Roof & exterior
Clean gutters and confirm downspout drainage
Roof drainage protects fascia, siding, foundations and lower-level spaces. Cleaning the gutter is only half the task—the water also needs a safe path away from the home.
Recommended timingSpring and fall; after heavy debris or storms
What to do
- From the ground, look for overflow staining, sagging sections, loose fasteners, damaged outlets and downspouts that end beside the foundation.
- Have leaves, roof granules and nests removed at least twice yearly, and more often where trees or wind load the roof with debris.
- During safe conditions, confirm water flows through each outlet and that downspout extensions or approved drainage carry it away without creating erosion, ice or a trip hazard.
- Keep discharge out of window wells, stairwells, neighboring property and septic drainfields, and follow local drainage rules.
- Use a qualified contractor for high, steep, icy or difficult-to-reach roof edges and for loose gutters, fascia damage or recurring overflow.
Falls from ladders and roof edges can be fatal. Ground-level observation or professional cleaning is the right choice whenever access is not plainly safe.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.