The gutters on your home are probably not something you think about on a regular basis, but you’d definitely notice if they weren’t there! Gutters help drain water off of your roof and away from the foundation of your home to allow for proper drainage and lower the risk of water damage. Gutters require some regular maintenance just like anything else in or around your home. Check out these gutter cleaning basics to learn everything you need to know about gutter maintenance!
Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important
Gutter cleaning is important because gutters that aren’t clean can’t do their job properly. Gutters are prone to collecting debris like leaves and twigs that fall into the gutter system. As that debris builds up, it makes it harder for water to drain through the gutter system. This can lead to water simply spilling over the sides of the gutters instead of traveling down the downspout and away from your home’s foundation & landscaping. Blocked gutters also put you at a higher risk for ice dams in the winter, which form when melting snow can’t properly drain from your roof.
How Often Do They Need Cleaned?
Gutters should be cleaned twice each year. It’s ideal to do it once in the spring after winter has ended and again at the end of autumn before winter weather begins. Autumn is an especially hard time for your gutter system as leaves fall from the trees, so cleaning at the end of this season is essential!
How to Clean Your Gutters
Cleaning your gutters is straightforward, but oftentimes a bit difficult. You have to use a ladder to get up to the gutters and then remove the debris using gloved hands. Clear the entire gutter around your home and then flush water through the gutter system. If the water is still not flowing easily through your gutter system, there may be a blockage in the downspout that you can’t see or reach easily. Removing all debris from the gutter system is an important part of preventing water damage and prolonging the life of your roof. Despite how simple the job may sound; it can be nerve-wracking and time consuming to climb a ladder and do it all yourself!
Contact Us Today
If you’re in need of a gutter replacement for your home this summer, our team at L.I. Metal Systems is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (800) 624-3998 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your gutter installation needs!
