Unpacking the Gutter Clutter Buster

We tested a Gutter Clutter Buster Kit which includes the GCB tool along with 2 extension pieces. The kit will allow you to clean the gutters on most two-story homes. All three pieces came packaged in a cardboard box that measures 60x14x3 inches. The only other thing in the box was an instruction sheet so there is no extra packaging to dispose of. The cardboard box can be broken down and recycled or kept for storage of the GCG when you are not using it. The unpacking of this product was simple.

Putting the Gutter Clutter Buster Together

The GCB and extension pieces are easy to put together. You just have to push the two together with a moderate amount of force. Do not expect the pieces to overlap too much and do not push too hard. Once the pieces stop moving, then they are together tightly enough to continue. I made the mistake of trying to push them together past the obvious stopping point and then had trouble getting the

pieces apart later. The only thing to be careful about when putting extension pieces on the GCB is to be sure to balance the tool properly. As the GCB system gets longer, it gets a little top-heavy and hard to control. Once you have the appropriate number of extension pieces on your GCB you just connect the bottom to a standard Wet/Dry Vac hose. This connection process is the same as the process used to connect the extension

pieces. Again, be careful not to push too hard or you might have a hard time getting the Wet/Vac hose off of the GCB.

Using the Gutter Clutter Buster

In theory, when you turn on your Wet/Dry Vac, the GCB will act as a long hose extension and suck any and all debris from your gutter system. One of the concerns I had, before we started was that there would be enough suction to pull debris out of the gutter system. This was not an issue. The debris did get pulled into the Gutter Clutter Buster and into the Wet/Dry Vac. When using the Gutter Clutter Buster on gutters that were only one story off the ground, it was easy to control the tool as I walked around the perimeter of the home. One obstacle that I ran into was the gutter clips on the gutter system. Every four feet or so there is a metal clip extending from the house over the top of the gutter and I had to keep lifting the GCB up over the clips every few feet.

The pictures of people using the GCB on their website show the tool being used at an angle, but I found it much easier if the gutter cleaning tool was as parallel to the house as possible. When I walked away from the house and used the GCB at an angle I had a hard time fitting the tool into the gutters. This might not be as big a problem if your gutters are wider, but I just found it easier to use the GCB in a vertical position. I would then sway the gutter cleaning tool from left to right before moving a few feet down and doing it all again.

In this picture you can see where the GCB removed the gutter gravel. The material on the inside lip of the gutter could not be removed because of the overhanging shingles.

Unfortunately, there was not a lot of debris in the gutter system when I tried out this tool. In the front of the house, most of what I got out of the gutters was gutter gravel. In the back of the house, the situation was a little different. First, the gutters in the back of this home are much higher so I needed to use both extension pieces here. The Gutter Cutter Buster was a little harder to control with both extension pieces, so I couldn’t move the tool from left to right as much. That meant that I had to move my position more frequently, and be careful not to let the GCB lean too much in any direction.

When I started using the GCB I noticed that I was collecting a lot of water in addition to the gravel and debris. Since I am using this tool with a Wet/Dry Vac that was not a problem, but it set off some alarm bells. If there was stagnant water in the gutter system, that could mean a clog in the downspout. At this point, I went and got a ladder in order to check the downspout. Sure enough, there was a clog and we were able to correct that problem before any major damage was done or the gutter system over flowed. Without collecting that water with the GCB, we might not have noticed this problem until it was too late.

My main complaint when using the GCB was that you have to look up a lot and I got a bit of a cramp in my neck. Also, my arms got tired after a while when using the tool with both extension pieces because it was a little heavy (7 pounds) to hold over your head for an extended period of time. However, even with the breaks I was taking to relieve my neck and arms, cleaning the gutters was much faster with the GCB than when I have cleaned gutters by hand going up and down a ladder.

Cleaning the Gutter Clutter Buster

When I was finished with my gutter cleaning, there was a lot of debris and dirt water inside the GCB pieces. In order to clean the tool out, I just ran a garden hose inside each piece and the let them air dry in the yard. I then emptied the Wet/Dry Vac into a compost pile and then rinsed it with the hose. The entire cleanup process took less than ten minutes.

Storing the Gutter Clutter Buster

I chose to store my GCB in the box it was shipped in, but you do not have to do that. If I did not save the box, I would have zip tied the pieces together in a bundle for easy storage. You can lean the apparatus up against a wall in your garage or store it on a shelf if you have one large enough. Since each piece of the GCB system is less than three inches in diameter, they are easy to store in a corner or between pieces of furniture in your garage or basement. They are also lightweight so it is easy to lift them up onto a shelf if you need to.

How the Gutter Clutter Buster Could be Improved

The one suggestion I have for how this product could be improved would be to offer attachments for the end of the GCB. The most useful attachment for me would have been a piece that angled the opening about forty five degrees so that I could use the gutter cleaner at an angle with my house rather than walking right underneath. Other attachments like a brush head or a thin piece might help with the collection of gutter gravel or in the hard to reach corners of the gutter system respectively. I am thinking of an attachment collection like what you might find on a vacuum cleaner. While these attachments are definitely not necessary to clean your gutters with the GCB, they might help in certain situations and be a nice added feature.

My overall impression of the Gutter Clutter Buster is that I would strongly recommend this tool for homeowners with one-story homes. It is easy to control when you do not have to put too many extensions on it. You do not have bend your head so far back so it is relatively easy on your body. And, you do not have to work on a ladder which is a plus in terms of time and safety.

I would also recommend the Gutter Clutter Buster for two-story homes. Even though you will need to use more extensions and it may be a little harder to use, the GCB is still far better than climbing a ladder and cleaning out your gutters by hand and then moving the ladder every three to four feet. You will save time even though you may have to take breaks to give your arms and neck a rest.

Unfortunately, I would not recommended the Gutter Clutter Buster for gutters with any kind of gutter guard system. The gutter guards will prevent you from getting the GCB into the gutters. In addition, gutter guards should be preventing the worst of debris from collecting in your gutters anyway so it would be a waste of your money to buy a tool that you will not have to use.

Gutter Clutter Buster Pros

• You can use it from ground level – no ladder
• Easy to put together
• Lightweight enough for almost anyone to use
• Easy to clean

Gutter Clutter Buster Cons

• Harder to use the higher your gutters are
• Neck pains from looking up for long periods of time

If you would like to purchase this product, go here.

Gutter Clutter Buster provided GCT with a sample of their product for testing. This sample product will be shipped back by GCT upon completion of our review.

Honda Single-Stage Snowblowers

There are two different single stage Honda snowblowers. The only difference between the Honda HS520A and the HS520AS is that the HS520AS model has an electric starter for even easier startup on a cold winter morning. These small but powerful snowblowers by Honda can move up to fifty five tons of snow in an hour. This Honda snowblower has a twenty inch path and can throw snow up to twenty six feet depending on the type of snow. Equipped with the same engine design as all Honda snowblowers, this snowblower will run cleaner and more efficiently than other gasoline powered snowblowers. They will run on thirty percent less fuel than a comparably sized engine on other design.

Honda Two-Stage Snowblowers

Two stage snowblowers have not only a flat paddle auger to discharge snow like the single stage machines, they also have a fast spinning impeller at the discharge duct that allows the snowblower from Honda to throw the snow farther and faster. All eight of the two stage models have heavy duty serrated augers to help break up ice and packed snow. They also come equipped with a discharge chute that can be positioned to throw the snow exactly where you want it. There is an over two hundred degree range in rotation and a seventy degree range in elevation. Another thing that all six two stage snowblowers have in common is the hydrostatic transmission. This transmission allows you to control the ground speed of the Honda snowblower without affecting the auger speed. A single lever allows you to increase speed by pushing it forward.

The first two snowblowers in the two-stage category of Honda snowblowers are the HS724WA and the HS724TA. These machines are both larger than the single stage Honda snowblowers with a twenty four inch path and the ability to throw snow up to forty six feet away. The two models differ in three ways. First, the HS724TA has what Honda calls track drive and the HS724WA has wheel drive. The wheel drive comes equipped with Sure Grip tires that eliminate the need for snow chains. The wheel drive can move up to 46.3 tons of snow per hour and has a larger clearance of over twenty inches. The track drive by contrast has a set of rubber tracks with sure-gripping cleats rather than wheels, can throw snow at 50.7 tons per hour, and has a smaller clearance of sixteen and a half inches. Neither of the HS724 models comes with an electric starter.

The next four models are slightly larger than the 724 models. The HS928 has a twenty eight inch path and can toss snow up to forty nine feet. The four models include two track drive models and two wheel drive models. Each track variety has a model with an electric starter. The HS928TA has track drive while the HS928TAS has the track drive with an electric starter. The HS928WA has wheel drive and the HS928WAS has the wheel drive with an electric starter. All four models move approximately 55.1 tons of snow per hour.

The last two models of Honda snowblowers are for homeowners who need to move a massive amount of snow quite regularly. The HS1t132TA and HS1132TAS can move almost seventy two tons of snow per hour with a thirty two inch path. The HS1132TAS has the electric starter, but both models come with the dual track drive.

Toro 51599 Ultra 12 amp Variable-Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum with Metal Impeller	Dirt Devil ND20500PC 10-1/2-Amp Variable Speed 200 MPH Electric Leaf Blower/Vacuum	Black & Decker LH5000 12 amp Variable Speed Electric Leaf Hog Blower/Vacuum
WORX TriVac WG500 12 amp All-in-One Electric Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum	Husqvarna 125BVx 28cc 2-Cycle Gas Powered 170 MPH Blower/Vac With Smart Start

Toro Ultra Blower Vac Leaf Vacuum

The Toro Ultra is a three in one leaf vacuum, blower, and shredder that makes yard work fun and easy. Because it is an electric machine, it is quieter, lighter, and cleaner than many gas blowers. One of the best features of the Toro Leaf Vacuum is that it has a variable speed motor that allows an infinite number of settings between 112 and 235 mph. That means that you can change the speed of the blower or vacuum to match the task you wish to complete. Another beneficial feature is that you can switch between blower and vacuum easily without the need for any tools. The parts that need to be changed can be removed and put on with quick release latch.

The metal blades that make up the mulcher are efficient and can break up leaves and other yard debris into tiny pieces. They can reduce up to sixteen bags of yard waste into one bag of mulch. If you garden, you can recycle the resulting mulch. Perhaps the best part about this leaf vacuum is that it is electric powered. It starts up with the push of a button rather than a cumbersome pull cord. There is much less maintenance because you do not need to worry about gas oil mixtures or making sure you are protected from the noxious exhaust fumes. It is also only seven and a half pounds so it is not hard to move around like some gas powered vacuums can be. You can even take this machine up a ladder to help with gutter cleaning.

Dirt Devil Blower and Lead Vacuum

The Dirt Devil Leaf Vacuum has some similarities to the Toro vacuum including a variable speed electric motor and a sixteen to one mulching ratio. The variable speed motor only goes up to 200 mph, but like the Toro it is electric. Having your leaf vacuum on a cord means that you will never have to stop a job in the middle to fill up a gas tank or charge a battery. It is a little bit heavier than the Toro machine and it has a different nozzle. The blower nozzle has a tapered end so that you can more accurately direct the air flow. But like the Toro, the pieces are easy to attach and detach so that no tools are needed to change between the blower setting and the leaf vacuum setting.

WORX TriVac Leaf Vacuum Mulcher and Blower

The WORX leaf vacuum has several features that distinguish it from the other blower/vacuum/mulcher combinations. Like the others, you can use this electric powered machine as a leaf blower or a leaf vacuum. The difference is that the WORX leaf machine can switch with the flip of a switch rather than changing out tubes. The switch is much faster and easier to accomplish. With this improvement, you gain a little bit of weight. The WORX leaf vacuum weighs about ne pound more than the Toro leaf vacuum. Another positive difference is the fact that the WORX leaf vacuum and blower has an angled nozzle so that you can reach under vehicles or decks with the blower or vacuum without getting down on the ground. A third improvement is the addition of a shoulder strap for the collecting bag. Instead of a small bag that sticks out of the end making the leaf vacuum harder and harder to manage as you use it, the bag hangs over the user’s shoulder so that the leaf vacuum does not get any heavier as you do your work. The top speed of this model is about 210 mph and it has a mulching ratio of ten to one making it a little less efficient than the other mulchers.

Husqvarna Gas Powered Leaf Blower Vacuum

The Husqvarna gas powered leaf blower and leaf vacuum is just as easy to use as the electric leaf vacuums. It is slightly heavier at just over nine and a half pounds, but it has a unique ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle without putting too much pressure on your wrist while using it for long periods of time. Most home owners are concerned about starting a gas powered piece of yard equipment that is handheld because they are afraid they will not have enough resistance and it will be difficult to get the leverage needed for a traditional pull start motor. The Husqvarna, however, has an improved starter that means the resistance in the starter cord is reduced by forty percent. The mulching ratio is sixteen to one and the engine is efficient to run for hours on one tank of gas.

STIHL Chain Saw Common Features

STIHL chain saws are made with many common features and some additional features that are not so common, but not every chainsaw will have every features discussed here. You need to check with a certified STIHL chain saw dealer to make sure the model you are buying has the features that you want. The first important feature to point out is that STIHL makes its own saw chain so that you know the chain will fit the machines precisely lowering the risk of injury or equipment failure. A second feature would be the Ematic Bar that includes a polymer ramp reservoir. The reservoir holds bar oil until it can be picked up by the passing chain. This setup reduces oil usage by up to fifty percent making STIHL chainsaws among the most environmentally conservative on the market.

There are bumper spikes at the end of the Ematic bar and chain for better control as well as a spark arrestor muffler. The muffler has large baffles that reduce noise level as well as a screen to reduce the emission of sparks. Another helpful safety feature is the STIHL Quickstop chain brake system. This innovative brake system can stop the chain in only fractions of a second. The brake can be operated manually as well as automatically if there is a significant amount of kickback force for safety reasons. To protect the chain saw user’s hands there are both front and rear hand guards as well as ergonomically designed front and rear handles so that the chainsaw is comfortable and safe to hold.

Starting and maintaining a STIHL chain saw is easier because of some common features like a protected spark plug, an easy to remove air filter cover, high tech polymer housings, a translucent fuel tank, toolless fuel and oil caps, an air vibration system, a large starting handle, and a master control lever. The master control lever is a single operating lever for the choke, starting throttle lock, and the on and off switch. Reducing the number of levers and buttons makes operation simpler. In addition, the air vibration system helps to reduce chainsaw user fatigue and the large staring handle is easier to grip so starting the chain saw is easier.

When maintaining the STIHL chainsaw over the years, the other features make your job easier. High tech polymer housings are lightweight and corrosion resistant so they protect the parts of your cahin saw well. The air filter cover is easy to remove so changing or cleaning the air filter is easy and will be avoided less often. The spark plug is protected, but still easy to access and change, just like the fuel and oil caps. They require no tools to open or tighten. The translucent fuel tank lets the STIHL chain saw user see how much fuel is available before starting work so stoppages for refueling are less common.

Some of the special features available on only a few STIHL chainsaws are detailed below:

• The IntelliCarb Compensating Carburetor measures air flow on the clean side of the air filter and then adjusts the metering diaphragm in the carburetor. This feature means that the RPM levels are even when the air filter begins to clog.
• Easy-Access Carburetor Adjustment Screws mean that you have easy access to the carburetor in case you want to adjust it for local cutting conditions or altitude.
• The Easy2Start System reduces the strength and effort needed to start the engine so that any homeowner can start the chainsaw easily, not just the burly ones.
• A Purge Pump Primer lets you prime the carburetor without flooding it.
• Certain models have Replaceable “In Tank” Fuel and Oil Filters that cost less than standard filters and are easier to maintain.
• An Automatic Bar and Chain Oiler allows the chain saw user to concentrate on what they are cutting rather than making sure the bar and chain are properly oiled.

These are only some of the features available from STIHL chainsaws. There are many others and talking over your options with a certified STIHL distributor is your best option when trying to decide what features are right for you. STIHL chain saws are only sold by independent distributors. No large box stores or hardware super stores sell STIHL products because STIHL feels it is more difficult to control the quality of the customer experience at these large retailers.

The first group of ladders the Transforma replaces is a group of four A frame ladders. The Transforma is stored like an A frame ladder and when you first unfold it you have a four foot stepladder. What makes the Transform ladder unique is that it telescopes to give you four different sized A frame ladders. You can get a four, five, six, or seven foot A frame ladder by stopping the telescoping action at each rung. The Transforma ladder is also safer than a lot of other A frame ladders because it has rubber grips on the bottoms of all surfaces that touch the floor for non slip protection as well as flared bottoms for added stability. The fact that there are rungs on both sides of the ladder is important because it means that you can have people on either side of the ladder if necessary. Sometimes you need the help of another set of hands and normally you would have to have two ladders. With the Transforma Ladder System you only need one.

Another factor that makes the Transforma ladder special is the fact that you can adjust the telescoping on one side at a time allowing you to get a step ladder configuration that you can use on slopes and staircases safely. There are six different staircase ladder configurations. In addition, you can adjust one side of the ladder so that it is parallel with a wall allowing you to get close to your work site without turning on top of the ladder. This feature is known as a 90 degree ladder and there are three different heights available.

If you need to be able to reach higher work sites, then you can release the center joint where the A frame ladders pivot to turn one side up so that it is even with the other. The result is an extension ladder configuration. Because you can telescope both ends of the extension ladder, there are ten possible heights available for your use. The highest is seventeen feet which is high enough to reach the windows on the second floor of a two story home. Again, the flared bottom and top make the extension ladder more stable and is good for ladder safety.

Finally, when the Transforma is in the shortest A frame configuration, you can take out the inner pieces that give the ladder telescoping capabilities to make two separate four foot A frames. This gives you the opportunity for scaffolding because the rungs on both step ladders line up perfectly. Just put some kind of a plank across one of the rung levels for an easy to assemble and transport scaffolding system.

The Transforma ladder system also comes with a few accessories that will make your ladder work even more safe and efficient. The first is the wall standoff tool. This is a piece of equipment that you attach to the top of the extension ladders so that the ladder is out away from the structure somewhat. It allows you to not crush floral arrangements or other objects that may be attached to the wall and would not fit under the ladder. The wall standoff tool also provides some extra stability for the ladder set up.

Another accessory that is handy is the leg leveler. Sometimes you need to work on a surface that is slightly uneven, but not so uneven that the staircase ladder configurations are necessary. In these instances, it is better to use the leg leveler that will add a small amount of height to one side of the ladder so that you can get a level ladder setup. It can be very unsafe to work on a ladder that is not level and the leg leveler helps give the user the stability that is so needed when working on a ladder on uneven terrain.

Finally, the Transforma ladder comes with two work platforms that are an essential tool for both the safety and efficiency of a Transforma ladder user. The work platforms hook on to any rung of the ladder and fold down so that you can safely climb past them when going up or down the ladder. When you want to use the platform, you only need to pull it out so that it catches on the rung and becomes flat. It is strong enough to hold almost 300 pounds of weight. That means that a person can stand on the work platform. That allows you to stand firmly on two feet and let go of the ladder with your hands and still feel secure. It will also help with the possible muscle cramps that come from standing on thin rungs for long periods of time. You can also use the work platforms to hold tools or other items that you need to have access to while working on the ladder. If you do not have to keep going up and down the ladder to get new tools, your work will be more efficient.

Another advantage would be the lack of light bulbs. Light bulbs tend to wear out quickly and need to be changed often. In addition, there is always the risk of a light bulb breaking and then having to clean up broken galls all over your garden. With solar light fixtures, there is no light bulb to wear out like with other outdoor lighting fixtures. The light emitting devices or LEDs last for a lifetime. The only maintenance that solar light fixtures need is to occasionally change the rechargeable batteries and wipe off the solar collecting panels.

A third benefit of solar garden lights is that they can often be hidden or disguised as something else because of the lack of light bulbs and electric cords. This ability to disguise means that you can have decorative elements added to your garden both at night when the lights are lit and during the day. Also, it means that you can find a solar garden light for your lawn or garden no matter what the size or theme.

Solar Rock Lights

Solar LED Rock Light These realistic looking solar powered LED rock lights are perfect for gardens, walkways, flowerbeds or wherever a nice accent light is needed. Solar panel charges up the rechargeable batteries during the day and the light automatically comes on at night.

One of the most popular types of solar garden lights is the solar rock light. These decorative light fixtures easily fit into almost any garden because you can use them as part of your rock border or as a decorative boulder strategically placed throughout the garden. Usually the rock is placed such that the face that has the exposed LEDs is facing away from the road or wherever people might observe the garden from. The other sides of the rock light fixture will look like any other rock. Solar rock garden lights come in all shapes and different kinds of rock imitations. For example, some rocks resemble limestone while others might look like something more exotic like quartz. There are some examples above.

Solar Statue Lights

If your garden is not trimmed with rocks or you do not want random rock likenesses placed throughout then your tastes might trend toward rock statues or rock statuettes. You can find solar statue light fixtures in almost any theme and in many different sizes. One very popular genre is garden gnomes. Garden gnome statues are silly little statues that some gardeners collect with a passion. They started appearing in gardens in the late 1960s to 1970s. The inspiration for garden gnomes comes from both Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and a mythical creature from Scandinavian folklore called a tomte. Since people are going to put garden gnomes in their gardens anyway, they might as well get some lighting out of it. Usually the solar light emits from some convenient place so that you cannot notice the LEDs during the daytime hours. Because most of the statues are so low to the ground, you do not get a huge amount of light shining on to the rest of the garden. Instead, you mostly just light the statue and it is purely decorative solar lighting and not functional.

Sweetheart Garden Gnome Couple Solar Light Statue This wonderfully detailed outdoor garden or porch statue of a pair of garden gnome sweethearts on a walk has a pair of solar powered LED lights, one in each hat. The lights turn on automatically in dark conditions, and last up to 10 hours under a full charge. The light is a clear LED, so the hat…

Forest Frolic Frog Mushroom Garden Solar Light Statue A plump green toad shares his perch with a dancing dragonfly in this fairy tale scene of forest fun. This playful statue adds a gleeful nighttime glimmer to your garden with hidden LED solar lights! Weight 4.7 lbs. Polyresin. Solar powered battery included. 9 1/2″ x 7 3/4″ x 14″ high.

If garden gnomes are not your thing, you can probably find a solar light fixture for your garden in almost any theme you desire. The same concerns that were present with the gnomes still exist in that you do not get a lot of light off of a garden statue light fixture and the solar light shed into the garden is more to illuminate the statue than to light the garden. Some common statue subjects are small animals that might naturally find their way into a residential garden such as a rabbit, a frog, a turtle, chipmunk, or squirrel.

Globe Lights

Moonrays 99924 Color-Changing Glass Ball Fixture ODYSSEY GLIDE FLIGHTCASE 10in MIXER AND 2 CD PLYR

Smart Solar Chameleon Solar Globe light Solar powered Chameleon u00bf Globelight with garden stake, pedestal base and floats on any pond or pool

Another kind of solar garden light is globe lights. There are actually two different kinds of globe lights we can talk about. The first kind is small globe lights that are attached to the end of sticks that you put into the ground. When it is dark, it appears as though the globes are floating above the garden because you cannot see the sticks holding them up in the dark. These globes may be smooth or beveled. A second kind of globe light is a large globe that sits on a pedestal in your garden or yard. These globes are decorative items both during the day and at night when they light up.

Solar Accent Lights

Solar accent lights are a variety of garden lighting that is usually only noticed at night because the fixtures are so small that you do not notice them during the day. One popular choice is small fireflies or butterflies that are on the end of wires sticking into the ground. The small solar lights are no bigger than the real insects and they give an impression of insects flying around the garden at night. They contribute a whimsical feeling to the garden and will shed a small amount of light on the surrounding area if you are interested.

Floating Solar Lights

Phasing Floating LED Globe Light Solar-powered floating globe shines in every color. Add some light and color to your garden, home or pond with the Solar-Powered Floating Light Globe. A bright LED shines through the globe’s UV-resistant, translucent housing to create a sphere of ever-changing color. No electricity is required to…

If your landscaping is extensive enough, then you might have a small pond or water fountain in your yard or garden. If so, you should take advantage of floating solar lights. Again, because there are no electrical cords, there is no concern with having the lighting so close to the water. The solar lights have a weight that submerges under the water and a globe or lily pad type light fixture floats on the surface.

Asphalt Shingles

By far the most popular kind of roofing shingle is the asphalt shingle. The reason for their overwhelming popularity is that they are relatively inexpensive, very durable, and easy to install. There are two kinds of asphalt shingles to choose between. The first is an organic asphalt shingle and the second is a fiberglass asphalt shingle. Organic shingles are made by starting with paper that is saturated in asphalt to make it waterproof. Then an adhesive layer of asphalt is added along with ceramic granules embedded on top. Fiberglass shingles on the other hand have fiberglass mat as the starting point rather than paper. Overall, fiberglass shingles are more flame retardant and used more often for that reason. In addition to their flame retardant properties, fiberglass shingles have a higher tear value so they are more appropriate for climates that might experience high winds from hurricanes or tornados.

Asphalt shingles usually last longer and do better in cooler and more temperate climates. Thermal shock, or when the temperature varies drastically in a very short period, can damage shingles. So considering the climate, you will find that asphalt roofing shingles generally last anywhere from twenty to fifty years. Regular roofing inspections will make sure that your roof is at the longer end of that spectrum. Roofing services can make sure that your asphalt roofing shingles are in good condition once a year and extend the life of your roof in general by catching possible problems early.

Tile Shingles

Another type of roofing shingle is the tile roofing shingle. Tile shingles come in many varieties including slate tiles, clay tiles, and concrete tiles. In general, tile roofing shingles provide the best fire protection because they are not flammable and they are much more durable and can withstand more fierce winds and abuse than asphalt shingles. In addition, tile shingles require less maintenance than other roofing shingle choices. However, tile roofing shingles are more expensive than asphalt ones no matter what material you choose.

Slate roofing tiles are considered the best roofing shingle material you can choose. Slate comes in a wide variety of colors and textures so you can get a unique look for your roof. Slate is a natural material that will last indefinitely. The real lifespan of a slate tile roof is determined by the structure, not the roofing shingles. Slate is very heavy so it is important that the roof be constructed in such a way as to be able to hold the weight. The slate is not only fireproof, but also water repellent so it can withstand the harshest of weather conditions.

Concrete roofing shingles are less popular than slate, but they have many of the same characteristics. For example, concrete is also fireproof and can withstand high winds, rain, and other harsh weather conditions. Older concrete tile roofs contained asbestos, but regulations prohibit the use of asbestos in construction now so concrete roofing shingles are safe.

Clay tile shingles are quite popular in warmer climates because clay does not absorb the sun’s heat and therefore your house will be easier to cool. Clay tiles come in two possible shapes. Some are regular roofing shingle shapes and others are curved, sometimes called barrel-shaped, providing texture to the roof. Clay tile roofing shingles will last anywhere from 70 to 90 years. However, you cannot use clay roofing shingles in cold climates where the temperature gets below freezing because the clay will crack due to water damage.

Wood Shingles

Wooden roofing shingles, and in particular, cedar roofing shingles, is a good choice because of the aesthetic appeal, but a bad choice in almost every other respect. Wood can rot easily if it is exposed to too much water. Insects could eat through the roof or cause major structural damage. In addition, wood shingles are flammable. All of these complications mean that if you have wood roofing shingles you will have to spend a large amount of time on maintenance to keep on top of all the possible pitfalls.

Roofing Shingle Ratings

One of the most important standards for roofing shingles is the fire rating. Underwriters Laboratory (UL) has come up with a scale that rates roofing shingle materials anywhere from an A to a C. An A rating means that there is a high degree of fire protection, Class B means that there is a moderate degree of fire protection, and Class C is only a light degree of protection from fire. None of these ratings will guarantee that the roofing shingles will not eventually succumb to fire. However, knowing that you have a Class A fire rating means that you will have that much more time before it does.

Roofing Shingle Maintenance

Roofing shingle maintenance is best left to professional roofing services. If you hire a roofing service, they will come to your home once or twice a year and inspect all areas of your roof in order to determine if any repairs are needed or if any repairs will need to be made in the future. They will also clear debris and any possibly harmful elements from your roof just in case. Many roofing shingle warranties are null and void if you do not keep up with regular roofing maintenance, so it is very important.

There are two ways that Werner can help with your productivity by way of the ladder. The first is by purchasing Werner ladder accessories that help you store tools and items close by while you are working on the ladder. Not having to get down every time you need a new tool will help save you time and energy, therefore being more productive. One example might be different top steps on A frame ladders. One variety might have a hole where you can store a drill, hammer, or other hand tools. Another variety might have hooks on the sides or in the front for paint cans, etc. Still others might have slots for paint trays or bins for nails, screws, etc.. There are also accessories that can be attached to the sides of an extension ladder that will hold tools or give you a place to hang a paint can. I like to use the paint hooks for a garbage bag when I am completing my gutter cleaning. Werner ladder accessories are convenient and help with a homeowner’s productivity.

Werner MT-22 300-Pound Duty Rating Telescoping Multi-Ladder, 22-Foot Offering incredible versatility, the Werner MT Series Telescoping Multiladder is the only ladder you may ever need. Each MT Series ladder can be easily transformed into a twin stepladder, extension ladder, stairway stepladder, or two scaffold bases. Ideal for indoor and outdoor jobs, each of these…

Werner T7404 375-Pound Duty Rating Fiberglass Multi-Use Twin Ladder, 4-Foot Werner T7400 Fiberglass Multi-Use Twin Stepladders are extra-heavy-duty tools that are ideal for commercial work and industrial use. And because they’re made with fiberglass non-conductive side rails, they are recommended for working around electricity. T7400 Series stepladders are built to support…

Werner D6224-2 300-Pound Duty Rating Fiberglass Flat D-Rung Extension Ladder, 24-Foot Extra heavy duty professional use extension ladder. External guides at top of base section securely interlock rails (2 sets on 36′ and 40′ models). Base and fly separate easily to use base section as single ladder. Internal guides on bottom fly section se

Werner extension ladders have another characteristic that helps with productivity and that is comfort. Werner extension ladders have what they call D shaped rungs rather than round rungs. The D shape means that the side of the rung where the user steps is flat for more comfort. The bottom of the run is curved causing a D shape. If you can stand on the ladder more comfortably, you can stand on it for longer periods of time therefore increasing your productivity. Not only are the rungs more comfortable, but they are also slip resistant so they increase safety as well.

Werner ladders are also very durable and worth the investment. Werner makes many small improvements on their ladders over the competition that make them especially durable and long lasting. For example, the EDGE professional bracing system provides a much stronger base for the ladder to stand on and gives the homeowner extra support. Another important innovation is aluminum locks on extension ladders. This rugged locking system keeps the extension ladder from moving once you find the position you want to keep. The locks will hold the overlapping rungs together and prevent the ladder from adjusting in length or twisting. Werner also used aluminum braces on A frame ladder steps so that each step is supported as well as possible. The aluminum straps that brace the steps will not rust when exposed to rain water or moisture so they are much less likely to get soft or breaks under pressure.

Werner PK80-2 Level-Master Automatic Ladder Leveler The Werner Level-Master automatic ladder leveler easily attaches to Werner fiberglass and aluminum extension ladders for even support on uneven surfaces, with automatic adjustment up to 8-1/2 inches thanks to the self-leveling design. Each leg automatically slides down to the surface, then locks…

Werner AC-18MT 3-Way Tray Attachment for MT Ladders

Werner Company also considers safety a top priority. There are many ladder accidents every year that result in serious injury or even death so it is important to not only follow safe ladder practices, but also have a product that is as safe as possible. Werner makes a complete line of ladders so that you can find one rated for the job you need. It is always better to error on the side of caution so you should imagine the heaviest weight you can think of putting on your ladder and then add some weight to determine what capacity you need. Werner also uses what they call an Alfo rung joint. The Alfo rung joint is a special way that Werner attaches each rung to the side supports of the ladder. They are connected in such a way as to avoid twisting of the ladder like a double helix. Another important safety feature on all Werner climbing systems is swivel feet. Feet that are movable and can even be swung into a ninety degree position from the ground are essential for using the ladder on even terrain. If the swivel feet are not enough, Werner Co. sells a ladder leveler that will allow you to set up your ladder on two different height surfaces.

2010 Husky H2000 Power Washer

Pressure washers are designed to harness the power of high pressure water streams. The high pressure removes whatever dirt or stain is troubling you and then the rest of the water stream pushes the dirt out of the way. The Husky H2000 delivers water at 1800 psi and approximately 1.6 gallons per minutes. The relatively low gallon per minute rate is impressive because this is approximately seventy percent less than the average garden hose. Even though you are getting high power, you are not doing so at the expense of your water bill. The thirty foot pressure hose and gun are long enough that you can leave the Husky pressure washer in a safe place while you clean. Other pressure washers have shorter hoses and you need to lug around the heavy pressure washer machine from area to area. In addition to the thirty foot hose, the machine has a thirty five foot power for added convenience. Even if you do have to move the power washer around for storage purposes, it comes equipped with integrated wheels to make the task easier. The Husky H2000 has a detergent tank for those cleaning situations that require some soap in addition to the high pressure water.

2009 Husky H1600 Power Washer

The Husky H1600 is a slightly smaller pressure washer that still delivers enough power and versatility to get most household jobs done. Delivering 1400 psi at 1.6 gallon, this Husky pressure washer is slightly less powerful than the other, but plenty powerful enough for any job you might have around your house. The hose is not quite as long at only nineteen feet, but it still gives you a good deal of working room. Just like the H200 the Husky H1600 has a thirty five foot power cord. Two differences of note are that the H1600 does not have a permanent detergent tank. Instead, this Husky power washer had an attachable soap bottle that you can use when needed. In addition the Husky H1600 has a one year warranty while the H2000 has a three year warranty.

Husky Power Washer Accessories

Husky also has a wide variety of accessories that you can buy that make certain types of cleaning projects easier. The power washer 17 piece accessory kit pictured to the left has examples of all these kinds of tools. Some are brushes that you put on the end of the pressure wand so that you can use some friction as well as the high pressure water to clean surfaces. Some brushes are designed for cleaning hard surfaces like sidewalks or driveways and others are for softer materials like the wooden deck or siding. Other accessories are nozzles that will let you change the direction and shape of the water stream coming off the end of the pressure hose. One accessory makes a stream that you can aim into gutter systems in order to force out clogs and make gutter cleaning easy. Another nozzle might be described as a turbo nozzle that will shape the water stream into an even more powerful stream under even more pressure.

Solar lights do not have light bulbs. Instead, they use LEDs or light emitting devices. These LEDs run on batteries which are rechargeable. Their charge comes from solar energy collected with a solar collecting panel during daylight hours. It doesn’t even need to be extremely sunny. Simple daylight is usually enough to run a solar light for eight to ten hours. This is especially true with decorative solar lighting because these lights are usually smaller and do not have large numbers of LEDs. There are several different kinds of decorative solar lighting that you can take advantage of and this post will explain some of the most popular

Sandstone Rock Solar Garden Light The perfect way to add light to any pathway or garden without taking away from the beauty of your home. Appropriately placed solar rocks are the solution to any outdoor lighting problem you might encounter. Sleek and versatile the solar rock is a must have. Features: -Weatherproof finish -Sand Stone Color -8 Hours of nightly illumination -No wiring, safe and easy to install -Bright white LED illumination -Solar panels convert sunlight to energy stored in long-life rechargeable batteries -Dusk to dawn sensor automatically turns on as night approaches -Dimensions: 6.25” W x 4” H About Cascade Lighting Cascade solar lighting is a premier marketing and distribution company of upscale garden items and solar lighting. Cascade has successfully developed a very unique solar line that has been well received by the market. The line includes basic solar lanterns as well as more decorative pieces such as solar lighthouses, frogs and fairies. The success of the product offering is a result of the high quality metal and very detailed resin items you will find in Cascade’s solar lighting collection. Cascade solar lighting is a division of Alger International, Los Angeles, California.

Solar Rock Lights

Many varieties of decorative solar lighting are for use in the garden. Solar garden lights are usually decorative because you do not want the lighting to detract from the natural beauty of the garden area. Solar rock lights are a very popular choice. These are solar lights that are disguised as rocks. They come in many different sizes and colors and they are usually shaped irregularly so that they look natural. You can either place them strategically around your garden or use them as part of the border that is also made of rocks so that you shine light on the garden during darkness. The rock disguise will mean that observers cannot see the lights during the day.

Echo Valley Hiking Solar Gnome This garden gnome has decided to take a walk through the garden at night. Good thing he has brought his solar mushroom with him to light his way. He would make the perfect addition to your gnome collection. The solar light recharges during the day and emits a soft yellowish color at night, which would add a warm, inviting glow to your yard all night long. Made of handpainted resin for long life and durability. Stands 10 Inches Tall.

Solar Statue Lights

A variation on solar rock lights is statue lights. If you do not have a rock border or do not like the aesthetics of having small rocks placed around your garden, then you might elect to choose a statue that also doubles as a solar light fixture. There are solar statue lights to look like garden gnomes as well as fairies and various small animals. Rabbits, frogs, and turtles are popular choices. Usually these solar light fixtures have small lights that shine down behind the statues or up from underneath. The light is not as bright or far reaching as that of the rock solar lights which have a large LED face pointing up rather than down.

Mr. Light Solar-Powered Hummingbird Garden Stake with Color-Changing LED Backlighting Our solar garden stake has a unique design which features an integrated solar panel midway down the stake. Inside is a rechargeable AA NI-MH battery. A color-changing LED atop the stake shines through the clear acrylic 4″ x 5″ hummingbird to give a spectacular, decorative lighting effect in your garden. Plant the stake in the ground where it will get full sun, and the photo switch in the solar panel automatically turns itself on at night. Your garden stake will begin to glow as darkness falls, and continue to provide a calming light show into the night. (Assembled stands 32″ tall)

Solar Garden Accent Lights

If you are looking for something a bit more subtle for your decorative lighting needs then you should consider garden accent lighting. These small solar lights are disguised to look like small insects or butterflies during the day. At night, they glow providing a small amount of light to the surrounding garden area, but mostly just something pretty to look at. The small LEDs are attached to long metal wire sticks that are pushed into the ground. It makes the insects look like they are flying over your garden at night because the sticks are not visible in darkness.

Phasing Floating LED Globe Light Solar-powered floating globe shines in every color. Add some light and color to your garden, home or pond with the Solar-Powered Floating Light Globe. A bright LED shines through the globe’s UV-resistant, translucent housing to create a sphere of ever-changing color. No electricity is required to power this floating light globe. The solar panel inside the globe converts sunlight into electricity that is then stored in the integral rechargeable battery pack. The light switches on automatically when it gets dark and turns itself off when re-exposed to light or when the battery is fully discharged. The globe uses a white plastic housing so that the LED can easily shine through, glowing in every color in the spectrum. The Solar-Powered Floating Light Globe can be inserted into your home or garden’s décor in a variety of ways. A pedestal is included for secure positioning inside your home on a windowsill. The included ground spike will plant securely in the ground for outdoor color in a garden or path light. You can even float the globe as an accent light in a koi pond*. *Not recommended for use in chlorinated water.

Floating Solar Lights

If your property is large enough to have a pond or lake or if you have a swimming pool that you want to show off to your guests, then you should look into floating decorative lighting. Floating solar lights are usually shaped like a sphere with a weight attached to one side. The weighted piece falls under the water and anchors the floating light fixture. The solar light will shine a pale and soft light out over the water. The reflections are beautiful and multiply across the water. Solar lighting is really the only way to go for decorative floating lights because you do not want to introduce electrical cords to a wet environment. The other alternative is battery operated lights with traditional light bulbs and those tend to wear out quickly. The solar decorative light will regenerate itself every day so that you always have decorative lighting at night.

Lets Edge It 40-Foot Decorative Plastic Brick Edging with 6 Built-In Solar Lights, Terra Cotta 40 Feet “Lets Edge It” Plastic Brick Edging with 6 Built-In Solar Lights and 50 regular plastic bricks. Lights and edges your yard with one product. Circle a tree in minutes. Product will automatically curve or go straight. Safety and security – lighting up a walkway. No hauling, digging, mixing mortar. Just Snap together and Press in ground. It’s that easy.

Solar Stepping Stones

Another variety of decorative solar lighting is solar stepping stones. These light panels are installed as part of your stone walkway and light up at night after charging in the sun all day. The panels are designed to blend in with the rest of your brick so they are not obvious to the casual observer. Then, when they are illuminated, they shine enough light to keep your pathway lighted for visitors. They are a decorative alternative to pathway lighting.

3 Pack Solar Garden Balls Make your garden or landscaping dance with the light of a thousand fireflies! End-of-season closeout special! Our lowest price ever on crackled glass solar-powered color LED garden lights! One of the most exciting lighting concepts in years, these lights have a 3 diameter glass ball with a spectacular crackled finish and super bright LED technology that changes color from red to blue to green. Also features solar panel that harnesses the sun’s energy, on-board rechargeable battery, super bright LED and stainless steel rod. Runs up to 8 hours per charge. 33 high.

Solar Globes

One final type of decorative solar lighting is solar globe lights. They come in two common varieties. The first is globe stakes. These are small globes about the size of a baseball that are attached to long sticks that are pushed into the ground for anchoring. These globes often are decorated with colorful designs on the outside so that the light that shines through is colored and interesting. The second variety is a large decorative ball that sits on a stand that looks similar to a bird bath. These decorative orbs have become quite popular yard decorations. During the day they look like any other yard orb, but at night they glow and dazzle adding an extra decorative element to your landscaping.

Smart Solar 3560MRM1 Chameleon Solar Crack LED Glass Gazing Ball with Pedestal, Color Changing or White Mode Add dramatic light to your garden or porch with the Solar Chameleon Crackled Glass Gazing Ball and Pedestal. A crackled glass globe rests atop a resin pedestal, adorned with butterfly, flower, and bird shapes for a natural motif. Gaze in wonder as the LEDs provide bright white light or cycle in a spectrum of colors.