If heavy rains and short downspouts are causing the water to pool near the base of your home, then a longer downspout is in order. In fact, if water is seeping in through the foundation of your home already, this is a problem that you want to correct immediately. Water seepage can lead to other problems such as mold, mildew and dry rot.

Fortunately, extending the downspout is an easy and simple remedy. First, you will need to make a few purchases and gather a few tools.

Tools and Materials at a Glance

• Gutter downspout pipe
• Galvanized gutter elbow
• Splash block
• Hacksaw
• Tape measure
• Swing-up gutter elbows (if desired)

Instructions for Extending the Downspout

Purchase a new length of downspout pipe that matches your downspout’s appearance. Measure the diameter of your existing downspout to make sure that you get the right size. Also, purchase any of the following that you have decided to use: galvanized gutter elbow, splash block, and swing-up gutter elbow. If you don’t already have one, borrow or purchase a hacksaw since you will need it to trim the downspout to size.

If the area where you will be placing your extension does not get a lot of foot traffic, you can add a simple extension of downspout pipe. Use the hacksaw to cut a length from the new section of downspout pipe. Six to 8 feet is probably a good length provided enough room exists. Attach this piece to the existing downspout and use a galvanized gutter elbow to attach it securely.

If you have decided to use a splash block, place it underneath the downspout. Splash blocks help to direct the water onto the lawn. Eventually, you may want to consider placing a permanent splash block underneath the downspout, but a removable downspout allows you to remove it if necessary.

If your existing downspout is located in an area that receives a great deal of foot traffic such as walkways, driveways and patios, you may want to make some special arrangements. Two separate options exist that will easily extend your downspout without limiting walking access to the area.

A roll-up sleeve placed at the end of your existing downspout will sufficiently extend it to allow for drainage away from the home. Roll-up sleeves are perfect for those areas that need to remain uncluttered and free for foot traffic.

The roll-up sleeve will fit snugly on the end of your downspout. When it rains, the sleeve unrolls to allow the gutter and downspout to channel the water away from the roof and foundation of your home. Once it has stopped raining and the water has stopped draining from your roof, the sleeve automatically rolls back up again.

Another option for extending a downspout in an area that needs to remain open is the swing-up elbow. If you install a swing-up elbow to attach your new downspout extension, then you can flip it up and out of the way. When it rains, simply flip the downspout back to the ground to allow the rain to drain away from the home. You can allow the downspout to remain on the ground during any time that the area is not going to be used. For example, if the downspout is located at your patio and you only use the patio during the summer months, the downspout can remain on the ground during the off season. This decreases the number of times that you will need to adjust a swing-up downspout.

By Susan M. Keenan

1. Be sure the handyman you choose is knowledgeable in the specific skills that your project will require. Some of the skills he will need are plumbing, electrical, home repair, remodeling, and carpentry. With these skills most projects can end with both the customer and the handyman happy. This will save you time and money and make sure your project something you can be proud of.

2. Ask the prospective handyman if he has experience with a similar type of project. If you lived in Texas you might ask the handyman San Antonio is offering whether they have done other jobs in your particular area. Making sure he understands exactly what the project is and what you will expect when the job is completed is important.

3. It is your responsibility to be clear about the start and completion date for your project. Make sure that he understands when the work is to be completed! It is not sufficient to use terms like “as quickly as possible” which is too vague and will cause you and him problems down the road. So just be specific with this part.

4. Check to be sure that he is a contractor who is properly licensed and insured to do your type of work. He needs to be familiar with city code requirements. Follow these tips to help you find the right handyman for your project.

5. Have a clear understanding about his guarantee for all work he will be doing. Be sure to get the guarantee in writing. Be sure it is specific with details covering your project. If he doesn’t have a written guarantee then find a handyman that does.

You now know some of the important steps to finding a qualified worker in your area. Think your project through in specific steps from start to finish even if it is a small project. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. You can not assume that the person doing the work knows what you are thinking or wanting.

Article by: Des Moines Siding

Rain gutters are an important part of every roofing system. Redirecting the water off the roof reduces the erosion of soil at the base of the building, which weakens the foundation over time. Rainwater can be redirected into a water collection system, or diverted to specific locations with the use of downspouts.

Seamless gutters are a marketing term used to describe a specific method of rain gutter installation. These gutters have less seams and possible leakage points than other rain gutters, as they are formed from one continuous roll. Traditional gutters use aluminum pieces, which are attached on site and have visible seams.

To install seamless gutters, you must hire a roofing contractor who offers this product. It is very common in North America and available from a wide range of roofing companies. It is not possible to purchase or install seamless gutters yourself.

If you are thinking about installing seamless gutters, make a list of your requirements. Determine the color of the gutters and the total length required. The gutters can be the same color as the roof or can coordinate with the other trim on the building.

When selecting a seamless gutter contractor, ask for a written quotation. The quotation should provide detailed pricing for the materials and installation labor. Obtain quotes from at least three different suppliers to ensure you get the best price.

Ask for and check at least three references from prior customers before selecting a seamless gutter contractor. Ask the references if the work was completed on time, were garbage disposal services included and their satisfaction with the quality of work. Take the time to visit the references and inspect the quality of the installation before selecting a contractor.

When the seamless gutter contractor arrives, they will have a machine inside a truck which contains a roll of metal in the selected color. The seamless gutter is formed on site from this roll. The gutter is then installed onto your roof.

At each corner, the seamless gutter is cut just enough to allow the material to create a perpendicular corner. These cuts are then sealed during the installation process. The seal can be created on the inside of the gutter to provide a visually appealing appearance.

Each window is custom-made from virgin vinyl resin combined with the best stabilizers and impact modifiers for consistent color and strength. Alside insulated glass units use the latest technology to ensure the best possible insulation performance and seal strength. And Alside features a wide array of styles, decorative options, complementary trim selections and performance packages for a fully customizable product to suit your personal style.

Alside windows are custom-made to fit your current window openings precisely. They are easier to install because they require no additional wall construction, in comparison to stock windows found at your local retailer.

Vinyl Replacement Windows in Colorado

Alside sets the standard by which other replacement windows are measured. Over fifty years of innovation has resulted in a collection of windows that are designed and engineered to provide beauty, performance, ease of operation, virtually no maintenance, and increased energy-efficiency.

All Alside replacement windows are made with fully extruded virgin vinyl frames and sashes for durability and beauty with no chipping, peeling, cracking or warping. All colors are formulated right into the vinyl, so the color never fades and your windows will never need painting or staining. Airtight insulating chambers and insulated glass units provide energy-efficient performance throughout every season. And all Alside windows will operate easily, even after decades of regular use, thanks to the stainless steel, high performance Constant Force Balance system.

Best of all, Alside replacement windows gracefully enhance the architectural style of your home, whether it’s traditional or contemporary. Ranging from feature-packed models to high-quality value-driven models, we know there’s a model to fit your specific style, performance and budget needs.

Products

Featuring a broad range of styles; from single- and double-hung, sliding, fixed lite, casement and awning, bay, bow and garden window models – and even patio doors; Alside understands that your vision has no limitations. Without compromising performance or beauty, our unlimited choice of products are designed to bring your vision to reality.

• Sheffield
• UltraMaxx
• Excalibur
• Geneva
• Centurion
• Excalibur Single-Hung
• Model 0700
• Fairfield 80 Series
• Coastal Impact Windows

Cascade Windows was the official window supplier for the Sandpoint episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” which aired on Sunday, January 22, 2006 on ABC.

Extreme Makeover Featuring Cascade Windows >

Quality Vinyl Windows & Doors

The structural integrity of Cascade Windows’ slider windows and doors is apparent throughout every product offering from the ThermalPro to the WinPro. If you are looking for a great replacement window with premium insulation, ThermalPro is the way to go. If you are looking to add design innovation and a contemporary look to your building project, look to the WinPro or Cascade Series.

Energy Efficiency

As an Energy Star® partner, Cascade Windows is able to achieve optimum efficiency by combining vinyl mainframes with PPG’s patented Solarban® 60 glass and Cascade’s warm edge spacer technology. These windows are designed to block many of the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. Cascade Window’s are EERE (Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy) compliant.

Cascade Products

Cascade Series

The Cascade Series features innovations giving architects, homeowners, and building professionals an effective combination of traditional window styling and enhanced structural integrity. You will gain the classic looks and performance desired for custom homes and commercial projects.

Winpro Series

The WinPro Series is designed to give homeowners and building professionals a remarkable combination of sleek looks, reliable performance and serious value.

Intelligent design and energy efficiency result in a smart window with a maximized viewing area. The WinPro Series offers great flexibility in design and options while maintaining excellent structural and thermal qualities.

Thermalpro Series

Our ThermalPro Series features an attractive, beveled frame that enhances the appearance of your window replacement project. Foam-filled frames, Low-E insulated glass, and warm-edge technology result in top thermal performance in a product line that is unmatched in its class.

How to Buy or Replace Windows

Window shopping is difficult work. There are so many choices available, decisions to make and terms to learn. Never fear, we’re here to help!

How should I go about buying and replacing vinyl windows and/or patio doors?

Is the wood rotting in your existing windows or patio doors? Are your aluminum windows rusting, pitting or chalking? If so, those are good signs that you may need replacement windows or patio doors. Replacing the windows or doors in your home can enhance its overall beauty, while giving your budget a boost by helping conserve costly energy.

Are you building a new home or addition? We make beautiful, energy efficient new construction windows and patio doors to help you add your own distinctive style to your house and turn it into a home.

If you’re concerned that your knowledge of windows is confined to the basics of opening, closing and locking — don’t worry. That’s what we’re here for! By reviewing the FAQ’s and other information we offer, you’ll find everything you need to know to make an informed choice about new or replacement windows or doors. After all, we’re just as concerned about what you put into your home as you are.

How do Simonton windows compare with other windows within the building industry?

Simonton windows are rated among the highest in the industry, and they offer outstanding energy efficiency and value. Simonton Windows products were rated #1 in Quality by small and large builders across the United States, according to the “1998 Brand Use Study” conducted by Builder magazine.

To assist you in comparison shopping, we recommend you check out other building industry web sites:

• Remodeling OnLine — An online magazine related to the remodeling industry
• Builder Online — An online magazine related to the new construction industry
• Residential Architect — An online magazine related to the architectural industry
• Home Planners Online — An online magazine for homeowners

Simonton’s windows pass AAMA and NFRC tests

All Simonton products are certified to meet or exceed industry standards set forth by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Select the link of your choice to learn more about each organization’s standards and testing procedures.

Simonton Links

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