Gutter cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance that often gets overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to a variety of issues, from foundation problems to roof leaks. For homeowners looking to reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning, gutter guards are a popular solution. These protective barriers help minimize debris buildup, making it easier to maintain clean gutters.

However, even with gutter guards, regular maintenance is still necessary. In this article, we’ll explore how to clean gutters with gutter guards, why it’s important to perform this task, and how you can make gutter cleaning part of your preventative home maintenance routine. Whether you’re dealing with second-story gutters or simply want to ensure your gutters remain in top shape, we’ve got you covered with helpful tips and practical advice for exterior home maintenance.

Let’s dive into the details of cleaning gutters with gutter guards, so you can keep your home’s exterior in pristine condition.

Do I Need to Clean My Gutters if I Have Gutter Guards?

Many homeowners install gutter guards with the expectation that they will eliminate the need for cleaning altogether. While gutter guards can certainly reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters, they don’t completely eliminate the need for maintenance. Here’s why:

Why Gutter Guards Don’t Eliminate Cleaning

Gutter guards are designed to prevent large debris like leaves, twigs, and branches from entering your gutters, but they are not foolproof. Over time, smaller particles like dirt, shingle granules, and pine needles can still accumulate in your gutters or on top of the guards. This buildup can cause clogs, restrict water flow, and prevent your gutters from doing their job properly.

How Often Should You Clean Gutters with Gutter Guards?

Even with gutter guards in place, it’s still important to clean your gutters at least once or twice a year, depending on your home’s location and the types of trees nearby. Homes in wooded areas may need more frequent cleaning, while those in urban environments may need less. Regular cleaning helps ensure that your gutters remain clear and functional, preventing costly repairs and water damage.

The Role of Preventative Home Maintenance

Maintaining clean gutters is an important part of preventative home maintenance. By cleaning your gutters regularly, you prevent water from overflowing and causing damage to your home’s roof, siding, and foundation. Clogged gutters can also lead to mold growth, ice dams in colder months, and even damage to the landscaping around your home. This is why gutter cleaning should be included as part of your overall exterior home maintenance routine.

A Proactive Approach to Home Maintenance

While gutter guards can significantly reduce the time spent cleaning gutters, they are not a set-and-forget solution. Cleaning gutters with gutter guards is still necessary to ensure the health of your home and its exterior. It’s all part of a proactive approach to home care—one that helps you avoid more expensive repairs down the road.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to effectively clean your gutters when you have gutter guards in place.

How to Clean Gutters When You Have a Gutter Guard?

Cleaning gutters with gutter guards requires a slightly different approach than cleaning regular gutters. While the guards help prevent larger debris from clogging your gutters, you will still need to remove smaller debris and ensure proper water flow. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your gutters effectively, even with gutter guards in place:

1. Assess the Type of Gutter Guard You Have

There are several types of gutter guards, and the cleaning process may vary depending on which one you have installed. Common types include mesh, screen, reverse curve, and brush gutter guards. Each type may require a different cleaning method, so it’s important to understand which kind you’re dealing with.

• Mesh Guards: These are usually fine, durable materials that allow water to flow through while blocking debris. You may need to remove small debris from the surface.
• Screen Guards: These cover your gutters like a mesh but are slightly more rigid. Dirt and small particles may collect on top.
• Reverse Curve Guards: These guides water to flow through a narrow slot, and debris may gather along the edges.
• Brush Guards: These are long brushes that sit inside the gutter, blocking debris from entering. You may need to pull out the brushes for cleaning.

2. Clear the Surface of Larger Debris

Before you start the actual cleaning process, take the time to remove larger debris, such as leaves, twigs, and branches, from the surface of the gutter guards. Use a leaf blower or a small rake to sweep the debris off. This will prevent larger items from clogging up your gutters while you work on the smaller particles underneath the guard.

3. Remove and Clean the Gutter Guard (if needed)

In some cases, you may need to remove the gutter guards to clean them thoroughly. If your gutter guard system is removable, take it off gently and inspect both the guards and the gutters beneath them. Use a hose or pressure washer to wash away any dirt or buildup that’s accumulated in the guards or the gutters.

4. Clean the Gutter Channel

After clearing the larger debris, check inside the gutter channel for any buildup of dirt, moss, or smaller debris. Use a small brush, scraper, or even a hose attachment to remove this buildup. Be sure to get into the corners and edges where debris can accumulate over time. You may also consider using a pressure washer with a gentle setting to clear out any stubborn gunk in the gutters without damaging the guards.

5. Check for Proper Water Flow

Once your gutters and gutter guards are clean, check that water is flowing freely through the system. Use a garden hose to run water through the gutters and make sure it is draining properly. If you notice any blockages or slow drainage, you may need to remove the guards again to clear out any remaining debris or clean the channels more thoroughly.

6. Consider Professional Help for Complex Cleaning

If cleaning gutters with gutter guards sounds like a hassle or if you’re dealing with second-story gutters or hard-to-reach areas, you might want to consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service. A professional can safely clean your gutters, ensuring that the guards are properly maintained, and you don’t have to worry about accessing difficult-to-reach areas.

How to Remove Gutter Guards to Clean

If you need to remove your gutter guards to clean the gutters underneath, it’s important to do so safely and without damaging the guards or the gutter system itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove the different types of gutter guards for cleaning purposes:

1. Gather the Right Tools

Before you start, gather the necessary tools for the job:

• Ladder (preferably a sturdy extension ladder for reaching high areas)
• Work gloves for safety
• A wrench or screwdriver (depending on the gutter guard’s fasteners)
• A small tarp or bucket to hold debris
• A hose or pressure washer for cleaning
• A soft brush or sponge for scrubbing
• A bucket or bucket liner for collecting water or debris

2. Understand the Type of Gutter Guard You Have

The method for removing gutter guards depends largely on the type you have installed. Here are some guidelines for different types:

• Mesh and Screen Guards: These are often secured with screws, clips, or snaps. Use a screwdriver or wrench to loosen or remove the fasteners. Once removed, lift the mesh or screen guard off carefully.
• Reverse Curve Guards: These can be a bit trickier, as they often attach directly to the gutter system. Look for screws or clips that secure the guards in place, and gently loosen them to remove the guard.
• Brush Guards: These are typically placed inside the gutter channel, so you can simply pull the brush out. Be careful not to damage the brush or the gutter while doing so.

3. Remove the Guards Carefully

Once you have the right tools and know how your gutter guards are secured, begin removing them. Make sure to work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the guards or the gutters. If the guards are held in place with clips, gently unclip them one by one. If screws are involved, use your wrench or screwdriver to remove them and keep track of the fasteners for reinstallation.

4. Clean the Guards

Once the guards are removed, take the time to clean them thoroughly. For mesh and screen guards, you can rinse them off with a garden hose to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. If there is stubborn dirt or buildup, use a soft brush and soapy water to scrub the surface. For reverse curve guards, use a pressure washer on a low setting to clear any dirt or debris from the surface.

5. Clean the Gutter Channels

With the gutter guards removed, it’s time to clean the gutters themselves. Use a small scoop or gutter scoop to remove any large debris that may have accumulated. Follow this by rinsing the gutters with a garden hose or pressure washer. Ensure the downspouts are clear, and use a plumber’s snake or a similar tool if necessary to clear any blockages.

6. Reinstall the Gutter Guards

Once the gutters and guards are clean, reinstall the guards. Begin by aligning them back into their original position and reattaching them with screws, clips, or the fasteners you previously removed. Make sure everything is securely fastened and in place to ensure the guards function properly.

7. Test Water Flow

After the guards are reinstalled, test the gutters by running water through them with a hose. Ensure that the water flows freely and there are no blockages in the gutters or downspouts. If everything is clear, your cleaning is complete!

How to Clean Second-Story Gutters with Gutter Guards

Cleaning second-story gutters can be more challenging, especially when there are gutter guards involved. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can complete the task safely and effectively without the need for a ladder. Here’s how to clean second-story gutters when you have gutter guards:

1. Use a Telescoping Gutter Cleaning Wand

One of the easiest and safest ways to clean second-story gutters with gutter guards is by using a telescoping gutter cleaning wand. These extendable wands allow you to reach gutters that are high up without the need for a ladder. Here’s how to use one:

• Choose the Right Wand: Ensure the cleaning wand is compatible with your garden hose. Look for a model with an adjustable angle nozzle so you can direct the flow of water to clean effectively.
• Attach to Your Hose: Connect the wand to your garden hose. Some wands may also have an internal water pressure adjustment feature, so choose one that suits your needs.
• Position the Wand: Stand on the ground and extend the wand to reach the gutter. Position the nozzle directly above the gutter guard to clear away any debris trapped in the mesh or surface of the guard.
• Clean the Gutter: Turn on the water and gently direct the stream into the gutter, making sure to flush away leaves, dirt, and debris. The pressure from the hose can loosen debris from both the guard and the gutter itself.

2. Consider a Pressure Washer with Gutter Cleaning Attachment

For tougher jobs or more stubborn debris, a pressure washer equipped with a gutter cleaning attachment can make the task much easier. These attachments are designed to clean gutters efficiently without damaging the guards.

• Choose the Right Pressure Setting: Use a pressure washer with a low to medium setting to prevent damage to the gutter guards. Too much pressure can dislodge the guards or cause water to get behind the gutters.
• Use the Gutter Cleaning Attachment: Attach the special gutter cleaning nozzle to the pressure washer. These typically have an angled tip that helps you direct the flow of water upward into the gutter, which is especially helpful for reaching high spots.
• Clean Thoroughly: Slowly move the pressure washer along the length of the gutters, cleaning both the guards and the gutter itself. Make sure to focus on the areas where debris tends to accumulate, such as the corners and joints.

3. Use a Leaf Blower for Easy Debris Removal

If your gutter guards are mesh or screen-style, a leaf blower can help you easily remove debris from the surface of the guards. This method works best for leaves and loose debris, but might not be as effective for wet, compacted material.

• Position the Leaf Blower: Stand at ground level and point the blower nozzle upward into the gutter. Ensure you have a solid stance, as leaf blowers can be powerful.
• Blow Debris Away: Turn on the leaf blower and aim the nozzle into the gutter. Use short bursts of air to dislodge debris, allowing it to fall to the ground. Be cautious of any debris blowing onto nearby plants or the house’s exterior.

4. Safety Precautions

When cleaning second-story gutters with gutter guards, safety is paramount. Here are a few tips to ensure your safety:

• Use Proper Equipment: Always opt for extendable wands or pressure washers with secure, long hoses rather than standing on ladders. This will help avoid the risk of falling.
• Wear Protective Gear: Wear safety gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from debris, dust, or splashing water.
• Check the Weather: Avoid cleaning gutters in windy, rainy, or otherwise hazardous weather conditions to prevent accidents.

5. Consider Professional Help for High-Difficulty Jobs

If your second-story gutters are particularly difficult to reach, or if you don’t feel comfortable using a long ladder or power tools, consider hiring a professional to handle the cleaning. Many companies, such as HomeSmiles Nashville, offer gutter cleaning services as part of their preventative home maintenance plans, which ensures your home’s gutters are clean, clear, and functioning properly.

How to Clean Gutters on a Two-Story House Without a Ladder

Cleaning gutters on a two-story house without a ladder can seem like a challenging task, but with the right tools and methods, it’s entirely possible. Here’s how to tackle the job safely and efficiently:

1. Use a Telescoping Gutter Cleaning Wand

A telescoping gutter cleaning wand is one of the best tools for cleaning gutters on a two-story house without the need for a ladder. These extendable wands are specifically designed to reach high gutters from the safety of the ground.

• Choose the Right Wand: Look for a wand with an adjustable extension that can reach your second-story gutters. The longer the wand, the easier it will be to clean the gutters.
• Attach to Your Garden Hose: Most telescoping wands are compatible with standard garden hoses, making it easy to connect and use. Some even have adjustable nozzles to control the water pressure, allowing you to effectively clean without damaging the gutter system.
• Clean the Gutters: Position the wand at an angle and use the water to flush debris from the gutter guards and the gutter itself. Move the wand along the entire length of the gutter, ensuring that any debris is cleared away.

2. Consider a Gutter Cleaning Attachment for Your Pressure Washer

If you’re looking for a more powerful cleaning solution, a pressure washer with a gutter cleaning attachment can make the job easier. These attachments are designed to spray water into the gutters at a specific angle, helping to dislodge debris effectively.

• Choose the Right Pressure Setting: When using a pressure washer, it’s essential to use a low pressure setting to prevent damaging the gutters or gutter guards. High pressure can cause the guards to loosen or damage the roofline.
• Attach the Gutter Cleaning Nozzle: Many pressure washers come with specialized nozzles for gutter cleaning. These typically have an angled tip to direct water upward into the gutter, making it easier to remove debris without needing a ladder.
• Work in Sections: Start at one end of the gutter and work your way along the length, allowing the water to flush out leaves, twigs, and other debris. Move slowly and cautiously to ensure the job is done thoroughly.

3. Use a Leaf Blower for Easy Debris Removal

If your gutter guards are mesh or screen-style, a leaf blower can help clear loose debris like leaves, pine needles, and dirt. This method is fast and effective, especially for light debris, but it may not be as effective for wet or compacted material.

• Stand at Ground Level: Use the leaf blower from a safe distance, making sure to direct the airflow upwards into the gutters.
• Blow Away the Debris: Turn on the blower and aim it directly at the gutter. Use short bursts to dislodge debris, making it easier to clear away. Be mindful of where the debris lands, as it may fall onto nearby landscaping or windows.

4. Consider Using a Gutter Cleaning Robot

For those looking for a high-tech, hands-off solution, gutter cleaning robots are an excellent option. These small, battery-powered devices can be inserted into the gutters and move along the length of the gutter system, clearing debris as they go.

• Choose the Right Model: Gutter cleaning robots vary in size, power, and functionality. Some models are designed specifically for homes with gutter guards, making them an excellent choice for a two-story house.
• Set Up and Run the Robot: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up and activating the robot. The device will move through the gutters, removing debris without you needing to climb a ladder.

5. Hire a Professional Gutter Cleaning Service

If you’re not comfortable cleaning gutters from the ground, or if the job seems too daunting, you may want to consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service. HomeSmiles offers expert gutter cleaning as part of its preventative home maintenance services, ensuring your gutters are cleaned thoroughly and effectively without the need for ladders or risky climbing.

Important Safety Tips When Cleaning Gutters on a Two-Story House

Cleaning gutters on a two-story house requires a little extra caution due to the height involved. To ensure both your safety and the effectiveness of the job, it’s essential to follow some important safety tips. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

1. Wear the Right Safety Gear

Before starting any gutter cleaning job, make sure you’re equipped with the proper safety gear:

• Gloves: Wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects, dirt, and debris that can get caught in the gutters.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from falling debris, especially if you’re using tools like a leaf blower or pressure washer.
• Slip-Resistant Shoes: Wear shoes with good traction to prevent slipping, especially if you’re working around wet or slippery surfaces.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: If you’re working with pressure washers or are dealing with jagged gutter edges, long sleeves and pants will protect your skin from splashes, cuts, or scratches.

2. Keep the Ground Area Clear

Make sure the ground below your gutters is clear of obstacles, tools, or debris. This will reduce the risk of tripping or accidents while you work. You should also avoid cleaning gutters when it’s windy, rainy, or icy, as these conditions can increase the risk of falls and accidents.

3. Use Proper Ladders and Equipment (If Needed)

If you do need to use a ladder for parts of the gutter cleaning process, make sure it’s a sturdy, reliable ladder rated for the height and weight capacity you need.

• Ladder Placement: Always place your ladder on a level surface, ensuring it’s stable before climbing. Avoid leaning the ladder against the gutter, as it can cause damage.
• Extension Ladders: For a two-story house, an extension ladder is typically the safest choice. Ensure the ladder extends at least three feet above the edge of the roof, giving you something to hold onto when transitioning from the ladder to the roof.

4. Consider Using a Stabilizer

When using a ladder to access gutters, a ladder stabilizer can provide added security. This tool helps prevent the ladder from leaning against the gutters and causing damage, as well as providing more stability when climbing.

5. Use Tools That Minimize Risk

Opt for tools that reduce the need to climb or stretch excessively. Telescoping wands, pressure washers, leaf blowers, and gutter cleaning robots all allow you to work from the ground, significantly reducing the risk of falls or injury.

6. Work in Pairs (When Possible)

If you’re tackling gutter cleaning as a DIY project, it’s always a good idea to have a partner on hand. They can assist in handling tools, managing the ladder, and helping you stay safe while you work. It’s always safer to have someone nearby in case of an emergency.

7. Follow Manufacturer Instructions for Tools and Equipment

Whether you’re using a pressure washer, gutter cleaning wand, or robot, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe and proper usage. This ensures that the equipment works efficiently and doesn’t pose any safety hazards.

How Often Should You Clean Gutters with Gutter Guards?

When it comes to maintaining gutters, one of the most frequently asked questions is how often gutters should be cleaned. If your home has gutter guards, the maintenance schedule can be different compared to traditional open gutters. Here’s everything you need to know about cleaning gutters with gutter guards:

1. Gutter Guards: A Helpful but Not Complete Solution

Gutter guards are designed to prevent large debris, such as leaves and twigs, from entering the gutters. They can be very effective at reducing the amount of debris that accumulates in the gutter system. However, gutter guards do not completely eliminate the need for gutter cleaning. Small particles, such as shingle grit, dirt, and dust, can still enter your gutters and cause buildup over time.

2. How Often Should You Clean Gutters with Gutter Guards?

Even with gutter guards in place, you should still clean your gutters at least once a year. Depending on the environment around your home and the effectiveness of your gutter guards, you may need to clean them more frequently. Here are some factors to consider:

• Location and Surrounding Vegetation: Homes surrounded by trees or heavy foliage may accumulate debris in the gutters more quickly, even with guards in place. In these cases, cleaning the gutters twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—might be necessary.
• Climate: In areas with frequent storms or high winds, debris may get blown into the gutters despite the presence of guards. If your home experiences heavy rainfall or frequent storms, you may need to inspect and clean your gutters more often.
• Types of Gutter Guards: The type of gutter guard you have will also impact how often you need to clean your gutters. Some gutter guard systems, such as mesh or screen-style guards, are more effective at blocking debris than others, while solid covers may allow water to run over the edges if they become clogged. Be sure to review the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific type of gutter guard.

3. Common Signs Your Gutters with Guards Need Cleaning

It may not always be obvious when it’s time to clean gutters with gutter guards. Look for these warning signs that indicate your gutters need attention:

• Overflowing Water: If water is spilling over the sides of your gutters during rainstorms, it’s likely that there is a blockage. Even with gutter guards, debris can accumulate, causing water to back up.
• Streaks on the Exterior of Your Home: If you notice streaks or water marks on the exterior of your home near the gutters, it could be a sign that the gutters are clogged and not draining properly.
• Debris Around the Foundation: If you see excess water pooling around your home’s foundation, it may be a result of clogged gutters that are unable to direct water away from the house.

4. Regular Gutter Maintenance: A Smart Investment in Preventative Home Maintenance

Just like any other aspect of preventative home maintenance, keeping your gutters clean (even with gutter guards) is an essential step in protecting your home from water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to serious issues, including foundation damage, roof leaks, and landscape erosion. By regularly maintaining your gutters, you help ensure that water is effectively channeled away from your home, preventing costly repairs down the line.

5. Hiring a Professional for Gutter Cleaning

While DIY cleaning is possible, especially with telescoping tools or gutter cleaning wands, sometimes it’s a good idea to call in a professional. A professional gutter cleaning service can provide a thorough inspection and cleaning of your gutters and gutter guards, ensuring they are functioning properly and preventing any potential damage.

If you’re not comfortable cleaning your gutters yourself or simply don’t have the time, it may be worth reaching out to a service like HomeSmiles Nashville to handle the job. Our experts can also help with exterior home maintenance, including pressure washing, window washing, and dryer vent cleaning, ensuring that your home stays in great shape year-round.

Practical Tips for Cleaning Gutters with Gutter Guards

Cleaning gutters with gutter guards can be more manageable than dealing with uncovered gutters, but it still requires some attention to detail. Here are some practical tips to help you keep your gutters and gutter guards clean and functioning properly:

1. Inspect the Gutter Guards Regularly

Even if you have gutter guards, debris can accumulate over time, especially small particles or shingle granules. Regularly inspect your gutter guards to ensure they are free of larger debris like leaves and twigs. Check that the guards are securely in place and not damaged. If your gutter guards are clogged or broken, it may cause water to overflow and damage your home’s foundation, walls, or roof.

2. Use the Right Tools for the Job

To clean your gutters with gutter guards effectively, you’ll need the proper tools:

• Gutter Cleaning Wand: This is a long, extendable wand that attaches to your garden hose and allows you to reach second-story gutters without a ladder. It’s perfect for rinsing out debris or stubborn dirt.
• Leaf Blower: A leaf blower with a nozzle extension can help clear larger debris from your gutters. Be sure to use it gently so as not to damage the gutter guards.
• Ladder or Telescoping Ladder: If you prefer to manually clean your gutters, a sturdy ladder is necessary for reaching higher areas. Be sure to use a ladder stabilizer to prevent any damage to your gutters or roof.
• Pressure Washer: For heavy buildup or debris, a pressure washer with a low-pressure nozzle can help clear out stubborn dirt. Be cautious, as using too much pressure can damage the gutter guards.

3. Clean from the End to the Downspout

When cleaning gutters with gutter guards, start at the farthest end of the gutter and work your way toward the downspout. This ensures that any debris is pushed toward the downspout and not further along the gutter. If you have a lot of debris, use a gutter scoop or your hands (with gloves) to remove any large pieces before rinsing.

4. Rinse with Water to Clear Smaller Debris

After removing any larger debris, rinse your gutters with water to clear out smaller particles. A garden hose with a spray nozzle or a gutter cleaning wand works well for this step. It helps ensure that even the smallest dirt and shingle granules are flushed away. Make sure water flows freely through the downspouts. If water doesn’t drain properly, check for a clog in the downspout or gutter.

5. Clear Out the Downspouts

While cleaning your gutters, be sure to check and clean your downspouts as well. Even with gutter guards, leaves and debris can get stuck in the downspouts, causing clogs. If you notice water backing up in the gutter or not draining properly, the downspouts might need to be cleared. Use a plumber’s snake or a high-pressure nozzle to remove any obstructions.

6. Check for Proper Gutter Slope

Proper gutter slope is essential for good drainage. Ensure your gutters are angled slightly toward the downspouts to allow water to flow smoothly. Over time, gutters can become saggy or misaligned, which may require adjustment. If you notice standing water or pooling in the gutters, check that the slope is still correct.

7. Don’t Forget to Perform Exterior Home Maintenance

While cleaning your gutters, remember that it’s part of your overall exterior home maintenance. Regularly inspect your roof, siding, and foundation for signs of damage that could be exacerbated by clogged gutters. Preventative home maintenance, including window washing and dryer vent cleaning, can help ensure that your home stays in great condition and avoids costly repairs.

Keep Your Gutters Clean and Protected

Cleaning gutters with gutter guards doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and regular maintenance, you can ensure that your gutters remain clear, functional, and protect your home from water damage. Regular gutter cleaning is an essential part of exterior home maintenance, and it complements other tasks like window washing, pressure washing, and dryer vent cleaning. By staying on top of gutter care, you’ll avoid costly repairs and ensure your home remains in top shape for years to come.

Don’t let clogged gutters cause damage to your home’s foundation, siding, or roof. If you need help with cleaning gutters or other preventative home maintenance, HomeSmiles Nashville is here to assist you. Our expert team can ensure your home is well-maintained, both inside and out.

Contact HomeSmiles Nashville Today!

Ready to tackle gutter cleaning or other home maintenance tasks? Contact HomeSmiles Nashville today to schedule an appointment and keep your home in pristine condition. We offer comprehensive preventative home maintenance services, including gutter cleaning, exterior home maintenance, and much more. Let us handle the work so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is well taken care of!