Gutter Cleaning: How to Clean Gutters Like a Pro
Your gutters play a crucial role in the effectiveness of your roof by deflecting rainwater from the exterior of your home and protecting your foundation from water damage. But over time, your gutters can collect a significant amount of debris, preventing rainwater from getting through. So when and how often should your gutters be cleaned? We’ve outlined everything you need to know about cleaning your gutters below.
What’s the best time of the year to clean your gutters?
The best time to clean your gutters is at the beginning of fall and the beginning of spring. Most people tend to clean their gutters at the end of fall once leaves have fallen. However, cleaning at the beginning of fall when the leaves are still dry will make them easier to remove.
How often should you clean your gutters?
Your gutters should be cleaned at a minimum twice a year – at the beginning of fall and the beginning of spring before April showers begin.
What can happen if you don’t clean your gutters?
Neglecting to clean your gutters can cause a buildup of debris, clogging your gutters and preventing rainwater from getting through. Water backup in your gutters can lead to leaks, damage to your fascia and foundation, as well as ice dams during colder months.
How can you tell if your gutters need to be replaced instead of cleaned?
Most gutters can be cleaned and repaired easily without being replaced. If your gutters are old and you suspect there may be leaking, it’s best to contact a licensed professional to check them out.
How to clean your gutters.
When you clean your gutters it’s important to take the proper precautions in order to avoid an accident. Clean your gutters from a ladder rather than from on top of the roof and do not stand on the top three rungs of the ladder.
Then, follow these simple steps:
- Begin cleaning the gutter near the downspout.
- Remove natural debris such as twigs and leaves with a small hand shovel.
- Flush out remaining debris with a garden house, beginning at the end opposite of the downspout.
How can you avoid cleaning gutters?
Investing in gutter protection can help you avoid cleaning your gutters. The patented design of Ply Gem’s Leaf Relief gutter protection is designed to keep debris out of gutters while allowing water to drain freely. It is nearly invisible from the ground and is the best known gutter protection on the market today. You can purchase Ply Gem gutters and gutter protection through a licensed professional. Find a professional in your area here.