DIY Tips for Gutter Maintenance

So many of the problems for which homeowners replace their gutters can be solved by the homeowners themselves. Whether you find that your gutters aren’t retaining water or that rainwater simply overflows and pours out of the side of your gutters, there are usually pretty simple solutions. That’s why we’ve compiled the most common gutter problems and how you can solve them yourself.

Debris in the Downspout

One of the most annoying and also one of the most common gutter problems is finding that your downspout is clogged and full of debris. Fixing a clogged downspout can be a hassle. Depending on how risky the job may be, you may want to think about hiring a professional to do it for you. However, if you’re confident that you can get to your gutters without falling or injuring yourself, there are some easy ways to fix clogged gutters. 

First, determine where the clog is located within the downspout. If it is clogged at the cage, take off the cage let the debris fall out. If it is stuck firmly, remove the debris with your hand, a high-pressure hose, or a plumbing snake. If the clog is located at a seam, you can remove that section of the downspout and simply unclear the clog with your hand. 

Leaks at Gutter Joints

When you see a leak in your gutters, your first thought may think to call your local gutter replacement specialist. While you should definitely hire someone for gutters that are too risky to reach and too complicated to fix yourself, you should first check to see if you can’t fix it yourself. If the leak comes from a small crack or hole, go out and buy some gutter sealant in order to caulk the leak. If a joint is loose, you can use the same type of sealant to secure the joint so that no more water leaks. For large holes or joints that are beyond the skills of the average homeowner, it is recommended that you call your favorite gutter replacement company. 

Vegetation in the Gutters

For longtime homeowners, this problem may not seem as crazy as it sounds. Sometimes, birds or wind can carry seeds from the surrounding vegetation into your gutters. Because the gutters can become a gathering spot for water, sun, and dirt, this provides a perfect spot for vegetation to grow and thrive. This can be prevented by regularly cleaning out your gutters with a hose. If the problem becomes persistent, installing gutter guards can go a long way in preventing unwanted plant growth in your gutters. 

Some people would rather hire experts to clean and maintain their gutters. It really is a matter of preference. If you have the money, but lack the time, hiring a gutter company to repair, replace, or do maintenance on your gutters is a great idea. Not to mention the homeowners that have gutters in hard to reach and dangerous places—these customers would be better safe than sorry by hiring experts.