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With the help of a few tools, any homeowner can successfully add years of life to their gutters. When leaves are falling off trees in the fall, it's especially important to ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and clear of clogs. Follow these simple tips to maintain them properly.

Helpful Maintenance Tips for Your Gutters

1. Inspect Them Periodically

A couple of times a year, pull out a ladder and check the status of your gutters. If you notice problems or your gutters get clogged often, you may want to check every couple of months. Look for corrosion that's causing joints to leak or holes to form, and also locate areas that need to be cleaned out. Use a piece of tape to mark problem areas, so you'll know which parts of your gutters need work.

2. Keep Them Clear of Debris

After you've thoroughly checked your gutters, you can begin the cleaning process. Wait for a dry day, as this will make the process easier.

ToolsRemove as much debris as you can with a wet/dry vacuum or a cordless leaf blower, and then grab a gutter scoop and a bucket. With these tools, you'll be able to remove the most stubborn debris. Then, use a pressure washer to finish off the job. If debris is caught in the downspouts and you can't get it out with a broomstick or a garden hose, use the plumbing snake that you use for your indoor drains.

3. Fix Issues Before They Become Worse

Even if an issue looks small now, fixing it today will save you time and money in the future, as you'll avoid having to replace entire sections of damaged or neglected gutters.

For corroded and leaking spots, get rust-preventing paint, a small paintbrush, roof cement, and a wire brush made of stainless steel. Use these tools to scrape away the rust and surrounding paint, apply a new coat, and then seal the area with the cement. For small holes, you can use waterproof seam tape covered with a waterproof sealant to stop them from spreading.

 

If you need tools to tackle your gutter maintenance, head to Weiss Do It Best Lumber in Perryville, AR. They sell top-notch hand and power tools, plumbing fixtures, electrical equipment, building materials, and other supplies for DIYers and contractors alike. Call (501) 889-2695 to talk to a member of their friendly staff or visit them online to check out their selection of tools.

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