The Number Of Times A Year You Should Be Clearing Your Gutters
Gutters may not be the most glamorous feature of your home, but neglecting them can lead to real problems. So, how often should you clean them? The answer depends on a few factors. For example, if you have a lot of trees near your home or you live in an area with heavy rainfall, you'll possibly need to clear your gutters, downspouts, and drains more frequently.
But as a general rule, you should aim to thoroughly clean them at least twice a year. Ideally, you should do this once in the spring and once in the fall. This will help ensure they're clear and can do the job. However, if you notice they are frequently clogged, you probably need to attend to them more often. The size of your home and roof can impact how often you must deal with this essential component of your home. For example, a larger house will likely need more frequent gutter cleanings than a smaller one.
When more frequent cleaning is needed
While cleaning your gutters twice a year will usually prevent clogs or other issues, sometimes a more proactive approach is warranted. For instance, if your area experiences heavy rainfall or you live in a wooded area with many trees, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently. This can be done every few months (or even more often) to ensure optimal drainage.
An excess of surrounding trees can cause leaves, twigs, and debris to accumulate on your roof, leading to more frequent clogs. On the other hand, a climate with frequent rainfall can also lead to a higher volume of debris being washed into the drainage system. Also, when it rains heavily, the water can overflow from clogged gutters, causing damage to your roof, walls, and foundation. This can lead to costly repairs. However, finding the perfect cleaning schedule for your gutters can help you avoid all these issues.
How to clean them
Now that you know how often to clean your gutters, let's discuss how to do it. You'll need a sturdy ladder, work gloves, a trowel or scoop, a bucket, a garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment, and a safety harness or rope. Clear any debris from your roof to prevent them from falling in and exacerbating the problem. Then, place your ladder on a stable, level surface and lean it against your home, not against the gutter itself. Put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from any sharp bits.
Place debris into the bucket as you go, and once you've cleared out as much as possible by hand, use the garden hose to flush out any remaining muck, leaves, and dirt. Start at the end opposite the downspout and work your way towards it, ensuring everything flows towards the downspout to be carried away. Finally, rinse the area with water.
Gutter cleaning poses some risks; if you are uncomfortable tackling the job yourself, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. For the average home, this should set you back around $200. However, this expense will undoubtedly add up if your home is situated in an area that demands frequent gutter cleanings.