from Ruining your Day, Home and Wallet
Spring is finally here. As you gleefully watch the snow and ice melt away, winter’s unfortunate aftermath is very evident on the exterior of your home, including your gutters. Although the icicles that hung off your house this winter were pretty as they sparkled and shined in the sunlight, they actually were a warning sign that your gutters were clogged (and probably still are)! Since those pesky clogged gutters can cause major damage to your home, follow these 7 easy steps to maintain your gutters.
STEP 1 — Clear debri from your gutters. In case you are a new homeowner, this video will guide you through the process.
STEP 2 — Check downspouts to ensure they are connected correctly and clear from debri.
STEP 3 — Check for leaky gutters and signs of sagging.
STEP 4 — Check your attic insulation. Proper insulation minimizes roof snow melt which help alleviate gutter buildup.
STEP 5 — Remove snow and ice build up from roof using a snow rake.
STEP 6 — Chip away ice with an ice pick or similar tool. Be careful not to damage roof & gutters.
STEP 7 — Sprinkle calcium chloride inside the gutters to melt ice build up.
Following these preventative measures can help alleviate ice clogs in your gutters and significant damage to your gutters, home and wallet. For ultimate protection, F/S can easily install leaf guards that prevent clogged gutters and minimize gutter maintenance. However, if your gutters are too far gone, do not fear because F/S is here!
The never ending snowfall and brutal cold has us dreaming of warmer weather, grilling season and finally leaving that bulky coat behind. As we not so patiently wait for spring to arrive, it is a good time for a refresher on what to do if your roof is damaged by one of those inevitable spring storms. Although we hope this doesn’t happen, we are here to help with these 5 quick (and hopefully painless) steps for dealing with a roofing insurance claim.
STEP 1: ASSESS THE DAMAGE – Take pictures and notes of any damage you see. Don’t forget to take down the date too.
STEP 2: CALL YOUR LOCAL ROOFER – Have your licensed local roofing contractor come out to assess the damage and provide an estimate. They can help you deal with the insurance adjustor too; they are, after-all, the professionals.
STEP 3: CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT – Learn about what your insurance covers and schedule a time for an adjustor to come out. Make sure your roofing contractor is there during the inspection.
STEP 4: DON’T TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER – Work with your roofing contractor to file a claim. If you are not happy with the initial inspection, have another adjustor come out. Damage to your home means decreased value!
STEP 5: GET YOUR ROOF FIXED! – Once your claim is approved, have your trusty roofing contractor get started right away. Now all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your new roof!