October 23, 2023, 2:55 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
The colorful autumn foliage is nice to look at, but it also has negative effects. If leaves, moss, and dirt accumulate in the gutter, it can lead to blockages. To ensure the water drains properly again, you should clean the gutter.
If leaves, moss, and dirt clog the gutter and the rainwater can no longer flow properly, homeowners should clean them. This can happen quickly in the fall, especially if trees are close to the house and branches hang over the roof. The falling leaves are then washed into the gutter by the rain, where they settle. The result: waterfalls from the roof edge, at least during heavy rain.
Why It’s Important to Clear Leaves from the Gutter
If the gutter is clogged and no longer directs water into the pipe, it can, in the worst case, damage the building’s structure. The longer you wait to clean it, the more laborious it becomes–and the consequences can be more severe. Over time, even the plaster can be washed out, and the facade can be affected.
If the gutter is still clogged in winter and ice forms in it, it can expand when freezing and damage the gutter or pipe. “Water must always be directed away from the house,” explains Katja Fischborn from the DIY Academy in Cologne in an interview with myHOMEBOOK. In the worst case, the gutter must then be replaced. Therefore, homeowners should clean the gutter and remove dirt and leaves before the first frost sets in.
Also interesting: Are you allowed to burn leaves, weeds, and wood in the garden? Here’s what the law says
Cleaning the Gutter–What to Watch Out For
Especially in the fall, you should regularly check and clean the gutter. “You might be able to look in from above, otherwise, you’ll need to use a ladder,” says the DIY expert. If so many leaves have accumulated that water can no longer drain, it’s high time for cleaning.
When is the right time? “You should choose a dry day for this,” recommends Fischborn. Then the leaves aren’t soaked with water and can be easily raked together. The best tool for this is a hand broom. Some manufacturers also offer special extensions for brushes and scrapers, allowing you to clean the gutter from the ground.
Also interesting: Is your garden ready for fall?
While cleaning the gutter is relatively straightforward, it’s a different story if leaves and dirt have already collected in the downspout. The downspout must first be dismantled. There are special screens for both the gutter and the downspout that keep out leaves and dirt. This helps prevent blockages and saves you the trouble of cleaning.
Do Renters Also Have to Clean the Gutter?
Unlike homeowners, renters do not have to worry about cleaning the gutter. The responsibility for inspection and cleaning falls to the landlord. However, the costs of gutter cleaning can be passed on to the tenant as “other operating costs” (No. 17 of Appendix 3 to § 2 BetrKV).
Clogged Sink? A Simple Trick Solves the Problem
No Funnel on Hand? You Should Know This Trick
Cleaning the Gutter–A Three-Step Guide
Cleaning the gutter is not particularly complicated if you are well-prepared. However, when working on the gutter or facade, you should always pay attention to your own safety. Make sure beforehand that the ladder is stable and secure and won’t slip. If you’re not comfortable with heights, you should ask someone to help you with the work. Here’s how to proceed:
- Preparation: Get a ladder, preferably with a telescopic function and non-slip feet. Ensure a secure stand. You will also need a bucket, a scoop or shovel, and work gloves.
- Remove leaves and coarse dirt: Start at one end of the gutter and work your way along. Use your hands and a scoop to transfer the dirt into the bucket. When you move the ladder, empty the bucket at the same time. Tip: If you stuff a rag into the downspout during cleaning, no material will end up in it.
- Wipe the gutter: Once the major debris is removed, wipe away the deposits in the gutter with a damp cloth.
Empty Plastic Bottle as a Practical DIY Tool
Instead of a shovel, you can also use an empty plastic bottle with the bottom cut off. The round bottle fits perfectly into the gutter, allowing you to easily scoop up dirt and leaves and dump them into the bucket.