Cleaning and Maintenance Of Gutters

The arrival of spring is the ideal time to clean gutters because during the winter our gutters have been working tirelessly and may have suffered some damage due to the weather conditions typical of this season. To withstand the spring rains, the ideal is to carry out maintenance that keeps them clean and perfectly functional until next autumn.

Winter can be caused by the accumulation of debris and dirt in the gutters. Especially if we live in very cold climates with frequent snowfalls, it is common for gutters to suffer minor damage due to low temperatures and constant rainfall. When to doing gutter maintenance spring you have to pay attention to some possible damages:

Ice: The cold temperatures of winter can freeze the water or snow in our gutters, the expansion suffered by the water when it freezes can crack or break the gutters, and even the weight of the snow accumulated in them can cause the fixings to develop some looseness. In itself, the action of the ice accumulated in the gutters can saturate them, causing the water to freeze on the roof of the house, which can lead to broken tiles, leaks, and other serious problems. A review of the gutters in time prevents.

Leaves and branches: Wind storms can cause the accumulation of leaves, branches, and other debris in the gutters, which can become clogged. Removing them is necessary to prevent clogging, but this can be dangerous. It is advisable to have the services of a professional who cleans the gutters periodically.

Dust, stones and debris: Although dust and dirt are easy to remove, completely cleaning the water drainage system of our home can be an arduous and complex job. All sections must be reviewed, removing any residue or dirt that may be accumulated.

Rust and corrosion: Rust and corrosion can lead to a rapid deterioration of our gutters. Although these are not metallic, do not neglect their fixings, which usually are. If you notice that any element of the drainage system begins to rust, it is appropriate to apply an anti-corrosion treatment; otherwise, the problem will quickly get worse and will force us to replace the parts affected by rust.

Safe gutter cleaning

Safety is a key aspect when cleaning and maintaining gutters. Being a job that is normally carried out at height, we recommend that you follow these tips:

The ladder you use to access the roof must be stable and it is recommended that someone hold it firmly while we use it. It is necessary to reposition the ladder whenever necessary, avoiding stretching too much to access non-accessible areas; as this can be extremely dangerous.

Check the electrical cables that are usually fixed to the cornice. If any cable located near the gutters is damaged or corroded do not try to repair it yourself, notify care of it. Do not use a metal ladder when working near cables, since it can act as a conductor of electricity, causing a shock on the person who is in contact with it.

Before climbing onto the roof, use an extendable lance to remove leaves and other debris from the roof. You can also use a hose with a pressure nozzle. Start working from the top of the roof, so that the dirt is drawn into the gutters.

Use anti-cut gloves to remove debris and branches and clean the gutters' inside. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles when using pressurized water, to prevent any dirt particles from getting into the eyes.

Remember to carefully follow these safety tips for cleaning gutters. If you do not have the necessary equipment to do so; It is better that you have the services of a company specialized in gutters. The advantage of having the services of a professional is that our gutters will always be in perfect condition, and if any defect is detected, it can be repaired immediately.