To implement our larger No-clog outlets on this gutter was even trickier.  I had to install the reducer right under the gutter instead of an elbow.  Geometry does not prepare us for 3 dimensional angles like this.  If that were not enough to deal with, this gutter sits over the window frame and inch, so we had to carefully notch out the wood trim with a hand saw to allow for the reducer.

The elbow you see just after that reducer and on the short gutter to the right of it is also a specialized part that you will likely not see other gutter contractors purchase for their clients.

It takes us at least 5 times longer to do than slapping on a simple endcap and caulking it.  We charge extra for this.  It counts the same as a corner miter, where two gutters are joined, since it takes just as much work to do.

Most of our aluminum gutter work does not get this sort of fancy treatment, but we will do it on request.  But if a client is spending the extra money for copper, we try to explain all the options so they can know they are getting the best possible work for their dollar.

Here is a close-up of the Leaf-catchers we make to help keep your underground sewer pipes clear and flowing.  Instead of placing a strainer up inside the gutter, only to soon clog up and not allow water to pass, we install the strainer down in the downspout at hip height, so it is easily accessible.  That way there is much less need to get up on the roof to access the gutters to clear out the debris.

It also shows the larger pipe cleats we now use, and the dome head stainless steel #2 Philips screws we use to attach them to the siding.

In copper, these Leaf-catchers are a one time cost of $50 each, but that is still a lot less than the $75 an hour your will spend to have the Roto-Rooter type companies come out to clear out your rain-drain sewer pipes.

It is sad that my main competition does not often mention this as an option since this failure issue does not affect their installation warranty either way.

This shows the deluxe hinged solid copper leaf screens with the stainless steel hinge/clips as part of the No-clog options.  They do sit on top of the roofing shingles, or the hinge feature would be irrelevant.  This also minimizes the debris that would pile over the screens if they were to lay flat inside the gutter.  That debris will better slide off and be blown off in the wind, once it dries.

There is another no-clog product sold that is even worse.  It is called the gutter filter. It is a loose sponge that is fitted inside the gutter under the hidden hangers.  It has a hollow core under it to let water pass sideways, but the debris that will collect over that sponge would then decompose and the mud will saturate this sponge and become the best possible fertilized planter box.  It amazes us who there are such unscrupulous salespersons out there to take advantage of people's dilemmas for their own selfish profit.

Below is a photo of our
Better Business Bureau's
NW Business Integrity Award
for the year 1998

We were also a 1997 finalist for this same award. See our referral web page to see how we managed to be honored with this special award