You probably got gutter guards to end the messy job of cleaning your gutters forever. The promise is simple: no more clogs, no more climbing ladders. But after some time, you might see water spilling. It leads to the big question many homeowners have: Do gutter guards need to be cleaned? The short answer is yes, and you will find the reason in this guide! So, keep reading!
Do Gutter Guards Need to Be Cleaned? Yes, Here’s Why
Gutter guards are great at stopping large leaves or sticks from getting into them. That part is true. But they cannot stop everything. When it rains, this mix of small debris can turn into a thick, sticky sludge. And, when the opening is blocked, it will run right over the side. So, the answer to “Do gutters with gutter guards need to be cleaned?” is a definite yes.
How Often Do You Need to Clean Gutter Guards?
You should clean these twice a year, according to most experts. Mainly spring and fall seasons bring the most leaves, seeds, and dirt. If you have lots of trees near your home, you might need to check more often. Here are some simple rules for you:
- If you see stuff piling up on top of the guard, it’s time to clean.
- If rainwater pours over the edge of the gutter, it means it’s blocked.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
When you find that your gutter guards need cleaning, you have two choices: do it yourself or hire someone. Here’s an overview of both options:
Doing It Yourself (DIY)
The biggest benefit of doing it yourself is saving money. If you are comfortable on a ladder and have the right tools, it is a job you can handle. However, safety might be the real concern.
Hiring a Professional
Hiring an expert will cost money, but it is the safest option. Professionals have the right safety gear, tools, and experience to do the job faster. They can also spot other problems you might miss, like a loose gutter or a damaged downspout. If you are not comfortable with heights, hiring a professional is the best choice. In this way, you do not have to think do you need to clean gutters with gutter guards yourself and risk getting hurt?
Tools & Techniques to Clean Gutter Guards
If you decide to clean the guards yourself, here are the tools you’ll need:
- A stable ladder
- Gloves
- A plastic scoop or garden trowel
- A bucket or tarp for debris
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle
Step-by-step cleaning methods:
- Climb carefully and check the guard for buildup.
- Brush or remove debris from the top.
- If the guard lifts off, take it out and clean underneath.
- Flush the gutter with a hose to remove any hidden dirt.
- Check the downspout to make sure water flows freely.
Signs It’s Time to Clean or Service Your Gutter Guards
Even if you’re not sure when the last cleaning was, your home will give you signs. Here are the signs that mean it’s time for gutter guard cleaning:
- Water spilling over the edge during rain
- Visible leaves or dirt on top of the guards
- Plants or moss growing inside the gutters
- Stains or water damage on the side of your house
- Sagging or bent gutters
Hiring a Professional: What to Expect & What It Costs
If you decide to hire help, you will want to know the cost. Most companies charge by the linear foot of your gutters.
- Cost: $0.50 and $2.50 per linear foot
- Details: For an average-sized home with about 150-200 feet of gutters, the cost will be $200 to $350. The price basically depends on the height of your home, how steep your roof is, and how clogged the gutters are. When searching for gutter guard cleaning near me, make sure you choose the right company. Professionals like Planet Window Cleaning will give you a clear, written quote.
Conclusion
To make sure your eavestrough is running well, gutter guards are fantastic tools. But they still need attention to work properly. So, do gutter guards need to be cleaned? Yes, they absolutely do. A little bit of maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home safe and dry.
