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Common Home Repairs: Cleaning Gutters

Cleaning Gutters

Cleaning Gutters

Difficulty: (Moderate)

Time Needed: (1-2 hours)

Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your home by allowing water to overflow and seep into the foundation or walls. Regularly cleaning your gutters can prevent this. Here's a detailed guide to cleaning gutters:

Tools Needed:

  • Ladder
  • Gloves
  • Gutter scoop
  • Garden hose
  • Bucket or tarp
  • Safety glasses (optional)

Steps:

  1. Prepare for Safety:
    • Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp debris and dirty water.
    • Use a sturdy ladder that extends well above the gutters. Ensure the ladder is on stable, level ground.
    • Consider using safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
  2. Position the Ladder:
    • Place the ladder at a stable angle against the house, near the section of gutter you will clean first.
    • Avoid overreaching; move the ladder as needed to keep your body between the ladder rails.
  3. Remove Debris:
    • Use a gutter scoop to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from the gutter. Place the debris in a bucket or drop it onto a tarp on the ground for easy cleanup.
    • Work your way along the gutter, moving the ladder as necessary.
  4. Clear Downspouts:
    • Check that the downspouts are clear by running water from the garden hose through them. If the water doesn’t flow freely, there may be a clog.
    • To clear a clog, use the garden hose to spray water upward into the downspout or use a plumber’s snake to dislodge the blockage.
  5. Rinse the Gutters:
    • After removing the bulk of the debris, use a garden hose to rinse the gutters. Start at the end opposite the downspout and work your way towards it, ensuring the water flows smoothly through the downspout.
  6. Check for Leaks and Repairs:
    • While rinsing the gutters, check for any leaks or damage.
    • If you find any leaks, dry the area and apply gutter sealant to seal the leaks.

Tips:

  • Clean your gutters at least twice a year, in the spring and fall, or more often if you have overhanging trees.
  • Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that collects in your gutters.
  • Be mindful of power lines and ensure your ladder does not come into contact with them.