Gutters are arguably the least interesting and certainly the least glamorous parts of a roofing project. However, they are among the most important parts. By removing rainwater from the roof and diverting it safely elsewhere, gutters provide a valuable service and give your roof a longer lifespan.

The problem with gutters arises when it’s time to perform maintenance. How do you clean gutters? More importantly, how do you clean gutters safely? Here’s a closer look at your home’s rain gutters and how you can take care of them.

How can you safely clean and care for your rain gutters? Do you need them in the first place? Find out here. #RoyalCrownRoofing Click To Tweet

Why Do You Need Gutters in Houston?

Homeowners in arid climates with little rain may not have as much of a need for rain gutters. But Houstonians do not fit the bill. Houston summers are especially well known for bringing heavy thunderstorms and downpours. It’s definitely in your best interest to install quality gutters to deflect the rain and prolong your roof’s lifespan!

Cleaning Your Gutters

Without proper gutter guards in place, your rain gutters can become clogged with leaves and other organic debris over time. Clogged gutters are unable to do their job of diverting water and thus require a thorough cleaning. If your gutters need a quick wash, find a sturdy ladder and wear protective gear like gloves and goggles to protect yourself. You never know what critters may be hiding in the gutter debris, after all. Use a special spray attachment on your garden hose and flush out as much of the gunk as possible.

Pro Tip: Try not to use a scraping tool to remove dead leaves from your gutters. You could accidentally scratch the finish and encourage rust to form, further damaging your gutters and roof.

When to Call a Professional

For many homeowners, calling in a professional to clean their gutters is a better choice than attempting to do so themselves. Experts will naturally have all the right equipment to do an excellent job and keep your gutters clean for longer. Additionally, professional roof contractors understand proper safety measures and can do their job without putting themselves or the homeowner in danger. If your rain gutters need significant work and especially if you live in a two-story home, call your local Houston roofing company for help instead of trying to take care of them yourself.

Keeping Your Gutters in Good Shape

Gutter maintenance is a tricky job and not one you should always tackle on your own. But whether you choose to go DIY or hire a professional for gutter cleaning, it’s an important job that must be handled with care to keep your roof in good shape.

Connect with us for more information on roof maintenance and repairs.