Correct gutter installation & maintenance is the most important thing you can do to prevent water damage to your home.
Eavestrough and downspouts are designed to channel water away from the foundation of a building and are critical to protecting the structural integrity of your house.
But in order for them to do their job correctly, gutters must be regularly maintained and free of blockages and holes.
How To Clean Your Gutters
If gutters and downspouts are clogged with leaves and debris, the drain outlets will become blocked and rainwater will overflow, eventually pulling the gutters loose from the fascia. That is why it is important to do a comprehensive inspection of your eavestrough system at least once a year.
Step-By-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Gutters
To clean your gutter, you will need:
- A sturdy ladder
- Protective goggles
- Heavy work gloves
- A plastic scoop
- A high-pressured nozzle and hose
STEP 1 – Scoop out loose debrisStarting at the drain outlet, use the plastic scoop to clean out any loose debris into an empty bucket. It is easiest to do this when the debris is damp not soggy or completely dried.
STEP 2: Flush out the guttersUsing a hose and a high-pressured nozzle, wash out the length of each gutter, working toward the drain outlet. If required, use a stiff brush to remove any encrusted dirt.
STEP 3: Clear any obstructions in the downspoutIf the water doesn’t drain freely through the downspout, flush the debris out using a hose. Alternatively, a plumber’s auger (snake) can be used to pull debris out from the bottom.
How to Maintain Your Gutters
Maintenance involves regular inspection of your gutter system to ensure that it is working properly and should be a routine part of your outdoor work.
3 professional tips on how to maintain your gutters and downspout
- Gutter Guard Installation
A gutter guard is a plastic or steel mesh which sits over your gutters to prevent any leaves or debris from blocking the gutter, downspout and even stormwater drain, saving you time and money.
- Cut back overhanging trees
Trees shed leaves and will create more debris for your gutters. If you have any close, overhanging trees to your home, cut back or replant them further away if necessary.
- Search for leaks
Check your roof, gutters and downspouts after heavy storms as this is when deterioration is most likely to occur. If you find any signs of a leak then it is likely that your gutters require replacement.
For a FREE estimate or quote, contact us today.
Alu-Rex Gutter Clean System
The Alu-Rex gutter protection system uses a Leaf Guard that is installed on top of your gutter system to prevent leaves, twigs and other debris from accumulating and clogging the eavestroughs.
Its durable aluminum construction and the protection it provides makes it one of the most popular gutter installation products in Canada.
Learn More
To learn more about Alu-Rex’s innovative gutter clean system or about the costs and benefits of regular gutter cleaning and maintenance, call us at 587-999-7170 or book a consultation today.
Chinook Exteriors is BBB approved, WCB and Liability Insured and provides 24 hour emergency support to all of our customers. Whatever your home exterior needs, we’ve got you covered!