Gutter Removal: When You Need It and How to Do It
With all the rain and heat, your gutter could be clogged or worn out. As a result, the water can leak through to the roof, and more damage can happen after that.
So if you notice that they are not functioning well, then maybe it’s already time for you to remove them.
But do you know the proper method of gutter removal? If not, we encourage you to read this simple guide.
When Should You Replace Your Gutters?
In most cases, gutter systems can last up to 20 to 50 years, based on the materials behind them and the level of maintenance. The climate and weather you live in can also influence its durability.
Luckily, there are some signs for you to know if you need new gutters. Some of those are noticeable leaks, flaking paint, discoloration, and rust.
If you often experience clogs caused by debris and fallen leaves, then you should follow the guide below. However, if you don’t have the time, you can hire commercial gutter cleaning services.
Prepare Your Tools
To start with, you will need a few tools and safety equipment. For precautionary measures, you should have work gloves, a hard hat, a bucket, and such.
Setting up the ladder properly is also critical for safety. Make sure the ladder is on level ground and that it is the right height for the job. Besides, you must have a hammer, pry bar, screwdriver, caulking material, and tool belt.
Begin From the Ground Up
When it comes to the actual process, it is important to begin from the ground up. You may first go ahead with the corners as you observe your gutter system structure.
On top of that, the key is to start from a corner near where the water comes down, pushing the debris to the other side to avoid covering it up even more.
Then, disconnect the heavier downspouts from the gutters. The gutters will not be anchored to the ground when operating at greater heights. Most downspouts can also be unscrewed from the gutters and drain system, but some may need removal with a pry bar.
Remove Gutters From Their Hangers
After you’ve removed the downspouts, separate each gutter from its hanging brackets. Depending on the original gutter installation, you may need to pull out nails or rivets.
Using a tarp, you can keep nails, screws, rivets, gutter sections, and other debris from littering your yard. Be careful not to drop the gutters, as they can be quite fragile.
If there are any holes left due to the removal of brackets, have a roof repair right away. Next, squeeze caulk into vinyl surface holes and use a knife to apply wood putty in the holes in the surfaces.
Debris Disposal
In the last step, you must dispose of the debris. Debris can quickly build up in gutters and become a problem if not removed on a regular basis.
There are a few different ways to dispose of debris, and the best method may vary depending on the type and amount of debris. In some cases, it may be best to simply rake or shovel the debris into a bag or bin.
Easily Learn Gutter Removal Using This Guide
If you’re looking for tutorials about gutter removal, this guide is for you. It covers everything from tools and safety precautions to tips on making the job easier. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to remove gutters with ease.
So what are you waiting for? Get started today!
For other essential household tips, be sure to check out our other blog posts!
