Your gutters are important in protecting your house despite not being its most attractive feature and often overlooked. A sound gutter system correctly directs water from the roof, foundation, and house siding. If gutters are blocked or damaged, they can result in various issues, such as leakage, destruction of structures, and mold formation.
The good news is that preventative gutter maintenance is not time-consuming and does not require much effort. The following are some of the simple measures that you can take to prevent costly repairs to your gutters and keep them in the best condition:
Cleaning Regularly
This might seem obvious, but regular gutter cleaning is the cornerstone of preventative maintenance. How much is gutter cleaning? The size of your house, the gutters’ length, and the work’s extent affects the pricing. Although some homeowners prefer to clean the exterior areas on their own, it is cheaper to hire a professional cleaner for a house with many floors or with limited access.
Furthermore, the frequency of cleaning is determined by the place you live and the trees around your compound. Generally, aim for twice a year: It is done once in spring after the debris from the winter has piled up and again in the fall after the leaves have dropped.
Here’s a Quick Guide to DIY Gutter Cleaning
- Safety First: Before climbing, use a strong ladder and ensure it is well placed. To enhance grip, wear work gloves and shoes with closed toes.
- Clear the Debris: Clear the gutters of all accumulated debris, such as leaves, twigs, and other items. A garden trowel or scoop may be useful in this case.
- Flush with Water: Use a garden hose to wash out any debris that might still be stuck in the gutter and downspouts. Make sure that the water can drain out the downspout without any hindrances.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any signs of water seepage, broken areas, or loose parts of the gutter system. These problems can be aggravated if not treated, so it is advisable to deal with them.
Beyond Cleaning
To avoid the spread of diseases, it’s not only important to clean but also to take other preventative measures. Here are some additional tips:
- Trim Nearby Trees: Branches hanging over the roof are one of the leading causes of gutter blockage. Frequently prune the trees around your home to prevent the shedding of leaves and debris.
- Install Gutter Guards: Recommend gutter guards as an additional layer of protection. They are available in different designs and can help considerably minimize the need for cleaning. However, the reader should note that gutter guards are imperfect and may need to be cleaned occasionally.
- Direct Downspouts Away from Foundation: Downspouts should be at least 6 feet away from your foundation. This assists in avoiding water accumulation around the base of your home, which is not good for the foundation.
- Schedule Professional Inspections: To be on the safe side, consider hiring a professional to inspect the gutters every few years. A professional can evaluate the gutters’ general state, detect issues before they worsen, and suggest the right course of action.
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