Cleaning And Repairing Rain Gutters
Rain gutters play an important role in protecting your home and foundation from water damage. Putting off cleaning or repairing them can lead to more costly repairs in the future.
Rain gutters need to be maintained on a regular schedule every year before the rainy season starts. This guide will help you in your goal of keeping your gutters in top shape year round.
The role rain gutters play in protecting your home
Water intrusion into your home can cause major damage in a short period of time. The goal is to direct that water coming off of the roof away from your home including away from your foundation.
This prevents roof damage fascia rotting, soil erosion and damage to basements. Even a minor clog in a gutter can cause serious damage to walls and siding.
Why inspections are important
It is important to inspect your rain gutters at least once a year ( twice is best ) because water flow can be blocked by debris. Leaves dirt moss and other debris block water flow and cause clogs.
Damage can also be caused by snow, heavy weather events like high winds that damage rain gutter parts. Down spouts can come loose and clog too causing cracks in your foundation from flooding.
Inspections should include checking the level of your gutters to be sure that the water flows toward the down spout. While inspecting the rain gutters visually inspect your roofing shingle to make sure they are in good shape.
How to clean rain gutters safely
Cleaning rain gutters can be dangerous so here are some helpful instructions and tools that will make the job safer.
• Heavy-duty gloves
• A sturdy extension ladder
• Water hose and spray nozzle
• Plastic bristle brush
• Safety goggles and harness if cleaning from the roof.
The proper ladder is important when cleaning your gutters use an extension ladder that extends at least 3 feet past the gutter. If possible have someone help you and only place the ladder on stable ground.
If cleaning the rain gutters from the roof it is more safe to be tied off and wearing a harness or just clean from the ground using the ladder and avoid a possible fall from the roof. If you are going to wear a safety harness follow the manufacturers instructions for fitting and safety and never use a harness system alone have a partner.
Step-by-step cleaning process
Lean your ladder up against the rain gutter raising at least 3 feet above it. Make sure ladder is firmly placed flat on the ground.
Assess the debris in the gutters and start removing twigs and larger debris by placing in a bucket or sturdy garbage bag. Use your gloved hand to remove leaves and a scoop to remove packed dirt and asphalt shingle gravel. Check roofing shingles for moss buildup and remove any moss found on the shingles that may fall into the rain gutters. You can also treat moss and kill it. This product is available at most hardware stores or you can purchase online.
Follow by rinsing the rain gutters clear of remaining debris. As you do again look for leaks and clogs in the downspouts. It is best to clean your gutters twice a year in spring and in fall.
DIY rain gutter repair
Once your rain gutters are clean and dry and you have identified leaks or clogs it is time to repair them.
Leaks caused by cracked seams or holes can be repaired with silicone sealant. Cleanout the debris and apply silicone sealant to a clean and dry seam. If gutter downspouts are detached or loose secure them with screws. For large leaks and damage you may need to replace the gutter.
Rain gutters that are not leveled to drain towards the downspout need to be pitched correctly using a level and resecured to the fascia. You can verify the pitch by running water in the gutter and checking if the water flow is towards the downspout.
When to hire a professional?
A professional rain gutter installer may be needed if you are replacing large sections of gutter or you want to match the existing pattern. Professionals also perform repairs and have all the right tools and safety equipment. When getting bids always check the contractors licensing, insurance and references.
