When, Why and How to Clean Rain Gutters

Welcome to fall! Are the leaves piling up on the sidewalks and in your yard? If so, that means they’re piling up in your rain gutters too. We’re here to help you knock out what is one of the most important, and pesky home maintenance tasks, quickly and painlessly. If you do nothing else this fall, this is the job you must make sure gets done.

Why is cleaning rain gutters so important?

Gutters play a crucial role in guiding where the rainfall ends up — i.e. not inside your home. For them to work properly, they must be kept free of leaves, branches and other items that can clog them. When gutters become excessively blocked, all the water from your roof can back up, overflow and fall down the side of your house. This saturates the ground around your home’s foundation and can lead to foundation damage and leaks in your basement walls. If neglected, gutters can even turn into a nice moist home for critters. Eek!

When should you clean them?

If you live in the Midwest, where the seasonal changes are significant, a good rule of thumb is that rain gutters should be cleaned twice a year. One good way to remember that schedule is to make it a part of your seasonal routine alongside spring cleaning and putting out fall decorations.

So, how do you clean the rain gutters that help keep you dry?

1. Locate a safe and secure ladder and protective gloves to use.
2. Remove easy-to-gather leaves and debris with gloved hands. Empty into a trash can to avoid cluttering your yard.
3. After cleaning, identify leaks and areas that may be weakened by the wear and tear of the season.
4. Call a roofing contractor to help you repair damaged areas.

If you are concerned about the process, or simply don’t have time – contact Enterprise Roofing. We are happy to help keep your roof and home in tip-top shape. Give us a call to request a quote.