An important part of being a homeowner is doing the necessary maintenance routines that keep the property in order. One of those tasks is regular gutter cleaning. However, exercise safety when you’re cleaning the gutters or performing awning cleaning — it can be dangerous to work at those heights. To keep them clear of debris and maintain your safety, follow these simple do’s and don’ts of gutter cleaning.

Do:

Secure the ladder.

Before climbing up, make sure the ladder is properly secured. This means that it’s placed on sturdy and level ground that won’t allow it to slide out from under you. To make sure that it’s safe to climb, bounce on the first two rungs to ensure it doesn’t move at all.

Use a pressure washer.

Pressure washing is an excellent way to remove remaining gunk after the initial cleaning. Once all of the leaves, sticks, and other debris have been removed by hand, give the gutters a once over with the pressure washer to restore them to their pristine state.

Perform an inspection.

While you’re performing the gutter cleaning, take advantage of being up there and perform an inspection of the system. Check for signs of deterioration such as cracks and leaks, and make sure they haven’t come loose because of regular wear and tear.

Don’t:

Forget your gloves.

Gutter cleaning is a messy job. There’s no telling what kind of stuff has gotten into them since the last cleaning, but the gloves will keep you clean. Gloves also protect you from harming yourself on sharp sticks and other debris that might be lodged in there.

Neglect the downspouts.

Downspout cleaning is also crucial for maintaining the overall gutter system. Make sure the downspout is cleared of any debris that might block the normal flow of water, and check that it’s adequately draining away from your home.

Put it off.

Even though the insides of the gutters are out of sight, they shouldn’t be out of mind. Choosing not to regularly clean out the gutters makes your home more susceptible to leaks, roof damage, and flooding around the home.

 

The best way to ensure your next gutter cleaning is done the right way is by contacting the experts at Window Butler in Cincinnati, OH. Locally owned and operated, their highly trained team has the experience and skills needed to provide a professional cleaning so you can rest easy with the peace of mind knowing your home is protected. Schedule a free estimate by calling (513) 375-5531 or learn more about their services online.