Why gutters need cleaning.
Cleaning clogged gutters.
As you are planning your house and yard maintenance for the autumn don t forget an important task.
If you haven t cleaned your gutters yet do this first finishing with unclogging the downspout.
If you have pine trees near your home needles will need to be removed every three months to reduce the potential for clogging the gutters and downspouts.
Just clear the debris but before you get out the ladder check out these tips on how to clean your gutters safely.
When you reach the top opening of the downspout ask a helper down below to turn on the water.
After you pull out the dry debris use the garden hose to sluice the gutters as it will help to keep the rainwater flowing smoothly.
Gutter guards also called gutter covers gutter protection or leaf guards are primarily aimed at preventing damage caused from clogged gutters and reducing the need for regular gutter cleaning.
If you can t reach it simply disassemble the downspout and remove the clog.
The scoop and drop method.
This method is fastest and all you have to do is move the plastic tarp along the ground with you as you move the ladder.
It s essential to ensure they don t become clogged with fallen.
Reposition or repair the guttersupports.
This method involves scooping out the gutter and dropping the contents onto a plastic tarp or drop cloth lying on the ground below.
They are a common add on or included as an option for custom built homes.
Gutters need to be cleaned at least twice a year in the spring and in the fall.
If the clog occurs at an elbow or seam and you can reach it from above.
Water isn t draining from the downspouts water overflows from gutter and drips from joints gutters are clogged with leaves and needles as regular maintenance to keep them working properly.
What to know before you clean your gutters.
Clogged gutters can cause expensive roof wall foundation or landscaping damage.
In order to unclog your gutter you will need a garden hose and gloves.
Problems caused by clogged or broken gutters are expensive to fix but easy to prevent.
Climb a sturdy ladder with the end of a garden hose in one hand.
Hiring someone to clean your gutters is an option if you aren t comfortable on a ladder.
You might not ever jump and up and down with excitement to clean gutters but there are ways to make it easier on.
Your ladder should be sturdy safe and large enough for the job.