Giving proper maintenance to a house is no easy task. Many homeowners prioritize the most common areas such as gardens, backyards, or interiors, but they forget one of the most important parts of their homes: the roof. Our roofing system protects our families and ourselves from environmental dangers; therefore, it has to be our top priority when it comes to cleaning and maintaining.
Gutters control the flow of rainwater from the rooflines, protecting your roof, walls, foundation, and landscaping. If we don’t take care of our gutters, debris could build up and lead to mold growth, leaky roofs, or water damage to the interior or exterior of your home. If you want to know how to perform the proper gutter cleaning, follow these easy five tips:
Use a Safe Ladder
Cleaning gutters requires a good, sturdy, and extendable ladder. Use a step ladder on solid level ground and never climb above the second to last step. It’s also recommended to use a ladder stabilizer to help keep it in place. If you don’t feel comfortable or safe on ladders, you can always hire a residential roofing professional to clean your gutters.
Remove Debris
Having two buckets available when cleaning your gutters will make the job easier. Put all the debris you remove in one bucket and use the other one to hold your tools. It’s essential to wear safety glasses to keep debris out of your eyes and put on rubber gloves to protect your hands. Clear large debris like leaves by hand and don’t forget to use a trowel for compacted waste.
Flush the Gutters
Once you’ve removed most of the debris from your gutters, it’s time to flush the remaining bits and dirt with a garden hose. Fit the garden hose with a spray nozzle and flush out the gutter, starting at the far end and moving toward the downspout.
Don’t Forget the Downspouts
Now that your gutters are clean, you must check your downspouts for clogs or any lodged debris and spray down the spout. If the water doesn’t fully come out, it means there’s a blockage, and you’ll need to turn the hose on at full pressure to dislodge the clog.
Do a Final Inspection
Check for gutter drainage and make sure all the gutters are secure and firmly attached to the house. Seal any leaking seams and use a pressure washer to remove any signs of dirt or mildew. You can add a layer of paint to make your gutters look fresher to give a special touch.
Hire the Best Roofing Experts in Birmingham, AL
Looking for the most reliable residential roofing services in Birmingham, AL? We’ve got you covered. At U.S Shingle, we’re committed to providing you with high-quality products and the most exceptional customer service to meet your roofing needs. From inspecting to repairing, cleaning, or installing, we take care of everything to make sure your roof is safe and durable.
