Gutter hygiene is very important for maintaining the overall functionality of your roof, to enable effective water runoff and prevent damage.
It is generally recommended that homeowners get their gutters professionally cleaned at least once to twice a year, but preferably every season. That being said, there are always issues that can arise and debris that can accumulate in between cleaning sessions, even if they occur regularly.
For this reason, it’s important to also enact your own at-home gutter cleaning methods to maintain their state in between professional cleaning sessions. While gutter repairs are inevitable, keeping your gutter tidy can help minimize the frequency in which you need upkeep.
Why Do You Need to Clean Your Gutters?
Gutter cleaning is one easy way to ensure that your roof remains in tip-top condition despite erratic weather. The biggest concern that can come as a result of dirty gutters is a blockage, which can then cause water damage within your home.
When blocked gutters overflow, water may begin to enter your home, which can then lead to major structural damage. Any sort of roof leak is apt to cause wood or plaster deterioration, mold, or even foundational issues.
Blocked gutters result in standing water, which may attract pests such as mosquitoes, flies, or termites to your home. Meanwhile, gutters full of leaves or dirt are prone to attracting rats and mice.
Full or clogged gutters are also highly prone to deterioration themselves, which means that you will be forced to repair or replace your gutters and timber fascia. This is a timely and sometimes expensive process that can be avoided with basic gutter cleaning management.
The Best Ways to Maintain Your Gutters
There are many effective ways to maintain the cleanliness of the gutters. Some are practices you can do on your own while others require professional assistance. Additionally, certain methods are more relevant at certain times of the year. If you can follow at least some of these tips, you’ll be in good shape, but even better if you can follow them all!
Spring/Autumn
- Properly prune any trees surrounding your home: Trees are a great way to boost your home’s appeal, but can easily clog up your gutters if you are not careful– especially in transitional seasons when leaves are changing and shedding. Trimmed-back trees are less likely to cause concern regarding your gutters.
- Install a mesh screen – Gutter Guard: These screens sit on top of your gutters; They allow water through them but block pests and larger debris such as dirt and leave them from getting trapped inside. They are relatively inexpensive and can be easily installed by any professional roof plumbing specialist.
