5 Gutter Cleaning Tips

Gutters serve an essential function in the well-being of your home, but the truth is, many homeowners take them for granted. At least twice a year, it’s crucial to clean out your entire gutter system because even one clog can lead to serious problems.  

From the Landmark Exteriors team, here are a few tips to help you handle your gutter cleaning safely:

Have The Right Tools Ready

First, you’ll need something to help you reach the gutters; a sturdy ladder should do the trick. Next, you’ll want to wear protective clothing and accessories such as a long-sleeved shirt, goggles or glasses, and gloves. Then, make sure you have a bag, bucket, or tarp ready to toss all your gutter muck into after removal. Lastly, make sure you have a hose, gutter scoop, or any other materials you are using to clean out the debris ready.  

Don’t Do It Alone

Never clean your gutters on your own; enlist the help of a friend or family member to ensure the job gets done safely. Your partner should be there to hold the ladder securely and hand you the tools you need while cleaning out the system.  

Scoop Out Debris

The best way to get those cluttered pieces of leaves, sticks, dirt, and more out of your gutters is to simply grab them and pull them out. Either use your gloved hands or a gutter scooping tool to get the job done. However, do not use a metal gutter scooping tool since scraping the bottom of your gutters can lead to serious rust and cracks after repeated use. 

Flush The Gutters

Now that you’ve scooped out all that gunk, grab your garden hose and let the water flush out your gutters to ensure a clean and functioning system. This will eliminate any last pieces of debris stuck throughout the unit and check for any leaks. 

Don’t Forget The Downspouts

Downspouts are very prone to clogs but are often forgotten about when it comes to gutter cleaning. A strong stream of water may be enough to rinse out the downspouts, but if not, you may want to be certain all those chunks of debris are out with the help of a trusty plumber’s snake.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for gutter repairs and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s gutter system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

How April Showers Affect Your Roof

How Rain Causes Roof Damage

Springtime in Connecticut means plenty of rain, wind, and more rain. Though that means we can expect lots of beautiful flowers once May comes, your roof may suffer some damage in the process. 

Your home’s roof is the first line of defense against severe weather, but heavy storms can compromise and damage your roofing system in many ways. Intense rainfall and fast winds can cause shingles to blow off, curl, or crack, leaving your roof vulnerable to even worse damages such as leaks: the most serious and common destruction caused by storms. If water finds its way into your house, you also may be left to deal with unsightly and dangerous mold or rot. 

Seeking help from your local roofing experts to repair any storm-caused damage and regular inspections is essential for maintaining a safe and functioning roofing system to protect you, your family, and your home. 

Tips To Prevent Roof Leaks

As previously mentioned, heavy rain storms can cause damage to your roofing system, resulting in leaks. The best way to rest assured that your roof is strong and less likely to spring leaks is with these tips:

  • Routine maintenance and inspections – Enlisting the help of a roofing professional for regular maintenance and inspections can extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent serious and costly damages. 
  • Inspect on your own – Make time to periodically check your roof, attic, and walls for any evidence of leaks or other damage that may need attention. 
  • Check your drainage system – Give your gutters a lookover to make sure they are working properly and are safely draining water off your roof and away from your house’s foundation. As well, make sure there are no areas of your roof where water could be pooling. 
  • Remove debris – Any debris such as sticks, branches, and leaves should always be removed from your roof to prevent clogs in the drainage system and avoid damage to the shingles.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.