Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Water getting in the home is the cause of 20% of the damage that happens in homes.
If you have any structural cracks or vulnerable areas, water can wreak havoc on your home. Luckily, gutters will help direct water away from your home. So, how often should you clean your gutters?
Keep reading to learn more about this important chore!
In This Post:
How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?
A traditional gutter should be cleaned no less than twice per year.
Cleaning the gutters twice per year will save you money in the long run. Failing to clean your gutters will result in costly home repairs.
The Importance of Cleaning Your Gutters
The purpose of your gutters is to keep water away from your home.
The gutters will capture rainwater and direct it away from your home. Your gutters naturally collect debris in the form of leaves and branches, so it’s important to clear this out. If you don’t clear the debris from your gutters, rainwater will leak over the sides and pool up along the side of your house.
If you have any foundational problems or windows leading to a basement, the water may leak in, flooding your basement.
Also, leaving the debris in your gutter will create an ideal home for pests. Rodents, mosquitos, and bees will take over the gutter if there’s material for them to build around.
Keeping debris out of the gutter will remove the materials that pests can build nests and habitats out of. So, for the health and safety of your family, it’s important to keep the gutters cleared out.
What You Need to Clean Your Gutters
If you’re choosing to clear out your gutters yourself, there are a few different tools you’ll need.
Gutter cleaning can be a messy and dangerous job if you don’t have the right tools. Before you clean your gutters, stock up with:
- A scrubbing brush
- Gloves
- A hose with a spraying head
- A face mask
- A ladder that is strong and sturdy
- A helper if available
When you’re using your ladder to clean the gutters, make sure that you stay on the ladder. Don’t try to climb onto your roof and lean over to clean the gutters. Not only is the ladder safer, but it’s better for the structure of your roof.
Don’t get on a ladder if the ground is wet. Your shoes may get wet, causing you to slip. Also, make sure you’re wearing shoes with a strong grip.
Gutter-Cleaning Tips
Now that you know the importance and safety concerns, here are some other tips for cleaning your gutters:
- Look for damage or abnormalities as you clean
- Don’t pull or lean on your gutters for support
- If there are pests living in your gutter call a professional for help
As long as you’re cautious and observant, cleaning your gutters is a pretty simple task.
Are You Ready to Clean Your Gutters?
Keeping your gutters clean is important for the health of your family and house structure.
Don’t skip this important step as a homeowner, or you may find yourself paying for it down the road.
If you loved this article, check out our other home content!
