TIGER STRIPING

Customers often call our office about dirty streaks on their rain gutter systems that will not wash off. The first assumption usually is that the paint has gone bad and turned a different color. What is actually happening is generally referred to as tiger striping. Tiger striping occurs as water and pollution combine and run down the face of a rain gutter. When it rains or dews the water combines with this build up on the top lip of a rain gutter. Naturally, pollution and dirt continually build up on the top lip of a rain gutter. When it rains or dews the water combines with this build up and runs down the front of the rain gutter. As the solution travels the pollutants are deposited in streams on the face of the gutter. Once a path has been established future drops follow this same path and over time the build up becomes an alternating light and dark streaks down the face of the gutter.

A.J.'s Gutters would like to assure you that the paint is in good condition underneath the deposits. Therefore, tiger striping is not a failure or breach of warranty since environmental conditions are beyond individual control.

Periodic cleaning will greatly reduce the build up of these deposits of pollution. Tiger striping indicates an already heavy build up on the system and will require a strong cleaning solution. An excellent combination is listed below for your convenience.

The following simple cleaning procedures should be performed at least once a year or more often if necessary.

General Cleaning: For surface soil and stains, such as those resulting from industrial fallout, tree sap, insecticides, or chimney fumes, use ordinary non-abrasive household detergent.

The solution should be applied to the soiled surface by means of a soft rag, sponge of soft bristle brush with a gentle rubbing action. Do not vigorously so as to create glossy areas over the satin finish. Soft bristle brushes equipped with long extension handles may be used to reach some of the higher areas. It is important that immediately following all washing operations, the entire surface be thoroughly rinsed with fresh water from a garden hose.

Stubborn Stains: If stubborn stains are encountered, use a heavy-duty cleaner such as "Fantastik." Heavy soil deposits may not be removable in one application and may require repeated cleaning over some length of time. DO NOT USE CLEANERS CONTAINING ABRASIVE PARTICLES, AMMONIA, SOLVENTS OR PAINT REMOVERS FOR CLEANING. THESE MATERIALS MAY SOFTEN OR REMOVE THE FINISH.

Climatic Problems: Climates vary considerably from one locality to the next. In some areas, mildew may be a problem. It appears as black spots on the surface and is usually detected first on the undersides of the raingutter. For removal, prepare the solution below and apply as outlined above.

1/3 Cup Detergent (Tide for example)
2/3 Cup Trisodium Phosphate (Soilax for example)
1 Quart Clorox
3 Quarts Water

CAUTION: Greater concentrations may cause damage to the finish.

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