Regular gutter cleaning should be a part of every homeowner’s routine maintenance, just like lawn care, mulching, and other jobs around the property. Poorly managed gutter systems cause rainwater runoff that can damage your home’s siding, windows, and foundation.

Some homeowners opt to clean their gutters themselves, but many call a professional service. If you decide to call in the pros, here are some guidelines to get the most out of their services.

Include Inspections with Gutter Cleaning

In addition to cleaning your gutter system, have the professionals evaluate it. Dust and dirt upswept from wind can create a layer on the bottom of gutters, adding weight to the pipes. This can contribute to the number of leaks and cracks in the system. Leaves and branches from nearby trees can land in your gutter, causing obstructions. Seeds land in gutters and begin to grow. Weed build-up is a warning your gutters may be obstructed.

In both winter and spring, watch the temperature to avoid problems. Here in the Northeast, schedule gutter cleaning prior to the first freeze. After that, gutter cleaning scheduling becomes more difficult, relying on temperatures warming up. Likewise in the spring, schedule gutter cleaning after things have begun to thaw.

Clean Your Gutters Twice a Year

This important task should occur in the spring and the fall. Debris should not remain in gutters through the winter. Heavy rain hitting this debris in the spring can create nasty clogs. Those blockages can cause damage to gutters, downspouts, and foundation, when water backs up in the system.

Have Your Gutter Cleaning Service Remove All Debris

Your gutter cleaning service should take out all debris from the gutters (leaves, twigs, weeds, etc.), clear all downspouts, assess water flow, and remove everything from your property.

Gutters and downspouts need to remain clear and free-flowing. Hiring a professional gutter cleaning company to evaluate the effectiveness of your gutter system is the best way to ensure its long life.