Don't 'leaf' cleaning gutters off your list of chores

I frequently get calls from people who have flooded basement or water seeping through their concrete walls.

On inspection, one of the things I usually find is clogged rain gutters with water spilling directly against the foundation of the home. Because concrete is very coarse, water easily soaks through the wall into the living envelope of the home.

In this week's article, I thought I would share with you, the reading audience, some information about gutters and down spouts.

When I inspect a home for water intrusion, I always look at their gutters for discoloration on the lip of the gutter. If that lip is discolored, it is a sure indicator that the gutter is clogged and water is spilling over the side.

It also means that you're in for a dirty job.

Rain gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall.

In the spring, you have flowers and pollen falling off trees and in the fall, you have dead leaves, pine needles, etc., clogging them.

If you live in a heavily wooded area, your home's gutters may have to be clean more frequently.

To check your gutters, climb up on a safely secured ladder and look into the gutter. If they are full, put on a pair of rubber gloves and scoop out the bulk of the debris with your hands. Get a water hose and wash out the remaining gunk.

Check the down spout and make sure it is clear of buildup. If it is clogged, go to the local hardware store and get a hose bladder.

Attach the hose bladder to the end of your hose and insert it into the down spout, close to the blockage. Fill the bladder with water.

When you release it, it will emit a powerful blast of water usually breaking loose the clog.

If it doesn't, you may have to remove the down spout to clear it.

Sometimes, I've had to use a drain snake to clear them. Once the gutter is clean and free flowing, install gutter guards or hoods, which will prevent debris from entering them.

Note: Buy the best gutter guards you can find, they will really pay off later by saving your labor time when cleaning them.

Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes. If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold inspection and remediation contractor.

Ed Madan is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene/meth lab cleanup.