Cleaning Your Gutters: Don’t Eave It To The Last Minute

What’s on your “To Do” list right now? If cleaning out your gutters or eaves isn’t on there, grab a pen! We know it’s a busy time of year and that this is not a glamorous task, but trust us you do not want to leave this chore to the last minute. It’s much easier to take care of now, before the temperature dips dramatically and the wind begins to whip. It’s not safe or fun to be on a ladder in the snow.

Image via This Old House

As much as we might try to deny it, winter is coming. It’s a harsh season on your home, and your roof feels the brunt of its effects. Heaps of snow, ice, and sleet have the potential to cause serious damage. Cleaning your gutters before winter is in full force can help to protect your roof and your property.

Over the course of the year dirt and debris will accumulate in your gutters. Without a regular cleaning this buildup can impact how well your gutters work. It acts as a barrier, limiting the amount of water that can pass through. Gutters exist to collect the water that falls from the sky and drips off your roof. It moves through the gutter, down the downspout, and away from your home. If any part of that process is disrupted it greatly increases the chance of water seeping into your home. When water can’t move through your gutter it will remain there until it overflows onto your roof. Should that happen, there is a much higher possibility of it deteriorating your shingles, permeating your roof, and leaking into your home. 

Image via Right @ Home

When your shingles experience this type of wear and tear often, (clogged gutters continually overflowing water onto and under them), you could have more significant and costly issues on your hands. It’s best to avoid these headaches altogether by cleaning your gutters regularly – at least once every spring and fall.

If you simply don’t have the time to take care of this chore, consider hiring someone. Referral websites like Angie’s List and HomeStars will help you find someone reliable in your area. And, while you’re making sure your gutters are in good working order, take a look at your downspouts as well. They should extend at least six feet from your home to properly direct water away from your foundation. Completing these easy chores now will help protect your home for many months to come.

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