When to Clean Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are beautiful accents to your home. They are pleasing to look at and are a great way to separate your home from your less-stylish neighbor. The use of copper gutters is relatively uncommon as copper tarnishes over time., taking your gorgeous, reflective metal to a green or dull grey. When this happens you may want to return your gutters to their former glory.
Copper Oxidation
Copper tarnishes when oxygen interacts with the metal and leaves a thin layer of oxidation on the outside. Copper tarnish will occur quickly in high-humidity areas. Given time, this will leave your copper gutters and downspouts with a bright green color.
When Should I Clean My Gutters?
That all depends on you. There is no long-term harm to having your gutters in their tarnished state. Your gutters will remain green until you clean them; for example, the Statue of Liberty. You can clean them at any time or leave them as they are. It comes down to how you wish your gutters to look.
How to Clean Your Gutters
You will need to purchase or create a cleaning paste in order to removed the tarnish from your copper gutters. If you decide to make your own you need only mix two-parts white flour, two-parts table salt and two-parts vinegar, per half gallon.
- Use a ladder to access your gutters.
- Apply paste in a circular motion with a clean, soft towel.
- Spray clean with a hose.
- Repeat as necessary.
Coating Your Gutters
There are products on the market which you can use to coat your copper gutters. These are intended to extend the time between cleanings. As with any niche products, you should test in small inconspicuous areas. Only purchase when you determine the efficacy of these products.