It’s nice to enjoy birds chirping as the sun rises and watching squirrels frolic in your yard. But, when these animals start to make a home in your drains and downspouts, it can lead to much more significant issues for you and your home. Learn about how to keep nesting critters out of your gutters, so you never have to worry about the complications that come with these little guys infiltrating this vital feature of your dwelling.
Clean Your Gutters Regularly
When we ignore our gutters and leave them to fill with leaves, twigs, and other debris, it creates the perfect nesting grounds for animals, like birds and squirrels, and insects, like roaches and wasps. So the first step you should take to ensure these critters have no reason to make their homes in your gutters is making sure you clean and maintain them regularly.
The good news is that this method rarely requires professional assistance. All you need is a ladder, a hose, and maybe a yard tool that can help you get the more stubborn pieces of junk out of the way. Once you do this, keeping them clean and pest-free will be a simpler task because you won’t have to worry about several months’ worth of build-up, the ideal environment for nesting insects and animals.
Have Gutter Guards Installed
If you’re wondering how to keep nesting critters out of your gutters, having gutter guards installed is an excellent route. Gutter guards are devices that fit snuggly over your gutters that catch leaves and other debris that would otherwise build up in them. And what’s great about gutter guards is they come in various materials, so you’re sure to find one that is best suited to your home. For instance, you can purchase the popular mesh coverings, or you can go with something a little more obscure, like sponge or bottle brush guards. No matter what you decide, gutter guards are a surefire way to keep your gutters clean and clear of debris for longer.
Consider Upgrading Your Gutter System
Of course, if you’re looking to invest in something a little more long-term, upgrading your current gutter systems is a fantastic choice. And nowadays, there are so many innovative gutter systems to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs. For instance, you can install draining devices with specific features to catch debris that attracts nesting critters. Plus, these devices have the added benefit of making clean-up much more manageable.
Or, if you’re looking for something even more long-lasting, you can replace your current system with metal gutters. These specific types of gutters are sleek and stylish, and their design includes special debris traps that ensure your gutters have a clear path for rainwater drainage and make clearing your drains of leaves and twigs much simpler.
So if you’re looking for ways to keep nesting animals and insects out of your home’s gutters, try using some of these tips. We’re confident that they’ll be effective.
For more information on gutters and other fall home maintenance tips, check out these posts.
3 Signs Your Gutters are Beyond Repair
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Bird Control: How To Keep Animals Out Of Your Attic And Chimney
