What’s the Best Way to Clean Gutters? Learn from East Bay Roof Builders!
The roof gutters on a house are a vital part of its structure. But unless there is a visible problem, homeowners might ignore the need for gutter maintenance. When gutters get clogged and no longer function properly, serious roof damage can occur. When that happens, it is time to secure the services of a professional roof repair contractor in the East Bay.
How Do Roof Gutters Work?
Water from a roof is supposed to flow into the roof gutters and from there it should flow without obstruction into the downspout and onto the ground. The downspout should be positioned to direct water away from the base of the house to protect the foundation and basement from flooding and damage. When a roof becomes damaged beyond repair, qualified East Bay roof builders can install an attractive and long-lasting new roof.
Why are Roof Gutters Important?
Roof gutters can stop functioning properly if they become filled with leaves and debris which stop the positive flow of water, or if they become misaligned or pull away from the house.
Simply stated, it is all about protecting a house from rain and water damage. If water remains pooled on the roof, rot, mold, or deterioration can occur. This can weaken and destroy shingles, facia, and soffit. Without a gutter system, excessive water flowing directly off the roof can cause deterioration in windows, siding, and the foundation. Plus, mold and grime can accumulate. When a roof fails, it is necessary to call an experienced East Bay roofing contractor.
What’s the Best Way to Clean Gutters?
The best way to clean gutters depends on how much debris is in the gutters and how easy it is to access the gutters. Consider these useful methods:
- Use a garden hose to clean out the debris if you can reach the gutters from the ground using an extendable attachment, or from a stable ladder properly positioned close to the gutters. Similarly, you can use a power washer.
- Use a leaf blower if all you need to remove are leaves and dry sediment.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum.
- You can also clean out the gutters by hand with a scoop or garden trowel.
If a downspout is clogged, it should be flushed or snaked out so that water will flow easily.
The key is to do gutter maintenance at least annually, more often if a house is surrounded by trees.
Choose a Professional East Bay Roof Builder
Contact Century Roof and Solar, your certified roofing contractor for expert roof repair service and installation. We do not do gutter cleaning, but we do repair and install new roofs and we install solar.