What is the Best Way to Clean my Gutters?
Clean and properly functioning gutters are essential for safeguarding your home against water damage. They work by collecting rainwater and redirecting it away from your roof, siding, and foundation. However, if debris accumulates and obstructs the flow of water, gutters can overflow and cause water to collect in unwanted areas inside and outside of your home. To avoid costly damage caused by clogged gutters, we have developed a concise guide outlining the most effective method for cleaning them.
Consequence of Cleaning Your Gutters
Neglecting gutters is simple when they're working well, but if they remain unclean and obstructed for too long, they can serve as a powerful reminder of their significance. Buildup from leaves, twigs, and other junk can gather and cause water to overflow from a gutter before it reaches the essential downspout.
The build-up of debris can result in the growth of mold or mildew and lead to water accumulation behind your siding. This water can seep into your interior walls, gather around your foundation and potentially cause damage. It is widely known that water is the primary cause of expensive foundation problems. Moreover, birds, rodents and other creatures may utilize this debris to construct nests, which can increase the likelihood of discovering a way into your property. Clogged gutters can also result in damage to your landscaping, basement, and roof.
Gutter Cleaning Methods
- Before embarking on the task of gutter cleaning, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the meticulous process involved. There exist various tools and techniques that can be employed to remove debris. The most effective approach to gutter cleaning largely depends on your level of comfort and the equipment available. However, using a sturdy ladder in conjunction with any of the following tools may yield optimal results.
- Hands, gloves, and a trash bag or bucket for collecting debris: Although this option demands considerable effort and time, it doesn't necessitate any sophisticated machinery besides a ladder. Compared to other methods that involve spraying or blowing untidy debris all over the roof, siding, windows, and yard, this method is less disorderly because it confines the mess to a smaller area.
- Handheld leaf blower: To properly use a leaf blower to clear leaves and debris from gutters, make sure to direct them away from the house and downspouts. If the blower is unable to clear wet or sticky debris, it may be necessary to manually remove it. However, be aware that gutter debris is often wet or damp, and using a blower can create a messy situation. Wet debris can cause discoloration on surfaces like wood trim, siding, sidewalks, patios, and furniture.
- A water hose and/or pressure washer: Using a hose or pressure washer is a highly effective approach for removing debris from gutters and downspouts. However, it may prove to be a more costly option if you do not already possess the equipment. If you prefer not to climb a ladder to clean, you can obtain telescoping and gutter-cleaning wands that extend the reach of your hose or pressure washer. It is important to note that using water to clean your gutters may require rinsing off the surfaces below the gutters, such as siding or windows, as the dark water can potentially stain them if left to dry.
When Should I Clean My Gutters?
It is generally recommended by experts to clean your gutters twice a year, specifically during spring and fall. In addition, it is also advised to inspect them for blockages and debris after any substantial storm and more frequently if your property is surrounded by trees. As cleaning gutters is an arduous, time-consuming, and potentially dangerous task, it is usually preferable for inexperienced homeowners to seek assistance from a professional Gutter Cleaning service.
By choosing Golden Hammer Gutters to install our premium Gutter Guards, you can avoid the hassle of cleaning your gutters in the future. Our Gutter Guards have a perforated aluminum design that effectively sifts out debris while still allowing water to flow freely through the gutter system. This low-maintenance solution will spare you both time and money that would have otherwise been spent on upkeep. For more information on the effortless installation process and to receive a complimentary estimate, please fill out our Free Estimate form.
