Newly built or old homes certainly need protection against water issues. Several homes have gutters that direct rainwater from the roof and through the downspouts. This water drainage system helps to direct water for gardening or to get it away from the house.
You need to maintain the function of your drainage system, and you can only achieve this by regular gutter cleaning. Gutter cleaning requires a level of knowledge and technical know-how of some tools. The end is to prevent water damage. Although you can clean your gutters yourself, a better option is hiring professionals. Here’s how you can clean your gutters by yourself.
The first step is to inspect your gutters. Check the current state to ascertain if there is a need to clean. If there’s a need, note how dirty your gutters are and how much work needs to be done.
Some of the essential tools for gutter cleaning include;
These tools would suffice for a simple gutter routine. More advanced tools would be a plumbing snake for a blocked downspout. If your cleaning is minimal, make do with the few tools you have. Otherwise, request the services of an expert Seattle gutter cleaner for recurring maintenance.
Ensure your tools are in good condition. For example, choose a sturdy and stable ladder. One thing you want to do is to wear your safety gear, from puncture-resistant gloves to shoes that will prevent slipping.
Next, visually inspect the electrical wiring and check for loose wires. Be mindful of these wiring around your roof. Also, check and remove loose nails that could be harmful during cleaning.
Beginning at one end, gently remove leaves, twigs, and dust in the gutters. When you encounter any packed-in material in the gutter, gently push it out with your hand trowel. Clear out your gutter in parts, and morning the ladder as you cover each part.
Repeat the process until you get to the strainer at the downspout. Remove the debris on the strainer and you should have a clear gutter now. Lastly, use the pressure washing techniques to flush out heavier debris.
At this point, you may notice that water isn’t draining well or is backing up. This means you need to remove blockages in your downpipes. To remove the blockages, begin by placing a bucket at the open end of the pipe. Spray water using a garden hose with high pressure up the pipe to push out the blockage.
Another way to clear blockages is to use a plumbing snake or drain auger. Feed these tools through the downspout and use them to dislodge debris stuck inside. You may need to detach the gutters if the blockage persists.
The initial inspection was to check the extent of dirt in the gutters. This second inspection is to check the function of the drainage system. So, look out for signs of wear and tear. Check for holes, cracks, corrosion in metal gutters, or brittleness in plastic gutters.
As you pass water through the gutter, thoroughly look out for leaks. Remember that the purpose of having gutters is to prevent water damage. If you notice water dripping along the gutter, that is a sign of a crack that needs repair.
Regular gutter cleaning may seem simple, but there are some technicalities to it. A homeowner may not have some of the tools necessary for repairing gutter damages. In cases like this, a professional is more suited for the job.
Considering safety, you are at risk of falling from a faulty ladder. However, this is not possible with professionals as they regularly audit their tools to ensure they’re in good condition. They keep you at peace while they do the work.
When an expert gutter cleaner inspects, he discovers some issues that you may have overlooked. They detect and proffer solutions to issues like damaged sections, loose fasteners, and drainage problems.
Hiring a Seattle gutter cleaner saves time and cost. They come in for cleaning, giving you time to attend to other important tasks. Improper cleaning can lead to costly repairs.
Professional gutter cleaners do a great job of protecting your home from water damage. Of the many gutter cleaning services in Seattle, West Seattle Gutter Cleaner is the company you can trust. We are a team of experienced and well-trained cleaners committed to keeping your gutters clean all year round. With the right tools and techniques, we offer quality cleaning services. So, book a consultation now to begin a stress-free cleaning journey with us.
Should I Repair or Replace the Gutters?
The decision is determined by several factors, including the condition and the extent of the damage. If the damage is minor as in an isolated gutter leak, you can repair such using a strong sealant. However, if the damage is major as in events where your gutters are sagging, or pulling away from the house, replacement is the better option.
What Is the Best Way to Keep Gutters Clean?
You can keep your gutters clean by maintaining a regular cleaning schedule. Start with cleaning twice a year, which is the recommended number, and also clean during special seasons. Also, you can install gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters.
What Is the Fastest Way to Clean Gutters?
The fastest way to clean gutters could be by using smart tools like a telescopic gutter cleaner or a leaf blower with a gutter cleaning attachment. Another fast way is to hire a professional gutter cleaning service to complete the job efficiently and safely.
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