3 Tips for Maintaining Clean Gutters
Did you know that clogged gutters can lead to mysterious leaks in the house and even roof damage over time? Yet, so many homeowners wait until a problem arises before getting around to gutter cleaning. Homeowners should inspect and clean their gutters at least every year, with a bi-annual clean being more ideal. Experts recommend cleaning them in the spring after the pollen has fallen and in the fall after the trees shed their leaves.
- Watch Out for Leafy Trees
Do you have a tree near or hanging over your roof that has a lot of leaves, flowers or even fruits? These could shed leaves and other debris into your gutter, especially if you live in a windy area. To maintain clean gutters in these instances, experts recommend conducting an inspection every three months to see whether or not you need to get them cleaned ahead of schedule.
- Check the Drainage
No matter how determined you are to keep up with gutter cleaning maintenance, sometimes it may slip your mind. Before you know it, the rainy season is back and you have no idea if your gutters need immediate maintenance. One way to find out it is to check drainage when it rains. You may be able to see this through a window, balcony or by going outside while it rains. If water is barely running out of the downspouts, you may have a problem.
- Hire Professionals
There are many different ways to clean a gutter. Homeowners have used everything from kitchen spatulas to pressure washers. However, incorrectly using a pressure washer could cause you to damage the gutters or accidentally lose some siding material. Climbing up to or near the roof to clean gutters also creates an obvious fall risk. These are just some of the many reasons homeowners often rely on contractors.
Gutter cleaning is a dirty job, but somebody has to do it. To ensure the gutters are properly cleaned and to avoid any potential damage to your home or person, consider hiring a professional.