How Do I Clean Electrostatic Bonding Tiger Strips on Gutters?

Electrostatic Bonding Tiger Stripes

• Tiger stripes resemble alternating dark and light stripes along the rain gutter's exterior face. Dirt and pollution accumulate on the gutter's top lip over time. This dirty buildup mixes with water during a rainstorm, eventually flowing out over the gutter's face. Subsequent rainstorms move water along the same gutter face portions, generating dark streaks. The streaks remain stubbornly on the gutter because of electrostatic charges -- or electrical fields -- between the dirt and the gutter material, such as aluminum.

Cleaning

• A simple detergent won't clean tiger stripes off rain gutters. Custom Fit Gutter suggests using a heavy-duty cleanser for difficult stains. Apply the cleanser to the tiger stripes using a brush, such as a soft bristle, or rag. Tiger stripe residue may still remain after one cleaning. It may be necessary to clean the area multiple times before the stripes completely disappear.

Cleanser and Tool Choices

• Don't use abrasive cleansers, or mixtures containing solvents, ammonia or paint remover. The rain gutter's surface paint or finish may be damaged from the cleanser's strong ingredients. In addition, don't apply cleansers with a vigorous motion or with hard bristle brushes. The rain gutter is easily harmed from abrasive pressure. Gentle, constant scrubbing will remove the stains and preserve the rain gutter's structure and finish.

Cleaning Considerations

• Rain gutters should be cleaned at least once a year. However, persistent tiger striping may require more frequent cleaning procedures. Thoroughly cleaning the rain gutters should also include washing the building from the rooftop to the foundation, removing all dirt particles that can contribute to future tiger striping stains. Spray water against the home, from a garden hose, for removal of roof and wall dirt and debris. Verify that all particles and debris exit the rain gutters, and into a nearby drain system, for best long-term results.

Safety

• Cleaning rain gutters usually involves climbing up the building's side. Use a sturdy ladder, preferably with a person on the ground holding the base. Don't pull or hang onto the rain gutter for support while cleaning. Rain gutters are typically held to the building's side with nails that can support the aluminum material but not a person's weight.