Did you know asphalt shingles shed their granules over time? The tiny bits of material will gradually collect in your gutters, and while this isn’t a cause for concern right away, the buildup can lead to problems if you neglect gutter maintenance. In fact, a clog in your gutter system could lead to potentially serious water damage. So, if you’ve noticed gritty debris piling up in your gutters, it’s time to learn how to clean shingle granules from gutters. And if you haven’t inspected your gutters in a while, grab a ladder (or call a roofer) and get to it!
Tips for Clearing Shingle Granules from Your Gutters
Always prioritize safety.
If you don’t feel comfortable on a ladder or your roof is quite high, don’t attempt to clean your gutters yourself. Simply hire a professional. Not only will this ensure your safety, but you’ll also eliminate a boatload of stress — not just your own but your loved ones’ as well!
If you decide to go ahead with the process yourself, use a sturdy ladder on level ground. Wear gloves and safety glasses, and ask someone to stand nearby in case you need assistance.
Scoop out the debris.
Using a gutter scoop or a small garden trowel, remove any leaves, twigs, and natural debris first. Once those are out of the way, you’ll see piles of gritty, sand-like materials at the bottom of the gutters. Those are shingle granules.
Flush out the gutters.
When the bulk of the debris has been removed, use a garden hose to flush out the gutters. Start at the end farthest from the downspout. This allows you to catch and remove clogs as you go, and avoid pushing debris into the downspouts.
Check how the water flows from the downspout.
If the water doesn’t drain properly, your downspout may be clogged with granules. To clear it, use a plumber’s snake or spray water directly into the downspout. Avoid using a pressure washer, as this can damage your gutters.
Evaluate the granule loss.
A small amount of granules in your gutters is normal, especially with a newer roof. However, large amounts of granules could indicate that your roof is aging or damaged. If you notice excessive granule loss, schedule a roof inspection. Whether there’s an issue that needs to be repaired or you’re due for a replacement roof, it’s best to confront the situation right away, before the issue has a chance to escalate.
Consider purchasing gutter guards.
Gutter guards can minimize gutter maintenance, limit granule buildup, and prevent frustrating clogs. How? These protective covers or screens prevent debris from entering and clogging your gutter system, allowing water to flow freely through the gutters and downspouts. Several different types are available, including screen guards, mesh guards, reverse curve guards, foam inserts, and brush guards.
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Now that you’ve learned how to clean shingle granules from gutters, it’s time to get started. While you could do the job yourself, for the most effective and stress-free experience, contact Taylor-Made Roofing if you live in the Springfield, Missouri, area. As a local company with over 20 years of experience, we’re committed to delivering top-line roofing to homes and businesses throughout southwest Missouri. We’re fully licensed and insured and prepared to assist you with all your roofing needs. Whether it’s a new roof, roofing repairs, inspections, maintenance, or gutters, we’ve got you covered. To learn more about our services or request an estimate, contact Taylor-Made Roofing today.