Have you seen your gutters lately? They’re easy to overlook, but they’re a vital component of your home. They prevent water damage by directing rain away from the roof, your foundation, and siding. However, they can easily get clogged with dirt, leaves, and other debris, leading to a host of problems. So, how often should you have your gutters cleaned? Let’s take a look at the factors that will help determine your ideal cleaning schedule.
Problems with Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters cause water to back up and overflow, which can lead to:
- Roof and Fascia Damage: Water pooling near the roofline can cause the fascia board to rot and damage shingles. It’s one of the most common causes of roof repairs.
- Foundation Problems: Water spilling over can saturate the ground around your foundation. This ‘flooding’ can lead to cracks and structural issues that can cause water damage to exterior-facing walls in your home.
- Basement Flooding: Ground saturation from water overflowing in the area around the foundation is the leading cause of leaks in your basement and crawl space.
- Pest Infestation: Stagnant water can also attract insects, including mosquitoes, especially during hot, humid summers, turning your gutters into a breeding ground.
How Often Do Gutters Need Professional Cleaning in the DMV?
For most homeowners in the Washington, DC area, it is recommended to have your gutters professionally cleaned twice a year based on the following schedule:
- Late Spring (After the pollen and tree debris fall): This cleaning prepares your system for the frequent summer storms and removes debris that may have accumulated over the late winter and early spring.
- Late Fall (After all the leaves have dropped): The most crucial cleaning is removing leaf buildup before winter. It also helps prevent ice dams, which can cause significant damage to your roof, attic, and gutters.
When Gutters May Need More Frequent Cleaning
While twice a year is common practice, your home’s unique environment and landscaping might spur the need for more frequent cleanings:
- Proximity to Trees: If your home is surrounded by deciduous trees (such as oak, maple, or pine), you’ll likely require more frequent gutter cleaning services. Homes near pine trees, for example, may require quarterly cleaning to deal with constantly shedding needles.
- Local Climate: Areas with heavy, consistent rainfall or prolonged pollen seasons may benefit from an extra check-up to ensure optimal water flow.
What are Gutter Guards?
Many homeowners also ask about installing gutter guards, a service JW Home Improvement provides. These innovative systems prevent leaves, twigs, and other foreign objects from clogging gutters while allowing rainwater to flow unimpeded.
Are They Worth It?
For most homeowners, the answer is yes when they are professionally installed. While gutter guards reduce the frequency of cleaning, you will still need occasional professional cleaning and inspection.
What Does Professional Gutter Cleaning Cost?
The cost of professional gutter cleaning varies widely, depending on several factors, including the size of your home and your geographic location. Based on the national average, most homeowners pay between $120 and $250 for the service. It’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of water damage to your roof or basement that a clogged gutter or downspout can cause.
Professional Gutter Cleaning Near Me
JW Home Improvement® offers professional gutter cleaning and a range of other outstanding handyman services across the Southern Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Metro area. Whether you’re in Logan Circle, DC; Columbia Heights, MD; Morningside, MD; Chevy Chase, MD; Forestville, MD; College Park, MD; Arlington, VA; McLean, VA; Pimmit Hills, VA, or any surrounding areas, we’re here to help you maintain and improve your home.
If you reside in the DMV area, call JW Home Improvement® today, and we’ll take care of the rest. For the love of home.