### Understanding Your Gutter System & ### Seasonal Gutter Cleaning Schedule

Why Gutters Are Your Home's Unsung Heroes

Your gutter system channels thousands of gallons of water away from your home's foundation each year. A single inch of rain on a 2,000-square-foot roof produces 1,246 gallons of water – enough to cause serious damage if not properly managed.

Anatomy of a Proper Gutter System:

1. Gutters (Cost: $3-$30 per linear foot) - Aluminum: Most common, rust-resistant, paintable - Copper: Premium option, 50+ year lifespan - Steel: Strong but prone to rust - Vinyl: Cheapest but least durable

2. Downspouts (Cost: $5-$15 per linear foot) - Should be sized 1 square inch per 100 sq ft of roof - Minimum 3-inch diameter for most homes - Extensions direct water 6+ feet from foundation

3. Hangers and Hardware - Spaced every 24-30 inches maximum - Hidden hangers provide cleanest look - Fascia board must support system weight

Signs Your Gutters Need Immediate Attention:

- Water spillover during moderate rain - Staining or water damage below gutters - Gutters pulling away from fascia - Plants growing in gutters - Ice dams forming in winter - Basement moisture or foundation settling

The True Cost of Gutter Neglect:

- Foundation repair: $3,000-$15,000 - Basement waterproofing: $2,000-$10,000 - Roof damage from ice dams: $5,000-$25,000 - Fascia and soffit replacement: $1,500-$8,000 - Landscape restoration: $500-$5,000 - Total potential damage: $12,000-$63,000

Timing Is Everything: When to Clean for Maximum Protection

Different seasons present unique challenges and opportunities for gutter maintenance. Strategic timing prevents problems and makes cleaning easier and safer.

Spring Cleaning (March-April): Post-Winter Recovery

Why Spring Cleaning Is Critical: - Remove winter debris before growing season - Inspect for ice dam damage - Prepare for spring rain season - Check for pest nesting

Spring Cleaning Checklist: 1. Initial Assessment (Time: 30 minutes) - Walk around home perimeter - Look for visible damage or sagging - Check downspout connections - Note problem areas for closer inspection

2. Debris Removal Priority - Remove leaves and organic matter first - Clear all downspout openings - Remove any ice dam damage debris - Check for animal nests (professional removal if needed)

3. System Function Test - Run hose water through entire system - Check for proper drainage and flow - Identify and mark leak locations - Verify downspout discharge points

Fall Cleaning (October-November): Winter Preparation

Why Fall Is Most Important: - Remove leaf accumulation before winter - Prevent ice dam formation - Protect system from freeze damage - Last chance before dangerous winter conditions

Fall Deep Cleaning Protocol: 1. Complete Debris Removal - Remove ALL organic matter - Clear all downspouts completely - Clean gutters to bare metal/vinyl - Install gutter guards if appropriate

2. Winter Protection Measures - Ensure proper slope for drainage - Secure loose hangers before ice loading - Apply gutter sealant to minor leaks - Install heating cables in ice-prone areas

Mid-Season Inspections (June and September):

- Quick visual check from ground level - Clear any obvious blockages - Test downspout flow with garden hose - Document changes since last cleaning