Duration of operation and performance of gutters and gutter system depends on materials, installation, maintenance. Dirt, dust, rubbish entering the drain increase the load on the brackets and holders, provoke blockages. Foliage accumulates in clogged gutters, from which a nutrient medium is formed for the growth of moss, water flowing down destroys the foundation and walls.
Frequency of cleaning gutters and drains
Mud deposits in a metal or plastic drainage system are removed after autumn leaf fall and in spring. In summer and autumn, the gutters are clogged with branches, leaves, sand. If they are not removed, in winter a layered ice mass is formed, which prevents the runoff of water, plugs, when frozen, break drainage pipes.
For an unhindered flow of melt water in the spring, before the snow begins to melt, ice and debris are removed from the drain. The ice layer is removed manually, warm water is used to facilitate cleaning. To prevent debris from entering the drainage channels, after the snow has melted, sand and branches are collected from the gutters and funnels.
In summer, the drainage system should be periodically inspected, with a strong blockage, remove the scales of the buds and flowers. After the wind, branches accumulate in the gutters, from which birds make nests.
Manual removal of blockages in gutters and drains
Mechanical removal is the most affordable cleaning method, suitable for open storm drains. During manual cleaning, garbage is collected in a bag or dumped on the ground. Manufacturers of drainage systems (for example, the Polish brand Bryza) recommend: to remove sand, small fragments, use a brush and a brush with soft bristles. Flexible bristles do not scratch smooth PVC surfaces. Before cleaning, it is recommended to fill the drainage system with water to determine the performance of the drain, to soften the dirt.
The use of brushes with telescopic handles facilitates the work, cleaning can be done from the ground. Due to the adjustable angle of inclination, the brush penetrates into hard-to-reach places, removes dirt from the drainage nets.
To clean gutters and drains with improvised means, you need:
- ladder;
- scoop;
- wooden spatula;
- brush or brush;
- garbage bag;
- thick protective gloves.
The process of cleaning gutters with improvised means
Work begins from the highest point, plant residues are swept out from the gutters. Large fragments are removed from the funnels by hand, adhering dirt and small debris are washed off with water. Drainpipes are washed under strong pressure; to remove deep blockages, punch tapes or a plumbing drill are used. The grids installed in the drainage channels are washed with water. Sludge is removed from the ditch, drainage runoff, and the filter layer is renewed. The operation of the system is checked using a hose with a strong pressure of water. More information of gutter cleaning https://windowwashingexpert.com/gutter-cleaning/gutters-drains-buffalo-grove/.
Blowing out gutters with compressed air
Pipes with many bends are well cleaned with a powerful air stream. Use a blower in dry weather. The device creates a directed air flow that pushes the blockage. To protect the eyes and head from flying debris, blowing is performed in a helmet and goggles. The method is suitable only for removing branches, feathers, foliage, does not eliminate deep blockages, adhering dirt.
Gutter flushing
It is convenient to use a hose with a sprayer. A jet of water washes away dirt and sand, but leaves and branches may remain or clog the drainpipe. Therefore, flushing is recommended to be carried out after preliminary manual cleaning or purging. Before work, it is necessary to remove the grids from the gutters, grids.
What is the danger of clogging gutters and drains
Lack of maintenance of gutters and pipes causes damage and collapse of the drainage system, leaks, destruction or decay of building materials.
When blocking a storm drain with debris:
- Water drains in one place;
- The base is washed away;
- With regular contact with moisture, the strength of brick and concrete deteriorates, the timber rots;
- The water seeping into the seams of the masonry before frost freezes, cracks form;
- Moisture that has penetrated walls, ceilings, leads to dampness in the room.
During rains, the accumulated mud plugs are moistened, a favorable environment is formed for the reproduction of lichen, mold, fungus, and insect larvae. Wasps, ants start up in fallen fruits. In hot weather, accumulations of leaves, needles, dry branches in the gutters dry up, can ignite under the rays of the sun or accidentally fallen coal.
Author: windowwashingexpert.com
Comments are closed.