Situation
Stern Gutters received a call from a distressed homeowner in Union County, NJ, whose beautiful Victorian home, built in 1908, was under siege by squirrels. The home’s soffits had developed holes, providing easy access for pests to enter the attic. Compounding the problem, the gutters had not been properly maintained over the years.
Overflowing water from clogged and damaged gutters had caused significant rot in the soffits and fascia, worsening the structural damage and creating an ideal entry point for the squirrels. The homeowner was deeply concerned about the escalating damage and wanted a solution that would address the immediate issues while preserving the historic charm of the property.
Task
Our task was to provide a comprehensive solution that repaired the soffits, resolved the gutter issues, and protected the home from further damage—all while maintaining its architectural integrity. Additionally, the homeowner needed a budget-friendly approach, so we were tasked with exploring financing options to make the project feasible.






Action
Our team promptly visited the property to conduct a detailed inspection. We found significant damage to the soffits and fascia, exacerbated by years of water overflow from the neglected gutters. Further inspection revealed material damage to the roof, which had to be addressed to ensure the longevity of the entire system.
To tackle the roof damage, we brought in a trusted roofing contractor from our network to repair the compromised areas. While the roof was being restored, our team designed a custom solution to replace the damaged soffits and fascia. We chose aluminum soffits and PVC materials for their durability and low maintenance, ensuring they could withstand the elements without detracting from the home’s original ornamental eaves.
We also installed new seamless aluminum gutters to improve water management and prevent future overflow issues. To eliminate maintenance headaches, we added stainless steel mesh gutter guards, which ensure proper drainage by keeping out debris. Additionally, we worked with our financing partners to secure a payment plan that aligned with the homeowner’s budget, allowing the project to proceed without financial strain.
Results
The results were remarkable. The Victorian home’s charm was preserved, with the new soffits and fascia blending seamlessly into the original design. The homeowner was delighted to see the ornamental eaves intact and the structural integrity of the property restored. The squirrels were effectively barred from entering, and the new roof, gutters, and gutter guards ensured optimal water management and long-term protection.
The updated system not only solved the immediate problems but also provided a low-maintenance, lasting solution. The homeowner expressed gratitude for the attention to detail, the budget-friendly financing options, and the exceptional quality of the work.
Conclusion
At Stern Gutters, we pride ourselves on offering tailored, end-to-end solutions for our clients. This project exemplifies how we combine craftsmanship, expertise, and customer service to protect and enhance historic properties. From coordinating with trusted professionals to providing top-quality materials, Stern Gutters delivers solutions that exceed expectations. If your home’s gutters, soffits, or fascia need attention, trust Stern Gutters to bring peace of mind and lasting results.



