It hasn't rained in weeks, so you know your roof isn't flooded with water, and you know you don't have to worry about ice dams since Las Vegas winter temperatures rarely drop below the 40s. So what is causing your roof leak? Chances are, your gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, mud, or other debris. When your gutters are clogged, they are unable to catch rain water and even the smallest amount can build up on your roof and begin leaking into your home.

It's time to clean your gutters. Homeowners should have their gutters cleaned at least twice a year. This will prevent a roof leak no matter what the weather forecast.

How to Clean Your Gutters to Prevent a Roof Leak

Round Up Your Supplies

Before you get started, gather your other gutter-cleaning supplies:

• Gardening gloves
• Plastic tarp or bucket
• Scoop
• Garden hose
• Leaf disposal bag

Work with a Partner

Gutter cleaning shouldn't be a one-person job. In fact, any household job involving a ladder shouldn't be undergone alone. One person should climb the ladder while the other stabilizes it and act as a spotter. With two people working as a team, this decidedly messy job will go faster and more smoothly.

Begin by inserting the hose into the downspout, turning on the water and checking to make sure that the water flows freely. If it doesn't, you'll have to dismantle the downspout and remove the debris that is probably trapped inside. Doing so will save you time and energy.

Your Method Is Up to You

Just as there is no single right way to clean a house, there is no one right way to clean out a gutter. You can:

• Scoop up the leaves and other debris and toss them to the ground on the tarp (which may be the faster method).
• Scoop up the debris and place it in a bucket (which may take longer since you will have to empty it once it becomes full).

It's safer to work on a small section of a gutter at a time and move the ladder frequently than to try to spare yourself a trip up and down the ladder and overreach.

At First Quality Roofing & Insulation, our Roof Maintenance Program is designed to ensure that your roof is always in pristine condition to prevent roof leaks and other damage. Contact us at 702-262-7847 for more information or to schedule a free on-site consultation.