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How to Properly Clean Your Gutters
April 2017With the snow finally cleared up and the rainy season making a comeback, it’s important as a homeowner to undertake certain measures to ensure for a safe and stress-free season. Unfortunately, this to-do list includes one of the most often avoided chores: cleaning the gutters. While the build-up combined with the risk of being high up on a ladder isn’t desirable, at Onsite Gutter Supply, we can give you the tips and techniques to stay safe. So, grab a ladder and gloves and let’s get ready to work!
1. Recognize when it’s time to clean your gutters. If you do this regularly, it reduces the amount of time needed to clean your gutters each time around. Depending on where you live often dictates how frequently, or infrequently, you may need to clean your gutters. For example, if you house is situated under a copse of trees, then you’re likely to have a lot of build up due to fallen leaves. If you notice rain water accumulating in a certain spot or water dripping over the edge of your gutters, it’s time for you gutters to be cleaned. It is important to keep your gutters clean and free of debris because when they do not properly direct water away from your house, it could cause roof and foundation damage.
2. Safety first! It is not a good idea to clean your gutters from on top of the roof. This makes accidents and slips more likely to occur. Instead, you want to get a sturdy ladder planted firmly on the ground. Use buckets to carry your tools and hooks on the sides of your ladder as well as to hold the buckets when they’re not in use. Make sure the area underneath you is clear. Clean your gutters one section at a time and be sure not to lean too far to the left or right as this increases your risk of falling.
3. Start near the downspout.
Remove any debris like leaves, pine cones, and twigs and place them in an empty bucket for easy clean-up and disposal. Wearing long sleeves and gloves can help make this process safer and cleaner while also protecting skin from potential scrapes and cuts. You can use garden tools to loosen and remove caked on dirt and debris.
4. Use a hose to flush out any remaining dirt or particles.
If the water does not drain right away from your gutters after removing large deposits of build-up, double-check the downspout for any blockages. You may need to detatch the downspout and use a special tool to remove stubborn clogs. After removing the blockage, be sure to thoroughly rinse out any remaining dirt or gunk with a hose.
Repeat this process as often as necessary to ensure that your gutters are working properly. You may need to clean them multiple times a year. While cleaning your gutters, it’s also important to keep an eye out for any cracks or breaks in your gutters as these are warning signs that you need to get your gutters replaced. In the event that you need replacement gutters, Onsite Gutter Supply can help! Onsite Gutter Supply are the leading local company to call for all of your gutter supply needs for both commercial and residential buildings. Visit our website for an online quote! Also, check out our leaf protection systems that can eliminate the need to clean your gutters.
How Can I Prepare My Gutters For Spring?
March 2017Your gutters are an extremely important tool in the functionality of your property. They help direct countless gallons of water away from your home or commercial residence, keeping you dry and comfortable. It is imperative that you maintain your gutters to ensure that the the rest of your home is protected from unwanted flooding and water damage. With the changing of the seasons, it’s even more important to make sure your gutters are in good shape. The heavy rain and wind can wreak havoc on your gutters. Here at Onsite Gutter Supply, we have two words that can make the world of a difference for you and your wallet:
Inspection When was the last time you’ve had your gutters inspected? Before the rain really starts coming down, you want to break out the ladder and perform a full and thorough inspection, looking for anything that could potentially cause a clog. These include leaves, pine cones and needles, and twigs or even ice and other debris. You may also want to keep an eye out for any cracks or holes in the gutter systems. These are tell-tale signs that your gutters need to be replaced. If you cannot safely give your gutters a cursory inspection, we insist you call a professional.
Protection One way to save time and money is to prevent the gunk and debris from collecting in your gutters in the first place. We offer LeafProof® and Leaf Exterminator technology, both of which virtually eliminate the need to clean your gutters again! The technology is designed specifically to absorb precipitation while simultaneously blocking out any debris that falls with it.
As a home or business owner, it is essential that you immediately address and repair any gutter-related problems as they can quickly lead to bigger issues. If your gutters aren’t able to function properly, it can cause issues with your roof, foundation or even your walls and windows. After all, replacing your gutters is far less expensive than having to replace your roof and foundation. For more information about these products, visit our website. If you require quality gutter systems at an affordable price for your residential or commercial property, contact Onsite Gutter Supply today!