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Gutter and Downspout Cleaning

No one fancies gutter and downspout cleaning. Understandably, getting on the roof to perform this necessary and unavoidable task is no easy work. If too many leaves, sticks and other items accumulate, it can rot the gutters and eventually fall apart or damage the roof; it is simply more economical to clean them.

Another reason for cleaning them is the fact that they actually protect the foundation of the house. Many people do not know this, but when the rainwater pours too close to the house’s foundation, it penetrates the foundation and eventually the wetness gets into the house. The restoration can be done either by the owner or by a hired contractor.

Homeowners preferring to do the cleaning work themselves can ensure that they have the right equipment for the task at hand. This includes ladders, brushes, fasteners, hose, gloves and a helmet. They can ensure that safety measures are properly observed. For example, the home owner should know how to position the ladder, understands the proper ladder length and type best suited for the job and, should know its proper use, e.g. avoid the last two steps on top of the ladder. Before embarking, the owner should ensure that he is medically fit and physically able to handle the work. People who suffer from frequent blackouts because of a heath condition should avoid such projects.

Depending on the weather and the length of the gutter, the work can be easy. Cleaners can use blowers during the dry weather or simple brushes that can sweep away the debris. Wet weather, however, is more challenging because it involves dislodging and removing wet debris from the gutter’s surface. The hose needs to be long enough to allow you to spray clean water on the surfaces where the cleaner has removed the debris. This will help to mitigate future buildup; debris has less of an opportunity to build up by clinging to existing debris.

Once it is clean, the cleaner could start working on the downspout. This is mainly done by directing the hose into it. The higher the water pressure, the higher the chances of unclogging the it. If the downspout is clogged, the cleaner may have to unclog it manually using a plumb snake. Most obstructions are at the curved part of the downspout. By passing more water through it, the cleaner will know if the unclogging attempt was successful or not.

Most cities have professional gutter and downspout cleaners. Many homeowners unable to handle the job or are simply scared off by the risks involved. They tend to hire the services of such cleaners. Professionals always have their own equipment. Their combined workforce usually results in the job being accomplished in less time than a homeowner would be able to do.

Professional cleaners are more knowledgeable about which chemical agents to use when cleaning different gutter materials. Some chemicals can leave unsightly dark streaks, which result from electrostatic bonding between tar and asphalt on aluminum gutters. However, a professional cleaner, should know what follow-up cleaning agents to use, in order to remove the marks. In addition, cleaners often advice the homeowner on what to do to avoid roof leaks.

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