Although it is a job we would like to ignore, cleaning gutters is an essential process that all owners need to adopt at least twice a year. The mains problems as a result of the lack of gutter cleaning maintenance plan lead to rotting fascia boards, the roofing and window sills. They can also get so heavy that they’ll pull the gutters loose and rot the trim and siding.
When rainwater flows toward the foundation of your home, it weakens the structure and can cause cracking. Other factors such as moss, leaves and other debris can also penetrate the water waste system, thus increasing the possibility of obstruction. Allowing your gutters to clog with leaves, moss and other particles will lead to standing water, which is a favorite breeding site for mosquitoes and an invitation to carpenter ants.
If you have many trees around your house, you might want to clean your gutters even more frequently.
How often should you clean your gutters?
At least once a year, in the spring, twice a year if you have overhanging trees at the end of fall. Also, clean clogged gutters after big storms, or even just a couple months of wind and rain, clogs often occur where downspouts join the gutter system — check these areas carefully.
Check your gutters before you’re forecasted to get a big storm. Better to do this chore too much and keep your foundation safe than not enough.
Gutters inspection
Inspect and clean gutters in the spring and fall. The slope of the gutters may require adjustments from time to time to keep the water moving toward the gutters.
Make sure your gutters drain water away from your home. If need be, add downspout extenders so that the rainwater flows away from the foundation of your home. Other options are concrete or plastic splash blocks, which are slightly sloped and you can drain the rain away from the house at least 4 feet.
Others downspouts inspections points are for leaks, peeling paint, flaking or rust, and make sure they are attached tightly on the fascia lumber. Inspect the fascia lumber themselves for dry rot or other damage, and replace them, if necessary, with pressure treated lumber with a wood preservative that is finished to match the other boards.
Safety first
Cleaning or attempting to repair your roof rails is not recommended for those unfamiliar with the safety procedures. Some tips to keep you safe: Clean your gutters with a ladder that is firmly supported. Avoid standing on the top three steps and do not pass the side rail – no more than the belt buckle. When using a ladder to clean the gutter, use a debris bucket and another to carry tools. Use wire hooks to secure the buckets on the ladder.
Studies show that falls are the most significant cause of injuries and deaths at home. You may not realize it, but you are putting yourself at risk if you hire someone whose work is not covered by personal liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Do not let anyone come and clean your gutters, without thinking about what will happen if they get hurt. Only allow a professional, who has the expertise and insurance, to clean your gutters and keep yourself safe.
If you have questions on how can I help you on your demand, please, let me know your best schedule to make an appointment to take off your doubts or text me with your name, and the question, that I will contact you ASAP. I want to assist you in the best way is possible. If it is something that not fit me, I will tell you what kind of professional will be required to do the job.
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