Angie’s List: Gutter cleaning tips

Gutters are among the most visible parts of any home. But few homeowners take the time to really look at them.

Angie Hicks of Angie's List said failing to look at your gutters now could cost you plenty later.

"Gutters aren't just about looks," she said.

David Rhodes of Weather Shield, an Indianapolis company that installs and repairs gutters said they are far more important than that.

"The gutters are designed to get the water away from your house," he said. "The water is the enemy of your home, so they are really essential.”

Essential and even brand new ones require some maintenance. It’s important to make sure your gutters retain their proper pitch and clean them out twice a year, once in the fall again in the spring.

Rhodes said, "A good idea is to go out when it’s raining, or take a hose to the roof and check and see if it's flowing properly. Look out the window; see if water is collecting in the gutter. That will tell you if it's mispitched or clogged," Rhodes said.

Hicks said getting gutters cleaned is important, but she said think twice before you decide to do it yourself.

"Many people think that gutter cleaning is a do it yourself job. But it actually can be pretty dangerous. We want to remind people that there are more injuries related to falling off a ladder than there are with any other do it yourself project," said Hicks.

Aluminum gutters are the most common residential choice. They are the least expensive. But you still need to keep them clean.

Each of the other choices has its pluses and minuses said Rhodes.

"Steel seems to rust with time. Copper oxidizes, gets discolored. Vinyl will crack once it's been through the winter months if it's not properly cleaned. The aluminum is a lifetime product," said Rhodes.

Mother Nature can pose problems for any kind of gutter.

Rhodes said gutter covers are a good idea. But, he said gutters still need to be cleaned even with covers.

HIcks said if a company promises that if you buy their cover you'll never need to clean your gutters again, be sure to get it in writing.