With fall in full effect, it's the perfect time for homeowners to tackle a task from the to do list - cleaning the gutters. Cleaning and repairing gutters is an important part of roof maintenance in Las Vegas. Follow a few simple steps to get your gutters into shape this season.

Remove Large Debris First

First, any major clogs need to be taken care of. Not only will clogging prevent your gutters from working properly, it can also cause damage to the rest of your home. Water building up in the gutters can lead to roof damage and overflow can cause pooling water to affect your foundation. 

Removing the bulk of the debris in the gutters is the first step to preventing those issues. Everything from moss to animal nests to broken pieces of roof shingles can build up and prevent water from exiting through the downspout. When you're finished, flush out the gutters with a hose to be sure you removed the cause of any backup.  

Replace Damaged Gutters

After removing any debris that could be the source of clogging, making your gutters sag, or causing other damage, you'll be able to get a better idea of whether the gutters can be fixed or should be replaced. While some damage can be repaired, there are signs that you should consider replacing the system. 

• More than just a few minor rust spots
• Several missing nails or screws, which connect the gutters to the home's fascia
• Gutters that have pulled away from the house or separated between sections
• Severe sagging 
• Damage to the home or landscaping around and below the gutters

Make Necessary Repairs

If you find that your gutters don't need to be replaced completely, but aren't in the best shape, some damage can be repaired. The need for roof maintenance in Las Vegas is often cause by problems that can easily be resolved, if addressed early. The following are a few areas to check.

• Look for the sources of leaks and scrape away any old caulking, then replace it with silicone sealer.
• Reattach the gutters to the fascia in areas where screws have come loose and reattach sections that have come apart.
• Check the rivets near the downspout and replace them if they've come loose or fallen out.

Finish with a Pressure Washer

When large debris has been removed and any necessary repairs have been made, get your gutters back to looking brand new with a pressure washer. As long as the gutters are secured, you won't cause damage with the water pressure. You can rent a pressure washer at most home improvement stores to tackle the project without making a big investment. 

Taking the time to clean and repair your gutters will save you headaches and additional home repair costs all year. If you have questions about roof maintenance in Las Vegas, contact First Quality Roofing & Insulation today at 702-262-7847.