As autumn ensues with brisk winds, falling leaves, and cooler temperatures, it’s important to focus on our fall home maintenance tasks. One crucial aspect often overlooked is gutter and downspout maintenance. As leaves continue to shed from trees, they can quickly accumulate in your gutters, potentially causing clogs and blockages. Neglecting this chore can lead to costly damage to your home’s foundation, roof, and siding. Water damage is not something worth risking, especially when a simple gutter and downspout cleaning can prevent it.
Today, Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain is here to share some handy tips to help keep your home protected and in great shape during this beautiful yet demanding season.
WHEN DO YOUR GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS NEED ATTENTION?
If you notice leaves, twigs, branches, or other outdoor debris overflowing from your gutters and downspouts, it’s a clear sign that they need cleaning. Another indication is pooling water around your home’s base after heavy rainfall.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS BE MAINTAINED?
It is recommended to clean your gutters at least twice a year, preferably three times, if possible, especially if your house is surrounded by trees. Typically, you should clean them once in the spring and once in the early fall. However, we understand how time can easily slip away. So, if you haven’t had a chance to clean your gutters and downspouts yet, don’t worry. It’s not too late! Remember, it’s better to do it late than never!
GUTTER CLEANING:
- Safety Tips – First and foremost, prioritize safety. If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable during this task, please stop and avoid continuing further. If needed, you can always call a professional to clean your gutters.
- Clean with a Ladder – Step ladders are known for tipping off balance. Instead, it’s advisable to use a sturdy extension ladder. Additionally, have someone hold the ladder at the base for stability while cleaning the gutters. If you opt for this method, using gloves or a small brush is the easiest way to remove leaves and debris quickly and efficiently. However, please note that this advice is applicable only to single-story homes. For homes with two or more stories, it’s best to hire professionals with the proper equipment for a safe job.
- Clean from the Ground – The safest way to clean gutters is by keeping both feet on the ground. Visit your local home improvement store for a gutter cleaning wand or leaf blower attachment. These attachments ensure a gradual, systematic, and safe cleaning process.
DOWNSPOUT CLEANING:
Now that the gutters are done let’s move on to the downspouts. They need attention too! Start by disconnecting the downspout extension at the base. This will open up the vertical part of the spout. Remove any loose leaves and debris from the end of the vertical piece and the downspout extension you just took off. If the downspout isn’t too clogged, you can use a water hose to flush it out. This will clear out any remaining debris. If the downspout is heavily clogged, a plumbing snake can be helpful.
With winter just around the corner, it’s important to prepare your gutters and downspouts for the upcoming weather. Don’t underestimate the impact clogged gutters, snowmelt, and bad weather can have on your gutters. We strongly advise against risking water damage to your home.
If you need a reliable plumbing company, feel free to contact us. We’re here to offer top-notch customer service for all your plumbing needs! You can reach Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain at (513) 463 – 6947 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
