Clean or Cover?

There will be always different perspectives in home maintenance. Some prefer to do things more simply because it it saves them money. Those using modern methods say that tasks get done faster and complete it with minimal effort. It comes with a price, but for them – it's worth it. When it comes to the gutter system, two dilemmas occur: To install a gutter cover or not, and how to keep it in good working condition?

Cleaning Gutters

This means literally cleaning it when debris starts to pile up. Some prefer this way since it saves them money and they don't have to invest in gutter covers. Cleaning can be done by using a few tools. Ladders, gloves, bucket and even a leaf blower is good enough for getting the job done. Professional cleaning can also be done but the price may vary depending on the length of the gutter. Some gutter cleaning services literally just clean the gutter so even though the latter is cleaned, the downspouts will be untouched. What if the downspouts have lots of debris inside?

Cleaning them the old-fashioned way may be fine, but the dangers are there. Ladders may be wobbly or unsteady, and is a leading cause of house accidents. Leaning them against gutters are also not good, as it deforms the gutters. An A-frame ladder can be a good alternative. Gutters without covers are harder to clean especially when debris get stuck and a layer of muck forms.

Gutter Covers

Others do not hesitate to invest in adding a gutter guard to the roof drainage system. Why? Installing the right type of cover greatly reduces the amount of debris that the gutters collect, making it easier to clean. It also prevents clogging in the downspout, as lesser debris accumulates. Having the right type of cover is extremely important, as other cover types still lets other debris such as pine needles and other seeds get into the gutter. One good type of gutter guard is the one from Hallett, which is the reverse curve type.

Gutter guards virtually remove the requirement of gutter cleaning. However, it is still essential to check the gutters at least twice a year to check for any build-up or potential clogs and repairs. No matter how much some brands promise that you won't need to clean your gutters – you still need to.

Clean it? Cover it? It depends. It is still down to the homeowner's choice.