Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

H OM EOWN E R’S GUI DE

Gutter Solutions Everything you need to know about upgrading your gutters 1

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

OUR P URPOSE

Redefine the Contractor Industry Who is Thrasher?

But that’s only part of the story

Thrasher was founded in 1975 by Greg and Nancy Thrasher in a rural farmhouse outside of Earling, Iowa. Today, Thrasher is a family of companies, including Thrasher Foundation Repair and Midwest Foundation Repair, that’s now the Midwest’s #1 choice for basement waterproofing, foundation repair, concrete repair, and gutter solutions.

We’ve all had bad experiences working with contractors: Ones that don’t show up, don’t leave an estimate, don’t return calls, don’t clean up after themselves… The list could go on and on. At Thrasher, we believe the homeowner experience can and should be more. Unlike other contractors, we make a stressful home repair super easy: We call you before we arrive, show up on time, clean up thoroughly, and walk through the job with you at the end to make sure you’re 100% satisfied. An experience that not only exceeds expectations but creates new ones for how you should be treated as a homeowner in the future.

For nearly 50 years, Thrasher has kept customers at the heart of our company. Why? Because as fellow homeowners with our own families, we know firsthand the stress caused by water in the basement. Our entire process was built to set your mind at ease and restore the feeling of home to you again. Every Thrasher expert puts their head and heart into resolving each customer’s problem as effectively, efficiently, and accurately as possible – guaranteed.

Bottom line? Thrasher cares. Which is why we’re the Midwest’s #1 choice for home repair.

We believe more is possible. So, everyone in our organization – from the person who answers the phone, to the System Design Specialist who develops a custom solution for your needs, to the production crew that installs the equipment – understands that their ultimate job is to make your home whole again. We know that this is about more than just repairing a foundation, leveling concrete, or waterproofing a basement – it’s about returning the feeling of home to you. And allowing you to enjoy your home in the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

To learn more about us, our products, and our purpose, visit GoThrasher.com 2

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Why gutters are so important and how to make them efficient Your home. It’s one of your biggest investments and the place where your life unfolds. It’s where you grow your family, welcome friends, and create memories. Just like anything else, you want it to function smoothly. If something stopped working—like your air conditioning, dishwasher, or gutters—you’d notice right away. In fact, gutters play a critical role in your home’s drainage system, but

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Ignoring gutter problems can lead to: Foundation damage

Roof damage

Water pooling around your foundation can

Overflowing gutters can damage your

cause cracks, weaken the structure, and

roof shingles, fascia, and soffit, causing

lead to expensive repairs.

leaksand rot.

Basement flooding

Landscape erosion

Poor water management increases the risk

Uncontrolled water flow can erode your

of basement flooding, which can result in

landscaping, leading to unsightly and

mold growth and property damage.

hazardous yard conditions.

they’re often overlooked. Over time, they can leak, sag, or clog, causing unwanted distractions and stress.

This guide is here to eliminate those distractions, provide answers, and help you find the right solution, so you can focus on what really matters—and stop worrying about your gutters.

Why should you fix your gutters?

You might be wondering why it’s so important to invest in gutter repair or replacement. The truth is, your gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home. They channel rainwater away from your foundation, preventing erosion, basement flooding, and structural damage. Clogged or damaged gutters can also lead to:

• • • • •

Foundation cracks

Pest infestations Standing water in gutters is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests.

Mold and mildew growth Landscaping damage Wood rot Ice dams in the winter

By investing in quality gutters, you’re protecting your home’s value and preventing expensive repairs down the line.

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Identifying your gutter problems Recognizing the signs of gutter problems is the first step to finding a solution. Your home can experience four main gutter issues, and there are tell-tale signs for each. Do you see any of these happening in your own home?

We were simply blown away by the thoroughness in their approach to address our situation. Our existing gutters were overflowing and clogged. We thought we would get an inspection and an estimate, fully intending to get other estimates and possibly some DIY options. Well their approach was to not just look at our gutters, but find how water/rain was affecting the entire house, the foundation, the basement, the walls! It was extremely informative and credible. Thrasher has the integrity every USA company should. The work we’re having done has been mindful and professional. We’ve never been so comfortable contracting a company.

Clogged gutters

Sagging gutters

Look for water overflowing

Check to see if your gutters

during rain or sagging

are pulling away from the

gutters filled with debris.

house or appear uneven.

Leaking gutters Look for water stains on the

Improper gutter slope

siding or puddles around

Check if water is pooling in

the foundation to see if your gutters are leaking.

certain sections of the gutter, which could indicate poor installation.

Based on the issues described above, which one do you think is affecting your gutters?

- MICKEY M. 6

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Avoid this gutter option Before discussing the best solutions, it’s important to

When looking for a gutter installer, be sure to ask how they

understand what to avoid when investing in your gutters.

attach their product to your home. It can save you time, money, and help you avoid installers with poor-quality products.

Gutter protection that attaches to the roof.

Most gutter guards and protection systems are installed by attaching them directly to the roof. This usually involves securing the guards under the first row of shingles and fastening them to the roof. However, this method can cause significant damage. It can ruin the roof’s edge, create holes that lead to ice

Solutions for clogged gutters

Here’s the bottom line: there are two top options to consider, and the right choice depends on the condition

dams and wood rot, and, worst of all, void your roof’s warranty.

of your current gutters.

If a contractor installs gutter guards by drilling into your roof,

If your gutters are in decent shape (which only a professional

will blame the gutter installer. This can leave you stuck in a

can determine after a thorough inspection), gutter guards are When you’re in the market for new gutters, you have two main

your best option. If your existing gutters are clogging, sagging,

options: DIY products from a big box store or professional

leaking, or simply old, a complete gutter protection system is

installation from a contractor.

the way to go. Gutter protection systems include a seamless gutter and a hood attachment that blocks leaves and debris.

We could go on and on about why DIY products aren’t worth

It’s an innovative design that allows you to never worry about

your time or money, but it boils down to this: they don’t last,

your gutters again.

and, later on, your roof starts leaking, your roofing contractor blame game between contractors —leaving you with a damaged roof and a lot of frustration.

Attaching gutters to the fascia board, rather than the roof, is generally the better approach for several reasons. First, it preserves the integrity of the roof. By attaching gutters to

The fascia board is a long, horizontal board that runs along the edge of the roof,

the fascia board, you reduce the risk of roof leaks and keep

just below the shingles, where the roof meets the outer walls of the house.

can damage your roof, and might even create more water issues

the roof intact. Also, gutters mounted to the fascia are easier

than the ones you’re trying to fix. When it comes to professional

to inspect, maintain, and repair. From an aesthetic perspective

installation, there are countless terms thrown around—filters,

attaching gutters to the fascia board is a cleaner look and more

covers, screens, guards, seamless gutters, one-piece gutters,

aligned with the roofline.

sectional gutters, mesh toppers, open-face gutters. It can be overwhelming and confusing.

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Why choose Gutter Shutter The material

Low maintenance

The material of your gutter system plays a significant role in

In a perfect world, gutter guards wouldn’t require regular

its durability, cost, and appearance. Common materials include

cleaning. But not all systems are created equal. Systems

aluminum, vinyl, steel, and copper, each with its own set of

without a vented hood can quickly become clogged with

advantages and disadvantages. Aluminum is generally the best

water and debris, leading to ice dams and build-up. Despite

choice due to its resistance to warping and rusting. However,

their upfront cost, these systems require ongoing maintenance,

traditional aluminum gutters in open systems are vulnerable to

diminishing the return on investment.

damage from heavy debris, like falling branches or ice, which can weigh them down over time and cause them to pull away from

Gutter Shutter, on the other hand, requires minimal maintenance

the roofline.

and comes with a lifetime guarantee. If any issues arise, you’re covered and the system will be fixed – providing you with peace

This is where Gutter Shutter shines. Its vented hood design

of mind and long-term protection.

allows aluminum to be used without the risk of pulling away.

Water flows freely over the top of the hood, catching the majority as it passes. It then follows the lip of the gutter falling into it, while other debris simply falls off the edge.

Size and strength Most gutter systems are available in a 5-inch width, with many gutter guards fitting these standard sizes. Gutter Shutter stands out with its 6-inch, which carries 20% more water than standard 5-inch gutters. Gutter Shutter is also secured by zinc-coated screws and gutter stud brackets placed every 24 inches. This design allows it to withstand harsh weather conditions, including the heavy rain and snow common in the Midwest.

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Gutter Shutter

Other gutter systems

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Why choose Thrasher Gutter Guards Self-cleaning design The guards naturally shed debris, so water flows freely.

Maintenance-free Requires little to no maintenance, saving you time.

Durable Withstands extreme weather conditions and is compatible with all roof styles and gutter sizes.

Virtually invisible Designed to blend seamlessly with your roofline maintaining your home’s curb appeal.

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

What to do now You’ve already taken an important step by scheduling your free gutter inspection with Thrasher Foundation Repair.

To help you prepare for your upcoming appointment, here’s what you can do.

STEP 1

Identify problem areas Think about any gutter problems you’ve noticed — clogging, sagging, leaks, or whatever else has been bugging you. If you’re not sure, take a walk around your house and look for anything weird. Jot down what you see so you’ve got some solid points to go over with our team when they arrive.

STEP 2

Gather your questions Think about any questions or concerns you might have about your gutters. Whether it’s about the materials, installation process, or warranty details, writing them down will help guide the conversation when we arrive so you can feel confident discussing the best options for your home.

STEP 3

Look forward to peace of mind With our gutter systems, you can be sure your home will be protected from water damage for years to come.

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Homeowner’s Guide | Gutter Solutions

(800) 827-0702 | GoThrasher.com 16