How to Clean and Repair Gutters

If you've ever had a clogged or damaged gutter, then you know that it's not just an eyesore: it can also be a costly problem. Gutters are an important part of your home's structural system, so they need to be maintained and cleaned periodically. When gutters aren't working properly, rainwater can overflow into your home and cause damage to the foundation and interior of your house. A clogged gutter can also cause sagging soffits and fascia boards. The good news is that preventing these issues isn't as hard as you might think!

Periodic Cleanings

Your gutters need to be cleaned twice a year - once in the spring and once in the fall. Regular maintenance helps gutters last longer. It's important that your gutters are cleared out before they get too full of leaves, sticks, and silt. You don't want to wait until they're so full that they overflow and cause damage to your home or foundation, nor do you want them overflowing during winter when snowmelt can freeze and create ice dams on your roof.

To clean gutters, you’ll want to set a ladder on a solid, sturdy surface and wear work gloves as you scoop out the debris. It may be handy to use a gutter extension tool to reach into any hard-to-reach places. You can also use a soft bristle brush or something similar to remove debris from the gutter. After you’ve removed most of the debris, use a garden hose to flush out the remaining bits, making sure to avoid spraying beneath roof shingles.

If the water used for flushing isn’t draining properly, check the downspouts for any clogs. You can try to dislodge the clog using a hose at full pressure up the downspout or by using a plumber’s snake to break it up.

Check for Damage

The most common signs that your gutters need repairing or replacing include:

• Leaks in the gutter system
• Cracks in the gutter base or flashing
• Sagging gutters

If you see any of these issues, it's a good idea to repair or replace your gutters right away. In some cases, this may be as simple as adding sealant around the joints and seams where materials meet or replacing damaged parts. However, if there are large cracks or sagging gutters that cannot be patched up with sealant alone—or if there’s something wrong with a whole section of your gutter system—you may need to completely remove and replace that section entirely. Consider calling in an experienced professional for bigger jobs like these—the experts will know what type of repairs work best for your particular situation.

A clean gutter is an important part of home maintenance. The integrity of your home may be compromised if your gutters aren't working properly, so it's best to keep them in good condition.

Need help with repairs or a replacement? Enterprise Roofing is ready to come out to your home and inspect your roof and gutters. Request a quote today or call us at 937-453-3933 for a free roof evaluation.