Many homeowners think about cleaning the gutters in the fall when leaves have accumulated and in the spring when rain is falling. Unfortunately, your gutters need care all year long, not just when rain or leaves are falling! To take the best care of your gutters, you should regularly maintain them by working with a professional gutter cleaning and maintenance company like Clean Sweep. How can you care for your gutters all year long?
Spring
Spring is the perfect time to give your gutters a thorough inspection after the winter months. Remove any debris that may have accumulated in the gutters and downspouts over the winter. Professionals can take care of this for you safely so that you don’t need to worry about climbing up a ladder to get the job done yourself.
Next, you should inspect the gutters for any signs of damage, such as rust, holes, or sagging sections. Replace or repair damaged gutter sections to ensure proper functionality and make sure that your gutters are ready for summer storms. Check that the downspouts are securely attached and free of blockages. Once everything is removed, flush the gutters with water to get rid of any remaining debris and confirm that everything is draining properly.
Summer
During the summer months, it’s essential to keep an eye on your gutters, especially after heavy rainstorms or severe weather. Look for any signs of water overflow or leaks around the gutters and downspouts after it rains. Water overflow can lead to foundation damage, even if your gutters are technically working correctly.
Before thunderstorm season starts, you should also trim back any overhanging branches or foliage near the gutters to prevent them from clogging the gutters or falling and causing damage during storms. Make sure that downspouts continue directing water away from the foundation and consider adding downspout extensions or splash blocks to further protect against water damage.
Fall
Fall is typically the busiest season for gutter maintenance due to falling leaves and debris. Regularly clean out the gutters and downspouts to prevent clogging and water damage. After the leaves have fallen, conduct a final gutter cleaning to ensure they are clear before winter. Check that the gutters and downspouts are free of ice and snow buildup to prevent damage and ice dams.
Winter
Maryland gets cold in the winter, so ice dams could form in your gutters. Always keep gutters clean to reduce the risk of ice buildup. When snow and ice are on the ground, you should also walk outside to check the gutters and downspouts. When possible, carefully clear off ice or snow that might be impeding water flow. You should also make sure that your gutters and downspouts are attached to your house, as the weight of snow or ice might lead to them pulling away.
Get Your Gutters Cleaned Today!
Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, slate roofing, and duct cleaning services designed to keep all your listed properties clean and safe for sellers and buyers. If you are a prospective home buyer or home seller in need of chimney inspection or repairs, we are here to help.