Cleaning Clogged Gutters

If you haven t cleaned your gutters yet do this first finishing with unclogging the downspout.

Cleaning clogged gutters.

This method is fastest and all you have to do is move the plastic tarp along the ground with you as you move the ladder. The scoop and drop method. This method involves scooping out the gutter and dropping the contents onto a plastic tarp or drop cloth lying on the ground below. Gutters need to be cleaned at least twice a year in the spring and in the fall.

Just clear the debris but before you get out the ladder check out these tips on how to clean your gutters safely. If you have pine trees near your home needles will need to be removed every three months to reduce the potential for clogging the gutters and downspouts. What to know before you clean your gutters. As you are planning your house and yard maintenance for the autumn don t forget an important task.

If water flows out of the bottom carrying leaf debris with it your job is complete. Why gutters need cleaning. Try to free the obstruction with a stick plumbing snake or pressure washer outfitted with a telescoping wand. In order to unclog your gutter you will need a garden hose and gloves.

Problems caused by clogged or broken gutters are expensive to fix but easy to prevent. When you reach the top opening of the downspout ask a helper down below to turn on the water. Water isn t draining from the downspouts water overflows from gutter and drips from joints gutters are clogged with leaves and needles as regular maintenance to keep them working properly. Gutter guards also called gutter covers gutter protection or leaf guards are primarily aimed at preventing damage caused from clogged gutters and reducing the need for regular gutter cleaning.

Climb a sturdy ladder with the end of a garden hose in one hand. If the clog occurs at an elbow or seam and you can reach it from above. Reposition or repair the guttersupports. Clogged gutters can cause expensive roof wall foundation or landscaping damage.

Your ladder should be sturdy safe and large enough for the job. You might not ever jump and up and down with excitement to clean gutters but there are ways to make it easier on. They are a common add on or included as an option for custom built homes. Hiring someone to clean your gutters is an option if you aren t comfortable on a ladder.

In addition it will help to keep the weight off the structure of the gutter.