“Out of sight, out of mind” applies to most homeowners when contemplating gutter maintenance. However, to keep them flowing free, your gutters should be cleaned twice a year. Here’s how to keep your gutters flowing free this fall. Clogged gutters can cause all sorts of seasonal calamities such as:
Loose or fallen gutters
Leaves and other debris from trees can add a lot of weight after piling up for weeks in your gutter. This may cause your gutters to collapse.
Rotting and discolored gutters
Sitting water spills and mildew can cause damage to your gutters over time.
Cracked foundation
Water that is not being properly routed from your roof can lead to pooling water around your house, which in turn may seep into your home’s foundation and cause cracks.
Ice-damming
Ice dams in your gutters can prevent water from flowing, which may lead to water being rerouted into your home. Ice dams will also put excessive weight on your gutters which may pull them loose.
Solved! How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams
We’ve gathered a few tips to help you get your gutters back in action and to keep you safe while you clean them.
Cleaning your gutters
Most methods include climbing a ladder, so if you have gutters above the first story of your house, it’s best to hire a professional. We highly recommend cleaning your gutters from a sturdy, stable ladder rather than cleaning them from your roof.
It’s important that you take the proper safety precautions when cleaning your gutters.
Watch out for power lines and make sure there aren’t any cables on your roof. If there is a damaged cable, call a licensed professional to come and fix it.
What you will need:
- Sturdy ladder
- Bucket for collecting gutter debris
- A gutter scoop
- Scrub brush
- Dust mask and safety goggles
- Gloves (sturdy suede works best)
- Garden hose
While standing on your ladder, scoop out the leaves and debris from your gutters and place them into a bucket. Next, use a garden hose to wash out the gutters toward the drain outlet. Use a scrubbing brush to remove it dirt in the gutter.
Flush any leftover debris down the drainpipes using a garden hose. If the pipes are clogged and prevent water from draining, use a plumber’s auger (snake).
Check for leaks
While you’re running water through your gutters, remember to take the time to check for leaks. Look for holes in the pipes and cracks in the caulking.
Also, check for leaks after it rains. Use a waterproof marker to note the problem areas so that you can repair them once it dries. Gutter caps or screens are an option, but keep in mind you will still need to clean your gutters – perhaps less often, but at a greater cost to you due to the labor required.
How to Get Your House Ready for Fall