Gutter Cleaning Services in Lancaster, PA

Clogged Gutters

The Best Gutter Cleaning Method

One way to determine which household tasks are the most disliked is by observing the abundance of “easy” gadgets designed to “solve” or make them more enjoyable. Over the years, we have experimented with numerous gutter cleaning methods and will continue to explore new options as they become available. Many of these gadgets, as well as some hired landscapers, focus solely on cleaning the gutters and disregard the importance of addressing the downspouts and outlets.

Cleaning by Hand

Through our experiences, we have found that nothing surpasses the effectiveness of traditional hand cleaning using a ladder, gloves, and a bucket. Methods involving spray nozzles and similar tools often result in a messy process that can splatter onto your siding and windows. In the following sections, we will outline the best approach to tackle the entire task, including the downspouts and outlets, ensuring that your gutters perform their intended function and safeguard your home.

Gutter Cleaning Services

Alternatively, if you prefer, The Brothers that just do Gutters can alleviate the hassle of gutter cleaning by offering a gutter maintenance services agreement for all clients. By enrolling in the Maintenance Agreement, you will be promptly added to our database, ensuring that you are included in our scheduled cleaning list and that we are adequately prepared for intensive cleaning periods.

Another benefit of entrusting gutter cleaning to experienced professionals who clean by hand is the assurance that your gutter system will undergo an annual inspection by experts. Any necessary minor adjustments will be made to guarantee the gutters’ functionality.

It is recommended to have your gutters cleaned before the spring rainy season and at least once or twice during the fall foliage season.

Gutter Guards

If you wish to avoid recurring costs associated with gutter cleaning services, an alternative option is to have us install a high-quality gutter guard system that keeps leaves and debris from accumulating in the gutters. Although this entails a slightly higher initial investment, it can save you money in the long term. Additionally, premium gutter guards can reinforce the gutter system and prolong its lifespan, particularly during severe storms.

Overflowing / Leaky Gutters

The primary indicators that your gutters might require cleaning or repair are leaks and water overflowing during or after a storm. However, it can be challenging to determine whether these issues are caused by a clog or if there is a need for gutter repair.

Signs indicating the need for gutter maintenance:

1. Gutter overflow
2. Noticeable debris accumulation in the gutters
3. Lack of water flow from the downspout

For someone without expertise in gutters, it can be difficult to differentiate between an overflow caused by a clog and one caused by damaged or improperly installed gutters.

Cleaning and Repair – Which do I Need? 

Cleaning

When water overflows around or near the downspout, it is a clear indication that your gutters require cleaning services and there is likely a blockage in the downspout preventing proper water flow.

Repair 

If you observe water overflow in the middle of a gutter or at the far end away from the downspout, it usually suggests that a repair or reinstallation is necessary. This could indicate various issues such as improper pitch, inadequate gutter size, insufficient number of leaders or downspouts, or sagging/pulling of the gutters from your home due to age or installation problems.

Additional signs that suggest you are experiencing overflow issues include:

1. Stained or cracked walls, siding, or foundation.
2. Pooling of water near your foundation.
3. Visible overflow occurring from the front of the gutter or between the fascia and gutter during rainfall.
4. Another noticeable sign is if you have a downspout connected to an underground drain, and the area surrounding the drain is consistently wet, indicating a probable clog.

While the aforementioned lists provide valuable indications and starting points to identify potential issues with your gutter system, it is common for homeowners to incorrectly diagnose the root cause of their gutter problems.

Leave it to the Experts

Addressing these overflow issues is crucial because prolonged runoff can result in significant and costly problems for your home, such as water damage, flooding, and foundation issues.

During an assessment, our team of highly trained professionals can determine whether your gutter system requires cleaning services or if the overflow is caused by other underlying issues that may necessitate repairs or replacements. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for gutter problems, and each home often requires a unique approach that should be thoroughly evaluated by a professional.

If you are experiencing gutter overflow, reach out to The Brothers that just do Gutters today for a complimentary estimate. You can rely on us to accurately diagnose your situation and offer the best solution tailored to your home.

DIY Cleaning

Cleaning your home’s gutter system is an essential maintenance task, but it is not as straightforward as it may appear. Making common mistakes during the process can lead to injuries or damage to your home.

Mistakes To Avoid 

1. Not properly adhering to ladder safety
2. Overreaching while on a ladder
3. Wearing inappropriate attire
4. Using the wrong tools
5. Not completely unclogging gutters. 

Best time of year to clean gutters 

• Spring before increased heavy rainfall 
• Fall after all leaves have fallen 

 

Professionals do not simply use leaf blowers to clean out gutters. It is uncommon for gutters to contain solely dry leaves. We prioritize the well-being of the homes we service, and using leaf blowers can result in dirt and mud being blown around, potentially causing stains on windows, siding, patio furniture, and decks below. Moreover, leaf blowers are not efficient in removing clogs from downspouts. Merely cleaning the gutters without addressing a clog in the downspout will inevitably lead to further clogging and necessitate additional work in the future.

Call us today to schedule your gutter cleaning services or to get set up with our maintenance agreement.