Gutters, like all other types of drain systems, need to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water that runs down onto the property’s exterior. In the worst case scenario, this will cause a foundation or other structure to spring a leak. A damaged or clogged gutter system can even fail to properly guide this waste away from your home, leading to overflowing or pooling of water which in turn can run down onto the property’s exterior or other structures. So, making certain your gutters are clean at all times and that they’re functioning properly should be a priority.

How often should I be cleaning my gutters?

This varies depending on how often you live in areas that have both rain and sunshine. For areas with little sunshine, you’ll probably want to clean your gutters less often. However, areas with very heavy rainfall will require gutter cleaning more often. Generally, however, you should clean your gutters at least every six-week period for the best results.

Where should I be cleaning my gutters?

Your gutters should be cleaned near the edge, near the main stem of the leaf. The leaf stems that stick up and away from your home collect a lot of debris and leaves, so these are the places to be cleaning. On each end, you’ll want to brush or smooth away any dirt and debris that is hanging from your gutters. Be especially careful at this point: any falling leaves could cause a build-up of soil around your downspout extensions.

Are there any special items to keep in mind when cleaning my gutters?

A word of reminder: never use a bucket, shovel or broom for cleaning your gutters. Always use a power washer and a scraper to take away any excess dirt and debris.

What types of materials can I use to clean my gutters?

You can use an old toothbrush and some soap and water to scrape off accumulated debris. If leaves are starting to get to be a problem, consider using an old towel to gently wipe away any fallen leaves and pet waste. It’s often best to use a scrubbing brush instead of a razor blade to prevent your gutters from being nicked.

Is it necessary to clean my gutter cleaning systems on a regular basis?

Regular gutter cleaning is essential to keep your gutters working properly and preventing damage to your foundation. Without cleaning your gutters on a regular basis, your gutters will clog up and create more problems down the road. If your roof is damaged from overflowing debris or from rain, you could experience foundation problems that are worse than the ones you’re currently dealing with.

Can I save money by cleaning my gutters myself?

If you have a clogged gutter, you may have to spend several dollars to clear out the mess before it happens again. If you can help to prevent that from happening, by having a regular gutter cleaning scheduled, you can save money. Gutters can become clogged from leaves, twigs, pine cones and other debris. By scheduling regular inspections, you can be sure that you’re keeping your gutters free of debris and that they’re working correctly.

Is it possible to do the gutter maintenance myself without hiring a company?

Unfortunately, it’s not. You need to understand how each type of gutter will work with respect to the structure of your home as well as the types of debris that can build up. It’s best if you contact a licensed contractor who specializes in gutters so that he or she can inspect your system for the foundation and assess how it needs to be maintained.