When people consider home maintenance, they think of either re-roofing or perhaps giving the home a new look with paint. Gutter maintenance rarely comes to mind. You can create a whole new set of problems if you don’t keep up with regular gutter cleaning and maintenance.
So don’t wait for gutters to get clogged and ruin your day. Instead, stay up to date with your gutter maintenance by following these essential maintenance tips.
Keep Your Ladder Secure
This is one of the best pieces of advice we can offer on gutter maintenance: Always ensure that your ladder is secure and steady. Before you begin your ascent, make sure the ladder’s base is stable. This prevents the ladder from wobbling and allows you to climb up and down safely.
Adjust the Slope of Your Gutters
Your gutters should ideally have a little drop every 1/4 inch or so, flowing directly into the pipe. If you see standing water in your gutters, it’s quite likely that the slope has to be adjusted. To do that, increase the length of your gutters by 1/16. Remove any fasteners or rivets, and then make the required adjustments until the stagnant water flows freely.
Check for Leaks with a Garden Hose
After you’ve completed your initial cleaning, grab a garden hose and run water down the gutters. This will allow you to check whether you missed any areas. It can also assist you in determining whether any concealed debris is stopping the flow of water.
It’s Easier Than You Think to Seal Leaks
If you notice leaks in your gutters, don’t panic; they’re simple to repair.
All you need is some caulk; simply apply the caulk to the hole and let it dry. Some caulks might take up to 24 hours to dry completely, so make sure there is no rain in the forecast.
Don’t Forget to Examine the Drainpipes
The drainpipes in your gutter are an important (but frequently overlooked) component of the gutter system. Drainpipe obstructions can cause your entire system to back up and overflow.
To clean any material obstructing your drainpipe, all you need is a plumber’s auger. Bring the auger up to the pipe until you can easily take out any junk.
If you’re still unclear on how to properly manage your gutters, or if you simply want a clean, superior gutter cleaning job done, contact us now for a free quote. We provide excellent gutter cleaning services at the most affordable rates in Modesto, CA!