Screen & gutter cleaning: A basic guide

by Judy Szablak 06/04/2023

Both screen and gutter cleaning are important home maintenance tasks every homeowner should have on their list. Addressing clogged gutters can improve drainage and prevent damage to your foundation. Cleaning window or porch screens can improve airflow and help them last longer. 

Here are some guidelines for handling both of these exterior cleaning tasks:

How to clean gutters on a ladder

The safest way to clean gutters on a ladder is by using an extension ladder with stabilizer arms. A sturdy extension ladder latches onto the structure to prevent tipping, unlike stepladders, which can increase your risk of falling. It's also a good idea to have an assistant with you to hold the ladder or provide extra help from the ground when needed.

How to clean gutters from the ground

The cleaning of gutters from ladders can take a little longer, but it's safer. Cleaning gutters from the ground requires a garden hose or power washer to clear out the debris. If your home is taller than one story, however, consider hiring a professional for help.

Use spray-on cleaner for screens

There are multiple ready-made cleaning products available for cleaning screens, whether they be windows or porch screens. Simply spray the product directly onto the screen and scrub with a brush to spread the cleaner into the tiny holes. Some cleaners require rinsing off afterward, so read the included instructions carefully.

Clean porch screens with soapy water & a brush

It is easiest to scrub screen doors, windows and walls using soap and water. It can take longer than using a cleaning product, but is DIY-friendly and uses supplies you might already have around the house. Fill a large bucket or container with warm water and add mild dish soap. Using a scrub brush or rough sponge, scrub away the dirt and grime to clean screens.

How to clean removable screens

If you have removable screens, it might be tempting to take them down to clean them. However, it's quicker to leave them in place for cleaning. This allows them to dry much faster, as they can get better airflow.

The importance of clean gutters & screens

Gutters require relatively minimal maintenance to function properly, but if they are filled with leaves, they can cause obstructions in their downspouts. The snow on the roof will melt and then freeze in the gutter, causing heavy ice blockages which will rip up the gutters from underneath a house.

As for screens, the cleaner the screen, the better the airflow. Not only will you have improved air quality, you'll notice better air circulation in your screened in porch or through your windows. You'll also improve the longevity of your screens by keeping them clean and well-maintained, preventing expensive repairs or replacements down the road.

Some home maintenance tasks are trickier than others, but all combine to ensure your investment will stand the test of time. For gutters and screens, keep these tips in mind to make your seasonal cleaning simpler.

About the Author
Author

Judy Szablak

With over 30 years in the industry, Realtor Judy Szablak has been on national television for her real estate expertise on the HGTV Network, featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio "Morning Living” , NPR radio as an expert real estate panelist, It’s Relevant News channel, and quoted in the Wall Street Journal for her in depth knowledge of Fairfield County Connecticut real estate.

She was also on the local NPR radio station (WSHU) as a Fairfield County CT real estate expert. Judy has provided multiple online respected news sources with her real estate expertise including The Daily Easton, The Daily Weston, The Daily Fairfield, The Daily Stamford and The Daily Greenwich, as well as in print in the New York Post. She is a weekly Real Estate Columnist for WestportNow.com, another real estate column "Real Estate With Judy” is syndicated through Hearst CT Media Online and seen in The Connecticut Post, The Danbury News-Times, The Stamford Advocate, The Greenwich Time, The Hour, Fairfield Citizen, Westport News, Darien News, New Canaan News and the Wilton Villager.

 Judy is also the author of the book, The Art of Buying or Selling a Home, available at all major book retailers. Additionally, Judy has been nationally recognized in a number of national real estate trade magazines, some with distribution to over 1 million members. She was featured in Real Estate Today as early as 1994 for her commitment to, and implementation of technology in real estate. Judy appeared in the Certified Residential Specialist Magazine, as she provided advice on marketing strategies and ethics in the article titled "Marketing Makeovers.”

 Judy was also featured in REALTOR® Magazine, regarding image enhancement for Realtors. She was again featured in REALTOR® Magazine, in an article on "Achieving Flow” and operating at optimal peak performance. In another article in the same publication, Judy offered guidance to fellow real estate professionals as she explored the topic of implementing and maintaining personal websites. She has appeared in The Council of Residential Specialists Magazine, which featured her ideas regarding technology. Additionally, Judy authored an article on marketing and technology for the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Online Magazine. On two occasions, in 2015 and 2017, she appeared as a featured agent in Top Agent Magazine. I have a few other websites- www.TheCtrealtyBlog.com www.CtHomesAndRealEstate.com www.BestWestportHomes.com www.ThePetitePowerhouse.com www,SzablakConsulting.com