By Aryne + Dulcinea, April 16, 2018
Few cities embrace spring with the eagerness that Portland does. After months of looming grey skies and damp socks, can you blame us? When dormant maple trees begin to awaken and electric pink camellias line neighborhood sidewalks, shrugging off the memory of winter rains is the natural response for many. However, Portland homeowners shouldn’t be as quick to leave the winter season behind. That is, not until they’ve properly addressed the seasonal impacts to their home and ensured proper maintenance of their gutter systems.
Dramatic winter rainstorms and rich arboreal diversity are signatures of the Pacific Northwest, but these same characteristics are a menace to gutter systems. Over the course of the fall and winter seasons, it is common for this foliage to create blockages in your gutter, impairing its ability to properly direct water away from your home. Left unaddressed, improper drainage can result in extensive water damage to your foundation and roof. Proper gutter maintenance helps prevent damage to your home’s structure and landscaping, which can result in savings exceeding $10,000. Before spring fever takes over, be sure to follow these simple steps to tend to the gutters in your home.
- Survey the area. Before you begin this project, make sure to take a close look at your property for any potential hazards which may put your safety at risk. Issues such as electric lines, imposing trees, or uneven terrain could be cause for concern. In this case, consult a professional before proceeding.
- Gather your materials. For this home maintenance DIY, you’ll only need the following:
- Hand shovel or plastic scoop. Select a small hand tool that will help you scoop any debris out of the gutter.
- Opt for rubber if you can, this might get messy.
- Plastic tarp. Speaking of messy, considering throwing a plastic tarp over your yard so you can easily remove any waste afterward.
- Reliable ladder. Be sure your ladder is secure, and—if possible—use one with standoff stabilizers to protect your gutters from ladder damage.
- Use a garden hose to flush away any remaining debris. Additionally, your hose will help you spot any leaks or blockages.
- Get started. Once you’ve collected the necessary tools, you simply need to repeat the following steps until all areas of your gutter have been examined, cleared and tested.
- Using your scoop and gloved hands, remove any leaves and gunk from your gutter.
- Using your hose, run water through the gutters to examine for leaks and blockages. To check drainage in your spouts, turn the water flow on your hose to high and direct it down into your spout. If the water comes through more slowly, there is a blockage. Using your hose, work it into the spout through the bottom opening, flushing the spout until all debris is removed.
- Check the gutter system’s stability, ensuring it is securely attached to your house.
Responsible Portland homeowners should anticipate cleaning their gutters at least twice a year, performing consistent spot checks on their drainage system to catch blockages before they become hazardous. Gutter maintenance is one of the most impactful ways to preserve the health and value of your home, so be sure to add it to this year’s spring cleaning checklist!
About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.
Aryne + Dulcinea
Earth Advantage Principal Broker | Earth Advantage Broker | ADU Specialists | OR
She/Her
Aryne + Dulcinea are full-service, high-producing agents, who understand how to navigate the unique challenges facing the Portland real estate market. The secret to their success is in their professionalism and complementary skill sets. In 2012, Aryne + Dulcinea saw an opportunity to combine their creative and technical wisdom to create a values-driven, full-service agency unlike any other. Expert negotiators and project management mavens with a strong background in creative marketing, Aryne + Dulcinea serve as fierce advocates for their clients. Their passion for real estate relates closely to their commitment to the Portland way of life, which entails a dedication to sustainability and appreciation for all things local. As Earth Advantage Brokers and ADU Certified Specialists, Aryne + Dulcinea are savvy in all aspects of alternative living practices—from versatile housing additions, green building practices, and revenue-generating strategies. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching you real estate goals.
Aryne greets working with clients throughout Portland with open arms. Licensed since 2005, she appreciates the ever shifting desires her clients have as they move through their real estate goals. Investigative genius on her side, Aryne will strive to bring you the results you desire. When not working for you, Aryne is a constant cheerleader for her son and daughter’s pursuits on the basketball court and on the ballet stage! She practices yoga, hikes, loves to walk and explore Portland neighborhoods, reads, and delights in soaking up everything Portland has to offer!
Dulcinea thrives on working with clients with a range of real estate goals. Oregon born, with a design and an award-winning professional background, Dulcinea is steadfast when it comes to working for her clients and has a keen eye for properties that best serve client objectives. Licensed since 2013, Dulcinea works in and around Portland. A mother of two and wife to her high school sweetie—in her free time she stays busy with her family, travel, community activism, exploring the outdoors, curating art shows, and dreaming big!
Click here to get to know Aryne + Dulcinea!- T: 503-380-5124
- F: 503-961-8224
- aryne@livingroomre.com
