EiEiHome spoke to owner/operator, John Whyte at True North Eavestroughing about one of their many projects that helped a homeowner to update the exterior of their home, which resulted in added curbside appeal and increased value to their property investment.
Project Spotlight
This 40 year-old home is located in Port Perry, Ontario. The owners were looking to give the outside a modern look, as they were planning to stay there long term. True North Eavestroughing worked to develop a plan with the homeowner for multiple updates to the exterior of the home.
The garage had the original brown galvanized gutters that were changed to terra bronze aluminum. The original windows over the garage had a 70’s look to them, so they were covered to give a more modern and clean look to the front of the home. This really helped to soften up the outdated pink bricks lending to a more sophisticated new look.
Eavestrough specialization
True North Eavestroughing specializes in installation of new copper or aluminum gutters for homes, commercial, industrial and public developments. With each new client, they meet to discuss details of the project including colour preferences, the age of the home and any existing gutter issues they may have prior to beginning the project. They then take photos, create a diagram and provide a project quote, and will answer any questions before the installation process begins.
Whyte continues to be an industry leader, providing much education outside of his company’s contractual obligations to homeowners. He is an instructor at Durham College, where he teaches a course in eavestroughing, and has also written a working manual and book on gutters that provides guidelines to professionals.
He’s proud to say, that over the years, he has influenced and helped to grow and educate the industry, not only for professionals, but for homeowners who are looking to hire service pros. Whyte serves as director of Renomark, an organization that helps to build public awareness and encourage homeowners to choose quality and ethical professionals for their renovating needs.
Best advice for homeowners
Whyte recommends a five year plan for homeowners when it comes to the exterior of their home, prior to beginning any renovation. “If they have intentions of replacing windows, installing a new roof, or replacing their walkways or landscaping it’s important to keep in mind how the gutters will be affected by these changes,” he says.
When you plan ahead you will avoid situations down the line where the downpipes or colour of the eavesdropping may conflict with other outdoor renovations. “Think of the big picture for the outside of your home,” he adds. “This will ensure the entire process is headache-free.”
Editor, Dawn Boshcoff
