Weekend project - clean those gutters

If the early winter cold prevented you from cleaning your gutters this past fall, or if your yard has a lot of leaf-bearing trees, this is an excellent time to clean your gutters. While the spring rains are helping the daffodils bloom, they may wreak havoc on the exterior and perhaps even the interior of your home, especially if your gutters need cleaning.



Clogged up gutters are a culprit in the following common home maintenance problems:

• Rotted trim around doors and windows


• Fascia damage


• Drywall damage to interior walls


• Wet basements


• Foundation problems


• Roof damage

That is why you should clean your gutters at least twice a year and in some cases 4 times a year! Here are some tips to keep in mind when cleaning gutters:

• Get a sturdy ladder and some help; ask a friend or neighbor to help hold the ladder. Remember your safety is more important than clean gutters; thousands of people die each year while working on ladders.


• You should also grab a pair of good rubber gloves to protect your hands from scratches and cuts


• Use a bucket to put all the muck you will pull out of your gutters or you will have more clean-up around the house when you are done


• If you'd rather not use your hands, you can purchase a scoop at your home improvement center or just make one out of a 1/2 gallon plastic milk jug


• Start cleaning at the downspout areas as this is where the debris normally ends up


• Once you have most of the muck out of your gutters, run a hose through to make sure everything is clear and free of debris; check downspouts for blockages


• As you are cleaning the gutters, note sections that need repairing such as unsecured fasteners, leaky joints, or holes; wait until the gutters are completely dry and then make repairs

Cleaning gutters is certainly not the most glamorous home maintenance job, but it is a critical one in preventing costly repairs in the future. If you'd rather spend this weekend planting new daffodils, call Handyman Matters for your gutter cleaning and repair needs! Enjoy!