Home gutters play an essential role in protecting the home’s landscape and siding from rainwater. But when the gutters get clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris, the water overflows and can damage the structure and foundation of your home.
With this, it is important to keep the gutters debris-free. Caring for your home gutters does not only guarantee a well-maintained gutter system. It also means that you’re extending the life span of your gutters. Here are tips on how to clean and care for your gutters!
Gutter cleaning should be done at least once a year, preferably in the fall. Although the number of times you can clean your gutters still depends on you and where you live. If you live in a place surrounded by trees and branches, you might want to consider cleaning your gutters every 3 months.
WHEN TO CONSIDER CLEANING YOUR GUTTERS:
- Water accumulating near your house and around the foundations
- Gutter leaking in dry weather
- Sagging gutters
How to Clean Your Gutters
It is important to prepare for when you clean your gutters. Make sure you are wearing the appropriate clothing and gather all the equipment you’ll need for the job. Among the equipment you’ll need includes:
1. Thick, protective gloves to protect your hands
2. A trowel and stiff-bristled brush to get rid of debris
3. Flashlight, if necessary
Once you have everything ready, make sure to set up your ladder on a sturdy surface. Ladder stabilizers can be used to prevent damage to the gutters.
Start with cleaning the downspouts first before removing leaves, twigs, and gunk from the gutters. Make sure to set up a tarp underneath to collect the goop. You can use gutter scoops, sandbox shovels, and old plastic kitchen spatulas for this. When the debris is removed, hose down the gutters. This usually helps loosen clogging and identify leaks.
If the job is taking too long to finish, you always have the option to get a gutter cleaning robot to do the job for you!
Added Protection and Repair
1. Gutter Guards
Gutter guards stop larger debris from entering the gutters, while water freely flows through the mesh-like screens. These usually cost between $7 and $10 per linear foot.
2. Gutter Splash Guards
Splash guards shield your home foundation from splashing water. They act as upward extensions of your gutters this helps in controlling water flow. For $5 per linear foot, you can prevent water build-up in unwanted places!
3. Gutter Hangers
Gutter hangers provide security and support to the gutter system. The pricing depends on the material used and the linear feet.
4. Gutter Aprons
Gutter aprons are long pieces of folded metal that are installed along the edge of your roof. They hang into the gutter and prevent water from dripping onto the walls. Installation costs run from $5 to $7 per linear foot.
Bottom Line
Water damage can be a costly repair, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Be proactive by cleaning and caring for your gutter system. If you have the extra cash, invest in installing added protection to your home, especially gutters.
If you are considering having your gutters cleaned by professionals, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Home Pros US. Click the “Free Quote” button below to get a free estimate on the projected costs!
