Helpful How-To for Keeping Gutters Clean During Brisk Fall Months
Overflowing gutters can cause all kinds of problems, including leaky roofs, windows, and doors, damage to landscaping, flooding, and harm to the home’s foundation. Gutters overflow when they are clogged with leaves, sticks, shingle matter, and other debris. This can be avoided by cleaning the gutters once or twice a year.
Fall is an ideal time to care for gutters because the weather is cooler, the leaves have all fallen, and it will help prepare the home for snow and ice runoff. Read on to learn top tips for gutter care.
Get Professional Gutter Cleaning
Hiring a professional contractor to clean the gutters is a great first step, especially if it hasn’t been done in a while. A professional gutter company already has all the tools needed to get the job done quickly and safely, from ladders to spray wands to gloves. In addition, professionals are required by law to be insured in case of an accident. Falls from a ladder account for a large number of hospital visits in the fall, and homeowners can spare themselves that danger by hiring a professional.
A professional contractor will clean the gutters and downspouts from end to end, making sure water is able to flow properly to the ground. While they are up there, they will check for any damage, including loose gutters and leaking joints, and make all needed repairs.
Trim Trees Back To Reduce Falling Debris During Windy Season
Trees hanging over the roof pose a threat of falling limbs and contribute to clogged gutters. Leaves and twigs shed during windstorms will wash down the roof and become lodged in the gutters and downspouts.
To prevent this from happening, trees near the house should be carefully and routinely trimmed back. Tree trimming will help to protect the home and keep trees healthy.
Use Gutter Guards To Keep Out Debris
A gutter guard is a device that goes over or inside the gutter that allows water to pass through but catches leaves, twigs, and other debris. Keeping this debris out of gutters will prevent clogs from forming in hard-to-reach places. There are many types of gutter guards available on the market. These are just some of the options:
- Rolled plastic mesh: Commonly found in home improvement stores, this is a simple roll of rigid plastic mesh about 6 inches wide. It’s cheap and easy to install but is susceptible to coming loose or falling into the gutter under the weight of debris.
- Metal gutter cover: This thin sheet of steel has numerous small holes punched into it. It locks on top of the gutter like a lid. Although more durable than other types, it can be expensive to install around the whole roof.
- Foam gutter guard: A wedge of foam that sits inside the gutter, this guard allows water to flow through the pores in the foam while keeping debris on top to be easily wiped away. It’s very inexpensive and easy to install, but it isn’t ideal where there are a lot of trees. A layer of leaves on top of the foam will form a barrier and won’t allow sufficient water flow.
A professional plumbing contractor can evaluate the home and help homeowners choose the gutter guard that will work best in their situation.
Consult Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc.
Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc. is led by a third-generation Illinois Licensed Plumber. With decades of experience, they are the experts in gutter cleaning and plumbing service. Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc. is proud to offer upfront pricing, quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and top-rated customer service. Contact them for all general plumbing in Lombard, IL.
