Should you clean gutters in the fall or spring? Professionals Share When It Helps—And When It Hurts

Keeping your gutter system clean and free of debris ensures that water can be directed away from the home.

But, when is the best time to clean gutters: in the fall or in the spring? we talked together Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance Specialist Find out if it’s better to clean gutters in the fall or wait until spring.

Should you clean gutters in the fall or wait until spring?

Choosing when to clean your gutters can make a significant difference when it comes to home safety.

“Always clean gutters in the fall – before winter,” says Alex Krylov, operator, founder and president of Stern Gutters. “Once the leaves fall, you want the system to be clean and draining properly. Spring is fine for a second cleaning, but fall can’t be compromised if you want to avoid costly repairs.”

Get the gutters cleaned. fall maintenance prioritySo you don’t end up dealing with overflowing gutters, ice dams, and long-term damage to your home.

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Why do you need to clean gutters?

Since gutters are designed to capture and redirect water flow, some homeowners may be confused as to why they would need to be cleaned. After all, if gutters are just an open trough and a drain leading downwards, it seems unnecessary to clean them.

But gutters don’t just catch water, they can also collect dust, dirt, leaves, wood and other debris. Gutter systems can also become home to bird nests, squirrel nests, or insect nests, which further contribute to fouling. danger of clogged drains,

Clogged drains can cause a number of problems, ranging from simple inconveniences, such as water dripping down the sides on your head, to serious long-term structural damage.

“Gutters exist to move water away from your house,” says Krylov. “When they become clogged with leaves or twigs, that water backs up and finds other paths – down your siding, behind your fascia, into your foundation. Neglected gutters lead to rot, mold, insect problems and leaks in the basement. It’s not cosmetic – it’s structural.”

What is the best way to clean gutters?

Cleaning gutters is not difficult, but it can be time consuming and involve many potential risks.

“Make sure you have a sturdy ladder, wear heavy gloves to protect your hands from any sharp objects, and have a buddy with you to keep the ladder from wobbling,” says Phil Barufkin, owner and operator of Fish Window Cleaning.

You can clean gutters by hand or gutter cleaning equipmentHowever, you should avoid using a pressure washer, as these machines can open seams or damage the gutter hanger.

It’s also a good idea to take before and after photos to track the condition of the gutters so you can spot any problem areas the next time you clean the gutter system.

1. Start by setting up the ladder, donning your protective gear, and gathering your equipment.
2. Remove large portions of debris by hand or with gutter cleaning equipment, placing the debris in a bucket or on a prepared cloth on the ground.
3. Use a leaf blower or garden hose to clean away any fine sediment.
4. Flush the downspout to confirm that water is rising.
5. If water doesn’t seem to be moving, detach elbows/downspouts and flush out debris, then reassemble.

More Fall Home Maintenance Tips

Fall maintenance is essential to keeping the home safe and in good condition during the long winter months.

But besides gutter cleaning, there are several other maintenance tips you should keep in mind.

• Inspect roof flashing and sealant, then make any necessary repairs before winter weather arrives.
• Check attic insulation and add more or replace existing insulation if necessary Reduce the risk of ice dams,
• Raise downspouts about five to 10 feet from the foundation if not already done.
• Walk around the property during or after a heavy rain and look for any accumulation near the house, then take action to redirect water flow away from the house.
• At least once a year, drain your underground drainage system to confirm that water is not accumulating.
• Turn off the water supply to outdoor taps and drain them properly.
• Prune overhanging branches near the house and fertilize the grass to prepare your lawn for spring.
• Clean and store outdoor furniture and equipment.
• Have your furnace and chimney inspected annually before the cold weather arrives.
• Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to prevent drafts and improve home functionality.
• Inspect and repair any cracks or damage in driveways, walkways and stairs.