Most homeowners tend to focus more on maintaining the visible aspects of their houses, like a fresh coat of paint or a well-manicured lawn. They tend to overlook eavestroughs’ crucial role in safeguarding the home from the wrath of rainwater. These channels discreetly collect and redirect rainwater; in this process, they protect our roofs, walls, and foundations from potential water damage. While eavestrough cleaning may not be the glamorous chore on your to-do list, neglecting it can cause some issues.

In this article, we’ll provide tips for cleaning your eavestroughs to ensure they flow smoothly. 

 

Cleaning Tips

 

• Use the best tools for the job

 

When it comes to eavestrough cleaning, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Using the right tools helps ensure a thorough and safe cleaning process. Ensure to get the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), such as: 

• Eye protection
• Non-slip rubber-soled boots
• Waterproof clothing

Additionally, you should invest in a pressure washer with suitable attachments. This tool can be useful for swiftly eliminating stubborn debris and organic build-up. It can also get to the tiles to ensure a comprehensive cleanse. 

To clear loose debris from the roof and gutters, you should get a hard-bristled broom and hand brush. You should also make sure to get a small hand trowel. They can come in handy for scraping out persistent gutter gunk. 

Don’t forget to have green waste bags to collect the leaves, moss, and debris you clear from the roof and gutters. 

Furthermore, you may need to get a sturdy ladder depending on the height of your building. Lastly, opt for a reliable, multi-purpose cleaning solution that effectively breaks down leaf litter, dirt, grime, and pollution without harming the guttering surface. 

 

 

• Get yourself a partner

 

Having a partner by your side during eavestrough cleaning can significantly enhance the process while ensuring safety and efficiency. With a helpful companion, you can minimize unnecessary climbing by having them hand you tools and materials from the ground.

Especially if it has been a while since your last cleaning, having someone on the ground to rake up leaves and debris can save you from continuously filling buckets. 

Additionally, eavestrough cleaning can be a risky task. This is why having a partner aware of your actions provides an extra layer of security. 

Their presence offers added benefits, such as enhancing ladder stability, preventing unnecessary climbs, and providing quick assistance in an emergency. 

 

 

• Clean debris off the roof first

 

One essential step before diving into cleaning your eavestroughs is to clean debris off the roof first. This often-overlooked task is vital as most of the debris in your gutters originates from the roof itself. 

Begin by using a hard bristled brush or a leaf blower to eliminate any loose debris and gather the debris up for disposal. If you notice an abundance of moss growing on your tiles, gently brush it away to prevent it from reaching the gutters during rainfall.

While cleaning the roof, seize the opportunity to inspect your guttering system for cracks, splits, or any loose fastenings. 

Clearing debris off the roof keeps your gutters cleaner for longer but also aids in identifying potential problem areas. 

 

 

• Clean the drains and downpipes

 

Don’t forget to also pay attention to the drains and downpipes when cleaning your roof. These components are crucial in ensuring proper water runoff from your roof and property.

If your downpipes become blocked, it can lead to issues like water spilling over the gutter edges during rainfall. Fortunately, there are different methods through which you can clear blockages from your downpipes. 

You can employ techniques such as snaking and shaking the pipes to dislodge accumulated dirt, leaves, and sticks. You can also use pressure washer attachments designed to blast away tough obstructions.

In cases where other methods fail, you can use a drain cleaner as a last resort to dissolve the obstruction and restore the water flow.

That being said, ensure to give due attention to cleaning the drains and downspouts to maximize the efficiency of your gutter system.

 

 

• Select a cleaning solution

 

To effectively clean your roof, you must choose the right cleaning solution. A quality cleaning solution serves multiple purposes. 

It helps in loosening stubborn deposits and creating a lubricating effect that aids in washing away dirt during pressure washing. Moreover, it helps prevent the buildup of organic debris in your gutter.

A quality cleaning solution also helps to effectively cut through airborne pollutants like grease, tar, and oil. For particularly stubborn dirt, consider utilizing a rotating brush accessory and your pressure washer for a more thorough and deep cleaning.

 

 

• Install gutter guards

 

One effective solution to combat frequent gutter clogging is the installation of gutter guards. These innovative attachments clip onto the top of your gutters, and they act as a barrier to prevent large debris from entering. They keep leaves and dirt out and deter birds from nesting in your gutters.

Gutter guards function like a sieve. They filter out most debris and reduce the need for extensive cleaning.

Their universal design makes them easy to apply and provides a convenient solution. Investing in gutter guards saves you time, effort, and the hassle of frequent gutter maintenance. 

 

Conclusion

Proper eavestrough cleaning is a vital task that shouldn’t be overlooked. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your guttering system. 

However, if you are not cut out for the task, we recommend hiring the services of professionals like Shoreline Roofing. Ensure to Contact us today for all of your roofing needs including installation, maintenance, repair, and inspection.