Gutters might not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they play a vital role in keeping it safe from water damage. Since regular cleaning can be a hassle, some specific gutters come with guards that help to prevent clogs. However, this does not mean you never have to clean the gutters.
In this blog post, we’ll explain why and how often you need to clean your covered gutters. We’ll also discuss the dos and don’ts of gutter cleaning to help keep your gutters in excellent condition for years to come.
Why Do Covered Gutters Need Cleaning?
Covered gutters need cleaning, but not as much as uncovered gutters. Whether you have LeafGuard gutters to sift pine needles or micro-mesh gutter guards to filter the tiniest grains, your gutters still need to be cleaned at least twice a year. Otherwise, issues such as a musty smell, mold, and algae can reduce the effectiveness and lifespan of your roof’s gutter system.
When it comes to uncovered gutters, they need to be cleaned every week or once a month, depending on your area’s climate and local surroundings. So, cleaning covered gutters twice a year is a much better option for homeowners who would prefer to spend less time maintaining their gutter system.
Now let’s understand when it is necessary to clean your covered gutters.
How Often Should You Clean Gutters With Gutter Guards?
According to most homeowners associations and roofing organizations, it is necessary to clean gutters at least twice a year if they have gutter guards. However, the cleaning frequency depends on several factors, including the type of gutter guard you have, the amount of debris that frequently falls into your gutters and the climate. If you live in an area with high humidity or stormy weather, you may need to clean your covered gutters every season. The best time to do the cleaning is before winter sets or after a storm hits the area.
If you are still confused as to why you should clean covered gutters, let’s take a look at what happens if you don’t clean them for a long time.
What Happens if You Don’t Clean Gutters With Gutter Guards?
Over time, small debris like dirt, pollen, and organic matter can build up on the gutter guard, creating a layer that blocks water from flowing freely off the roof. This can lead to significant water damage to your home’s foundation, landscaping, and siding.
Another issue with covered gutters is the potential for mold and mildew growth. The accumulation of moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to thrive, which not only looks unsightly but can also cause health problems.
Finally, most insurance companies and home appraisers consider roof and gutter maintenance in their approval process for a claim. Unclean or clogged gutters can reduce the resale value of your home and void your insurance claim in the case of water damage to your roof.
If you want to learn more about cleaning gutters with gutter guards, here are some procedures you can follow.
How To Clean Gutters With Gutter Guards
Cleaning gutters with gutter guards can be trickier than cleaning gutters without them, but it is a manageable task if you’re comfortable and experienced.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean gutters with gutter guards:
Gather your equipment: You’ll need a ladder, gloves, a trowel or scoop, and a garden hose. Start by removing the debris or leaves that have been collected on the gutter guards.
Use a garden hose to flush out debris: Once you’ve removed any debris by hand, use a garden hose to flush out any remaining debris. Be sure to direct the water towards the downspout to ensure that it flows freely.
Check for clogs: If you notice that the water is not flowing freely, there may be a clog in the gutters. Use a small trowel or scoop to remove the debris and flush out the gutter again with the hose.
Rinse and repeat: Continue this process along the length of your gutters until you’ve cleaned all of the gutter guards.
However, if the gutters guards have not been cleaned for a long time, there may be a lot of debris buildup that requires professional cleaning. This includes hiring a licensed and reliable gutter contractor who will remove the gutter guard and begin an extensive cleaning, including the downspouts from the inside.
Remember, it’s essential to take safety precautions when cleaning gutters with gutter guards. Make sure to use a sturdy ladder and wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp or dangerous debris. It’s best to leave it to the pros if your gutters are very high and you aren’t handy with gutter cleaning. They can also identify any damage to your gutters before it gets out of hand and becomes an expensive issue to repair.
If you are looking for a gutter contractor in middle Tennessee, we’re here to help you.
Free Consultation & Gutter Inspection
At times, finding a trustworthy and reliable gutter contractor in Hendersonville can be a lot of work. We understand the importance of having a well-maintained roof and gutter system in middle Tennessee. That’s why our team at Trusted Roofing is here to help you with a free gutter inspection and consultation. We care about our customers, which is why we always strive to provide high-quality services and professional guidance. Call us at (615) 714-4300 and discuss your needs with one of our experts.
