Gutters protect your home by directing water away from the foundation through downspouts. When gutters get clogged, it can lead to costly roof damage, basement flooding, mold growth and ice dams in the winter months. This is why regular cleaning is such an important part of home maintenance.
Here are some tips to help keep your gutters clear:
How often should you clean your gutters?
You should clean your gutters at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. If you live in a heavily wooded area, you may need to clean them more often.
1. Clean your gutters in the spring
Winter tends to leave behind dead leaves, twigs and other debris. Cleaning your gutters in the early spring will prepare them for the season’s upcoming rain showers.
2. Clean them again in the fall
Gutters usually clog up after the trees shed their leaves. A good habit is to clean your gutters in November after all the leaves are down.
3. Pick the right day
Whether you hire a professional or tackle it yourself, avoid cleaning your gutters on a windy or wet day. Safety should always come first.
Should you hire a professional to clean your gutters?
When it comes to cleaning your gutters, you have two options: hire a professional gutter cleaning service or do it yourself. If you live in a multi-story home or a home with a steep roof, you should always hire a professional.
4. Hire a professional
The safest and most effective way to clean your gutters is to hire a gutter cleaning service. A professional will use specialized tools and ladders to get the job done right. They can also spot potential problems with your gutter system, such as cracked seams, loose fasteners and sagging sections of gutter.
How to clean your gutters safely
The safest way to clean your gutters is to hire a professional. However, if you decide to clean your gutters yourself, there are several safety precautions you should consider.
5. Use a sturdy ladder
If you decide to clean your gutters yourself, always use a sturdy ladder. Never lean out of an open window or crawl onto the roof. In addition, make sure the ladder is on level, firm ground and avoid standing on the ladder’s top two rungs.
6. Ask a friend for help
For maximum safety, ask a friend or neighbor to secure the ladder while you’re on it. If necessary, they can also pass you any equipment you may need.
7. Wear protective equipment
Your gutters collect all kinds of debris, including small stones, mud, animal droppings, pine cones and more. Protect your hands with thick, waterproof gloves, and wear rubber-soled shoes to help keep your feet firmly planted on the ladder.
8. Use the right tools
In addition to a sturdy ladder, you may want to use a gutter scoop, bucket and a garden hose with a spray nozzle. If you use a hose, remember to spray toward the downspout. Avoid pressure washers, which can damage gutters or loosen them from their brackets.