Nobody really enjoys cleaning out their gutters, but it’s a task that needs to be done. If you neglect your gutters for too long, you’re risking unexpected, costly damages, such as roof rot, water damage to your house, and toxic mold. It’s important to know how and when to clean gutters and spare yourself some grief that’s easily preventable.
In this guide you’ll learn the best time of the year to clean your gutters, how to properly clean them, why it’s important to do so, and the safest way to get the job done.
Gutter Cleaning Frequency
Keeping your gutters clean is essential to prevent damage and limit any deterioration from natural wear and tear. Depending on the trees and greenery around your home, we recommend cleaning gutters at least twice a year, but sometimes every 3-4 months is best.
Best Time to Clean your Gutters
Fall is the most common time of year people associate with gutter cleaning, and it really is the best time of the year to clear them. It’s crucial to stay on top of removing twigs, leaves, and other debris to avoid clogging your downspout.
The frequency of when to clean gutters depends on where you live or if a windy storm has recently kicked up debris. Some homes have a lot of trees, and if this applies to your property, it’s necessary to clean the gutters regularly.
It’s also a good idea to clean them and check for damage anytime you notice water coming into your home, pooling on your lawn, or dripping from the gutters. An infestation of mice or bugs is another sign that your gutters may have an issue. So, while you’ll be cleaning your gutters early and often in the fall, it’s also a job you’ll want to do routinely throughout the year to ensure your downspouts remain clear.
Why Gutters Need to be Cleaned
Keeping the gutters clean is one of the most important chores a homeowner has because clogged downspouts can pose so many potential problems. When gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, rainwater collects and has nowhere else to go but inside the home where it can cause severe damage. Excess moisture in your house can bring about serious issues, including a cracked foundation or mold growth, which can attract insects and rodents.
These problems can be potentially dangerous and costly, especially if more than one occurs. Putting the time and effort into routinely clearing your gutters can save a lot of extra time and money in the long run.
Safety Tips for Cleaning Gutters
Cleaning the gutters can be a dangerous job if you don’t take the proper safety precautions. If you’re afraid of heights or don’t feel safe on a ladder, then this is a job that may best be handled by a professional. If you’re comfortable tackling the job, here are some safety tips to help ensure you reduce your risk of injury.
- Use a good quality ladder
- Inspect the ladder before you use it — every time
- Have someone hold the ladder steady while you’re on it
- Keep both feet and one hand on the ladder at all times
- Inspect the gutters before you start to ensure no animals or insects have nested inside them
- Wear eye protection and gloves when cleaning the gutters
Learn about our Low Maintenance Gutter System
If you’re tired of having to clean your gutters every fall, then perhaps it’s time to consider installing a Thompson Creek gutter system. These durable and low-maintenance gutters are specially designed to keep debris out while allowing water in. Its unique hood allows leaves, twigs, and other downspout-clogging waste to slide right over the gutter instead of into it.
To learn more about our revolutionary hooded gutter system or get a free estimate for an installation, contact Thompson Creek today.