Gutters should be inspected twice a year- once in the spring and once in
the fall. At this time, clean all leaves and other debris from gutters and
spouts. Use your hand or a gutter
scoop to remove the larger debris and the garden hose to wash down the
smaller particles. If the down spouts are clogged, a garden hose turned on
full force can be pushed down to blow out the clog. Use a plumbing snake to
remove stubborn clogs. Down spout
strainers will help prevent down spout clogging and can be installed once
the system is clean. Wipe down the outside of the gutters with a soft cloth,
and a little soap and water. Check tightness of spikes and hangers and secure
or replace loose fasteners. To check proper pitch of gutters run a small amount
of water at the end opposite the down spout and check for puddling. Raise
the low spots slightly where the water settles. Please note: due to house
settling some puddling may be unavoidable. To check seams and corners for
leaks again run more water at the end opposite the down spouts and watch for
dripping from the corners and seams. If a leak occurs, use a wire wheel on
the end of a drill to remove the old sealant and to buff the top layer of
metal around the joint. Tighten existing screws or rivets and add more if
necessary then seal with 100% silicone sealer. It is necessary to spread the
sealer with your finger to remove all air bubbles. If you are having trouble
getting sealant to stick try just a small amount first and rub it with your
finger on the trouble area until you get a light film to stick. Then apply
the sealant heavily about an 1/8 of an inch thick. It is necessary to apply
it this thick to allow the sealant to stretch when the gutter expands and
contracts. The sealant will shrink down some once it cures.
