Gutter Cleaning: How Often Should It Be Done?

Gutter cleaning is essential for all properties. If you’ve ever been brave enough to climb the ladder and do it yourself, you’ll already know it can be a dirty and time consuming job. However, not doing it could cause damage to your property. Additionally, cleaning your gutters regularly keeps your property looking neat and tidy.

So, how often should this job get done and what are the benefits? Take a closer look at everything you need to know about cleaning gutters.

How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned?

Fortunately, most gutters only need to be cleaned twice a year. They should be cleaned at least once a year to ensure your property is safe from any potential damage. If you live in an area that is surrounded by trees or anything else that could cause debris, you may need to look at clearing your gutters more often.

If you allow debris to build up, your gutters won’t be able to do what they’re supposed to do because they’ll inevitably become blocked.

When Should Gutters Be Cleaned?

Cleaning gutters is a seasonal affair. There are two times of year when cleaning your gutters will serve you best. The first is in autumn. Autumn is a time of year where you’ll often see the most debris and there can be a lot of rainfall. 

Clearing your gutters at this time of year will best prepare your home for what is to come. Winter brings more rainfall, snow, and freezing temperatures. If your gutters are blocked during this time, it could increase the risk of damage.

The second time of year is spring. It’s another time of year that can come with debris but it’s also what follows the winter. This is an excellent opportunity to check your gutters for any damage and prevent any potential leaks inside your home. Getting into the routine of cleaning your gutters during autumn and spring is the best way you can protect your property, no matter what is thrown at it.

What Happens If I Don’t Clean My Gutters?

Not keeping your gutters clean puts your home at risk of damage. Neglecting your gutters will lead to your gutters getting clogged. This can result in flooding which can cause water damage inside the property. Additionally, it can mean that standing water collects around your home which will damage the foundation.

If you want to sell your home at any point in the future, maintaining your gutters to avoid these potential long term problems is a must. Clogged and flooded gutters are also the perfect breeding ground for pests. For example, many insects use gutters to breed and hide during the winter, only to reveal themselves in hoards during the summer. Cleaning your gutters will ensure there’s no invitation for these kinds of pests.

If you’ve left it a while since you last cleaned your gutters, you may need to hire a professional gutter cleaning service. Hiring someone with the right tools and experience can make all the difference to the state of your gutters. In addition to cleaning tools, it’s also important to have the right safety equipment, like goggles and protective masks.

Does Where I Live Make a Difference?

Where you live does make a difference to how often your gutters should be cleaned. Some of the things you should look out for include foliage around your home, typical rainfall in your area and where your home is positioned. For instance, if you live in a low-lying area, you may see more rainfall which will mean your gutters are in use more often.

If you have pine trees on your property, it’s especially vital that you have your gutters cleaned twice a year. Shed pine needles can travel a distance and often end up in gutters. They can build up and quickly cause blockages during windy and rainy seasons. 

One of the best ways to know if you need your gutters cleaned is to take a look. Your gutters will show signs if they are full. You may notice debris hanging over the edge of your gutters or you may even notice plant life growing in your gutters. If you’re unsure, it’s always wise to get a professional to check.

If your gutters need cleaning, we’re happy to help at Ambassador Window Cleaning. We offer services for both residential and commercial buildings at affordable prices. Give us a call today for your free quote.