Your gutters are one of the most important parts of your home’s exterior. They ensure proper drainage from rain and snow, protect your lawn and roof, and help you avoid water damage that would otherwise lead to mold and foundation damage. Furthermore, gutters help ensure that leaves and other debris are safely routed from your roof to prevent stagnation and buildup.
While they’re equipped to work without help, gutters still need occasional care. This gutter maintenance guide will explain how to clean your gutters to keep them working year-round.
How To Clean Gutters
Gutter maintenance isn’t anyone’s favorite chore, but it is essential. Without regular cleaning, gutters can become clogged with debris that ultimately makes them too heavy, inhibits their ability to drain water through downspouts, and puts your home at risk. Cleaning gutters can be easy if you follow these steps.
Prioritize Safety
Make sure you have a sturdy ladder, wear protective gloves, and have someone else present to assist you if needed. Avoid leaning the ladder against the gutters, as this can cause damage. While you are cleaning gutters, make sure to keep the area below you clear of any obstacles and free from pets and children.
If you have limited mobility, vertigo, or feel uncomfortable cleaning your gutters yourself, call a professional.
Clear Away Debris
Leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in gutters over time. Clean your gutters with a gutter scoop or trowel, and dispose of any waste in a garbage bag or compost pile. Avoid leaving debris on your lawn, as this can attract pests.
Rinse Gutters
Use a garden hose to rinse any remaining debris and dirt from the gutters. This will help ensure water can flow freely through the gutters and downspouts.
Check for Leaks
While cleaning the gutters, take the time to inspect them for any leaks or damage. Look for loose or sagging gutters and any holes or cracks that may need to be repaired. If you spot warning signs, call Windlickers Roofing & Exteriors. We offer fast, affordable gutter repair to protect your home and family.
Trim Overhanging Trees
Trim overhanging branches to avoid them dropping leaves and twigs into your gutters. A professional can also assist with this task if you do not have the skills or equipment.
Installing Gutter Guards
For added protection, consider installing gutter guards to help prevent debris from accumulating in your gutters. When choosing gutter guards, consider the type of debris in your area and choose a guard with a mesh covering that will block it effectively.
By following these steps, you can help maintain the cleanliness and functionality of your gutters, ultimately protecting your home from potential water damage and costly repairs. If you prefer to leave gutter cleaning to the professionals, our exterior company is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a gutter cleaning in Oconomowoc, WI.
What Is Involved in Gutter Maintenance?
Gutter maintenance involves a few key tasks to keep your gutters clean and functioning properly. Here are some of the things involved in gutter maintenance:
1. Cleaning: One of the most important tasks in gutter maintenance is cleaning out debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt that can accumulate in the gutters. This can be done by hand or with a gutter cleaning tool.
2. Inspection: Regularly inspect your gutters for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose fasteners. This will help identify issues early on before they become more serious.
3. Repair: If you notice any damage during your inspection, make the necessary repairs to ensure your gutters are in good working condition. This may involve patching holes, reattaching loose sections, or replacing damaged parts.
4. Clearing downspouts: In addition to cleaning the gutters, it is important to also clear out the downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Use a plumber’s snake or hose to remove any blockages.
5. Landscaping: Trim back any overhanging branches or foliage that could potentially clog the gutters or cause damage.
By regularly performing these tasks, you can help prevent water damage to your home and extend the life of your gutters. Regular gutter maintenance can also help prevent mold growth, foundation damage, and erosion around your home.
How Often Should I Clean My Gutters?
Cleaning your gutters twice a year is ideal for maintaining optimal drainage. More frequent cleaning may be necessary in areas with a high amount of trees or frequent storms. Regular maintenance can help prevent water damage to the home and extend the life of the gutters. It is also important to inspect gutters for any signs of damage or other issues while cleaning so that they can be addressed promptly.
Signs You Should Call a Professional for Gutter Maintenance
- Overflowing gutters: If you notice water pouring over the edges of your gutters during a rainstorm, it could indicate a clog or blockage that needs to be addressed by a professional.
- Sagging gutters: Gutters that are pulling away from the roof line or appear to be hanging lower than usual may be a sign of damage or deterioration that requires the expertise of a professional gutter maintenance provider.
- Cracks or holes: Inspect your gutters for any visible cracks, holes, or rust spots that may compromise their ability to properly divert water away from your home. These issues can worsen over time if not addressed promptly by a professional.
- Peeling paint or water stains: Water damage on the exterior of your home, such as peeling paint or water stains on the siding, could result from faulty gutters that are not effectively directing water away from the foundation. A professional can assess the situation and recommend the necessary repairs.
- Mold or mildew growth: Excessive moisture buildup in your gutters can create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew on or around your gutters, it’s best to call a professional to address the issue and prevent further damage to your home.
Is It Worth It To Clean Your Own Gutters?
While it is possible to clean your own gutters, it can be a risky and time-consuming task that may be better left to a professional. Hiring a professional gutter cleaning service ensures that the job is done safely and efficiently without putting yourself at risk of injury from climbing ladders or working at heights.
Additionally, professionals have the equipment and expertise to thoroughly clean and inspect your gutters, identifying potential issues before they become costly problems. Ultimately, the peace of mind and convenience of hiring a professional may outweigh the cost of doing it yourself.
Professional Gutter Cleaning in Oconomowoc, WI
At Windlickers Roofing & Exteriors, we offer comprehensive gutter cleaning, maintenance, and repair services for all your needs. Our team has been helping homeowners throughout the Oconomowoc area care for their homes since 1996.
If you would like to request a free quote, you can call us at 414-531-1729 or send us a message. We’ll happily answer any questions and offer thorough service to safeguard your gutters and home.
