What Time Of Year To Get Gutters Cleaned Out in Austin
Planning ahead to have your home’s gutters cleaned out before you need them is the best way to keep them working efficiently. When the right time is depends on your climate and expected weather patterns. We’ve created a quick gutter reference guide for Austin homeowners.
The short answer: after Fall leaves and after Spring pollen are the two best times to clean out your gutters.
Twice Yearly Cleaning is Best
There are two times of year that are best for cleaning your home’s gutters. Ideally, you should take advantage of both to keep gutters clear of debris and working effectively.
Mid-to-Late spring – sometime in April or May – after trees have mostly stopped dropping pollen and the live oaks have had their big shedding is ideal. Spring and summer thunderstorms come with a significant amount of rainfall. Cleaning out gutters in late spring rids them of debris build-up that can prevent water from flowing freely which can cause damage to your roof and your foundation.
On the other side of the calendar: Fall foliage here in Austin might not be as pronounced as it is in some parts of the country, but we do have a good number of trees that drop leaves which can cause gutters to get blocked. Try to plan your second cleaning for the year in early fall – September or October – after the bulk of the leaves have fallen. Cleaning gutters in early fall is especially important to prevent clogs and ice dams during the occasional winter freezes.
Watch for Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning
Golden Home Management monthly subscribers don’t need to add regular gutter inspection to their list of handyman tasks – we do it automatically. These are the main things they will be looking for, so you can also keep an eye out while you’re enjoying your property.
If any debris – leaves, twigs, dirt, etc… - are visible anywhere in your gutter it’s time for a cleaning. Also watch for signs of a blockage such as water overflowing your gutters during a rainstorm. Any mold or mildew growing on the exterior walls or near the foundation, it could be a result of water not properly draining from the gutters.
Look for areas where gutters are sagging or pulling away from the house. They could be weighed down by debris or water. Once any clogs are removed, you’ll need to inspect that section of gutter for damage. In fact, it’s a good practice to have regular gutter inspections throughout the year – especially following any severe weather. If there are signs of blockages, overflow, or damage, it's advisable to address these issues promptly.
Sticking to a regular schedule of gutter maintenance helps ensure the efficiency of your gutters, prevent potential water damage, and ensure that your home is well-prepared for whatever the weather may bring. Golden Home Management is here to make all your home management and maintenance smooth and easy. If you want to learn more, give us a call to schedule a free assessment.