We love snowy Christmas or spring rains, but not water that is reintroduced to the house. Your gutters' function is to redirect water away from your home and control the flow of water at the roofline. It is possible for mildew to form, damage to landscaping, water in the basement, and even a leaky roof. Gutter strain from wind, vegetation, heavy rain, and wind may not be avoidable. However, you can prevent costly repairs in the Fall or Spring.

It is easy to clean gutters, but as with any rooftop activity, safety is essential. Or let us take care of it!

If you're up for it, wait for the next sunny morning, grab your ladder, and start working. This handy guide will help you get your life back on track. Rain, rain, go away.

1. Check that your ladder is up to the task

It's great fun to climb up onto the roof to view your surroundings, which is a wonderful sight. Always ensure that your ladder is stable and steady before you climb up.

2. Assemble Your Tools

To do this job you will need work gloves and a brush. You also need a container to store any debris that you collect. Although not necessary, the knee pads are helpful in maneuvering over rough surfaces.

3. Clear the Gutters

Remove the leaves and twigs from your gutters using your gloves, and any tools you have. You can use a gutter scoop, or another tool to compact the debris. Start by cleaning the strainer and moving to the nearest downspout.

4. Flush Your Gutters

After the majority of the debris has been removed, attach a fitting to the hose that allows you to spray pressure. Spray the gutters facing down, keeping the stream in the direction of the downspout. Check for new obstructions and continue spraying until the gutters are clear.

5. Check Your Downspouts

If the strainer is damaged, it's possible for your downspout to blockage. This is an indication that your downspout is blocked.

With your hose, spray directly down the spout. If you are unable to remove the blockage with your hose, a plumber’s snake may be required. Continue working until the water is flowing freely from the gutters to your downspout.

6. General Maintenance

Now that your gutters look clear, it's time for you to inspect their structure. You should make sure your gutters do not become sagging. For your safety and to prevent future problems, you can add support or replace the gutters immediately.

Use gutter sealant for sealing any cracks and gaps. Use a soapy cloth to remove mildew, and re-paint where necessary. A full replacement is recommended if the gutters are beginning to show signs of wear.