BLOG Preventing Gutter Clogs in Southwest Florida: Key Tips for Homeowners Sep 27, 2024

Gutter cleaning is a recurring issue in Southwest Florida, typically needed about twice a year due to the shedding of leaves from nearby trees. Homes surrounded by dense foliage and open, unprotected gutters are especially prone to leaf accumulation, leading to blockages. When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, they can no longer channel water properly. Instead, water pools in the gutter, overflows, and spills onto the ground below. This overflow can cause erosion in landscaping, displacing mulch and soil near the foundation.

In this region, two primary culprits are scrub oak leaves and pine needles. If both tree types are present around a home, gutters are likely to be consistently filled with debris year-round. Dry oak leaves can often be removed with a blower, while wet leaves may require water flushing to clear blockages. Pine needles, however, are trickier; they generally must be removed by hand, making the task more time-consuming. Clearing gutters manually involves repeatedly moving a ladder around the house, which can significantly extend the cleaning time compared to using a blower.

If your home or business frequently experiences clogged gutters, it's essential to assess the number and type of trees in close proximity. In such cases, hiring a professional gutter protection company might be a worthwhile investment to install systems that prevent debris from entering the gutters in the first place. For less frequent cleanings, you can also hire a service equipped to handle complete gutter cleaning.

Regardless of your approach, always hire a local company with liability insurance, a business license, and workers' compensation insurance. Avoid hiring unlicensed or uninsured individuals, as this can expose homeowners to significant financial risk if an accident occurs. Trying to save money by paying in cash or cutting corners could end up costing much more in the long run.