How to Maintain Surface Tension in Gutter Guards

Gutter guards help prevent debris from clogging your gutters. They attract water and facilitate the removal of debris due to surface tension. Surface tension is the phenomenon whereby water molecules stick to each other more tightly on the surface of water than below it, which creates a thick "film" on the surface. Water flows up the gutter guard while the leaves and debris sit above the film on the water's surface and then slide over the gutter's edge to fall to the ground. However, surface tension won't work if you allow debris to clog your gutter guards.

Hose
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Clean your gutter guards using water from a hose. Spray the gutter guards and down the spout. Use gloves if you need to pick leaves or debris out of your gutter guards. Don't use your bare hands because there may be bacteria in the water and on the debris you need to remove. Completely remove all large and small pieces of debris, as these will clog your gutter guards, making it impossible for water to travel up into the gutter and the debris to fall to the ground.
- 2
  Pull out the gutter guard bristles if your type of guard uses bristles. Shake loose any debris off the bristles and then brush them with your gloved hand to remove any remaining debris.
- 3
  Clean any protective screens inside the gutters using the hose or pick out debris with your gloved hands. Protective screens work with gutter guards to stop debris from getting into the downspouts, but if leaves or other debris clog the screens, then the water can't get through and surface tension won't work.
- 4
  Locate any nests or signs of animals that have made a home in your gutters. Remove the nests carefully or hire an expert to safely remove them for you.

How to Make a Stepped Ditch Retaining Wall

How to Make a Fenced-In Dog Pen

Fences & Walls