How to Rid Your Gutters of Unsightly Tiger Stripes: Tips from the Pros
No one wants to have unsightly tiger stripes running down the side of their gutters. The contrast between black stripes and light-colored gutters draws the eye and may be the first thing people notice about your home. Unfortunately, many homeowners find themselves dealing with this problem at some point or another.
Luckily, you have options when it comes to washing your gutters. In this blog post, we will talk about what tiger stripes are, why they form, and how you can clean them yourself using products that you can purchase at a store. We will also discuss the benefits and downsides of cleaning your gutters yourself, as well as why it is much safer to hire a professional Raleigh gutter washing and gutter whitening company like Peak Performance Gutter Protection.
What are Tiger Stripes?
Tiger stripes are streaks of dirt and debris that build up over time on the surface of your gutters. These streaks are made up of dirt, algae, and mold and can be caused by a number of things, such as wind, rain, and even birds nesting in your gutters. Gutters that are overflowing with debris are far more likely to develop tiger stripes; yet another great reason to clean your gutters regularly. Regardless of the cause, they are unsightly and can make your home look dirty and neglected.
Cleaning Tiger Stripes
There are a few different ways that you can clean tiger stripes yourself. Most people choose to wash the outsides of their gutter while they remove debris from the inside during their annual gutter cleaning. You can create your own gutter washing solution using warm water and dish soap or, if your tiger stripes are stubborn, a solution of a capful of bleach in a gallon of water. Be sure not to use an abrasive cleaning solution or a metal brush, as this can remove the finish on your gutters. Instead, use a gentle cleaner and a sponge, rag, or other soft material to clean them.
For tough, stuck on tiger stripes, you may have to repeat the cleaning process several times to see results.
Downsides of Cleaning Your Gutters Yourself
Unfortunately, cleaning tiger stripes yourself can be quite tedious and time-consuming. There are a few downsides to cleaning your gutters yourself that you should be aware of before you attempt it.
First, if you don’t have the right tools or cleaning supplies, you may not be able to properly clean your gutters. This can lead to streaked or discolored gutters that are even more unsightly than before. Second, attempting to clean your gutters yourself can be dangerous. You will likely have to climb a ladder to reach your gutters, which puts you at risk for falls and other injuries. Finally, you may not be able to remove all of the dirt and debris from your gutters, which can lead to clogs and other problems down the road.
Luckily, there is another solution to achieving and maintaining sparkling clean gutters!
Benefits of Hiring a Gutter Washing and Gutter Whitening Company
Hiring a professional gutter washing and gutter whitening company like Peak Performance has a number of benefits. First, they will have the right tools and cleaning supplies to properly clean your gutters. Second, they will be able to safely and quickly remove all of the dirt and debris from your gutters AND wash the outsides, including those stubborn tiger stripes. Third, they can also whiten your gutters to make them look like new again.
Gutter whitening is a process in which a professional will use a safe solution to remove any staining from your gutters. This will leave them looking brand new and significantly improve the curb appeal of your home. Learn more about gutter whitening here.
Another solution to prevent tiger stripes is to install gutter guards. Gutter guards are installed on the top of your gutters and help to keep leaves, dirt, and other debris from entering and clogging them. This significantly reduces the chances that your gutters will develop tiger stripes as a result of neglected debris. Gutter guards can save you time and money in the long run by preventing the need for regular gutter cleanings.
At Peak Performance Gutter Protection, we specialize in gutter washing, gutter whitening, and the installation of gutter guards. We understand the importance of keeping your gutters clean and free of debris and are here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an estimate. We look forward to working with you!