The Importance of Cleaning Your Home’s Gutters
Cleaning gutters is an important part of home maintenance, although it is often neglected. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage to your home’s roof and walls. In addition, they can also lead to dangerous situations if water is not able to drain properly away from your home. Failure to clean gutters regularly may lead to serious problems in the future if not repaired in a timely manner.
By cleaning your gutters regularly, you can help prevent these problems and keep your home in good condition. Cleaning gutters is also important to prevent the spread of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can cause health problems for you and your family if you do not take care of them.
Preventative Measures
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Gutter guards are an important part of your home’s exterior. They keep leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters and causing water damage to your home. Gutter guards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.
There are several types of gutter guards available on the market. The most common type is the mesh guard, which is made of metal or plastic mesh. Mesh guards are easy to install and can be customized to fit any size gutter. Another type of gutter guard is the leaf diverter, which is a piece of hardware that attaches to the end of your gutter and funnels leaves and other debris into a catchment basin. Leaf diverters are popular among homeowners who have large trees nearby and build up from the leaves.
Gutter Cleaning Safety Measures
Gutter cleaning is a common task every homeowner should perform throughout the year. Many professionals are available to provide this cleaning service, but it’s more economical to perform the task on your own. Cleaning your home’s gutters is a simple task, but many safety precautions should be taken into account before doing so. Here, you’ll find the basics of safely and professionally cleaning out your gutters.
Use a Reliable Ladder
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To properly clean gutters, you will need to utilize a trustworthy ladder. Test the ladder’s strength and functionality before using it. Always inform someone that you will be using a ladder, and if applicable, have them on standby while you perform your task.
The length and variety of ladders you need will depend on your home’s architecture. Certain homes, such as a New Jersey Cape Cod-style house, will be easier to safely clean the gutters due to their steep-pitched roofs and low-profile gutters. Buildup may be prevalent in these styles of home because debris will have less traction due to the roof’s steepness. You may only need a small step ladder to reach the gutters for this type of home.
Using a gutter scoop to clean gutters
Plastic gutter scoops are the best option to use on your gutters or gutter guards. A gutter scoop is a small tool that is designed to fit in the narrowest part of your gutters and clean out all the debris. It can be easily attached to a telescoping pole, which makes it easy to reach high gutters. Metal gutter scoops may scrape and ruin the exterior of your gutters, which can cause rust damage.
Wear Appropriate Shoes
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Some gutters will require you to access the roof. Before walking on the roof, always check for moisture, which is most prevalent in the morning. Rubber shoes are the best material to use on the roofing material and will ensure that you have a protective grip while on the roof.
Watch out for Power lines
Depending on the height of your home, your roof may be near hazardous power lines. Always pay attention to your surroundings while working on your gutters and rooftops. A Georgia raised ranch style home has an elevated rooftop that may have power lines close by. If your home has power lines that are in close range of your gutters, it may be best to hire a professional.
Protect Your Eyes and Hands
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Gutters and gutter guards are full of debris and dirt. While cleaning, this debris will become loose and have the potential to cause you harm without proper gear. Also, wear eye protection, preferably goggles, to prevent any debris from damaging your eyes. Wearing protective gloves is also very beneficial while cleaning cutters as it prevents debris from penetrating your skin and damaging your hands.
You Can Do It
Cleaning your gutters plays a vital role in your home’s quality and safety. Specific measures like installing gutter guards and following safety precautions can make gutter cleaning an easy task for just about anyone. If a task seems out of your scope and ability, always consult a professional to finish the job.
