Winter may not be here just yet, but it is always a good idea to prepare early for the cold, snowy months ahead. And if you have dirty gutters on your property, you should consider cleaning them sooner rather than later. Gutters not only help prevent water damage to your foundation but also serve as a drainage system for your roof. If blocked, gutters can cause serious issues inside your home, leading to expensive repairs.
Clean your house gutters like a pro by following these 5 easy steps:
- Remove gunk or debris from the gutters.
The first step in gutter cleaning is to remove gunk or debris from the gutters. Make sure to use a sturdy ladder for the job. When using your hands to get the dirt out of your gutters, be sure to put your gloves on. You can also use a plastic scoop or a garden trowel.
- Flush the gutters with water.
To get rid of the remaining dirt, use a garden hose to flush the gutters and the downspouts. This step will require you to wear safety glasses. Remember to spray carefully to prevent damaging the structure or its parts.
- Carefully inspect the gutters for other blockages.
Next, double-check your gutters for other blockages that could prevent water from flowing freely. If your downspouts get clogged, you can use a plumber’s snake to solve the problem.
- Look for loose fasteners.
To check if your gutters are properly attached to your house, you should inspect each fastener. You may use support hangers to reinforce attachment.
- Seal leaks
Lastly, do not forget to seal leaks in your gutters. Sealing gutter leaks with caulk prevents your gutters from overflowing in heavy rains, flooding your deck or patio, or even blowing off in high winds.
Ask for help from a licensed plumbing contractor.
The first step to healthy, long-term gutters is to hire a licensed plumbing contractor with experience in home gutter systems. Don’t risk the job of maintaining your house’s gutters yourself. Consult the pros today!
