In Florida, we take special care to maintain, inspect, and repair our roofs to ward off leaks, water damage, and storm damage. However, there is one part of the roof that is often overlooked in annual cleaning and maintenance: gutters. In Melbourne, Florida and other parts of Brevard, gutter cleaning and care is an essential part of maintaining curb appeal and preventing costly repairs.
That’s why Pro’s Choice Roofing has put together a short guide to answer the most common questions we hear about gutter care! In just a few minutes, you can learn how to avoid major gutter repairs and replacements while protecting your home!
Why Should Homeowners Clean Their Gutter Systems?
Gutter systems are designed to redirect water away from the house as it falls on the roof. Gutter cleaning is often forgotten or postponed, and this leads to a buildup of dirt and debris in the system over time.
Why does this matter? There are several crucial consequences of a clogged gutter. Clogged gutters don’t just look bad; they let water fall next to your home, causing erosion, foundation cracks, and leaks from moisture damage. In addition, accumulated debris weighs more than the system is designed to support, causing the gutters and fasteners to pull loose and cause water damage behind the fascia.
And finally, clogged gutters are the perfect nest location for all kinds of rodents and pests. Sitting water in a backed-up gutter will create a pond for mosquitos to breed and infest your yard. Squirrels, mice, and rats who live next to the roof will eventually try to come into your attic, and you’ll have to hire professional pest control.
How Often Should I Clean My Gutters?
You should clean your gutters any time that you see debris building up. This can be after a heavy rain or storm, especially hurricanes. If you see water overflowing (or no water from the downspouts), it’s definitely time to grab some gloves and get cleaning!
We recommend either cleaning your gutters yourself or hiring a professional twice to three times a year. The end of fall and the end of spring are good times to inspect the state of the system! If you have tons of trees on your property, however, you may need to clean more regularly.
How Can I Clean the Gutters Myself?
Gutter cleaning and care is one of the many home maintenance projects that you can do yourself. Use a heavy pair of gloves, a safe and sturdy ladder, a garden hose, and a trowel for the project. Make sure you have secured your ladder properly and take special care during the cleaning process so that you can stay safe while doing the maintenance. Safety first!
First, make sure your downspout is clear and clean, with water able to drain freely. If the downspout is clogged, use full hose pressure or a plumber’s snake tool to remove the blockage.
Then, start cleaning the gutters, removing any debris with your hands and garden trowel. The hose can be used to wash away any remaining dirt, leaves, or twigs once the gutter is clear.
Note: Always secure your ladder, and do not attempt to clean your own gutters if you have rodent nests, wasp nests, or gutters that are more than one story high. Call a professional!
When Do I Need to Replace My Gutters?
Gutters can last a long time, especially with good maintenance. But there are a few sure-fire signs that it’s time for a new set of gutters:
- Rusty Spots & Holes
- Sagging or Splitting Gutters
- Loose Fasteners
- Mold or Mildew on Wood
- Dents & Damage
If you’re looking at replacing gutters, make sure you talk with a professional local roofer about your options. Not only does a new system of gutters boost your home’s curb appeal and value, it’ll also help with protecting your home during storms and rain.
