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This task is one we think about occasionally when we notice the gutter is overflowing after a good rain. We dismiss it (the thought) as quickly as possible, compromising to our selves that we will "keep it in mind" but do it later. Yes I can truthfully note, this is not one of the most favorite things to do, or at least not for–most people—there may be a few non-conformists out there that strangely enough like to "clean gutters"- nevertheless is has to be done so we will discuss the process. Let's start with some of the negative aspects of leaky, clogged gutters.
Some Bad News
Gutters that are not working as designed can cause a major headache for homeowners at times. Clogged gutters can cause water to backup into the house and lead to wall and ceiling damage.
Landscaping can be ruined by overflowing water that kills plants that are not well established.
Excessive water around the foundation of a home may eventually cause cracks around the foundation walls.
The wood fascia around the house can rot by water backing up from clogged gutters.
So Let's Get Started!
Some say, and it must be those "non conformists," that gutters should be cleaned two times per year in the spring and fall. If you can not see the need for two cleanings, then it is best to clean after all the leaves have fallen in late fall.
An electric blower can blow out the material gathered in your gutter. It is not 100% effective, in that some twigs and matted hardened compost is reluctant to move. Using the finest tool ever created is best, the most usual method, the most effective, and none can beat its capabilities, that is "our two hands." Wetting down the packed areas perhaps an hour before starting the cleanup will loosen the caked material and help with its removal.
Hang a bucket on the ladder, to hold your cleaning tools. This will save climbing up and down the ladder to get one tool or another that was forgotten or dropped. However if you feel that the exercise is needed then forget the bucket and have fun! You can use a garden trowel, a whiskbroom, and a cleaning cloth. Gloves would be nice: the substance you are sticking your hands in is somewhat of a smelly gooey mess.
During the cleaning process, note the areas that may need repair. Mark them with a soft lead pencil, (that can be removed later) so you can go back to the sites and repair them.
It is a good idea to begin your cleaning at the downspout area, this is where the debris is usually caught, and has clogged the opening. Work your way up the gutter. Save the dead and decomposing plant material removed from the gutter, it is a great compost substance.
After the gutters have been cleaned use a garden hose and flush the channel to remove any left over soil. Make sure each downspout is flushing freely. If you notice that water is standing in areas, you should check the descent of the channel. Guttering needs to be sloped downward about ¼ inch for every ten feet. Bend the hangers to create a free flowing gutter.
If you discover that your downspout is not draining, then work from the bottom of the downspout. Remember the clog has built up from the top and you do not want to force it from the top and cause a severe impacting of material that will be very hard to remove. If the spout is tied into the drain lines disconnect them.
Strong water pressure may be able to unstop the spout. Push a garden hose up int the spout from the bottom. The water should start coming out on the top. You will need to use a plumber's snake if it remains clogged.
Solid gutter shields, which are expensive and inexpensive plastic screens, may be installed to keep the debris out of the gutter. Check your local retailer and choose the type that may work the most efficiently for you.
If a joint that is leaking, caulk it where it is coming loose however if it has totally dislodged itself, you will need to remove it and clean thoroughly and then reinstall with a good sealant.
Patching will need to be done if you find rusted or corroded places in your guttering. Metal gutters can be patched with a metal patching compound. These can be riveted into place or glued. Fiberglass and epoxy or polyester resin also can be used. The area will need to be cleaned, and coat the edges with resin.
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