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Introduction
Maintaining a clean gutter system is crucial for the longevity of your home. Neglected gutters can lead to water damage, costly repairs, and even complete gutter replacements. At Equity Roofing, we recommend a bi-annual cleaning schedule - once in the spring and once in the fall. For homes with abundant tree coverage, a quarterly cleaning may be necessary.
Preparing for the Task
Before you begin, gather the following items:
- Step or extension ladder
- Buckets
- Trowel
- Leaf blower
- Garden hose
- Spray nozzle
- Level
- Drill/Screwdriver
- Work/Latex Gloves (optional)
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The Cleaning Process
Step 1: Secure Your Ladder
Place your ladder on solid ground. Attach a bucket to the side of the ladder opposite where you'll be standing for easy debris collection.
Step 2: Remove Large Debris
Climb the ladder until you can comfortably reach the gutters. Use your hands to remove large debris like leaves and twigs. We recommend wearing work gloves for this step.
Step 3: Use a Leaf Blower
Direct the leaf blower down the gutters towards the downspout, ensuring you blow the debris away from the roof to avoid lodging it under the shingles.
Step 4: Trowel Time
Use a trowel to scrape away any remaining material from the gutters.
Step 5: Flush the Gutters
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to flush the gutters. Start with a low-pressure stream, angled almost parallel to the gutters to avoid splashing mud on yourself or the shingles.
Step 6: Check for Clogs
If water isn't flowing freely through the downspout, you likely have a clog. Remove the spray nozzle and snake the hose up the downspout. Turn on full pressure to dislodge the clog.
Step 7: Inspect for Leaks
Run water through the gutters again to check for leaks. If you find any, use gutter sealant for minor repairs.
Step 8: Secure Fasteners
Ensure all gutter fasteners are securely attached to the house. Tighten any loose ones with a screwdriver or drill.
Step 9: Check the Slope
Use a level to check the slope of the gutters. They should have a slight slope towards the drain for proper water flow.
Step 10: Inspect Downspouts
Check the downspouts for any visible damage and secure their fasteners.
Pro Tips for Long-Term Gutter Health
Gutter Covers: A Worthwhile Investment
Gutter covers can be a low-maintenance addition to your gutter system, especially if your home is surrounded by trees. They can protect your gutters from accumulating leaves and debris.
Downspout Strainers: Not Recommended
While they may seem like a good idea, downspout strainers can cause more harm than good by leading to water overflow and gutter damage.
How Equity Roofing Can Assist You
If you're looking for Central PA roofers who can handle more than just gutter cleaning, Equity Roofing is here to help. We offer a range of Central Pennsylvania roofing services, from gutter maintenance to complete roof replacements. Don't hesitate to reach out to us, one of the leading roofing companies in Central PA, for all your roofing needs.
By following this definitive method for gutter cleaning, you can ensure the longevity and functionality of your home's gutter system. Happy cleaning!
Read also our blog on The Ultimate Checklist for Maintaining Your Shingle Roof.