Gutter Cleaning and Care

Inspection and Materials

It's a good idea to inspect gutters a couple times a year to make sure they're operating efficiently. Gutters are secured to something called a fascia board. This board hangs just under the roofline and is typically made of wood. Make sure the fascia isn't deteriorating or rotting when you're on a ladder checking gutters.

Gutter Materials

• Steel: durable, but rusts over time
• Vinyl or plastic: A favorite for DIYers; lightweight; long-term exposure to the elements causes fading and degrading
• Aluminum: most popular choice (fabricated on-site without seams for less chance of leaking)
• Copper: beautiful and long-lasting; higher price
• Wood: practically obsolete; found on some historic homes