How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?
The general advice given to homeowners is to clean out gutters twice a year, once in spring and once in fall. However, some homes might need more frequent maintenance. Here’s how to determine the ideal cleaning schedule:
- Lots of Trees? If your home is surrounded by trees that shed leaves, pine needles, or seed pods, you’ll need to clean your gutters three or four times a year.
- Stormy Weather? If you’ve had a heavy storm, check your gutters afterward because wind can blow in debris and excess water might expose existing clogs.
- Ice and Snow? Ice can block gutters just as much as leaves. Inspect after winter weather to avoid water backing up into your home.
If cleaning your gutters every few months is something you want to avoid, invest in a gutter cleaning service in Princeton to make sure the job is done right.
What to Know Before You Climb the Ladder
If you want to do the job yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process safer and more effective. Here are some helpful tips.
- Gather Your Tools: You’ll want to get a good pair of gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from debris. Take a hose with a spray nozzle with you as well to flush out any remaining debris or to check the water flow. Make sure you use a sturdy ladder with a stabilizer to avoid damaging your gutters.
- Clear Out Large Debris: Next, you’ll need to use a scoop or gloved hands to remove large twigs and piles of leaves.
- Check for Clogs: Run water through your gutters to make sure they’re draining properly. If the downspouts are blocked, use a plumber’s snake or water pressure to clear them out.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for sagging sections, cracks, or rust that might need to be repaired.
If you don’t want to spend your weekend balancing on a ladder, a handyman can take care of the job and make sure your system is ready for action.
