Fall is a beautiful season, but it also comes with a common problem – leaves clogging up your gutters. This can lead to serious water-related damage to your home if left unaddressed. In this blog post, we will discuss several methods you can use to keep leaves out of your gutters and protect your home.
Call LeafGuard
If you never want to worry about cleaning leaves from your gutters again, consider getting LeafGuard®. LeafGuard is a seamless gutter system that is guaranteed never to clog. If it does, they will clean your gutters for free. This premier gutter system uses a patented, debris-shedding design that is the most cost-effective gutter guard on the market today. With LeafGuard, you can ensure that your gutters are always free from leaves and debris, providing optimal protection for your home.
Do it Yourself
If you prefer a DIY approach, there are a few methods you can try to keep leaves out of your gutters. One option is to manually clean the gutters by climbing a ladder and scooping out the debris by hand. Make sure to wear gloves and eye protection to stay safe. Another DIY method is to use a leaf blower to blow the debris out of the gutter. However, keep in mind that this may not be effective with wet leaves. Additionally, you can use a leaf blower to remove extra leaves from your roof, preventing them from falling into the gutter or being carried in by rainwater.
Another technique to consider is using a gutter cleaning wand attached to a hose. This method involves blasting out the leaves with a water spray while working from one end of the gutter to the other. It can be done from the ground but be sure to wear eye protection. If these methods fail, you may need to climb a ladder and manually flush the gutter with a hose. However, be cautious when working on a ladder, as ladder falls are a leading cause of injuries in the U.S.
Call a Professional
For a safer and more thorough cleaning, consider calling a professional gutter company. They have the experience and equipment necessary to effectively clean your gutters, especially if you have a multi-story home. Professional cleaning should be done at least twice a year and can cost hundreds of dollars each time. While this may seem like a significant expense, it can save you thousands of dollars in potential water damage repairs over the years.
Trim Trees Near Your House
One proactive way to prevent leaves from ending up in your gutters is by trimming trees near your house. Trimming lower branches can be done with a pole saw. However, if you have tall trees or high branches, it is best to hire a professional tree trimmer with the right equipment and safe pruning methods. They will ensure the tree is evenly balanced and not limb-heavy on one side, reducing the risk of the tree falling in that direction. In some cases, topping off tall trees may be necessary to reduce the weight on the top and prevent it from breaking off in bad weather. If trees interfere with your home or utilities, you can opt to have them completely cut down.
Conclusion
Keeping leaves out of your gutters is essential for the protection of your home. Whether you choose to invest in a seamless gutter system like LeafGuard, take a DIY approach, or hire a professional, it is crucial to address this issue regularly. Remember to prioritize your safety when working on ladders or using tools. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, you can prevent clogged gutters and minimize the risk of water-related damage to your property.