Gutter Maintenance Dos & Don’ts: Keep the Water Flowing

What Should You Know About Gutter Maintenance?

Let’s be real for a minute — gutters aren’t exactly the most thrilling part of your home. You’re probably not lying in bed at night thinking, “Wow, I can’t wait to clean those gutters tomorrow.” And that’s fair. They’re easy to forget about… until they stop doing their job.

But here’s the thing — when gutters get ignored, they don’t just sit quietly. They start acting up. We’re talking overflowing water, soggy walls, cracked foundations, mold creeping in where it definitely doesn’t belong… basically, a long list of expensive and annoying problems you don’t want to deal with.

The good news? It’s pretty easy to keep your gutters happy. You don’t need fancy tools or a degree in home repair — just a little know-how, some basic upkeep, and a few things to avoid.

So if you’re not a fan of surprise repairs (and let’s be honest, who is?), here’s the lowdown on what you should be doing — and what you really shouldn’t — to keep your gutters working the way they’re supposed to.

1. Clean Those Gutters Regularly

Leaves, twigs, dirt, and all kinds of random gunk love to pile up in your gutters, especially during the fall and spring. That buildup can block water from flowing properly, which can lead to big problems fast. To avoid that, make it a habit to clean them out every few months. Grab a hose, a gutter scoop, maybe even a pair of gloves you don’t mind getting gross — and clear them out. It’s not glamorous, but kind of like flossing your teeth — not fun, but totally worth it.

2. Inspect for Damage

About twice a year, give your gutters a good look — especially if you’ve had some rough weather. You want to check for rust spots, small cracks, sagging areas, or parts pulling away from the house. If anything looks off, fix it as soon as you can. Small issues turn into big (and expensive) problems if you let them sit. A quick patch now is way better than a full replacement later.

3. Install Gutter Guards

If you’re tired of scooping leaves every time the seasons change, gutter guards can seriously save you some time and hassle. These covers or screens help keep most of the junk out, so only rainwater gets through. That means fewer cleanings, less risk of clogs, and more peace of mind. Honestly, once you try them, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

4. Maintain Your Downspouts

Your gutters might be clean, but if your downspouts are clogged, water still has nowhere to go. And when that happens, it can start pooling around your home’s foundation — not good. Take a few minutes to check them and clear out any blockages. It’s a simple fix that makes a big difference in keeping water flowing the right way.

5. Create the Proper Pitch

If you ever notice water just sitting in your gutters, or spilling over the edge during a storm, chances are they aren’t sloped correctly. Gutters need a slight angle so water flows toward the downspouts, not backward or nowhere. If the slope’s off, you might need to adjust or rehang them — not a huge project, but definitely something to take care of before the next big rain.

1. Don’t Ignore Clogs

If water’s not coming out of the downspouts when it’s raining, you’ve probably got a clog somewhere. And if you leave it alone, that water’s going to find its own escape route — which usually means spilling over the sides and causing trouble around your yard, foundation, or basement. Save yourself the stress and clear it out before it turns into a real mess.

2. Don’t Use the Wrong Tools

Look, we get the urge to blast everything clean with a power washer, but gutters aren’t built for that kind of force. Pressure washers can damage them, and sharp tools can leave scratches or even poke holes. Stick to the basics — a scoop, a soft brush, and a garden hose. It gets the job done without wrecking your setup.

3. Don’t Use a Leaf Blower (At Full Blast)

Using a leaf blower to clean your gutters might sound smart, but it can backfire. If it’s too strong, you’ll just jam debris deeper into corners — or worse, lose your balance on the ladder. If you really want to use one, keep it on the lowest setting. But honestly? A good pair of gloves and a scoop is still the safer way to go.

4. Don’t Hang Decorations From Gutters

We all love decorating for the holidays, but hanging lights, planters, or anything else off your gutters is asking for trouble. They’re made to handle water, not extra weight. That added stress can cause them to bend, loosen, or even fall off entirely. Use hooks or clips made for your siding instead — your gutters will thank you.

5. Don’t Attempt Major DIY Repairs (Unless You’re Experienced)

If you’ve never fixed a gutter before, now’s probably not the time to start experimenting. Doing it wrong can make things worse — and more expensive. If a section needs fixing or replacing, it’s best to call in someone who knows what they’re doing. A local pro with the right tools and experience can get the job done right and safely — no wobbly ladders or duct-tape fixes required.

Taking a few simple steps now can save you a whole lot of stress (and a chunk of cash) down the road. Gutter maintenance doesn’t have to be a big, scary chore — it’s really just about checking in every now and then, clearing out the mess before it builds up, and knowing when to bring in the pros if something’s beyond a DIY fix. A little effort goes a long way in keeping water out of places it doesn’t belong. And the best part? When the next big rain rolls in, you can kick back with your coffee, listen to the rain hit the roof, and know your gutters are handling business — no overflows, no leaks, no last-minute panic. Just smooth sailing.

If you’re ready to make sure your gutters stay in tip-top shape, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Lexington Gutters & Exterior. Our team is here to help with everything from regular cleanings to more serious repairs — we’ll take the stress off your plate so you can enjoy peace of mind, rain or shine. Contact us today and let’s keep your gutters flowing smoothly!