A gutter system that isn’t well-maintained can cause trouble. If you’re lucky, the problems that result from clogged gutters will be more of a nuisance than an expensive fix. Clean gutters protect your home’s exterior from water damage, and your foundation from structural compromise. Cleaning the gutters and downspouts stops debris from building up and forming blockages in the gutter system. But removing certain types of debris might require a little more elbow grease than just removing a clump of leaves.
Fine Debris
Fine debris such as dust, silt, and sand can easily enter the gutter system. After removing clumps of leaves and twigs by hand, use a shop vac to get rid of any layers of fine debris left behind.
For grime on the outside of the gutter system, including the downspouts, brush away the dust with a soft bristle brush before applying soap and water. Washing with water first could create a film that is harder to deal with.
Roofing Shingles Granules
As asphalt roofs age, they can shed the protective granules that keep out moisture and UV rays. These granules typically end up in the gutters where they can form blockages.
For a large accumulation of roofing shingles granules use a gutter scoop. Shop vac any remaining granules from the bottom of the gutter channel. When there are just small amounts of granules, flush them out with a garden hose.
If you have to keep removing a significant amount of roofing residue from the gutter system, inspect the roof for extensive damage or consult a roofing contractor – it might be time for a roof replacement.
Leaves and Twigs
The most common type of debris, and the easiest to remove, are leaves and twigs. With a good pair of work gloves and a gutter scoop clear out the gutter channel – start at the downspout and work your way to the end of the gutter run.
Pine Needles
While pine needles are small, they tend to clump together (sap) and stick to the bottom of the gutter channel. They can build up quickly, preventing runoff from flowing freely through the gutters. Clean them with a garden hose, preferably one that has a pistol grip nozzle (applies a little more pressure) and a soft bristle brush. You can also remove them with a gutter vacuum.
Moss and Algae
Moss can grow inside the gutters. It adds substantial weight to the gutter system. If not addressed, it can eventually cause significant damage such as overflowing, sagging gutters, and missing gutter sections.
When algae growth becomes widespread, it causes blockages, traps water, and releases harmful toxins. While it might not weigh down the gutters like moss does, algae, as it thickens, becomes slick and stubborn to remove.
Use a homemade solution of liquid detergent, bleach and water with a soft-bristle brush to remove moss and algae. Apply first, then let sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing with a garden hose. For more stubborn stains, pour a small amount of solution on the area, let sit, and scrub with the brush. If you’re cleaning moss or algae from aluminum gutters, don’t press too hard – aluminum can be easily dented.
