the roof shingles and attached to the front of the gutter creating a solid surface that can withstand heavy storms. Raindrop’s design is simple:

  1. Keep the leaves out
  2. Let the rain in
  3. Last forever
  4. Zero maintenance 

Fit & Flexible:

Raindrop® is the most versatile gutter guard available, working with every style of roof and fitting the most common 5” and 6” gutters. They can even be modified to fit gutters ranging from 4” to 10”. 

The “Flex-Flange” makes Raindrop® highly adaptable to work for every situation, thus installation is easy and simple. While we still recommend a pro installer to install gutter guards, Raindrop fits under the shingle and attaches to the front of the “K-style” gutters. 

Good for Ice & Branches:

Ice and snow sitting on gutter guards like the flat-mount mesh guards can actually weigh down gutters. Due to their black color, Raindrop® Gutter Guards heat up from the sun during the cold months, naturally melting snow and ice to keep water flowing into the gutters year-round.

As the video showed earlier, Raindrop gutter guards can also withstand branches that would damage most guards! 

Raindrop Gutter Guard Price: 

In addition to looking the best, on average the price for the product you get with Raindrop is unbeatable. We might seem bias, but we seriously love the performance and price range Raindrop offers. 

While cheap gutter guards don’t perform well and expensive gutter guards still require cleaning, Raindrop is right in the middle when it comes to price. 

On average, a single-family home is looking at gutter guards can expect to spend somewhere in between $1,000-$1,5000 on gutter guards for their home. Or look at it this way – 3-4 years worth of paying someone to clean your gutters. 

The Verdict:

It is clear, while we might seem bias, the best bet for gutter guards is Raindrop. To recap, here is why:

  1. Best price
  2. Best warranty
  3. Best product
  4. Best design
  5. Least amount of hassle

That is all you need to know! Oh and before we part, feel free to use our sister companies gutter calculator here to figure out how much gutter guards would cost!

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Roofing Shingles: Everything YOU Need to Know!

roofing shingles

Looking for information on roofing shingles?

When it comes to your home’s roof, there is a very high likelihood that your roof has shingles. 

Asphalt shingles to be specific. 

And while there is a chance your roof has metal components, such as dormers or a porch area with metal, the roofing shingles you see on your home are almost always asphalt shingles (or sometimes cedar shake). 

Regardless, chances are you were searching for roofing shingles today to learn about the best ones? Or perhaps you were looking for the average cost of roofing shingles. Either way, here at Top Dog Home Pro, we got you covered, literally and figuratively! 

Today we will explore the following when it pertains to your roof’s shingles:

  1. What are asphalt shingles?
  2. What type and quality of roofing shingles are there?
  3. How much do roofing shingles typically cost?
  4. Roofing Repair vs Replacement

First, what are asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles happen to be the most commonly used form of roofing material in the states, more common than sheet metal or wood shingles. 

While the main component of asphalt shingles is of course asphalt, according to Guardian Roofs, they consist of either a fiberglass or felt paper base coated with a waterproof later of asphalt and topped with ceramic granules.

This creates a durable, waterproof, and lightweight shingle that can stand most elements mother nature has to offer such as wind, ice, snow, rain, and hail. Of course, like anything these days, there are different types of asphalt shingles. 

Types of Roofing Shingles

Asphalt roofing shingles have evolved immensely over the past 20 years. Chances are if you have a roof that is from the ’90s or even still hanging on from the ’80s, the asphalt shingles you had then are nothing compared to what is offered today!

The two types of asphalt shingles are: 

  1. Three Tab Shingles
  2. Architectural Shingles

As you can see in the photo below, on the left the three-tab shingle is designed to look like three individual shingles, however, it is all one piece. These roofing shingles are flat, light-weight and the most economical when priced. 

On the right, the architectural shingles are thicker because of an extra layer of asphalt, but they are also sturdier and give a more unique/modern look. Architectural are a bit more expensive as we will soon cover, however, they last longer and have better warranty options because they are higher in quality. 

roofing shingles

That is not to say that if you elect to use three-tab roofing shingles you won’t have a healthy new roof, it’s just that more and more homeowners are looking at the long-term rewards of architectural shingles when they replace their roofs! 

Of course, costs matter but so does quality! 

How to know when the roofing shingles need to be replaced:

There are obvious signs that can indicate whether or not you need to replace your roof’s shingles. Let’s start with the super obvious signs!

  1. You have missing shingles, and it is obvious based on exposed underlayment or even exposed plywood. Urgency, ASAP!
  2. You notice that your shingles are curled or perhaps giving a “Buckled” look
  3. Your shingles are over 15 years old
  4. You notice lots of asphalt granules in your gutter downspout collectors

While these are some of the more obvious signs that you might need your roofing singles replaced, there other less common ones you might not be able to see. Perhaps your ridge vent is missing some shingles or your plywood is warped in some areas. 

In that case, if you don’t want to get on your roof (which we recommend NEVER getting on your roof) you can always reach out to have us take a look!

How much do new roofing shingles cost?

The cost for a new roof, roof repair, or new roofing shingles can vary. In this article here, we walk you through step by step how to gauge the cost of roofing shingles and a new roof. 

That being said, below you will find a quick view of how much roofing shingles cost per square, which is 100 square feet of shingles! For an accurate price, you can “Build” your roof here. 

roofing shingle costs

The price for roofing shingles varies depending on the quality of the shingle and the amount required for your home. 

For example, a standard 3-tab shingle installed by Top Dog Home Pro is $380 a square, whereas our architectural pro series roofing shingles by Certainteed run $425 per square installed. 

In the table below you will find rough estimates for replacing the shingles on a roof based on the approximate size of the home: 

3 TabArchitectural ShinglesPro Series
Townhome380040004250
Single-Family760080008500
Large Single-Family152001600017000

While these are average prices based on a normal roof replacement, there are other factors that can contribute to a roof replacement such as the condition of the plywood, layers of existing shingles, and any other possible issues that might exist. 

The best recommendation is to look further than just the price but to also look at the roofing warranty as well. While you might save upfront on 3 tab shingles, the warranty isn’t as good when compared to an architectural shingle!

>> Read about our Roofing Warranties here! We explain the entire process transparently and help you weigh the pros and cons of each shingle type!

Roof Replacement vs Roofing Repairs:

There is a saying in the personal finance world that when it comes to our finances, each situation should be treated personally, hence the emphasis on ‘Personal’ finance. The same can be said for your roof. 

While there are metrics that can determine whether an entire roof replacement is more suitable for your home, or perhaps a simple repair, the best thing to do is to first start with a roof inspection. 

Once you have your roof inspected by a certified roofing specialist/contractor, you should weigh your options. It’s vital to weigh all of your options:

  • Is there a possibility for an insurance claim?
  • How old is your roof?
  • Will the repair last, or is a new roof the better long term option?
  • Will a roof repair cost more than just replacing the entire roof?

Typically, if it is something simple like replacing a few shingles, checking out a possible leak, or replacing a section of a ridge vent, a roofing repair is a good option. 

However, when the amount of roofing shingles needing to be replaced reaches a certain threshold, or the repair costs are starting to get to 50% of the cost of a new roof, a roof replacement is usually a better option. 

For example, if a new roof would cost you $7,000, but the repairs cost $3,5000, it’s better to simply replace the roof. 

A new roof has a high return on investment for resale purposes and the new asphalt roofing shingles have amazing technology that makes it hardy and looks better!

Final Word on Roof Shingles –

Roofing shingles are not something we often think about until we have to. Perhaps you wake up to find a few shingles in your yard after a wind storm or you see a bare spot on the backside of your roof. 

There is also the chance that one day you notice that your home’s roof just looks very old. Either way, replacing your roofing shingles is something that should be viewed as an investment. 

So like any investment, it’s best to do your due diligence and get as much information on your end before moving forward with a contractor. 

Top Dog Home Pro proudly serves all of Northern Virginia and specializes in helping homeowners in Woodbridge, Fairfax, Lorton, Springfield, and many more with their roof!

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Everything You Should Know About Gutter Repairs

gutter repairs near me

What to Know About Gutter Repairs – Woodbridge, Va.

When it comes to the exterior of your home, there are a few things that are integral to making sure it’s well protected. 

The roof, the siding, the windows, the doors, and last but not least – the gutters – all work cohesively together to make sure your home is protected from the elements. Are there other elements of your home that are important? 

You bet, the foundation is vital so are aspects of a home such as HVAC units, wiring and plumbing that are important. However, one thing that can undermine the functionality of your home’s resistance to weather and issues is something we often overlook – our gutters!

In fact, improperly installed and/or broken gutters are one of the leading reasons why people experience leaks and foundational issues. That is why today we are going to cover the topic of “Gutter Repairs,” and everything you need to know. 

We will cover:

  • Signs you might need a gutter repair
  • Our gutter repair process
  • Gutter repair options
  • Gutter repair costs

Warning Signs You Might Need Gutter Repairs:

Typically, your gutters are not something you give much thought as it pertains to being a homeowner. This is both a good and bad thing. 

Since gutters are higher up, it’s hard to assess if they’re working properly and if they’re clean. Clogged gutters are the leading cause of gutter repairs, and typically, most gutters go unnoticed until there is a problem

Unlike our car that has icons on the dashboard that make us aware of potential issues, our gutters are not so communicative. That being said, there are signs that can be noticeable and can perhaps indicate your home is in need of gutter repairs: 

Signs you might need a gutter repair include:

  • Noticeable gaps between your gutters and fascia boards
  • Gutters sagging in the middle 
  • Water flies off your roof during rainstorms
  • Mismatched gutter elbows, downspouts, pieces. 
  • A tree branch or wind has visually damaged your gutters
  • The wind has displaced your seamless gutters completely (missing) 
  • Your fascia boards are rotting 

These signs above can indicate whether or not you need a gutter repair. 

When it comes to assessing whether or not your home is in need of a gutter repair, the best thing to do is simply call and have a gutter company (like Top Dog Home Pro) come out and assess the situation, but more on that later. 

(Always keep gutters clean)

Our Gutter Repair Process

So let’s hypothetically say you determine you need to have your gutters repaired, or at the very least have your gutters inspected by a professional gutter company. 

What you want to first do is get an honest opinion and transparent pricing from the company. Here is our stance on most gutter repairs:

  1. Typically, we assess the situation 
  2. We determine if a repair is possible, but also is the repair a long term solution
  3. If the repair is possible, we give a pricing estimate

Let’s take a deep look at point number two above. If a gutter repair is possible is not the determining factor in getting your gutters repaired. As we uncover the different gutter repair options below, keep in mind that the most important item to consider is will the gutter repair last. 

Something can always be repaired, but what if the repair lasts only a matter of weeks or months? In that case, it’s most likely better to consider replacing those gutters. 

However, if a gutter repair is necessary, typically the process involves sealing a leak, reinstalling a gutter section, correcting a small issue. On the other hand, if the gutters are falling off because the old gutter spikes are old, well in that case it’s worth exploring options. 

Gutter Repair Options

In all our years of experience, the best bet for a gutter repair is almost always a gutter replacement. Let us touch as to why. 

First, if your gutters are in need of repair, most of the time the problem has gone unnoticed for some time. Remember the signs of a repair from above? Usually, those signs mean the problem is pretty large, and the damage is often been done. 

Now don’t get us wrong, there are simple fixes like unclogging a gutter, adding some sealant, or correcting a drainage issue. However, in most cases, a rain gutter system that is in dire need of attention is simply corrected with replacing. 

Brand new, seamless gutters are relatively inexpensive when it is all said and done, and when the price of a repair starts to get over $400, it is typically worth simply replacing your gutters. 

New gutters come with a gutter warranty (when we install them) and they often have updated features like the screw-in hidden hangers. Most homes with older gutters have the classic, long gutter spikes that overtime become ineffective in keeping your gutters mounted to your home. 

Also to point out, when gutters are replaced with new 5-inch or 6-inch gutters, what typically occurs too is an inspection of the fascia boards and their condition. This is KEY to replacing gutters because we never put new gutters on damaged fascia boards! 

And as you will see in a few, gutters are not very expensive, however, the value they had is superior. 

>> Check out our New Gutter Warranty info here. 

Best way to find a gutter repair company near you:

The best way to find a gutter repair company “Near Me” is to simply choose one of the following options: 

  1. Search online for a “Gutter Repair Company Near Me,” followed by checking their reviews and website content
  2. Ask a friend who knows someone in the industry
  3. Log on to Facebook and look for a recommendation 

Gutter Repair Costs

As we mentioned earlier, gutter repair costs can vary!

Typically, for something small like finding a clog, we don’t charge necessarily if we find it. If we need to seal something or replace an elbow or miter, it could be $75 to $150. If the costs start to exceed over $400, then we typically recommend replacing gutters. 

Why?

New 6-inch gutters cost just $6.50 per linear foot. So if a home needs 100 feet of new gutters, that is just $650. If a repair is $450, the long term option is to go with new gutters. To learn more about gutter pricing, check out this video here and also these resources:

Final thoughts on gutter repairs:  

When in doubt… get it checked out! 

If you have a hunch that is something is wrong with your gutters, don’t wait around. Most gutter companies will give you a free estimate/look, and if they find something they will let you know. 

A gutter repair can be simple, or it might just be worth replacing your gutters! That being said, the last thing we will point out is that gutter guards are worth it.

>> Just check out our review here of the Raindrop Gutter Guard system and learn about the lifetime, the no-clog warranty they come with!

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Rain Gutters 101 – Everything You Should Know!

rain gutters

Traditionally speaking, we don’t give much thought to things that keep the interior of our home warm, cozy and dry.

Those exterior “Things” like our home’s roof, the windows, the doors, and even the rain gutters all serve an important role in making sure your interior is protected from the exterior elements.

Not only is the outside of your home vital for curb appeal, but also your gutters, roof, and siding all:

  1. Help with managing storms (Rain, snow)
  2. Protecting your home against strong winds
  3. Saving on energy costs and more!

All this to say, that out of all the exterior components of a home we think of, very rarely do rain gutters pop into our heads… unless something comes up…!

That is why today we will be covering the following so you can understand everything you need to know about rain gutters:

  1. What rain gutters are & what they do
  2. How much new rain gutters cost
  3. Where to find rain gutters

>> See Also: The Most Frequently Asked Gutter Questions!

What are rain gutters?

Simply put, rain gutters are long, narrow, shallow troughs that are mounted on the edges of a home where the fascia boards meet the roof. Rain gutters are designed to collect the rainwater off the roof of a home, to then gather water and transport it down the downspouts into designated run-off areas.

Chances are you know what we are talking about, gutters come in many colors, sizes, and styles, however, most of the time we recognize rain gutters as the white things near the edge of our roof on our home.

We also recognize when a gutter is broke or missing based on seeing:

  1. Water flying off our roof during a storm
  2. Obvious missing gutter sections
  3. A visible gap between our rain gutters and where they are mounted on our home

Properly working gutters are vital for helping with storm water management. Improperly managed rain water, aka underperforming rain gutters can lead to:

  • Erosion issues
  • Flooding of basements
  • Leaks inside of your home
  • Foundation issues
  • Landscaping problems
  • And even mosquitos!

All that to say your rain gutters matter. So if they’re not cared for, cleaned, nor do they have gutter guards – they may flounder and break.

In the case of needing new gutters, or simply wanting to add curb appeal with even a new color of rain gutters, we will now help you estimate and budge for them!

How much do new rain gutters cost?

The first question most homeowners ask when the time comes for new gutters is the price question, “How much do new rain gutters cost?”

That is what we are going to answer below!

Most rain gutters are made from aluminum. While there are vinyl gutters (which are cheap), copper, and steel – almost all gutters are made from aluminum.

Aluminum rain gutters are:

  • Durable
  • Customizable, cut to fit
  • Cost-effective and affordable
  • Seamless (so they don’t leak)
  • Sizes come in 5″ or 6″

So now you know some of the quick benefits, how much do aluminum rain gutters cost per linear foot?

Depending on the size, rain gutters can range from on average $5 to $10 per linear foot. However, we tell customers that they should be paying somewhere around $6 per foot (factors like aluminum prices and location may mean more or less depending on where you live).

Put another way, new 6″ aluminum rain gutters usually cost:

  • Townhome = Around $1,000
  • Single Family Home = Around $1,500 (give or take)
  • Larger Homes or homes with large porches = $2,000+

However, once again, it’s all based on linear feet!

Use a Gutter Calculator

Don’t want to guess? Here is what you can do to accurately price out new rain gutters and gutter guards:

  1. Use this instant, online, Gutter Calculator Tool (don’t worry it’s our sister companies tool)
  2. Gather your measurements for your gutters. You can use Google Maps and its measuring tool to get a close estimate. For downspouts, every floor is typically 10′ of rain gutter downspout. So, two floors would be ~ 20′ give or take.
  3. Input your measurements, get an instant estimate for new rain gutters!

How to find a rain gutter company near you:

You know what rain gutters do. You know how much they cost. Now, how do you find the best rain gutter company near you?

Well, chances are, if you live in Northern, VA and the surrounding areas, you’re on the best gutter company website right now :). While we are not kidding, what we will say if you don’t want to go to Home Depot and buy your own gutters, this is not something that is a DIY project.

We repeat, custom seamless rain gutters are never DIY. In the case you don’t live near Northern, VA but you found this article, the best way to find a gutter company near you is to:

  1. Ask friends and family
  2. Request a recommendation on Facebook
  3. Go to Google Maps and search, “Rain Gutter Company Near Me”
  4. Or simply search for rain gutters by me.

Just be sure, when looking for a gutter company, you take into consideration reviews, they’re quoting system, and their professionalism:

On another note, never underestimate the power of a great YouTube channel and rain gutter testimonial:

Lastly, be sure to select a rain gutter company that has a gutter warranty!

For example, here at Top Dog Home Pro of Virginia, we offer a lifetime warranty for our products and labor that you can read here: Full Gutter Warranty Info.

Final note on Rain Gutters –

What most of us do in life is we wait until the problem emerges that then requires our full, undivided attention. This is only human nature, and it’s the same for rain gutters/home improvements.

Typically, we don’t really pay attention to our rain gutters until we notice them overflowing or falling off our home’s fascia boards.

So as we part, here are some great tips to help you stay on top of keeping your rain gutters in tip-top shape!

  1. Always clean your gutters if you don’t have gutter guards, ideally after all leaves are done falling in the fall
  2. Check your gutters in the spring to make sure they’re clear before the heavy rain season. Also, be sure to make sure birds are not nesting in your gutters (they mess things up fast!)
  3. Lastly, highly consider getting gutter guards such as Raindrop Gutter Guards, that are self-cleaning and long-lasting!
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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

We get asked all the time about the best gutter companies. In fact, in our FAQ Gutters post, the most common question we address is how to identify a great gutter company!

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 to 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 communication, 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, installation, 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!

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