Gutter Boyz of Kentucky wants to remind you to always maintain a “safety first,” approach to winter gutter maintenance.
In most cases, you won’t need to get up on the roof to clean or maintain gutters and downspouts, you’ll still be up on a ladder. Plus, disturbing debris and dirt can irritate or injure the eyes, hands, or exposed areas of the body.
Safety is always the first priority when performing roof or gutter maintenance. Make sure you:
- Wear safety goggles
- Don gloves
- Wear non-slip shoes
- Use a mask, especially if you’re sensitive to dust, pollen or allergies
- Observe NSC ladder safety recommendations
- Schedule ahead so you perform gutter cleaning and maintenance on a fair-weather day
- Hire a professional to do the job for gutters above the first story
Clean gutters at least twice per year
Gutters should be cleaned at least twice per year. Typically, we recommend cleaning them before the winter season, and then again in the spring. However, it’s a good idea to take a peek after any major storm. If you hear the clatter and knocks of branches, twigs, and leaves on the roof or walls due to high winds, inspecting and cleaning any obvious debris keeps gutters and downspouts clear.
Clear the roof from existing debris
Gutters primarily fill up with debris from the roof that washes down via rain or makes it was down over time via gravity. If you feel up to it, and understand “Roof Safety 101”, you can clean the roof on your own.
However, if you aren’t quite sure what to do, your roof is slippery, has steep slopes, or you live in a multi-story home, we highly recommend hiring a professional to get the job done.
Inspect gutters for rust, leaks, holes, and corroded joints
Once the gutters are cleaned, and the downspouts are free and clear (evidenced by consistent, full streams of water when you run your hose into the gutter), it’s time to inspect your gutters for any signs of rust, leaks, or holes. You’re most likely to see these at the gutter joints, where metal edges were welded together.
If the gutters look exceptionally dented, rusty, or generally dilapidated, it’s worth replacing them. Give us a call at Gutter Boyz of Kentucky for a FREE ESTIMATE.
Don’t forget the downspouts
Your gutters carry the water and debris that washes off the roof, but your downspouts do the rest of the work. Without them, all that water would drain at the base of your home, which can compromise the foundation.
Inspect the downspouts for rust, leaks, holes or corroded joints the same way you did for the gutters. Repair compromised issues, and replace any downspouts that are beyond repair. Does the runoff pool a little too close to your foundation or walkways for comfort? Take this opportunity to use downspout extenders to provide better drainage.
Let Us Do The Work For You
Many people may choose to do gutter cleaning themselves. But for times when you need professional gutter cleaning, gutter repairs or new gutter installation, we hope you will contact us at Gutter Boyz of Kentucky. You can always reach us by phone at (270) 906-3055 or CLICK HERE to contact us for a free estimate.