Green and Brown House of Stone, Cedar, Vinyl Siding
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Uncategorized 0 Comments

How To Install Vinyl Siding Around Windows

 

 

 

Caulking window

Install Your J Molding

Vinyl siding installation around windows is a crucial step in enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. By properly installing vinyl siding around windows, you can ensure a durable and weather-resistant barrier that protects your home from the elements. This article provides essential guidance on how to install vinyl siding around windows, ensuring a professional and seamless finish. Discover the techniques and best practices to achieve a visually pleasing and long-lasting result.

When installing vinyl siding around windows, it is crucial to pay attention to the details to ensure a proper fit and secure installation. By following the recommended steps and techniques, you can seamlessly blend the siding with your windows, creating a cohesive and visually appealing appearance.

One key aspect to consider during vinyl siding installation around windows is the integration of J-channel and corner posts. These elements play a crucial role in achieving a professional finish and maintaining the structural integrity of the siding. Properly installing and sealing these components will ensure that your vinyl siding remains securely in place and offers excellent protection against water infiltration.

Pro Tip: Before starting the installation process, make sure to measure and trim the vinyl siding accurately to ensure a perfect fit around your windows. Taking the time to properly prepare and measure will result in a cleaner and more seamless installation.

Confirming Building Preparations

Installing vinyl siding around windows requires confirming building preparations. This involves assessing the readiness of the building before the installation process. Here is a step-by-step guide to confirming building preparations:

  1. Inspect the window frame: Check for any damage or rotting in the window frame. Repair or replace any damaged sections before installing the vinyl siding.
  2. Measure the window openings: Accurately measure the dimensions of each window opening. This will ensure that you cut the vinyl siding panels to the correct size for a perfect fit.
  3. Check for level and plumb: Ensure that the window openings are level and plumb. Use a level to check both horizontally and vertically. Adjust the window frame if necessary to ensure a proper fit of the vinyl siding.
  4. Remove any obstacles: Clear the area around the windows of any obstacles, such as plants or debris, which could hinder the installation process. This will make it easier to work and ensure a clean finish.
  5. Apply weather-resistant barrier: Install a weather-resistant barrier around the windows to provide added protection against moisture. This barrier acts as an extra layer of defense and helps prevent water infiltration.

In addition to these steps, it is important to note that proper building preparations ensure a smooth and successful vinyl siding installation. By confirming that the window frames are in good condition, measuring accurately, checking for level and plumb, removing obstacles, and applying a weather-resistant barrier, you create a solid foundation for the installation process.

To further enhance the installation, here are some suggestions:

  • Use quality materials: Invest in high-quality vinyl siding and weather-resistant barrier materials. This will ensure durability and longevity.
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines: Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations throughout the installation process. This will help you achieve the best results and avoid any potential issues.
  • Seek professional help if needed: If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional contractor. They have the expertise and experience to handle the job effectively.

By following these suggestions and confirming the building preparations, you can ensure a successful vinyl siding installation around your windows.

Installing Bottom J-Channel

Installing Bottom J-Channel: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Prepare the area around the windows
    • Remove any existing siding and trim around the windows to expose the bare wall.
    • Ensure that the wall surface is clean and free from any debris or obstructions.
  2. Measure and cut the J-channel pieces
    • Take precise measurements of the sides and bottom of the window.
    • Using those measurements, cut the J-channel pieces to fit around the window, leaving a 1/4-inch gap for expansion.
  3. Attach the J-channel to the wall
    • Start by nailing the J-channel along the bottom of the window, aligning it with the bottom edge of the window sill.
    • Secure the J-channel to the wall using nails or screws, making sure it is level and plumb.
    • Repeat the process for the sides of the window, overlapping the J-channel pieces at the corners to create a seamless look.

Important note: Ensure that the bottom J-channel is installed properly to prevent water infiltration and ensure a secure attachment for the siding.

Did you know? According to the article “HOW TO INSTALL VINYL SIDING AROUND WINDOWS,” proper installation of the bottom J-channel is crucial for a professional-looking and long-lasting vinyl siding project.

Installing Side J-Channels

Installing Side J-Channels is a crucial step when it comes to installing vinyl siding around windows. This process ensures a seamless and professional finish to your siding project. Follow these 5 simple steps to successfully install side J-channels:

  1. Measure and cut: Begin by measuring the length of each side of the window where you will be installing the J-channel. Use a saw or tin snips to cut the J-channel to the appropriate length.
  2. Attach the bottom piece: Start by inserting the bottom piece of the J-channel under the siding, aligning it with the bottom edge of the window. Secure it in place using nails or screws, ensuring it is level and straight.
  3. Install the side pieces: Take the side pieces of the J-channel and slide them into place, making sure they fit snugly against the window frame. Use nails or screws to secure them into position, ensuring they are level and straight.
  4. Cut and install the top piece: Measure the length needed for the top piece of the J-channel and cut it to size. Insert it over the side pieces, making sure it is flush with the top edge of the window. Secure it in place with nails or screws, ensuring it is level and straight.
  5. Seal and finish: To provide added protection against moisture, seal all the joints and gaps with caulk. Once the caulk is dry, your J-channel installation is complete, and you can proceed with installing the vinyl siding around the windows.

In addition, make sure to choose J-channels that match the color and style of your vinyl siding for a cohesive look. By following these steps, you can achieve a professional and seamless installation of J-channels for your vinyl siding project.

When it comes to the history of installing side J-channels, it has been a commonly used technique for decades in the construction industry. The purpose of J-channels is to provide a neat and finished appearance to the edges of windows and ensure the siding is securely attached. The process has evolved over time, with advancements in materials and installation techniques, resulting in easier and more efficient installations. Today, installing side J-channels is a standard practice in vinyl siding installation, contributing to the overall quality and aesthetic appeal of homes and buildings.

Installing Drip Edge

  1. Measure and Cut: Measure the length of the window trim and cut the drip edge accordingly using tin snips. Ensure that the drip edge overlaps the corner trims.
  2. Position and Secure: Position the drip edge along the top edge of the window trim, making sure it extends beyond the corner trims. Use roofing nails or stainless steel screws to secure the drip edge in place.
  3. Attach to Siding: Slide the vinyl siding panels onto the drip edge, ensuring a snug fit. Make sure the siding panels overlap the drip edge and are properly locked in place.
  4. Secure the Bottom Edge: Secure the bottom edge of the siding panels by inserting the bottom part into the J-channel or by using a utility knife to score and snap the bottom edge onto the drip edge.

Remember, installing drip edge is a crucial step in protecting your windows from moisture damage.

Installing Siding Courses

  1. Measure and cut the siding: Use a tape measure to determine the length needed, then cut the vinyl siding using a utility knife.
  2. Prepare the area: Remove any existing siding or trim around the windows. Ensure that the area is clean and free of debris.
  3. Start at the bottom: Begin installing the siding courses at the bottom of the window. Align the first piece with the bottom edge of the window and secure it to the wall with nails or screws.
  4. Continue upwards: Install the subsequent siding courses, overlapping each piece. Make sure they are level and straight.
  5. Trim as needed: Trim the top piece of siding to fit around the top of the window. Use a snap-lock punch tool to create the necessary tabs for a secure fit.
  6. Complete the installation: Repeat the process for all windows, ensuring that each siding course is securely fastened and properly aligned.

Additionally, it is crucial to note the importance of using the right tools and following manufacturer instructions for a successful installation. Remember to handle the vinyl siding with care to prevent any damage during the process.

Following these steps will provide a seamless and visually appealing installation of siding courses around your windows.

Conclusion

Vinyl siding installation around windows is a crucial step in achieving an aesthetically pleasing and durable home exterior. By following the steps outlined in the reference data, you can ensure a professional and seamless finish.

  1. Take the time to carefully measure, cut, and secure the vinyl siding around each window, paying attention to all the necessary details.
  2. Additionally, consider incorporating unique finishing touches that enhance the overall appearance and functionality of your window sidings.
  3. By approaching this task with precision and care, you can achieve a polished and long-lasting result.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your home’s curb appeal and protect it from the elements – get started on your vinyl siding installation around windows today.

Some Facts About How To Install Vinyl Siding Around Windows:

  • ✅ It is important to confirm that building paper is in place beneath the window’s nailing fin. (Source: Team Research)
  • ✅ The flashing at the bottom of the window should extend beyond the window’s corners and overlap the nailing hem of the siding course below the window. (Source: Team Research)
  • ✅ Window flashing should extend 5 inches from the sides and 2 inches from the top and bottom. (Source: Team Research)
  • ✅ J-channels and drip edges are the two types of siding trim pieces used for installing vinyl siding around windows. (Source: Team Research)
  • ✅ It is important to leave a 1/4 inch gap between siding pieces and J-channels to allow for expansion. (Source: Team Research)

FAQs about How To Install Vinyl Siding Around Windows

How do I install vinyl siding around windows?

To install vinyl siding around windows, follow these steps:

  1. Confirm that building paper is in place beneath the window’s nailing fin.
  2. Confirm that flashing at the bottom of the window extends beyond the window’s corners. It should overlap the nailing hem of the siding course below the window.
  3. Confirm that window flashing extends 5 inches from the sides and 2 inches from the top and bottom.
  4. Cut a J-channel wide enough to go across the bottom of the window frame and the J-channels on each side of the window.
  5. Position the J-channel piece so that the bottom of the “J” touches the bottom of the frame.
  6. Mark the edges of the window frame on the J-channel.
  7. Snip the bottom edges of the J-channel up to the marks to form little tabs.
  8. Cut off the tabs.
  9. Nail the bottom J-channel below the frame. All nailing should be done with roofing nails. Leave nails a bit loose to allow for expansion.
  10. Get a piece of J-channel a few inches longer than the side of the window.
  11. Mark a 45-degree angle with the carpenter’s square from the outer edge of the J-channel up to its inner edge.
  12. Snip along the 45-degree mark.
  13. Trim straight across the nailing fin of the J-channel to where the 45-degree cut meets the inner edge.
  14. Cut off extra nailing fin but leave the tab at the back of the J-channel.
  15. Set the J-channel against the window frame and on the bottom J-channel. The 45-degree cut will form a mitered joint, and the tab will slide beneath the “J” of the bottom J-channel.
  16. Mark the side J-channel at the top edge of the window frame.
  17. Trim the side J-channel at the mark and nail in place.
  18. Repeat steps 10 through 17 for the other side.
  19. Now you need a drip edge piece of trim to continue learning how to install vinyl siding around windows.
  20. Measure and cut a drip edge the width of the window plus both J-channels along the side.
  21. Set the drip edge in place and mark where the tops of the J-channels meet the drip edge.
  22. Cut tabs from the drip edge and bend them down into the J-channels.
  23. Nail drip edge over window with tabs fitted into J-channels.
  24. Cut a J-channel piece the width of the drip edge.
  25. Cut tabs in the J-channel to fit over the drip edge tabs and into the side J-channels.
  26. Nail the top J-channel into place.
  27. As you lay courses of siding, cut them to fit around the window behind the J-channel edges.
  28. Leave 1/4 edge of space between siding pieces and J-channels to allow for expansion.

Why is it important to pay attention to edges and seams when installing vinyl siding around windows?

Paying attention to edges and seams is crucial when installing vinyl siding around windows because they are potential areas where water can penetrate. Properly sealing these areas will prevent water damage and ensure a watertight installation.

What are the two types of siding trim pieces used when installing vinyl siding around windows?

The two types of siding trim pieces used when installing vinyl siding around windows are J-channels and drip edges. J-channels are used to trim the sides and bottom of the window frame, while drip edges are used to create a watertight seal over the top of the window.

What should I confirm before installing vinyl siding around windows?

Before installing vinyl siding around windows, you should confirm the following:

  • Building paper is in place beneath the window’s nailing fin.
  • Flashing at the bottom of the window extends beyond the window’s corners and overlaps the nailing hem of the siding course below the window.
  • Window flashing extends 5 inches from the sides and 2 inches from the top and bottom.

How do I create a mitered joint when installing vinyl siding around windows?

To create a mitered joint when installing vinyl siding around windows, follow these steps:

  1. Get a piece of J-channel a few inches longer than the side of the window.
  2. Mark a 45-degree angle with the carpenter’s square from the outer edge of the J-channel up to its inner edge.
  3. Snip along the 45-degree mark.
  4. Trim straight across the nailing fin of the J-channel to where the 45-degree cut meets the inner edge.
  5. Cut off extra nailing fin but leave the tab at the back of the J-channel.
  6. Set the J-channel against the window frame and on the bottom J-channel. The 45-degree cut will form a mitered joint, and the tab will slide beneath the “J” of the bottom J-channel.

What is the purpose of a drip edge when installing vinyl siding around windows?

A drip edge is used when installing vinyl siding around windows to create a watertight seal over the top of the window. It helps to channel water away from the window and prevent water from penetrating the siding and causing damage.

 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

 

Phone: 403-242-7868

 

Multicolored vinyl siding with simulated wood texture. Plastic wall covering for exterior decoration of house. Abstract background for your design
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Uncategorized • 0 Comments

The Best Vinyl Siding on the Market

The path to finding the best vinyl siding on the market is not a straightforward one. Indeed, there are many top brands that compete on relatively equal footing for the title. Plus, the criteria for what constitutes “best” in terms of siding is varied and immeasurable. Therefore, you need not look for the best vinyl siding, but rather the top contenders.

Many siding companies in Calgary and elsewhere are proud of the materials they produce and stand behind their outstanding quality, but we will only look at three of them today. These companies are James Hardie, Alcoa and CertainTeed. Each one of these magnificent manufacturers provides something unique and valuable with their particular brand of siding, and they all deserve a portion of your attention.

Here Are Three Excellent Siding Companies, Calgary!

James Hardie

Our first siding company is James Hardie board siding . They produce a fibre cement siding that mimics traditional vinyl siding’s look and feel, but with a more natural look. Plus, the material difference allows them to offer exceptional variety in colour, which is fantastic for people looking to find a specific colour.

However, James Hardie also provides other benefits. For example, the fibre cement is more durable than vinyl, making it easier to clean with pressure washing equipment and heavier-duty alternatives to handwashing. As well, many people celebrate the material as an excellent replacement for cedar boards because of the similarities in texture and colour.

Alcoa

Alcoa is a business with a very long history. They began in 1888 and continue to provide exceptional quality through stylish, colourful product offerings. However, it is the environmental considerations of this company that make them a contender for the best vinyl siding on the market.

Firstly, all of their products are recycled material, which dramatically reduces their environmental impact. Additionally, they engineer energy-efficiency into all of their siding materials. This method is a boon for the homeowner and builder alike. Overall, Alcoa’s classic architectural look makes them a healthy all-around choice for siding companies in Calgary. 

CertainTeed

The final company on our list is CertainTeed. They are well known for their unique shapes, such as their half round cedar shingling. Plus, they also have an environmentally-conscious manufacturing approach, which can be seen in their new solar roofing tiles and National Green Building Standards (NGBS) approval. 

However, the benefits do not end there for CertainTeed. They differentiate themselves from the competition with affordable pricing. Although that means you may end up getting what you pay for in some circumstances, they are a great choice for building contractors throughout the country.  

An African-American man on a ladder and fixing vinyl siding on a house
Alpine Exteriors – Siding and Roofing 148 Fairview Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1B2 +14032427868

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone: 403-242-7868

Alpine Exteriors – Siding and Roofing 148 Fairview Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1B2 +14032427868
Maintenance on the roof
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Uncategorized 0 Comments

How to Clean Your Eavestrough

Eavestroughs in Calgary are an essential part of home construction. They prevent the drainage of water and snowmelt around the perimeter of the building, which has cumulatively disastrous effects. However, there is a significant downside to this fantastic modern innovation.

Indeed, the downside of eavestroughs in Calgary is cleaning them. However, you don’t have to make the process more painful or unpleasant than necessary. Instead, consider using our guide below to make it simple, straightforward, and long-lasting. 

The first step in cleaning your Calgary eavestroughs is gathering the materials. For this project, you will need the following:

  • Bucket
  • Biodegradable bag
  • Ladder
  • Gloves
  • Spade/ scoop (optional)

The Calgary Eavestrough Cleaning Process

  1. Preparing Your Ladder

The most critical part of cleaning your eavestroughs is setting up your ladder safely. Many injuries occur each year because of improper ladder safety techniques. For instance, between 2016 to 2018, Alberta had an average of 5,907 falls to a lower level with resulting injuries.

Therefore, when preparing your ladder, keep a few key tips in mind. First, always tie off your ladder to a sturdy object on the building. Secondly, if you are using an A-frame ladder, ensure its full extension and the secondary supports are locked in place. Or, if you are using an extension ladder, ensure the sliding locks are in place. Additionally, for extension ladders, you must place the bottom of the ladder four metres out from the building for every one metre of vertical distance.

Man up ladder cleaning leafs out of gutter on house

  1. Cleaning Your Eavestroughs

Again, when cleaning your eavestroughs, remember the crucial importance of ladder safety. Gather the debris and detritus into your bucket, lined with your biodegradable bag. But, don’t overextend your reach past the confines of your ladder. Remember: 3 points of contact. This rule-of-thumb states that you should always have 3 limbs touching your ladder at any given time—for example, two legs and one arm. 

After you clean a section of all the debris, descend your ladder and set it up in a new position. Repeat this process until you have completed a circuit around your home. Also, pay extra attention to the downspout connections. As the main travel area, they are the most prone to blockage and the most important to keep clear.

  1. Disposing of the Waste

Finally, once you finish cleaning the eavestroughs around your home, you need to dispose of the waste. If you have been using a biodegradable bag, simply seal it and add it to your compost bin for regular collection. Otherwise, empty the organic waste into your compost and clean out your holding container. 

Clean Your Calgary Eavestroughs Today!

Now you know the method and steps necessary to get your eavestroughs looking great and functioning properly. However, if learning about this process has made you disinterested in actually performing the work, that is no problem. Give us a call, and our friendly, professional staff will make the visit and complete the work for you. 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone: 403-242-7868

Eavestrough Calgary
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The Cost to Install Eavestroughs in Calgary

There are many different types of eavestrough in Calgary, and each of them provides their own unique benefits. However, each of them will also cost money, and this is an essential consideration for you to make, as nobody wants to spend their money unnecessarily.

However, for you to get the ultimate value from your eavestroughs Calgary, you will first need to understand the relevant factors affecting the cost. These factors include the company, type of eavestrough, like Alpine Exteriors – Siding and Roofing and the total length of the eavestrough. For further information, you can read on below.

The Consideration Factors of Calgary Eavestroughs

The Company

One of the more major factors for your consideration, when it comes to eavestrough installation, is the company performing the work. For example, if you choose the cheapest “per linear foot” price, your prospective companies offer, you may think that you have saved a bunch of money as a savvy shopper. However, much like other products and services, cheaping out on the company will potentially lead to issues in the future.

As far as it concerns eavestrough installation, choosing the wrong company can lead to issues with the water not draining away from your house correctly or the eavestroughs falling off the roof prematurely. Naturally, you don’t want your eavestroughs ever to fall off, but poor shoring and fasteners can hasten this process. 

Type of Eavestrough 

Another way that your eavestrough installation cost will vary is through the type of eavestrough. Not all material is created equal, and finding the right balance of strength and affordability can be a challenge. Typically, vinyl and aluminum are considered the lower end of these factors. Conversely, wood and copper are much more expensive but provide extra durability and a better aesthetic value than the former. 

Total Length of Eavestrough

The total length of your eavestrough is perhaps the most obvious way in which the cost will differ. For instance, if you are planning only to perform a small repair, the price will not be that exorbitant. However, if you are entirely installing your eavestroughs, the cost will undoubtedly be more expensive.

The Cost of Calgary Eavestroughs

The cost of eavestroughs in Calgary, broadly speaking, varies from $3-$26 per linear foot. However, as mentioned above, you are probably looking at the lower end if you are installing vinyl, and at the higher end if you are using copper or wood. 

 

 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone: 403-242-7868

eavestrough-calgary
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The Best Type of Eavestroughs to Buy

When looking for eavestroughs in Calgary, there are many options available. Typically, you are selecting for material, and not size or shape, which is actually a boon. When you dig into the math of eavestroughs, you will quickly find that there is a substantial amount of calculations that need to occur. 

 

For instance, eavestroughs in Calgary cannot be placed level, and a common rule of thumb is a quarter-inch of decline for every 10 feet of eavestrough. Although, it gets more complicated still when it comes to the correct placement of anchors, the necessity of proper downspout allocation, and many more configurations that were perhaps unexpected for water movement around the roof of your home. 

 

Either way, there are good materials, based on your budget, available for your consideration:

 

Common Calgary Eavestrough Materials

If you are on a limited budget, there are typically only two options available for your eavestroughs in Calgary: vinyl and aluminum. Both have their pros and cons, but they share the overwhelming advantage of being cheaper than the alternatives. More on that later.

 

Aluminum eavestroughs are a great option because of their sturdiness and customization. Aluminum offers a strength that vinyl lacks, which means it is easier to go up and perform repairs or cleanings, with less risk of damaging the eavestrough. Furthermore, the customization aspect is related to the ease of painting each material, and aluminum is much better, surface-wise, for painting. 

eavestroughs in Calgary

However, you should not discount the virtues of vinyl eavestroughs either. Vinyl is lightweight, slightly cheaper than aluminum, and it is relatively easy to install. Yes, indeed, you can’t always get the perfect colour for your vinyl eavestroughs, but that doesn’t mean that the available options are unattractive in any way. 

 

Either way, both options present a good variety of options and choices for you to consider, and you are sure to find something that really stands out if you look hard enough. Although, you could consider the following options if your budget allows it, such as:

 

Uncommon Types of Calgary Eavestrough

Wood, copper, and galvanized steel are also available material options. However, you should note that copper is currently the most expensive material available. Yes, it will last for a long time, requires little maintenance, and is a beautiful addition to your home, but it is reserved for a particular class of luxury, typically.

 

Alternatively, galvanized steel is probably the most frugal option of these three materials, but it has a particular issue. This is the presence of rust, which will inevitably penetrate the thin, zinc layer that characterizes galvanized steel and cause the aesthetics to suffer. Plus, given enough time, the corrosion will eventually cause holes and structural issues in your eavestroughs, but you can avoid this with proper maintenance and care.

 

Finally, wood is the last option that people can consider when looking for Calgary eavestroughs. Wood is elegant, timeless, and classic, but it also features all of the familiar tropes people assume with traditional construction. That is to say that it will break down quicker, is very expensive to purchase and install, and has the least amount of malleability for placement onto the structure of your home. Super gorgeous, though, but usually, it is best for traditional homes with a large eavestrough budget.

 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone: 403-242-7868

Torrential Summer Rain Storm Water Overflowing Roof Gutters
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Why You Should Check Your Eavestrough After Winter & Before Summer

Most homes have eavestroughs in order to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on their roof. This system of water management offers a proper way for water to flow throughout the yard, and in some cases, can be modified or installed to repurpose the water to hydrate a garden area. 

Furthermore, Calgary eavestroughs are designed to stand up to heavy snowfall, and rains as well. This means that your roof, when properly installed, will direct the water to the eavestroughs and not hold the weight of it on the roof itself. This is great because roofs are typically not designed to be load-bearing structures, but rather as a protective system for the interior of your home or business. 

However, for all of the benefits of Calgary eavestroughs, there is still necessary maintenance that must be performed. This not only ensures that your roof and eavestroughs will function properly throughout the year, but it will also give you the opportunity to remove any dirt, leaves, or gunk that has accumulated in them. This prevents blockages and weight issues which further the performance, year over year.

When is the Best Time to Check your Eavesthroughs?

When checking your eavestroughs in Calgary, you must consider the best time of the year. The best time of year to do this is based on a variety of factors, but it is safe to say that if there has been heavy rain or snowfall season, it is a good time. This is because you will be checking at the time when they are most often being used, and it is a time critical enough that you do not want them to fail midseason.

Wooden house with rain gutter in winter

This is why checking your Calgary eavestroughs in Spring, before summer and after winter, is the best time. Not only will you be able to clean out whatever dirt and grime accumulated with the snow, but you will also be able to leave it for the remainder of the year as it will be clean for summer and fall. 

Yes, there is some logic to checking them in the autumn period, but this is also shortsighted. You can remove the fallen leaves that are common with the turn of the season, but it is likely more will accumulate during the fall season as they are just blowing around in earnest. Instead, waiting for the layers of winter snowfall to capture the leaves that are stuck means you clean not only the dirt and grime but leaves as well. 

Some people wish to clean their own Calgary eavestroughs, and if you have the skill and wherewithal for this task it can be an enjoyable experience. However, for the busiest among us, consulting a local eavestrough company can save time and effort better spent on other projects.

 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone: 403-242-7868

Roofing Companies
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Blog • 0 Comments

How To Prepare Your Roof For Spring

 Spring is a typical time for homeowners to assess the needs their houses have after a long, cold winter. As a homeowner, you need to ensure your plumbing is properly working, your heating and cooling systems are in top shape and the structure of the house itself is not damaged. The roof of your home may experience the most harm from snow and ice, but the heavy winds and continued moisture in the spring may bring even great damage to a roof that has been abused during the previous months.

Perform a full roof inspection

 The easiest way to determine if your roof has been damaged is to perform a full inspection. You can walk around your home to search for loose shingles and any breaks or cracks. However, you won’t be able to see all damage from a street view. It is wise to call a roofing company for a roof health inspection. Roofing companies know how to reach the roof and safely search for damage without causing any additional harm. When looking for roofing companies in Calgary homeowners should call or email to learn how they perform inspections and what to expect from them. 

Roofing Companies Calgary

Repair any damages

 A roof that has been damaged over the winter can lead to serious internal harm in the spring. It isn’t just the external portion of the house that can be damaged. Problems with the roof can lead to internal issues, such as a leaking ceiling and damaged support. You should schedule repairs as soon as possible if you or your roofing company detects any damage. Making a small investment in your roof now will save you significant expense on future repairs.

Have gutters cleared and cleaned

 You may clean and clear your gutters yourself or you can hire someone to do this for you. Cleaning gutters may involve manually removing limbs, leaves or even torn shingles. You can use a standard garden hose to clean the gutters, but a power washer is a better choice. Many of the roofing companies Calgary has to offer include gutter cleaning as part of the service. This is a good option for any homeowner because a roofing company can also determine if the gutter needs to be repaired or replaced. Some may install gutter shields, which allows you to clean the gutters less often.

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone:  403-242-7868.

Eavestrough
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Blog 0 Comments

Why You Should Check Your Eavestrough After Winter & Before Summer

 Making sure that your eavestrough is in good shape is vital for preventing water damage to your Calgary home. But how often should you check up on it to ensure there aren’t any problems? You should be checking them after the winter season and before the summer season starts. Here’s why.

 

Eavestrough calgary

The Winter Season Can Be Rough on Your Roof

 You want to check your eavestrough in Calgary after the winter because the weather conditions can be rough on your drainage system. They’ve been through the fluctuating temperatures, the buildup of ice, and potential damage due to continuous moisture. Depending on how old your eavestrough is and the material it’s made out of, you want to look for possible rusting.

 You have to realize that your roof has to deal with rainfall during the coming months. If there are any problems caused by the winter weather conditions, you want to deal with them right away. You want to avoid water leakage that can seep into the foundation and end up damaging parts of your roof and your home.

Making Plans for Repairs Before the Summer is Smart

 The other time to start checking your eavestrough in Calgary is right before the summer. First of all, you are getting everything fixed and ready for the next winter ahead of time. You won’t have to scramble to try to make repairs and replacements during the fall like everybody else.

 Second, the spring season is not as busy as the summer and fall. The summer and fall seasons are when all the homeowners scramble to get maintenance and repair work done for their eavestrough. You can easily meet with contractors and get all the necessary work done on your schedule. You won’t have to wait until contractors finish their work with other clients.

 The only issue that you may face with spring is the fact that the weather can fluctuate quite a bit. It can change from rainy to sunny throughout the week. That’s why you want to pay attention to the weather forecast and use it to schedule your appointment. And even if the weather does get volatile, it’s not difficult to suspend work until the conditions are right again.

 These are the reasons why you should check your eavestrough after winter and before the summer. You want to quickly identify problems to see how the winter affected your roof overall. You want to check again during the later parts of spring since it’s not as busy of a season for contractors.

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone:  403-242-7868

Vinyl sliding
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Blog • 0 Comments

How to Take Care of Your Vinyl Siding in Calgary

Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homes in Calgary. After all, vinyl is durable, affordable and attractive. However, vinyl siding in Calgary must be properly maintained. If you do not take care of your vinyl siding, then it will start to show signs of age. Worse, it may stop protecting your home. Therefore, take care of your vinyl siding the right way. Consider these simple tips to get started.

Maintain Your Vinyl Siding With Pressure Washing

 

Since your vinyl siding in Calgary is constantly exposed to the elements, it is no surprise that it collects dirt and grime. It is simply inevitable. However, that does not mean that it is inevitable for your home’s exterior to look dirty. Instead, you can revitalize your vinyl siding by routinely using pressure washing. During pressure washing, water is sprayed with a specialized hose. This allows the water to be released in a powerful, concentrated spray. The effect can clear away the majority of dirt and grime. It can even get rid of many stains on your home’s exterior.

 

Vinyl sliding calgary

 

Make a Simple Cleaning Solution to Clean Your Vinyl Siding

 

Pressure washing can be effective, but it is also useful to apply a cleaning solution. Fortunately, the right cleaning solution is easy to make with supplies you probably already have. If you make a solution with 70 percent water and 30 percent white vinegar, it can clean most light mildew and mold. If that solution is not strong enough for the stains on your home’s exterior, then you can make a stronger variation using powdered laundry detergent, household cleaner and liquid laundry bleach. Simply mix these ingredients with water and apply to problem areas. Be sure to wash away any residue for the best results.

 

Attack Tough Stains and Spots With Special Cleaners

 

In some cases, regular cleaning may not be enough. If you have areas on your vinyl siding that are marred by rust, ink, grass, grease or more, then you may want to try more specialized cleaners. Read the label of such cleaners carefully to see what they are designed to remove. In most cases, such cleaners can safely be applied to vinyl siding to attack these problematic stains. Start any cleaning efforts from the bottom up to avoid any streaking. Routine cleaning can keep your vinyl in prime condition for years to come.

 

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

 

Phone:  403-242-7868

Calgary siding company
By Alpine Eavestrough Admin Construction 0 Comments

Does The Snow Affect Your Home’s Siding?

The winter season can be rough on your home. Most homeowners often think about how their roofs and windows are affected by the snow. As a homeowner, you may not have thought too much about the winter season affecting your siding in Calgary. What may be surprising to you is the fact that your siding is also vulnerable to the snow.

4 Ways Snow Can Affect Your Siding 

Cracking and Breakage Due to Fluctuating Temperatures

If you have vinyl siding installed, it can start cracking and breaking due to the fluctuating temperatures during the winter. What tends to happen is that a small crack will expand and contract as the temperatures change. The moisture that gets in as the snow on your siding melts also makes it worse. If you’ve identified this issue, you will want to find siding companies in Calgary to make repairs when possible.

Siding Becoming Dislodged Due to Water Seeping In

A more significant issue is the siding becoming dislodged. This can happen when weakened siding gets exposed to strong winds during rough storms. The reason why this needs to be fixed right away is that it exposes the inside of your home. Excess moisture that seeps into your home due to exposure can damage the foundation of your home. If this happens to your siding, look for siding companies in Calgary that handle emergency repairs.

Siding company

General Moisture Damage that Leads to Mold

If enough moisture gets in due to problems with your siding, it may lead to water damage and problems like mold. You want to for warping or peeling as signs you may have a potential water problem. Try peeling back exposed siding a bit and looking inside with a flashlight to see if there are any mold issues. Letting water issues persist can turn into a big headache later.

Wood Rotting Due to General Wear and Tear

If you have wood siding, you want to check for wood rotting. This can happen as your siding gets exposed to constant leaks due to some issue with your gutter. You don’t want to overlook this issue because certain types of rotting can spread very quickly, mainly due to the moisture of melting snow. Ideally, it’s best to identify and replace rotting wood before the winter season starts.

These are just some of the ways that snow can affect your home’s siding in Calgary. Make sure you identify problems early on and get your siding repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Small problems can turn into big ones during the winter season.

Cleaning your eavestroughs is crucial to the safety of your home. If your home needs eavestrough repair, installation or maintenance, contact the professionals at Alpine Eavestrough. We’d love to hear from you.

Phone:  403-242-7868