Gutter cleaning is another one of those annoying but necessary home maintenance jobs, definitely not something to be overlooked. In order for gutters to properly function, there cannot be any clogging debris that would render them useless. Rotting vegetation in the gutters not only smells bad and draw insects; it causes unsightly stains on both roofing and siding material. A thorough, semi-annual cleaning is needed, which can often be done as a simple DIY project. It is also a good idea to get it done by local roofing contractors so that it is done properly in minimal time.
For the DIY people out there, gutter cleaning is not that difficult with the right knowledge and equipment, taking only a few hours to complete depending upon the size of the roof. Gutters that are particularly difficult to reach should probably be left to the professionals for the sake of safety.
Step-by-Step Process
Following is a detailed list of each action that should be taken to properly clean gutters twice a year.
- Clean Debris – Using a small garden trowel and a bucket, collect any debris stuck in the gutters that may impede the flow of water from the roof. An extension ladder is the most stable means of getting up high enough to do this, although it limits the area that can be cleaned at one time. Position the ladder, clean out a few feet of gutter, then get down and move the ladder to reach the next few feet. It may take a few extra minutes, but it is much safer than attempting to reach too far and risking a fall by a shifting ladder.
- Rinse With Water – Once the eaves troughs are clear of any solid material, they should be flushed out using a garden hose starting from the highest end. This will rinse away any leftover material as well as indicate if there is anything creating a blockage. Many times material collects at the joints and elbows, so particular care should be taken in these areas. This is also a good time to ensure all parts are still properly attached.
- Remove Blockage – If there are no blockages after a thorough rinsing, the gutter should be clean and ready for another six months. If there is evidence of slow drainage or a blockage, remove it with a trowel and some water pressure or with the help of a plumber’s snake. A wire coat hanger can also be used if there is no access to a snake. In any case, be careful not to use too much pressure as to actually damage the gutter or push it out of position. Once any blockages have been cleared, rinse the entire system again to ensure it is clean.
- Cleaning Frequency – A cleaning every six months is generally sufficient, once in the early spring and again in late fall; however, climate and foliage may require this schedule to be adjusted. In drier climates and regions with few trees or other foliage around the house, a once yearly cleaning is probably sufficient. In very wet climates or where homes are located with dense woods around, it is possible that an extra cleaning may be necessary which will help make the job easier to handle each time it is done.
Professional contractors can advise about necessary gutter cleaning frequency and can be scheduled to come out at specific times of the year and take care of the job for their customers to handle this task. The main idea is to keep all of the eaves troughs clear of anything that could cause a blockage and create a drainage issue. The more frequently the cleaning is done, the easier it will be. That is the basic information about Gutter Cleaning 101!
Call Schulte Roofing For the Best College Station roofing contractor Services!
Do you need to find a College Station roofing contractor company to clean your eaves troughs? Contact Schulte Roofing at 800-367-7663 – they can help College Station area customers have clean and free flowing gutters in no time!