How To Clean Gutters

Gutters are an important part of your home’s exterior, and cleaning them is crucial to prevent expensive problems down the road. As fall approaches and leaves start to fall, it’s time to take a look at your gutters before they become clogged with debris. Cleaning gutters is a messy job that requires some preparation, so make sure to dress accordingly and do your best to avoid dirtying your siding.

It’s tempting to climb on the roof to clean gutters, but it’s not recommended. Walking on your roof can add leaves and debris to your gutter system, which defeats the purpose of cleaning them in the first place. Instead, use an extension kit that allows you to clean out the debris from your gutters without standing on the roof. This will keep your gutters clean and your roof safe.

When to Clean Your Gutters
Fall is the best time to clean gutters, although it’s always a good idea to check them following a summer storm that causes leaves to get strewn around the yard. You should also clean your gutters when you start to notice wet spots under them. There’s usually a backup somewhere along the gutter that leads to water spilling over the edge.

Why You Should Clean Your Gutters
If you don’t clean your gutters, you can expect more expensive problems down the road. Clogged gutters during the winter can lead to ice dams that create additional weight on your roof and result in a roof collapse if left unnoticed. Leaky gutters can also lead to water seeping under shingles, behind siding, and into the foundation, all of which lead to expensive repairs.

How Often Should You Clean Gutters
Most people clean their gutters once a year in the fall, but most gutter installation companies suggest homeowners clean gutters twice a year. Take note of the type of trees you have in your yard and how often they shed leaves. If you have pine trees, it’s suggested to clean your gutters as often as every three months.

Safety Considerations
Homeowners will need a ladder in order to reach their gutters to clean them. When using a ladder, make sure to place it on level ground. Using a ladder stabilizer can increase safety, as well as having a helper on the ground to support the ladder.

Tools Required
Gutter cleaning is integral to your home’s maintenance, and having the right tools on hand makes doing the job efficiently and safely easier. From sturdy ladders and safety gear to specialized gutter scoops and hoses, the tools required for effective gutter cleaning ensure thorough removal of leaves, twigs, and other debris that may impede proper water flow. You’ll need a hose, ladder, goggles, gloves, ladder stabilizer, gutter scoop, tarp, spray nozzle/power washer, and buckets (one for tools, one for debris), as well as a drill and bits.

Materials Needed
The right materials are pivotal in simplifying the gutter cleaning process, ensuring a seamless removal of debris, and preventing potential water damage. From gutter hardware and gutter sealant to a plumber’s snake and gutter guards, each material serves a specific purpose in the meticulous task of clearing leaves and buildup.

When to Clean Your Gutters From the Ground
Cleaning gutters from the ground can be a convenient and safer alternative to climbing a ladder, especially for single-story homes or those with easily accessible gutters. If your house is surrounded by trees that shed leaves or needles regularly, you may need to clean your gutters more often.

Preventing Clogged Gutters
There’s no way around it: Clogged gutters are a serious problem. Not only do they threaten the structural integrity of your home, but they can also wreak havoc on your property’s exterior and cause major indoor damage. If you want to keep your home in tip-top shape, it’s important to understand how clogs happen and how to keep gutters clean to prevent clogs from reoccurring. Installing gutter guards, regular cleaning, and trimming overhanging branches are all effective ways to prevent clogs.

Conclusion
Cleaning gutters is an essential part of home maintenance, and doing it properly can save you from expensive repairs down the road. At Exterior Home Solutions LLC, we offer residential gutter replacement services to ensure your gutters are in top shape. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your gutters clean and your home safe.