How to Clean Gutters with Guards: A Comprehensive Guide
Cleaning gutters equipped with guards requires a slightly different approach than standard, open gutters, but the end goal remains the same: preventing clogs and water damage. Regular inspection and a strategic cleaning routine tailored to your specific guard type are crucial to maintaining their effectiveness and protecting your home.
Understanding Gutter Guards and Why Cleaning Matters
Gutter guards, also known as leaf guards or gutter screens, are designed to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering and clogging your gutters. While they significantly reduce the frequency of cleaning compared to open gutters, they are not entirely maintenance-free. Debris can accumulate on top of the guards, hindering water flow, or small particles can still filter through, eventually causing blockages. Ignoring this build-up can negate the benefits of having gutter guards in the first place, leading to overflowing gutters, water damage to your roof, fascia, and foundation, and even attracting pests. Different types of gutter guards, such as mesh, brush, foam, and surface tension guards, each have unique cleaning requirements.
Identifying Your Gutter Guard Type
Before you start cleaning, determine the type of gutter guards you have. This will dictate the best cleaning methods and tools to use.
- Mesh Gutter Guards: These are typically made of metal or plastic mesh and are designed to filter out larger debris. They are common and relatively easy to clean.
- Brush Gutter Guards: Also known as bottle brush guards, these consist of bristles that stand upright in the gutter, preventing leaves from entering.
- Foam Gutter Guards: These are foam inserts that fill the gutter, allowing water to flow through while blocking debris.
- Surface Tension Gutter Guards: These solid guards rely on surface tension to guide water into the gutter while diverting debris away.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Cleaning gutters with guards involves a two-pronged approach: clearing debris from the top of the guards and removing any accumulated debris inside the gutters themselves.
1. Gathering Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- A sturdy ladder
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle
- A bucket or garbage bag
- A leaf blower (optional, for removing dry debris)
- A small hand trowel or scoop
- A screwdriver (potentially, for removing specific guard types)
2. Safety First
- Always use a sturdy ladder and ensure it’s placed on level ground.
- Wear work gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes.
- Be mindful of power lines and other hazards.
- If you’re uncomfortable working at heights, consider hiring a professional.
3. Removing Surface Debris
- Start by removing loose debris with your hands (wearing gloves) or a leaf blower. This is especially effective for dry leaves and twigs.
- Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse off the gutter guards. A strong stream of water can dislodge stubborn debris.
- For mesh guards, a stiff brush can be used to scrub away any stuck-on debris. Be gentle to avoid damaging the mesh.
4. Cleaning Inside the Gutters
- This step varies depending on the gutter guard type. Some guards are easily removable, while others are permanently installed.
- For removable guards: Carefully remove sections of the guard to access the gutter interior. Use a small hand trowel or scoop to remove accumulated debris. Rinse the gutter with a garden hose to flush out any remaining particles.
- For non-removable guards: Use a garden hose to flush debris through the downspouts. Check for clogs in the downspouts and clear them if necessary. A plumber’s snake or a specialized gutter-cleaning tool can be helpful for clearing downspout blockages.
- After cleaning, carefully reinstall any removed gutter guards, ensuring they are securely in place.
5. Preventing Future Buildup
- Regular inspection is key. Check your gutters at least twice a year, especially after periods of heavy leaf fall.
- Trim overhanging branches to reduce the amount of debris falling onto your roof and gutters.
- Consider applying a gutter cleaner to prevent algae and moss growth.
FAQs: Your Gutter Guard Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to address common concerns and provide further clarification.
1. How often should I clean my gutters with guards?
The frequency depends on your environment, but a minimum of twice a year (spring and fall) is recommended. If you live in an area with heavy tree cover, you may need to clean them more often.
2. Can I use a pressure washer to clean my gutters with guards?
Using a pressure washer directly on gutter guards is generally not recommended. The high pressure can damage the guards, especially mesh or foam types. A garden hose with a spray nozzle is usually sufficient.
3. What’s the best way to clean clogged downspouts with gutter guards in place?
Try using a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to flush the downspout from the top. If that doesn’t work, a plumber’s snake or a specialized gutter-cleaning tool can be used to break up the clog from the bottom.
4. How do I remove and clean foam gutter guards?
Carefully remove the foam inserts. Rinse them thoroughly with a garden hose to remove accumulated debris. You may need to replace them if they are heavily soiled or damaged.
5. What are the best tools for cleaning gutters with brush guards?
A garden hose with a spray nozzle and a leaf blower are typically sufficient. You can also use a gloved hand to remove larger debris that gets stuck in the bristles.
6. Can gutter guards completely eliminate the need for gutter cleaning?
No, gutter guards significantly reduce, but don’t eliminate, the need for cleaning. Even with guards, debris can accumulate on top or small particles can filter through.
7. How do I know if my gutters are clogged even with guards?
Signs of clogged gutters include water overflowing during rain, sagging gutters, and water stains on your fascia or siding.
8. Are there any special considerations for cleaning gutters with micro-mesh guards?
Micro-mesh guards are particularly prone to getting clogged with fine debris. Regular rinsing with a garden hose and occasional brushing with a soft brush are essential to maintain their effectiveness.
9. Should I hire a professional to clean my gutters with guards?
If you are uncomfortable working at heights, have a complex roofline, or are unable to properly clean your gutters yourself, hiring a professional is recommended.
10. What are the long-term benefits of maintaining clean gutters with guards?
Maintaining clean gutters with guards prevents water damage to your roof, fascia, and foundation, extends the lifespan of your gutters, and helps prevent pest infestations.
11. Can I use household chemicals to clean my gutters?
Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage your gutters, guards, and surrounding vegetation. A simple solution of water and mild detergent is usually sufficient for cleaning.
12. How can I prevent squirrels and birds from nesting in my gutters even with guards?
While gutter guards help, you can further deter pests by regularly cleaning your gutters, trimming overhanging branches, and using bird netting or deterrent devices.
By following these guidelines and addressing common concerns, you can effectively maintain your gutters with guards, ensuring they continue to protect your home from water damage for years to come. Remember that consistent maintenance is the key to maximizing the benefits of your gutter protection system.