How to Clean Gutters
Your home’s gutters are an important system that prevents water damage by diverting rainwater and snowmelt away from your home and foundation. It is crucial to keep your gutters clean and functional to protect your home.
How often you need to clean your gutters depends on your region’s climate and the density of trees. In general, it is recommended to clean your gutters at least twice a year, in spring and fall.
Cleaning your gutters is a simple process that requires a bit of time and effort. All you need is a ladder, a bucket, a garden hose, and some gloves.
Here are the steps on how to clean your gutters:
- Safely get on the ladder. Make sure the ladder is sturdy and placed on level ground.
- Remove all leaves, twigs, and other debris from the gutters and place them in the bucket. You can use a garden trowel to scrape out debris that is difficult to reach by hand.
- Rinse the gutters with a garden hose. This will help remove any remaining dirt and debris.
- Check the downspout. Make sure the downspout is not clogged. If it is, you can use a snake to clean it out.
- Safely get off the ladder.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when cleaning your gutters:
- Never get on a ladder when it is wet.
- If you are using a tall ladder, have someone hold the ladder for you.
- If your gutters are very dirty or clogged, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Regularly cleaning your gutters will help protect your home from water damage and extend the lifespan of your gutters.
