Getting Started in the Seamless Gutter Business

Starting a new business isn&#;t hard&#;thousands upon thousands of people do it every year.  Every one of these new companies expects success.  Their owners certainly wouldn&#;t start with the intention of failing.  However, the Small Business Administration says that two years after startup, one-third of all new businesses are out of business.  At the five-year mark 56% of them are gone.

With competitive price and timely delivery, LITONG sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

So, starting isn&#;t hard&#;succeeding is what is hard.  Before you start a business you need to decide that you are going to be part of that 44%, learn why and how they succeed, and take the necessary steps to be sure that your success happens.

A major reason many new businesses fail is unrealistic expectations about what the business will produce.  Their owners dream that they will &#;make a ton of money,&#; work fewer hours per week, and have to answer to no one (besides their customers).

The important point is that thousands of people have started their own successful small businesses, enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, supported their families, and given good jobs to the people who worked for them.  But, as the anvil salesman in The Music Man said, &#;You gotta know the territory.&#;

Do you know your territory and market?  You must know how to make and install quality seamless gutters.  You must know how to estimate and price your product in a competitive market.  You must be able to hire and supervise other people who will work for you.  You must be able to market your company and sell contractors or homeowners on buying your services.  You must be able to manage a business.

These are all things you can learn, if you are willing to work at it.  Often regional junior colleges offer courses specifically aimed at people who want to learn how to start and run their own business.

The seamless gutter industry is not a new technology just being introduced into the housing market.  It is a mature product with a mature market.  In virtually every region there are already people doing this kind of work.

How are you going to find a place for your company in the market?  How are you going to differentiate your company?  Lower prices (and lower profits), better quality, some specialized market niche?  What?  And how?

A common route is to acquire the necessary equipment and tools and set yourself up in business on a small scale.  A good way to start is to sit down, think about what you want to do, and develop a business plan.  This will force you to think about various business issues and make some very specific decisions instead of just having vague ideas in your head. These include:

• What is your business concept? What is the market you are going to try to serve? How will you structure your business? What is your strategy for success?  Who will do the marketing and the scheduling?  Who will do the work?  Will you work alone, or hire employees to assist with the work?  Who will pay the bills, keep the books, write the checks, and file the tax reports?  Who will handle these chores if you get sick or injured?
• What is the current marketplace, how big is it?  Who are the customers and your competition?  How much of the market do you think you can win?  How will you do it?
• How much money will it take?  What equipment do you have to buy (trucks, trailers, gutter machine, other machines, hand tools, handling equipment, office equipment, supplies, gutter coil, other inventory, etc.)?    How rapidly can you capture jobs and start earning income?  How rapidly can you grow your customer base and income? How will you pay yourself&#;and your employees&#;during the startup period?  Are your assumptions realistic?

Who do you see as your customers?  General contractors?  Roofing contractors?  Homeowners?  How are you going to make them aware of your company and get their business? How will you publicize your company?  Advertising, flyers, signs, radio, TV, direct contact selling? 

Realistically, it will take a while to capture business for your new company.   You must have the capital available to cover expenses (including your payroll and your own living expenses) during this ramp-up period.  If the housing industry is currently on the rise, and existing gutter production capacity in your area is unable to meet the growing demand, you may rapidly capture business and achieve a good cash flow.  What happens if the housing market slows down? How will it affect you?  You might want to ask your financial adviser to perform a sensitivity analysis to forecast how a downturn in the building market might affect your business income and your ability to pay the monthly bills.

You will need the help of a lawyer to determine the business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation) and handle the legal issues of setting up the business. An accountant or tax adviser will be needed to help you make decisions regarding accounting procedures and the federal, state, and local tax issues.  What about Workmen&#;s Compensation and general business insurance?  What about licenses?

And then there is a finance company to obtain the loans required to support your purchase of equipment and your business operations during the startup period and beyond.  And, if you are married, you will undoubtedly need the strong support of your spouse.

Starting a business is a complex process, but thousands of other entrepreneurs have done it and are part of the 44% living a comfortable life running their own businesses and making their contribution to the economy of these United States.  Before you jump in, do your homework&#;but come on in, the water&#;s fine.

Author:

Mike Milliman

Mike is managing partner at Gutter Supply Inc. and has over 20 years of experience in the industry. His expertise and vast knowledge of the industry, along with his priority on customer service, has contributed to the continued success of Gutter Supply, it&#;s contractor customers and homeowner DIY&#;s. View all posts by Mike Milliman

Which is the best gutter metal for your customers? Let&#;s face it, customers aren&#;t always sure what they want. They may not know the best metal for their style of home, region, or climate. While aluminum gutters are the go-to for many homeowners, others may decide they want steel without knowing the difference between stainless and Galvalume. In any case, they may ask for your professional opinion.

As a gutter contractor, you already know the importance of rain gutters: They guide water runoff away from the home or building to protect its foundation, prevent staining or water damage to exterior walls, and preserve the landscape. Your customer may think of gutters as a way to keep water from pouring off the roof, or as a decorative highlight to the roofline. Chances are, they haven&#;t given gutter metals much thought at all.

As a leader in portable rollformers for over 30 years, our people at New Tech Machinery (NTM) are experts in the metal roofing, wall panel, and gutter-forming industries. Our machine specialists work with business owners daily to help them find solutions for starting or expanding operations like yours.

In this article, we will examine different gutter metals in detail so that you can help your customers make an informed decision about which gutter metal is right for them.

We will compare common metals used for gutters, looking at capacity, durability, lifespan, appearance, and cost. First, I want to give a shout out to DMR Gutters who has a ton of helpful gutter information on its website. David Rich at DMR bought his first and only gutter machine from NTM many years ago, not long after they first came out. Also, DMR offers one of the only gutter installation programs in the country.

Types of Gutter Metals

There are five common metals used for gutters:

• Aluminum
• Steel
• Copper
• Zinc
• Galvalume®

Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters are the most popular for residences. Aluminum is light, inexpensive, and doesn&#;t rust. These gutters stay sturdy in rainy climates as they can handle heavy downpours and severe runoff from steeply pitched or wide roofs. As aluminum can expand or contract due to temperature shifts, it&#;s a good idea to install expansion joints as a preventative measure. Overall, however, the expansion and contraction are minimal, even compared to steel.

Aluminum gutters can bend under pressure and may not hold up as well in regions with heavy snowfall. However, they&#;re generally offered in two thicknesses: .027&#;, and .032&#;. Durability is related to gauge, so while it will cost a little more, it may be worth it to go with a thicker option. That way, the gutter is more resistant to damage from wind, branches, debris, and snow loads. Most companies offer a 20-year warranty on aluminum gutters, and unless they have been installed incorrectly or get damaged from an unusual event, like a fallen tree, they shouldn&#;t need replacing.

Aluminum gutters come in assorted colors and can be painted. Whether the customer wants it to accent the roofline or simply blend in, aluminum offers many options and gutters last 20+ years, while downspouts last even longer.

Pros and Cons of Aluminum Gutters

Pros

• Can handle heavy rain
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Doesn&#;t rust
• Lasts 20+ years
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Can dent or bend under pressure
• .027 gauge not as durable in regions with heavy snowfall

Galvanized Steel Gutters

Galvanized Steel gutters resist rust due to the zinc coating produced by galvanization, although the coating eventually wears off. While steel gutters are durable and can withstand snow, ice, heavy rain, and wind, continuous wet conditions will eventually cause rust. The best way to avoid rust is to keep the steel gutters clean and remove any standing water, which requires a good amount of maintenance to keep them clear and dry.

Also, while steel is durable, it can crack in geographic regions that fluctuate between extreme temperatures. Steel gutters are just a little more expensive than aluminum and last as long, about 20 years, but the trade-offs will not put it at an advantage over aluminum, which is thicker and requires less maintenance.

One thing to keep in mind about all steel gutters is that they are difficult to install and require welding or bolting and sealant. As a result, they tend to have more issues due to improper installation, which is common. Plus, the labor for installation will likely erase any savings from material costs. Given that and the corrosion issue, there are better options to offer your customers, like painted aluminum.

Pros and Cons of Galvanized Steel Gutters

Pros

• More durable than aluminum
• Less expensive than zinc or copper
• Can be painted
• Lasts 20+ years

Cons

For more custom painted aluminum coil for gutters supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

• Require frequent inspection for standing water and debris
• Will show rust
• Heavy and difficult to install

*NTM does not recommend running bare galvanized metal through its gutter machines, as it leaves a residue on the rollers that can adversely affect the machine&#;s functionality.

Stainless Steel Gutters

Stainless steel gutters offer the durability of galvanized steel but without the tendency to rust. They hold up to the elements and resist corrosion, although their shiny appearance may not blend in well with most structures. They tend to reflect light, giving the home or building a strange appearance.

The strength of the steel prevents these gutters from bending or denting, and they can even withstand hurricanes and severe storms, but no more so than .032&#; aluminum. They also hold up to extreme temperatures without cracking, expanding or contracting, and are much more resistant to rust than other steel gutters. Visually, they keep their shiny appearance over many years, which may not be preferable to the patina of copper or zinc.

Stainless steel gutters are expensive, about the same price as copper, without offering some of the benefits of copper or aluminum. Because of this, it&#;s not used much and suppliers generally don&#;t keep it in stock.

Pros and Cons of Stainless Steel Gutters

Pros

• Durable

• Rust resistant
• Holds up to extreme temperatures
• Easy to maintain
• Lasts 50+ years

Cons

• Expensive
• Harder to process and install
• Heavy and harder to install
• Not as available
• Shiny appearance does not usually look good on a home or building

*NTM gutter machines are not designed to run stainless steel.

Galvalume Gutters

Bethlehem Steel was the first to produce Galvalume in the s. Now, it&#;s commonly used in metal roofing due to its strength and durability. Galvalume is steel coated by 45% zinc and 55% aluminum. Galvalume gutters, while not common, may be gaining popularity in certain areas. They are durable and won&#;t sag, even over time. They hold up to high temperatures, heavy rain, and severe storms. Additionally, their coating makes them resistant to corrosion.

Galvalume gutters generally last longer than galvanized steel gutters. Galvanized steel is dipped in zinc, but over time the zinc coating deteriorates. Galvalume, on the other hand, is four times more resistant than galvanized steel and maintains its shiny appearance, much like stainless steel.  Also, it holds up to wind and freeze.

While Galvalume will outlast galvanized steel, it&#;s not suited to coastal areas as saltwater will degrade the coating. Also, Galvalume may not react well with other metals, including concrete, treated wood, copper, lead, bricks, or iron. The runoff from these metals in rain can cause the metal to corrode.

Otherwise, Galvalume won&#;t dent like aluminum, and can be coated in paint or metallic finishes.

Pros and Cons of Galvalume Gutters

Pros

• Durable
• Can be painted
• Resistant to corrosion
• Long lasting

Cons

• Not suited to sea climates
• Does not interact well with other metals
• Heavy and difficult to install

Zinc Gutters

You may never run into occasion to produce zinc gutters, as zinc is costly and offers no real advantages over steel. Still, zinc gutters are popular in Europe and may be gaining some traction in the U.S. For that reason, they are worth mentioning. Like stainless steel, zinc will last 50 years, or more. Also, zinc won&#;t crack, rust, or fade with time, although the color will change from gray to a patina, giving it a rustic appearance that increases its resistance to the elements. Other than regular cleanings, zinc gutters require little maintenance or repair.

While zinc is extremely durable and its patina protects it from corrosion, it&#;s not ideal in sea climates or in combination with cedar shingles as they produce damaging acid runoff. Otherwise, zinc is a great option for quality and durability. While more expensive than aluminum, its longer lifespan may prove worth the difference in price.

Some may prefer the natural color and patina that forms over time. However, zinc gutters come in many colors or can be painted.

Pros and Cons of Zinc Gutters

Pros

• Durable
• Won&#;t rust or corrode
• Comes in a variety of colors or can be painted
• Develops an attractive patina
• Easy to maintain
• Lasts 50+ years

Cons

• Expensive
• Not suited to sea climates or runoff from cedar roofs
• Heavy and difficult to install

*NTM gutter machines are not designed to run zinc.

Copper Gutters

Its high price alone makes copper the elite metal of the industry, which is why you&#;ll find copper gutters mostly on expensive homes. While initially shiny and sleek, copper will eventually oxidize, giving it a golden-brown or greenish appearance. Copper gutters fit almost any home design with their elegant, classic look and blend well with wood, brick, stone, stucco, or terracotta.

In addition to their durability, copper gutters won&#;t rust or erode. They don&#;t buckle, bend or crack from extreme temperatures. Unlike zinc, salty air and cedar shingles aren&#;t a threat. Also, oxidation adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. Copper gutters have a lifespan of 100 years, far longer than any other gutter metal. Lastly, copper has a high recycle value.

Also worth noting, copper is typically 16 ounces, which although thinner than aluminum gutters is equal in strength. However, for the money, your customer is better off with a 20 oz copper which is notably stronger than even .032 gauge aluminum. If they&#;re willing to pay the extra for copper, they may as well get the sturdier 20 oz.

As mentioned, copper gutters are expensive. Some people find the tradeoff worthwhile, as copper offers many aesthetic and practical benefits. Keep in mind, copper gutters are heavy and difficult to install. Labor will be another cost factor for your customer to consider.

Pros and Cons of Copper Gutters

Pros

• Durable
• Won&#;t rust or erode
• Develops an attractive patina
• Easy to maintain
• Lasts 100 years

Cons

• Most expensive option
• Heavy and harder to install

Final thoughts

Once they&#;ve understood the importance of rain gutters, you can help your customer figure out which metal best suits their region, climate, style of home, and budget, as well as other factors to consider, like purchasing for a rental property vs. a residence. They must also decide on a gutter profile and whether to go seamless or traditional. While seamless gutters cost a little more, they last longer, avoid leakage, and require less maintenance. The best advice we can give is to be as transparent as possible and go over all the costs, including labor, as well as the pros and cons of the metals. That way, there will be less possibility of unwelcomed surprises later on.

Aluminum and copper will probably remain top choices, depending on budget. Some customers may have read that steel is sturdier, but that&#;s not necessarily the case. Steel has to be produced at a thinner gauge than aluminum, and steel can be damaged by outside forces, the same way as aluminum. Galvalume may be gaining in popularity but has its drawbacks as it&#;s heavy and difficult to install.

NTM manufactures the MACH II&#; 5&#;, 6&#;, and 5&#;/6&#; Combo seamless gutter machines for K-style gutters. As a premium producer of portable seamless gutter machines, NTM provides full service and training. Our mission is to help you through the process of deciding which NTM machine is right for your business. Contact our machine specialists to discuss the next step in purchasing a new gutter machine.

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