Homeowners need to know how often to clean gutters. It’s part of regular maintenance to keep your property in top condition, even though it’s one of the easier tasks to overlook.
However, neglecting your gutters can lead to a range of issues, like:
- Roof damage
- Foundation damage
- Mold and mildew
- Pest infestations
In general, you should clean your gutters twice a year. That number will change depending on several factors, which we’ll get into below.
Look out for signs of clogged gutters.
Knowing when your gutters need cleaning is essential for maintaining your home’s health. Keep an eye out for signs of clogged gutters, including:
- Overflowing water during rainfall
- Sagging or pulling away from the roofline
- Plants growing from the gutters
- Pests or insects taking up residence
If you notice any of these indicators, schedule a gutter cleaning as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home.
Three factors determine how often to clean gutters.
- Overhanging trees: your gutters will likely get clogged with leaves and other debris more often.
- Rainfall: Gutters must be clear to drain rainwater from your roof. If you get a lot of precipitation, you need to keep your gutters clean to prevent mold or structural issues.
- Cold weather: Standing water in gutters will freeze, causing lasting damage.
If you live in a warm, dry environment and there are few nearby trees, you can probably get away with one gutter cleaning a year.
But if trees surround your home and you experience freezing temperatures or lots of rain, you’ll want to clean your gutters about four times a year, with two of those cleanings coming in the fall.
Fall and spring are the best seasons to clean.
In the fall, you’ll have periods of increased debris build-up due to falling leaves and twigs. If you’re going to only work on your gutters once a year, do it then.
As for spring, that’s the time when people tend to see the most rain. Clean gutters can better handle the increased workload. Spring is also a good time for a check-up: See if they have any damage from the colder months and repair accordingly.
Professional offers advantages over DIY.
Some homeowners opt for a DIY approach to gutter cleaning, but it’s usually a good idea to go with a professional contracting company. The pros have the tools and expertise to safely and effectively clean your gutters, and you’ll save money in the long run.
Juno Construction keeps homes beautiful.
Maintaining clean gutters is essential for preserving the structural integrity and value of your home. A gutter clean twice a year is a good benchmark, but depending on your home, you may need more than that.
If you’re not sure where to get started, contact us today.
– Carlos Rivero, Owner and Operator, Juno Construction Group
