Gutter guards are designed to reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutter system, but they don’t eliminate the need for maintenance entirely. Over time, leaves, dirt, and roof granules can still build up on top of the guards or sneak through small openings. Knowing how to clean gutters with gutter guards is essential to keeping your drainage system working properly and protecting your home from water damage.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely and effectively clean your gutters, even with guards in place.
How to Clean Gutters With Gutter Guards
Cleaning gutters with guards takes a bit more care than cleaning open gutters. Follow these steps to get the job done safely and thoroughly:
1. Inspect the Gutter Guards
Start by examining your gutter guards from the ground and at ladder height. Look for visible debris buildup on top of the guards, signs of clogs, or damage to the gutter system.
2. Set Up Your Ladder Safely
Place your ladder on level ground and use a stabilizer to prevent it from leaning against the gutters. Always follow ladder safety guidelines and have someone nearby if possible.
3. Remove Debris from the Top of the Guards
Use a small hand broom, brush, or leaf blower to clear off any leaves, twigs, or dirt sitting on top of the gutter guards. This allows water to flow freely into the system and helps you inspect the guards more closely.
4. Check for Clogs in Downspouts
Spray water from a garden hose into the downspouts to ensure they’re clear. If water backs up, there may be a blockage that needs to be dislodged with a plumber’s snake or by removing the downspout for cleaning.
5. Remove the Gutter Guards (If Needed)
Depending on the type of guards you have, snap-in, slide-in, or screwed-in, you may need to remove them to access the gutters underneath. Use a screwdriver or drill to carefully detach them. Be sure to keep track of any screws or fasteners.
6. Clean Inside the Gutters
Once the guards are removed, scoop out any debris that has accumulated inside the gutters. Use your hands (with gloves), a gutter scoop, or a plastic spatula. Deposit the debris into a bucket or trash bag.
7. Flush the Gutters With Water
Use your garden hose with a spray nozzle to flush the gutters and downspouts thoroughly. This helps remove any fine debris and ensures water flows freely through the entire system.
8. Scrub the Guards (If Needed)
If your gutter guards have stubborn dirt or algae buildup, clean them with a soft-bristle brush and mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage plastic or metal materials.
9. Reinstall the Gutter Guards
Once everything is clean and dry, reinstall the guards securely. Double-check that they’re aligned properly and firmly attached to avoid future problems.
10. Clean Up the Area
Pick up any fallen debris and rinse off the surrounding area. If you used a tarp, simply fold it up and dispose of the debris in your yard waste bin.
