Property Management Nation

Fall is here and so are the falling leaves, meaning it is once again time to clean the gutters on your house and make sure they can handle the coming winter weather.  Early fall is a good time to remove leaves that can block water and create build-ups of ice and ice dams in the gutter.  This extra weight can cause the gutters to pull away from the fascia or even fall off the house which can amount to thousands of dollars in damage.  Here are some easy steps to follow to clean the gutters yourself:

1. Rent a sturdy ladder at a local rental place for around $40 a day.
2. Enlist the help of a neighbor or friend to help stabilize the ladder and make sure it is level.  Also don’t overreach and stay away from power lines, windows and trees.
3. If you have gutter guards, check them for clogs or damage.  If the water can’t get into the gutters past the guards, it will render them useless as the water will flow right over the top.
4. Remove the guards carefully to remove leaves and debris from underneath and then reinstall them properly.
5. Use a hose to run water over the guards to ensure they are working properly.
6. Check the screens on the top of your downspouts to make sure they are clear and where they belong.
7. Clear heavily clogged downspouts with a hose.
8. Replace damaged downspout and gutter screens.
9. Inspect the gutter fasteners to make sure they are secured properly and if not use a hammer or screwdriver to secure them.
10. Check to ensure the spikes that hold the aluminum to the fascia are secure and drive them back in if they are loose.  You may need to replace them with longer spikes.  If the gutters are loose then water will overflow them at low areas.

Always remember safety first.  Ask for help and use a good quality ladder with a stabilizer which can be purchased at any home improvement store for around $30.  The top two causes of injury from falls while cleaning gutters are improper ladder use and overreaching.  Be safe, clean your gutters and save yourself damage to your house from leaf buildup.  Be sure to repeat this process in the spring as well.