Clean gutters are in vogue right now, but they always have been. Having consistently clean gutters is one of the simplest and most effective ways of saving money on expenses related to the care and upkeep of your home. Regularly maintaining your gutters allows them to run smoothly, reducing the risk of major clogs which may cause separation or even bursting and warping during cold weather. Additionally, cleaning your gutters can clue you in to problems that your gutter system may be facing including leaks, standing water, and collecting debris.
Go Clean the Gutters!
Cleaning the gutters is not exactly a relaxing weekend activity, but it is necessary. Maintaining your gutters may seem like a major chore but getting the leaves and gunk out of the way can be very satisfying and fulfilling, especially if you were looking for something to do outside of the usual weekend relaxation. However, gutter cleaning is also a service that many professional gutter agencies provide. So, if you would rather not clean your gutters by yourself, an experienced professional can clear the debris and perform a checkup on the health of your gutters, giving you more free time and peace of mind.
How Often Should My Gutters Be Cleaned?
As for the frequency that you should be cleaning your gutters, it really depends on conditions including nearby trees, and whether you have leaf guards installed. Generally, you should clean or at least inspect your gutters once or twice a year, depending on where you live. If your home is near trees that shed, you may need to clean your gutters more often. Additionally, weather conditions may cause a need for cleaning. You should check your gutters after particularly large storms to ensure there are no clogs or damage.
If you have installed leaf guards on your gutter system, the frequency and difficulty of gutter cleanings will be greatly reduced; however, you should still check at least twice a year that your gutters are operating properly. Regardless of the location you live or if you have leaf guards on your gutters, it is a good idea to get your system inspected each year by a professional gutter service as they can clue you into more minute issues your system might be facing. The key to preserving the longevity of your gutters is addressing small issues before they become big problems, following this principle will save you time and money.
Gutter Cleaning Tips
Cleaning the gutters is a long task to perform by yourself, so choosing a day with nice weather is a great way to improve your experience and make it safer as well! If you’re going to clean your gutters, ensure you have the right tools: a stable ladder, a high-pressure hose, gloves, and a gutter scoop. First scoop out the large debris, and then spray the system with the hose to dislodge remaining debris. While you are spraying, you can check for leaks in your gutter system. If you notice any leaking or other gutter damage like separation, you should schedule a repair as soon as possible. In addition to the proper gutter cleaning tools, it is incredibly important to stay safe. Making sure there are no high winds blowing and placing your ladder on level ground can go a long way in keeping you safe.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your gutters clean is important for protecting your home and preserving the longevity of your gutter system. However, depending on your gutters and the amount of time you have, it may be safer and more effective to schedule a cleaning and inspection with a professional gutter service. If you need a professional gutter service for a gutter cleaning, repair, or replacement, contact GutterPros for a free consultation!