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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions, Straight Answers

Everything you need to know about gutters, covers, and heat tape — from the people who install them.

Gutter Installation

Installation Questions

How long does a gutter installation take?

Most residential homes are completed in a single day — typically 4–8 hours depending on the size of the home and number of sections. We'll give you a realistic timeline when we do your estimate.

What gauge aluminum do you install?

We exclusively install 0.032" aluminum — the thickest gauge available for residential gutters. In New England, where gutters face freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and ice dams, anything thinner is a compromise. Thicker metal holds its shape, resists denting, and outlasts the lighter 0.025" and 0.027" gauges used by many installers.

How do I choose the right color?

We bring color samples to your estimate appointment. Most homeowners choose a color that matches their fascia trim or pairs with the roofing and siding. Englert offers 16+ standard colors and over 35 custom in-house colors. Our most popular choices in New England are White, Musket Brown, and Black.

Do I need 5" or 6" gutters?

The primary factor is roof square footage — how much water your roof collects and channels to the gutters. Most homes in our area end up with 5" K-style gutters, which handle the majority of residential rooflines well. Larger roofs with more square footage may call for 6" gutters to manage the higher water volume. We measure and assess this during your estimate so you get the right size for your home.

What's the warranty on your installations?

We offer a two-year labor warranty on all our installations. On top of that, Englert backs the material with a 20-year limited finish warranty on standard products and 35–40 years on PermaColor 3500 finishes. We'll provide full warranty documentation on every job.

Do you remove and haul away old gutters?

Yes. Old gutter removal and disposal is included in our installation quote. We'll also inspect your fascia and soffit while the old gutters are off and alert you to any wood rot or damage that needs attention before we hang the new gutters.

Gutter Covers

Gutter Cover Questions

Do gutter covers really work in New England with all the leaves and pine needles?

Cheap flat screens don't hold up well here — pine needles and fine debris pass right through or pack on top. MasterShield is specifically designed for this: the pitched installation means debris slides off rather than accumulating, and the copper-infused mesh kills organic growth (moss, algae) that can otherwise plug fine mesh guards over time. It's the system we recommend for the Northeast.

How much do gutter covers cost?

Cost depends on linear footage, cover type, and the condition of your existing gutters. We carry several options to fit different needs and budgets — the right choice depends on your home, tree cover, and goals. Give us a call and we'll walk through the options and give you straightforward pricing.

Will gutter covers prevent ice dams?

Gutter covers help by keeping your gutters clear so water drains freely — clogged, debris-packed gutters are a major contributing factor to ice dam formation. MasterShield specifically is designed to resist ice and snow packing (rated for up to 4 feet of snow load), and its pitched design doesn't provide a flat ledge for ice to bond to. That said, if you have a serious ice dam problem, we also install heat tape — the two systems work well together.

Do you install covers on existing gutters, or do I need new gutters first?

We can install covers on most existing gutters that are in good condition. When we come out for the assessment, we'll check that your gutters are structurally sound, properly pitched, and securely attached. If repairs or re-pitching are needed, we'll let you know — it doesn't make sense to install covers on gutters that have other issues. We do both installation and covers, so we can handle everything in one visit.

What's the difference between MasterShield and products like LeafGuard or LeafFilter?

LeafGuard replaces your entire gutter with a curved hood design — it's expensive and requires ripping out gutters that may not need replacing. LeafFilter is a micromesh system that installs flat, which means debris can accumulate on top. MasterShield pitches with your roof, so debris slides off rather than sitting on the surface. The copper-infused mesh and ASTM certification also set it apart from most competitors. We're authorized dealers for MasterShield because we believe it's the right product for New England homes.

Heat Tape

Heat Tape Questions

How much does heat tape installation cost?

Cost varies based on roof size, complexity, and linear footage of eave and downspout to cover. Most residential installations in Maine and New Hampshire run between $800–$2,500 installed. We use Radiant Solutions self-regulating heat cable — it adjusts its output based on temperature, so it only draws the energy it needs. The product comes with a 10-year warranty, and it's one of the most reliable ways to prevent ice dams and frozen gutters through a New England winter. Call us for a free, no-obligation quote.

How much does it cost to run heat tape?

A 75-foot cable running 24 hours at 25°F costs approximately $1.85/day at average electricity rates. The self-regulating design means it only draws full power during the coldest periods — it draws significantly less at milder temperatures. With the ThermaCord™ controller, it turns off automatically when temps rise above 50°F, so you're not paying for heat when it's not needed.

When is the best time to install heat tape?

The best time to install is late summer or fall — before the first freeze. We can install in winter if temperatures are above freezing and the roof is clear of ice and snow, but fall installation is ideal. Don't wait until you have an ice dam problem — call us now to get on the schedule.

Can heat tape damage my roof or gutters?

Radiant Solutions Heat Tape Pro is rated to run between 60–85°F — well below any temperature that would damage roofing materials. The self-regulating design prevents overheating, and the cable is safe to overlap. The GripClip mounting system requires no nails or penetrations into your roof. Properly installed, heat tape causes zero damage to your roof or gutters.

Does it work on metal roofs?

Yes. Radiant Solutions makes dedicated metal roof clip systems including corrugated JS-222 clips and standing seam GVG/S5 options that clamp directly to the seam without any adhesive or penetration. Metal roofs are actually some of the best candidates for heat tape because ice slides fast and hard off metal — protecting eaves and gutters is especially important.

Do you also install heat tape on pipes?

Roof and gutter heat tape is our focus. For interior pipe freeze protection, Radiant Solutions makes a separate Pipe Freeze Pro product rated for dry locations. Ask us when we're on-site for your roof assessment and we can discuss options.

Still Have Questions?

We're happy to help. Give us a call, send a message, or request a free estimate — no pressure, no upsells.