Gutters are vital for any house’s well-being. They protect your house’s foundation from rain and stormwater. However, many homeowners are unsure about the best time to clean their gutters.
When to Clean your Gutters
Keeping your gutters from leaves, twigs, and debris is crucial to prevent clogging the downspout. This is why many experts say that the best time to clean those gutters is during Fall. How often you clean gutters varies on your location or if a storm has kicked up some debris. If trees surround your home, it is crucial to keep the gutters clean regularly.
Furthermore, monitoring damages when water gets into your home is an excellent idea. An infestation of pests, including mosquitos or wasps, may be a sign that you should have your gutters checked and cleaned. So, while you plan to clean the gutters in the Fall, you want to check for damages throughout the year to keep your downspouts clear.
Why You Should Have Your Gutters Cleaned
Many issues arise when you don’t clean your gutters. In worst cases, the water that falls along your home’s foundation may lead to structural failure. Common problems also include driveway destruction, flooded basement, and pests are rampant when you don’t clean your gutters properly.
Pests
The breeding ground for pests and mosquitoes is no other than – stagnant water and moisture. Pests carry many diseases and can destroy your ability to relax in
your backyard. When you neglect your gutters, they become an instant breeding ground for pests and other nuisances.
Lawn Damage
Without properly working gutters, rainwater from the roof will spill over the sides. This causes ditches around the house that will cut pathways through the yard. It may also lead to flooding in low-lying areas, which can cause lawn damage.
Foundation Damage
Gutters are designed to lead the water away and protect your home’s foundation during rainfall. However, if you fail to build an operative gutter system, even the slightest rain can hammer the ground, leading to soil erosion over time. Unfortunately, over time soil erosion may lead to the structural instability of your home.
Ice and Algae
A clogged gutter can build up moss and algae. They create moisture, leading to mold and more damages to your roof. Excess water, in addition to debris, may also cause ice to form in the gutters during the winter season. The ice can become too heavy, and may cause the gutters to pull away from the house.
Safety Tips for Cleaning Gutters
Cleaning gutters can be dangerous unless you perform proper safety precautions. If you fear heights or feel unsafe using a ladder, then it would be best to let professionals handle the cleaning. On the other hand, if you prefer to do the cleaning on your own, below are the tips to keep in mind to minimize your risk of accidents and injuries.
- Use a good quality ladder
- Always inspect the ladder before using it.
- Have someone hold the ladder when using it.
- Keep both feet and one hand on the ladder.
- Inspect the gutters before you begin cleaning to ensure no pests, animals, or insects have nested.
- Always wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning the gutters.
Protect Your Home With South Shore Window Cleaners
Whether you’d like to clean the gutters yourself or coordinate with professionals, keep in mind that you must not take the task for granted. Many homeowners choose to hire professionals to avoid the hassle and keep the gutter system functional and monitored.
South Shore Window Cleaners serve many areas around Quincy, MA. We provide free quotes, and all of our services are satisfaction-guarantee. Our services also include home pressure washing, window cleaning, solar panel cleaning, and many more. Call our team today to discover your options.
