Congratulations! Your new gutter system from Best Coast Roofing is installed and ready to catch rainwater and guide it away from your roof and home's foundation. The next step is learning how to maintain your new gutters for years to come and protect your investment.
You may have chosen to add a product for your gutters, like a guard, screen, or cover that helps prevent debris (leaves, needles, twigs, etc.) from collecting in the gutter. The extra upfront cost will save you time, money, and the hassle of cleaning heavily clogged gutters. Don't worry, though, if your gutters are open or covered, new or existing; here are a few tips to keep them at their best.
Routinely Check for Clogs and Debris
Checking for clogs and debris is one of the most important things you can do to keep things in good working order. A general rule is to walk around your home to inspect the system and use a ladder to check inside your gutters twice a year, fall and spring. Don't forget the downspouts! You may need to check more frequently if you live in a heavily wooded area.
Sometimes life gets in the way, and you only notice an issue with your gutters (or roof) when something is wrong or while you walk back from the mailbox and get a different perspective. Here are a few red flags you might see that can indicate clogged gutters:
Rainwater flows over the gutter lip
You only hear drips, trickles, or splashes, in the gutter or a downspout
Birds or other critters have built a nest
Moss or other vegetation is visible over the edge of the gutter
Keep Gutters Clean
Since gutters work best when they aren't blocked by debris, keeping them clean is important. You can hire a professional to do the job or do it yourself. There are many tools available to assist you with this task; some help sweep out debris and flush out the sediment with water while standing on the ground, and some are intended to be used while on a ladder, like handheld gutter scoops.
Here is a basic DIY how-to for cleaning gutters:
Gather your tools. You will need a ladder, a bucket, a gutter scoop or gloves, a garden hose, and safety glasses.
Be safe. When cleaning your gutters, wear protective glasses and use a ladder that is the correct height for the job, placed on level ground and not leaning against your home.
Use the gutter scoop or gloved hands to remove large debris from the gutters. You can also use a leaf blower or wet/dry vacuum to help with this.
Flush the gutters with the garden hose. This will help move along any remaining debris and dirt.
Make sure the downspouts are clear and free of debris. If they are clogged, use a plumber's snake to clear them.
Dispose of the debris in your compost bin.
Make Repairs As Needed
Over time, you may need to repair your gutters or hire someone to do so. This includes patching small holes, sealing leaks and tears, or even replacing sections damaged by the elements like heavy snow or fallen tree limbs. Reduce the impact of these issues by making repairs right away.
Prevent Gutter Damage
If there are trees near your gutters, trim back any overhanging branches. This will minimize the accumulation of leaves and branches in your gutters, lessening the risk of clogs and damage.
Regular maintenance will help your gutters function optimally and protect your home and investment. If you're interested in new gutters for your home, contact us at 971-804-2207 for a free estimate. We'll gladly assess your situation and share our recommendations.
Best Coast Roofing offers traditional seamless steel and aluminum gutters, custom-made on-site, in various colors. Gutter guards can also be customized and installed to keep your gutters from getting clogged with dirt, debris, and water.