Fall is an important time to check your gutters and of course, gutter cleaning.
All the accumulated leaves and water can freeze and cause heavyweight buildup that can weaken not only the gutters, but also your roof.
It can also cause further damage to the gutter system like rust and mold growth, which is why annual gutter cleaning is important.
3 Signs You Need Gutter Cleaning
Water Leak or Overflow
When there is water overflowing over your gutter or leaks from the seams, it’s time to get it cleaned.
It can be caused by a bad seal or a clog in the downspout. The water will go through any crack so it’s important to repair even small leaks.
Accumulation of Leaves
Huge piles of leaves in the gutter is also a sign that you need gutter cleaning.
Not only can it cause the accumulation of other debris and water, but it can also lead to mold growth that can damage your roof.
Clogged Downspouts
One of the best ways to check if your gutters are clogged is by checking them when raining. If there are any spills, then something is wrong.
Also, you can check the downspouts to ensure that the system is running properly.
If there’s no water coming out of the downspout, then it’s probably clogged.
Once these signs show up in your gutter system, it’s time to do some simple gutter cleaning.
You Should Also Read: Gutter Cleaning: How Often Should I Clean My Gutters
Here are some tips for a proper gutter cleaning.
4 Tips For Cleaning Your Gutter System
Remove Any Debris
Clean out leaves and other debris by using a garden trowel or a gutter scoop. This will prevent any clogs and damage.
Make sure it’s the right size to effectively scoop out all debris.
Also, ensure you use a sturdy ladder in inspecting and cleaning your gutter.
Always prioritize safety by choosing a footed ladder or having someone around who will hold it to keep it in place.
Flush Out Your Gutters
Once the gutters are clear, flush them out including the downspouts using a garden hose.
This will ensure they are clear and it can also help in checking if there are any leaks.
Repair Small Leaks
If there are leaks, you can fix them using a flexible and water-resistant sealant that will create a protective barrier.
Once the gutter or downspout is clean, wear protective gloves and apply the sealant with steady pressure.
After pressing the parts firmly, the seal should work after 24 hours.
Tighten the Gutters
Most gutters have a spike that’s attached to a piece of wood called the fascia board. Over time, the gutters pull away from the board that causes leaks.
To tighten, you can use a small hammer to join the spike with the board. This will make the gutter more sturdy and effective.
These are some basic gutter maintenance tips that every homeowner needs to know, particularly as we start transitioning into cooler weather.
However, for more complex problems with your gutters, call a gutter repair company for proper maintenance
Expert Gutter Cleaning Services
Magic Construction Minnesota offers professional gutter cleaning services using effective techniques that will make your gutters clean and efficient.
Get a quote today by calling (612)-239-4723 or filling out our online form.
