Skip to content
Got gutter guards? They cut down on debris, but your gutters still need occasional cleaning. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.
This guide shows you how to clean gutters with guards in place, so water flows freely and your home stays protected without the mess or hassle.
How to clean gutters with gutter guards?
Cleaning gutters with gutter guards is easier. Simply remove debris from the top of the guard and rinse any trapped dirt underneath. For best results, clean the guards every 6 months. If you’re maintaining gutters in Mustang OK, regular cleaning will also help extend their lifespan and keep your home protected from water damage.
Key Takeaways
- Gutter guards reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, but they still need occasional attention.
- Cleaning gutters with gutter guards involves removing any debris from the surface of the guards and ensuring the gutters are free from blockages.
- Regular maintenance will help prevent water damage to your home and improve the lifespan of your gutters.
Why Gutter Guards Don’t Eliminate Cleaning
Gutter guards are designed to filter out large debris like leaves, twigs, and branches, allowing only water to flow into the gutters.
However, they don’t completely eliminate the need for gutter cleaning.
Over time, fine debris such as small leaves, pine needles, and shingle grit can build up on top of the gutter guard, which can restrict water flow.
Additionally, the guards themselves may need to be cleaned to ensure they are free of dirt and debris.
Step 1: Assess the Type of Gutter Guard
Before starting, you should determine the type of gutter guard you have, as cleaning methods can vary. Common types of gutter guards include:
Mesh Guards: These are made from metal or plastic mesh and are designed to keep out large debris. They can be cleaned by scraping off debris and rinsing with water.
Screen Guards: Similar to mesh guards but with a finer mesh. They may require more delicate cleaning to prevent tearing.
Reverse Curve Guards: These direct water into the gutter while allowing leaves to slide off. They may need to be brushed off to remove debris.
Foam Guards: These are placed directly inside the gutter and allow water to flow through while blocking debris. Cleaning foam guards requires removing them to wash away built-up material.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
Before you start cleaning, gather all the necessary tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A sturdy ladder
- A scoop or small shovel
- A garden hose or pressure washer
- A bucket or trash bag for debris
- Rubber gloves to protect your hands
- A brush or broom (if needed for reverse curve guards)
Step 3: Safely Set Up Your Ladder
Safety should always come first. To clean your gutters, set up a stable ladder on level ground. Ensure the ladder extends at least three feet above the edge of the roof for added stability.
Always have someone spot you if possible, or use a sturdy ladder stabilizer to prevent accidents.
Step 4: Remove Debris from the Gutter Guards
Now, it’s time to remove debris from your gutter guards. Start at one end of the gutter and work your way to the other side. Depending on the type of gutter guard, here’s how to proceed:
Mesh or Screen Guards
Use a small scoop or shovel to gently remove the debris from the surface of the mesh. Avoid scraping too aggressively to prevent damage.
For small debris, a leaf blower can help dislodge particles. For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush or sponge.
Reverse Curve Guards
For these types of guards, you may need to use a broom or brush to sweep off any debris that has accumulated.
The slanted design of the guards often allows debris to slide off, but it still needs periodic brushing.
Foam Guards
If you have foam gutter guards, you’ll need to remove them from the gutters to wash them thoroughly.
Take them out one by one and rinse them with a garden hose. If there is stuck dirt or residue, use a soft brush to scrub them clean.
Step 5: Check the Gutter for Blockages
Once the surface of the gutter guards is clean, it’s time to check inside the gutters for any blockages.
Even with gutter guards, debris can sometimes accumulate in the gutter itself, particularly near the downspouts.
Use a scoop or small shovel to remove any remaining debris. If necessary, flush the gutters with water to clear out any small particles or dirt that may have settled.
Tip: If you notice that the downspouts are clogged, use a plumber’s snake or a high-pressure water hose to clear the blockage.
Step 6: Flush the Gutters with Water
Once you’ve cleared the gutters of debris, it’s important to flush the entire system to ensure everything is working properly.
Use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse the gutters, starting from the end farthest from the downspout and working your way toward the downspout.
This will help remove any remaining dirt and ensure that water is flowing freely.
Tip: If you’re using a pressure washer, avoid using a very high pressure setting, as this can damage the gutter guards or cause the guards to loosen from the gutter.
Step 7: Inspect and Reinstall (If Necessary)
After cleaning, take a moment to inspect the gutter guards and gutters for any damage. Look for cracks, tears, or loose areas in the guards.
If you find any issues, it may be time to replace or repair the affected sections. Reinstall the gutter guards properly, making sure they’re securely in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I clean my gutter guards?
It’s recommended to clean your gutter guards at least once or twice a year, or more frequently if you live in an area with heavy foliage.
2. Can I clean my gutter guards myself?
Yes, cleaning gutter guards is a task that many homeowners can do themselves. Just make sure you have the proper tools and safety equipment, such as a sturdy ladder.
3. Are there gutter guard options that require less maintenance?
Yes, some gutter guards, such as micro-mesh or reverse curve systems, require less frequent cleaning than others. These types tend to prevent more debris from entering the gutters in the first place.
Conclusion
Cleaning gutters with gutter guards doesn’t have to be a difficult task.
By following the steps outlined above and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your gutters remain clear and function effectively.
Remember, proper cleaning and inspection of your gutter guards will help prevent water damage and maintain your home’s integrity.
With the right tools and a little effort, you can keep your gutters in top shape year-round.
