Fall is here and it’s time to clean the gutters on your home.  Unless you have gutter protectors, maintaining gutters can be labor intensive this time of the year.  Improper gutter maintenance can lead to clogged or damaged gutters causing thousands of dollars in damage to your homes foundation, exterior trim and basements.  For some homeowners, their gutters require frequent cleaning from early November through December. Unfortunately some homeowners think that as long as it hasn’t rained, they don’t have a problem and they wait for the last leaves to fall from a tree only to have it rain before they have cleaned their gutters.  

For those who like the do-it-yourself option, gutter cleaning can be a difficult and costly project to undertake, however, it is doable. 

  • To begin, make sure you have a sturdy ladder.  If you do not own one, borrowing or renting is your next best option.  Ladders can be rented  for around $40 per day at most hardware stores. Be sure to keep away from power lines, trees, and windows while using ladders.  Another important tool to have when cleaning your gutters is a ladder stabalizer.  This ensures that you don’t slip and don’t crush your gutters in the process of cleaning. Ladder stabalizers run about $30 and can be found at most hardware stores. Now you can simply remove leaves and debris from your gutters.
  • Next, if you have gutter screens or guards remember that they do not mean that you get to skip the gutter cleanings.  Leaves blocking the gutter guards will force water over the gutters making them useless.  Be sure to clean the screens or gutter guards while your up there. You should also test the gutters to make sure they are working properly by running some water into them.
  • The next step is to be sure that the downspout is free of leaves and debris. If necessary, use a hose to clean out the downspout.
  • While cleaning your gutters, be sure to inspect them for any damages or parts that need replacing.

If you’d rather save some time and money you can always use a gutter cleaning service. Window Gang is an exceptional company right here in the area that will service your gutters.  They also provide many other home maintenece services including power washing, house washing, and window cleaning.  Click here to get a valuble printable coupon for Window Gang services.