by Frank Dixon | Jun 27, 2023 | Blog
This is a good choice for someone who isn’t looking to spend too much money. You don’t have to go anywhere local in Norwest Indiana. Just order it on Amazon and get it in the next day. The key with this gutter guard is that it’s a simple self-installation product. It’s lightweight and slips in your gutter without any fasteners. You will find that you have to work with it a bit to get it to stay as needed, but it will do the trick for a quick and easy gutter guard solution.
The downsides are if you have an area around your home with a truly high volume of leaves building up this product may not be quite sturdy enough for you. Along with the heavy snow that comes through NWI in the winter. Snow builds and ice builds which can way a product like this down. These are plastic pliable gutter guards, they are not the most long-term solution. Over time, the heat from the sun can cause them to curl which will create gaps that allow debris to start forming.
Reviews
- (5 Stars) “It worked fine for what I wanted. A little stiff unroll.”
- (4 Stars) “I’ve tried a variety of gutter guard products. My problem is I have a tile roof. That makes installing gutter guards a nightmare. I tried 2 different metal guards & it took so long to install them I gave up. I accidentally came across this product browsing on Amazon, read the reviews, & decided to try it out. Of all the gutter guards, this is by far easier to install if you have a tile roof. Some reviewers complain that this plastic guard is too flimsy. Not at all. It’s about a medium flexibility & seems to be just right for the application. It looks & feels quite sturdy. I went to the manufacturers website to try & find out what kind of plastic this is made of because that is pretty important. Many plastics degrade quickly in the sun. But I didn’t find anything. It’s made in China so we immediately have to be suspicious of its quality. It seems there’s gotta be an easier way to install this other than lifting up every tile & bending the strip into the gutter, like rolling it up into a tube, laying the tube into the gutter, then slowly pulling the mesh out, letting it expand in place. I’m just thinking out loud. I’m an old guy & need to have all the help I can get. Cleaning gutters is a nightmare if you have a tile roof. And that’s why I have high hopes for this mesh strip. One & done… I hope! Update: I’ve laid a bunch of it trying my roll-it-up-in-a-tube experiment(I have a tile roof). Don’t try this. This plastic has a fairly decent memory, so after I rolled it up, it wouldn’t unroll! So … my suggestion if you have tile, cut the mesh into lengths 2″ longer than the distance between each gutter reinforcing bracket, slide each piece under the tile overhang, & using long needle nose pliers or a long haemostat, try & move the sheet into a dome shape like you see in a lot of the reviews. Once it forms the dome, it locks in snugly.”
- (3 Stars) “Cheap and flimsy. It will work for areas where smaller leaves and fewer of them. It will not work where there are needles and many leaves.
Prices
Single Pack – $8.04
Starting off strong, this gutter guard is manufactured 100% in the USA. Here in Portage, IN, we love to find products that are American made as often as possible. The fine mesh keeps even the smallest debris out of your gutters while easily letting water flow through. Although this gutter guard solution can’t be seen from the ground it is a very nice-looking gutter guard to be sure. Something specific about this model that we love is that the mesh is reinforced underneath. A big problem that we see with metal/mesh gutter guards is, they often are very easily dented and smashed. With these, you won’t have near as much problem with denting. They will hold up to heavy Indiana weather such as fall leaves and heavy snow.
If you are going the self-installed route we recommend gloves for this product. The screw holes and edges can be very sharp. Honestly, for the price you’re paying, these guards should come with predrilled holes. They do not. This will add to the installation time and tools required. It would be nice to see them add this in the future.
Reviews
- (5 Stars) “I needed a good guard for my gutters that would withstand harsh weather conditions and keep pine needles, leaves and roof debris from clogging up the gutters and downspouts. I ordered a sample and the company sent a sample and information on the guards. I ultimately decided to order and needed 335 feet. I ordered them on May 29. Delivery was expected June 1-2, but they actually arrived May 31. They were neatly packaged in 4 packages of 75 feet and 1 package of 35 feet. No damage. They have since been installed. Corners were a little tricky, but our installer figured it out. I am happy with the purchase and recommend the product.”
- (5 Stars) “I ordered 35′ of Waterlock Micromesh Gutter Guards and received them the very next day. Installation was easy and only took 2 hours from start to finish. I would buy these gutter guards again.”
- (4 Stars) “Definitely value for your money. I bought these and did the entire installation for 100 sq feet within hours, it wasn’t hard and it saved me thousands. Easy to cut to the desired length with a power tool or tinsnips. Comes with enough screws (I recommend having a 1/4” magnetic socket for your driver/ impact driver that way; your screws don’t keep falling). If one isn’t handy or comfortable installing, you can still buy these guards and have someone come do the install for you… saves you a lot! I did a lot of research and after carefully reviewing other systems, this one seemed to be the best and I don’t regret.
Lastly, I gave a 4 star because the corners on my order came damaged and I had to straighten them with a pliers. I think more pudding or Styrofoam on the top and bottom (inside the box) will help prevent damage.”
Prices
Prices Vary as they offer different sizes. Click here for pricing.
Raindrop gutter guards are made of polypropylene. As we’ve seen, these are the best when it comes to the “self-cleaning quality. They have raised rounded ridges that allow for debris to fall right off. The fact that they are a durable plastic product means they won’t get bent or smashed nearly as easily as something metal. They’re simply more durable. These do come with predrilled holes and screws. The holes are oblong to make up for the known fact that this material will expand and contract as the weather changes from season to season. This is a great feature as Indiana weather fluctuates quite a bit throughout the year. These only come in black. The reason for this is black absorbs heat. The absorption of heat helps mitigate the problem of ice damming in the winter, which will help keep your roof and home healthy longer. These are our preferred product when it comes to quality, doing the job needed, and aesthetics. This is without even mentioning the price. These are a reasonable price though as you’ll see below.
Downsides, well they only come in black. Some people like the idea of a “pretty” gutter guard with lots of color options to match. These have fairly large openings considering how small the actual mesh on other products is. Granules from your roof will certainly penetrate these gutter guards as your roof ages, but granules do not cause clogging or issues. They simply sit in your gutter or flow through to the ground. They are not large enough to make a significant difference. They claim that pine needs will not get through. It seems that the majority of pine needles will flow off, but the openings are certainly large enough for some to fit.
Reviews
- (5 Star) “I had these installed on my house. I’m really impressed with the design. I have tons of oaks close to my house, and Raindrop is doing a great job of keeping the leaves out. They just slide right off the top. Happy with the price, too. Great product.”
- (2 Star) “Raindrop gutter guards do a pretty decent job with leaves but are terrible with the whirlybirds that fall off maple trees. They advertise showing they will fall off but mine get clogged every year. Not very impressed with the product. Doesn’t do as advertised”
- (5 Star) “System has been installed for a few months, so far so good. The crew did a great job installing.”
Prices
Prices Vary as they offer different sizes. Click here for pricing.
by Frank Dixon | Jun 23, 2023 | Blog
Everyone knows leaks are annoying. However, untreated leaks also pose a serious hazard to your home.
Our expert roofers in Portage, IN, advise on the dangers of leaky roofs and what to do next.
1. Structural Damage
Problems start from the top down – in this case, that means that once your roofing in Portage, IN, is compromised, the rest of your home will suffer the consequences.
Leaks can gradually degrade wood, plaster, and drywall. These materials won’t offer the support your home’s structure needs, which can eventually lead to collapsed ceilings or even your roof caving in.
Having a roofing company in Portage, IN, routinely inspect your home for leaks means protecting yourself against significant damage and costly repairs further down the line.
2. Fire Hazards
When does a water hazard become a fire hazard?
Water conducts electricity, and as it seeps through your home, it may touch an unprotected bit of wire, for example, behind a light switch. This can cause sparks to fly and ignite nearby materials, potentially causing a fire.
This isn’t just a call to have roofing contractors in Portage, IN, inspect your property for leaks – it’s also a reminder to regularly have your wiring checked to ensure it’s well-protected.
3. Mold Growth
Mildew and mold are common complications when leaks develop. This starts in the attic but can quickly spread to other rooms.
If mold starts growing on the floor of your attic, it will eat through to the ceilings of the rooms below. It’s extremely hard to get rid of mold that is embedded deeply in plaster without replacing the entire area, which is very expensive.
Mold can also be a serious health hazard. Don’t let it infest your home – contact a roofing company in Portage, IN, for repairs.
4. Compromised Insulation
The materials used to insulate your attic play a vital role in maintaining your home’s temperature and keeping your energy bills down.
Consistent water damage will degrade these materials, reducing their ability to insulate your home. You’ll notice your energy bills going up, and once you identify the problem, you’ll also need to pay to have your insulation replaced.
5. Emergency Situations
A leak is annoying. A flood is a disaster.
What do you do during a downpour when suddenly your home starts leaking in multiple areas or a part of your ceiling collapses? A leak that has been a minor problem for months is suddenly an incredibly stressful and very dangerous event.
Don’t let it get to that point – have roofing contractors in Portage, IN, address the problem as soon as you notice it.
Wrapping Up & What to Do
Your roofing in Portage, IN, is your home’s first and most important line of defense against the elements. Keeping it well-maintained saves you from expensive repairs and awful situations when suddenly a small leak turns into a major issue.
Don’t wait for the heavens to open. Contact Alamo Roofing Contractors in Portage, IN, for advice, inspections, and swift, cost-effective repairs today!
by Frank Dixon | Jun 15, 2023 | Blog, Gutter Guard Installation, Gutter Guards Benefits, Portage
Cleaning gutters is a filthy job on the to-do list. The job involves climbing the ladder, scooping out the wet sopping leaves, removing the pine needles, and making sure the water flows freely. If only there was a simpler way to complete this job!
There is! Gutter Guards!
This innovative tool is so helpful in keeping the gutters working at their peak! They come by various names including gutter covers, gutter toppers, gutter screens, or gutter filters. But they all do the same thing. Gutter Guards are a mesh or screen that covers the entire gutter, eliminates huge branches and twigs from clogging the channels, and keeps animals from forming homes.
What are Some of the Benefits of Installing Gutter Guards?
Save Time and Money
You don’t need to worry about cleaning out gutters as much when you have gutter guards installed. The gutters will be easier to maintain and the water will have a chance to flow freely away from the home. Rust will not occur as often since there won’t be a debris buildup forcing the water to stagnate in one spot.
Avoid Animal Infestation
A gutter can make a fabulous home for some small critters. It is a comfortable shape and can hold a small vermin family nicely. But it is only nice for them. Not for the homeowner! Keep bats, squirrels, mice, birds, and other small animals from making their homes in your gutters by installing the guards.
Improve Gutter Water Flow
As indicated above, with gutter guards, the water can easily flow to the downspout. The likelihood of leaves, branches, and debris is minimized with the guards. This is especially helpful for those with a rainwater barrel connected to the downspout. The amount of debris collected in the barrel is less when the guards do their job properly.
Improves Gutter Stability
Gutter guards can enhance the overall stability of the gutter system by providing additional support and preventing the excessive weight from debris accumulation. This helps prevent sagging or detachment of gutters from the building.
Extends Gutter Lifespan
Accumulated debris in gutters can cause corrosion and deterioration over time. By preventing debris from entering the gutters, gutter guards help prolong the lifespan of your gutters and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Common Questions Regarding Gutter Guards:
- Will the gutter guard filter out all kinds of materials? Generally, gutter guards will keep all but the smallest of debris out of your gutter. The screen or mesh-type covers can’t keep all debris out, but the majority will be guided elsewhere.
- Will roof shingles be damaged when the gutter guards are installed? Great question! The professionals at Alamo Roofing Contractors in Portage are skilled and knowledgeable in the proper techniques of installing gutter guards to avoid damage to the shingles.
- Can leaves accumulate on top of the gutter cover and block water drainage into the gutter itself? Some gutter guards display this type of problem. Our team will work with you and determine the best guard for your home. It can depend on nearby trees which can drop leaves on the roof.
- Can the gutter cover become loose or be damaged easily? We, at Alamo Roofing Contractors, only use high-quality products that will be durable and long-lasting under normal weather patterns.
- Will the leaf filter look good on my gutters? Gutter guards come in a variety of colors so we can beautifully match the guard to the existing gutter and offer a crisp seamless appearance to your home.
Place your trust in Alamo Roofing Contractors when it comes to gutter health. Your new gutter guards will create a more effective and efficient drainage system for your property. Plus with the added curb appeal, this is a wise choice.
We have a trustworthy team of roofing professionals in Portage dedicated to providing solid results with quality materials and genuine customer service. We look forward to helping you with any and all of your roofing needs. Call Alamo Roofing Contractors in Portage today!
by Frank Dixon | May 22, 2023 | Blog, Commercial Roof Damage, Commercial Roof Repair, Commercial roofing, Portage
Many of us are familiar with Murphy’s Law, which states that if anything can go wrong, it will go wrong. But did you know there are other “laws” as well? For example, this is Murphy’s Sixth Law: “If you perceive that there are four possible ways in which a procedure can go wrong, and circumvent these, then a fifth way, unprepared for, will promptly develop.”
Therefore, we are going to look at five of the most common causes of commercial roofing failures, be prepared for each one, and not be too surprised if something goes wrong. By preparing, perhaps these five just won’t happen.
Lack of Maintenance
This is a common reason for commercial roofs to fail. We tend to have a “replace it and forget it” approach to a roofing system. Also, we tend to believe that if we can’t see it, then it must be working. However, without proper regular maintenance, we won’t know if there are clogs in the drainage system, scratches, and dents in the roof surface, or areas of damage that have become compromised. Be sure to do yearly inspections and fix any areas that could become future problems.
Poor Installation
Place your trust in a worthy professional commercial roofing contractor in Portage when it is time to repair, inspect, or replace your roofing system. By using the least expensive option, you may have to pay more in the long run for repairs. However, using the most expensive contractor could be money wasted as well. Be sure to ask for references when you are considering a roofing contractor, and learn from your friends, family, and neighbors just who this company is, and what they stand for. After all, it’s your building and your money. Protect them both wisely.
Improper Materials
Just as the contractor is important to screen, be sure to know the proper type of roofing material you need for your building. Using the wrong materials could create issues down the road. For example, restaurants should have a roofing system that can withstand animal fats and grease. The wrong system could break down as the years of cooking and exhaust continue. Have a question-filled conversation with the roofing contractor you are considering using. They should be able to properly provide the answers you need when considering a roofing material.
Standing Water
Be sure your roofing system has proper drainage. If the slope isn’t steep enough, the water will just puddle and weaken the roof. Also, if the gutter system is clogged, the water cannot flow freely which will also create complications. Before too long, animals could find a comfy home on your flat roof if there is water available.
Punctures
Is the roofing surface walked on regularly? If so, then there could be areas of puncture. Make sure to have a strong enough surface if this will be the case. A thin weak roofing material could puncture easily and more complications can occur. Especially if regular maintenance (see above) is avoided.
Be sure to place your full confidence in a roofing contractor who will make sure these steps are secure and prepared for what may come their way. It takes a team effort to keep a roof ready to face the elements and keep the building contents protected. Alamo Roofing Contractors in Portage has your best interest at heart. We are a reputable, reliable roofing contractor ready to assist with your commercial roofing needs, and keeping Murphy, and his laws, far from you.
Give us a call today and let’s discuss your commercial roofing project!
by Frank Dixon | May 8, 2023 | Blog, Portage, Roofing Contractor
Roof repairs and replacements are pricey home projects that certified professionals should handle. But how do you know if the company you want to hire is the right fit for the job?
If you do a little research first, you’re guaranteed an unparalleled level of service – and, most importantly, the results you want. Keep reading, and follow our top tips for choosing the best roofing contractor for your project.
1. Read Online Reviews
The best way to find a local and reliable roofing company in Portage, is reading reviews online. Previous customers often detail their experiences, which can help you find the perfect match for your project.
You want a roofing team that has experience with your project type and specializes in services that meet your needs. Check out reviews to find out what they do best!
2. Check Their Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating
Researching the BBB rating of different roofers in your area can help you determine which company is the most trustworthy.
Choosing a local company with a high rating minimizes your chances of being scammed by a disreputable company or a storm chaser.
3. Inspect Their Portfolio
One of the most important things to consider when looking for the best roofing company in is their portfolio. Roofing companies are a dime a dozen in Portage and throughout the rest of Northwest Indiana, so seeing quality work first hand goes a long way in building trust.
A good reputation is a must. You also need to establish that they have experience working on projects similar to yours. This way, they can guarantee the result you want.
4. Verify Their Licensing
Roofing contractors in Portage that prioritize the safety of their workers are more likely to provide a five-star service without mistakes.
You can verify that the company has the necessary licensing by asking them for proof or searching the online state database.
5. Ask About Compensation and Liability Insurance
Compensation or liability insurance is a must for both the company you choose and for you as the customer. This insurance protects both parties in case of an accident on your property during the course of your project.
Companies like Alamo Roofing Contractors that take responsibility for their job will have insurance to take care of their workers and safeguard their business. You can also verify the company is insured by asking them for proof or looking it up online.
6. Document and Sign Agreements
Roofing is a contractual business. Documenting financial agreements is important to guarantee the price you agreed on is the price you end up paying.
The best contractors will walk you through the terms of your financial agreement before starting the project.
7. Ask About Unplanned Repairs
Unplanned repairs and emergency replacements can happen with any home improvement project involving roofing. Sometimes contractors unexpectedly find water damage that needs to be addressed immediately.
Ask your contractor how they handle these situations when they arise to avoid too many surprises.
Finding the Best Roofing Contractors in Portage and Beyond
Doing your research and communicating with your contractor will give you the confidence you need to know you’ve found a contractor who will provide the experience and quality workmanship necessary to complete your roofing project.
We’re confident that following these tips will lead you to the best roofing company not only in Portage, but all of Northwest Indiana: Alamo Roofing Contractors. Give us a call today to see what we can do for your roof!
by Frank Dixon | May 8, 2023 | Blog, Hail Damage Guide, Portage, Roof Hail Damage, Storm Damage
Indiana’s climate can bring hailstorms all year long. Most of the time, they do happen in spring and summer, but it isn’t shocking to experience a winter hail storm. What happens when those little blocks of ice smash into our homes and cause damage? What should we as homeowners be on the lookout for? Here is the information you need to know about damage when it comes to hail.
Damage Caused by Hail Size
Each size of hail can have varying amounts of damage. Here is a list of the common complications caused by the size of hail.
¾” Hail
This type of hail is around the size of a dime. Of course, the damage caused by this size of hail is substantially less than larger-sized hail, but can’t be overlooked. This size of hail will cause damage to vinyl siding, window screens, metal fascia, and deck paint.
1” Hail
If you experience hail this size, be prepared to do some cleanup. Hailstorm damage to your home will consist of cracking and dents on your shingles and siding. However, if winds accompany the storm, your home could have extra damage such as broken windows and holes in the walls. Gutters and downspouts can also require repair after this type of damage.
1 ¼” Hail
As the size of the hail increases, so does the destruction. Larger holes can occur or areas of weakness so it is wise to have an inspection done and address any areas of concern.
1 ½” Hail
Broken windows, dented vehicles, and structural damage can occur with hail this size. Be sure to stay inside when this type of storm is in your area as great bodily harm can occur. Hail this size is similar to the size of a ping-pong ball.
1 ¾” to 2” Hail
Quite a bit of complications can occur with hail close to a golf ball or tennis ball size. Siding can be ripped off the home, and shingles can turn into flying frisbees if the wind accompanies 2” size hail. If hail does increase to a larger size than 2”, substantial damage to your home and property will occur.
What are Some Things to Look for After a Hailstorm?
Here is a list of damages that can occur to your roof after a storm.
- Granule loss of shingles
- Black-colored dents in the roof
- Bruised shingles
- Impact marks or dents
- Shingle tears
- Split shingles
- Peeling paint on the exterior of your home
- Broken or cracked windows
What if Damage Goes Untreated?
If a homeowner doesn’t have the roof inspected after a hailstorm, further damage can occur. Water can leak through the roofing system, causing additional damages and future repair costs. Exposed areas must be repaired promptly to prevent complications.
Where Can I Turn to For an Inspection?
Place your trust in Alamo Construction roofing company in Portage for a thorough inspection after a storm. We are here to help the community get back on their feet and secure their homes after a major storm. It is possible there is damage underneath the shingles after such a storm, and to the untrained eye, the roof may seem to be intact. Always ask the roofing professionals at Alamo Construction to evaluate the roofing system to ensure quality and integrity in the system going forward. We can help with insurance claims processing to guide you through if a roof repair or replacement is needed.
If you think your home has been affected by hail and storm damage, don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance.
