Keeping your Rain Gutters clean and clear is a good way to keep your home safe from mold and mildew. But even if you do everything right, mold can start to build up in your gutters from time to time. If your gutters are clogged, water can't drain properly. This means that rainwater can build up and pool around your home, causing damage to your foundation.
Before attempting to remove the mold and mildew from your gutters, be sure to protect your landscaping and plants below them with a plastic tarp or drop cloth. This is because the chemicals in the cleaning solution can harm them. To clean your gutters, you can either use a professional cleaning service such as Gutter Cleaning Buffalo NY, or do the work yourself. The professional method will usually last longer, but you can also get the job done yourself if you have a little experience with soft washing.
In addition to causing damage, clogged gutters are also one of the most common causes of mold and mildew. When water isn't drained away from your home, mold can grow in your gutters, on the roof, and even on your walls and ceilings. To prevent this from happening, you should clean your gutters in the spring and fall. This is when most plant debris collects, including flowers, seeds pods, pollen, and leaves.
Once the leaf and plant debris is removed, you can begin removing any mold or mildew from your gutters. First, douse the gutters with a bleach solution. The bleach will kill and weaken any mold that may be present. You can also use a mixture of white vinegar and water to clean your gutters. After the solution has been poured into the gutters, allow them to sit for an hour or more. Then, rinse the gutters thoroughly.
Another option is to make a paste of cream of tartar and water. This is commonly found in the spice rack, and it can give your gutters a nice sparkle. This will also remove any stains from your gutters, which can help protect them from future stains.
Then, dip a scrub brush into the bleach and scrub away any lingering mold or mildew on your gutters. Rinse your gutters carefully after scrubbing, using a hose to wash the bleach out of them. Once you have cleaned your gutters, be sure to check for any clogs or dripping in the downspouts. If the clogs aren't dislodged by flushing them, you will need to use a plumber's snake to break the clog.
