With fall around the corner, homeowners gear up themselves to clean out the gutters. Gutter installation and maintenance in Santa Rosa helps to ward off the potentially damaging effects of the cold months that follow. Thus, it is important to go for gutter maintenance as a small leak, crack, or even a blocked downspout can result in bigger problems that may need costly repairs. Here’s a list of tips to help you avoid the hassles this fall:
Safety First: It is extremely essential that you take time to ensure safety before you are ready to clean the gutters’ roof. Buy a sturdy stand-alone ladder if you do not own one. Avoid using ladders that tilt against the house to avoid slip and falls. You must also invest in thick gloves and protective eye gear.
Clean out Debris: This can be an unpleasant and time-consuming process, but it is an important step for gutter maintenance. Use a garden trowel or a gloved hand to remove leaves and any other dirt that may have found its way into your gutters. While removing the leaves, be sure to check for any blockages at the mouth of your downspout openings. Pay close attention to corners where leaves tend to collect. A blocked downspout can lead to water stagnation and ice-build up during the cold months that in turn contribute to not just shingle damage, but also interior leaks.
Rinse to Inspect for Leaks: Once you are done with the visible debris, it is time to rinse your gutters and downspouts using a garden hose. This will help to remove all residual waste and make way for an easy inspection of leaks. Always rinse in the direction of your downspouts as this keeps away water from spraying into your home.
Fix the Leaks: Do not ignore if you identify a leak. Fix it right away. Depending on the severity, you may use patch kits or silicon sealer.
Consider a Pro: Gutter cleaning is not an easy task! If you are crunched for time or think you can not do a good job yourself, you may look for a company that deals with gutter installation and maintenance in Santa Rosa. This is a smart option to save your time while simultaneously ensuring the job is done right.
Looking for professional assistance to clear your gutters? Call ARS Roofing, Gutters and Waterproofing to schedule gutter cleaning and other repairing services. Contact us today at 707-584-5900.