As autumn breezes sweep in and nature paints the ground with a vibrant tapestry of fallen leaves, it’s time to focus some of your attention on giving a bit of TLC to your gutters and downspouts. While the fall foliage creates a stunning view, neglecting it could lead to a plumbing disaster, as clogged gutters can wreak havoc on your foundation, roof, and siding. So, let’s avoid those unwanted surprises and show those gutters some love!
At Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain, we’re thrilled to share our expert knowledge and clever hacks to safeguard your home by keeping your gutters and downspouts in top shape.
HOW DO I MAINTAIN MY GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS?
Indicators:
First, pay attention to the signs! If you spot leaves, twigs, and debris overflowing from your gutters, it’s a clear sign they need a cleanup. Additionally, standing water around your home after heavy rain is another indicator. Water should flow freely out of the downspouts, not pool in unexpected places around your house. So, it might just be time to unclog those gutters and keep things flowing smoothly!
Timing:
You should aim for twice a year in terms of gutter cleaning. If you’re surrounded by trees, try to clean them three times a year if possible! Spring and early fall are prime seasons but don’t fret if you’re running late. Better late than clogged! Clearing gutters in mid-November pre-winter is a smart move.
Safety:
Safety is an absolute must-have, no negotiations! If you start feeling uneasy or unsafe while cleaning those gutters, it’s time to hit the brakes and call for reinforcements. Professional help is always an option. And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to go the DIY route, make sure your ladder is firmly planted and maybe bring a friend along for moral support (and extra ladder stability). And for those multi-story homes, let’s leave the high-flying acrobatics to the pros with their fancy gear and equipment!
Gutters:
Should you decide to take on this fall task yourself, skip the step ladders, and go for the extension ladder for that extra stability. Gloves and a small brush will be your secret weapons for clearing leaves and debris. Take it slowly and move at a steady pace as you clear out those gutters. On the other hand, the ground-based approach is the way to go when possible. You can do this by using gadgets like a gutter cleaning wand or leaf blower attachment, which you can get from the home improvement store.
Downspouts:
Downspouts need a little love too. Start by removing the downspout extension from the vertical piece of the downspout. Then, get rid of any leaves and debris that found their way into the base of the vertical piece as well as the detached extension. For those stubborn blockages, a gentle flush with a garden hose should do the trick. But if they still won’t budge, you can try using a plumbing snake, the superhero of this situation. When all is said and done, don’t forget to place the downspout piece firmly back in place.
Cleaning your gutters and downspouts now will save you from snowmelt blockages and keep your home in tip-top shape. Don’t underestimate the power of this seasonal task; your gutters will thank you!
If you ever find yourself in plumbing trouble, don’t sweat it! Reach out to Upper Arlington Plumbing & Drain, where our top-notch customer service is just a phone call away. You can reach us today at (614) 363-1924 or schedule an appointment by clicking here!