Gutter Maintenance: Eliminate Zebra Stripes

Lady Bird Before & After: Gutter Brightening

Gutters are often the most overlooked part of a home’s exterior. But if they have ever filled up with debris, and spilled over when it rained, you likely have what we call “zebra stripes.” Because of the natural oxidation of the enamel mixed with algae and other debris, traditional cleaning and scrubbing isn’t enough to remove that signature stripe effect. Abrasive cleaners may even damage the gutter finish, leaving a hazy dull appearance. Lady Bird Softwash has the experience and know-how to brighten your gutters back to their original glory and we think brightened gutters add an extra special shine to your home’s curb appeal.

Can I prevent “zebra stripes?”

Traditional cleaning and scrubbing is not enough to remove zebra stripes and abrasive cleaners may permanently damage the finish of your gutters.

Zebra stripes are a natural process that can happen to a variety of surfaces such as rain gutters, cars, metal roofs, and even the siding of your home. It is not a failure of the paint or gutter system, it is a natural oxidation effect, but it can be prevented.

Metal surfaces with baked on paint require cleaning from time to time, and your gutters are no exception. To prevent permanent staining, you should clean your gutters at least once a year. You may have to clean them more often, especially if you live in an area near water or industrial activity.

Regular gutter brightening by Lady Bird Softwash can not only remove the zebra stripes it can also delay the regrowth and avoid permanent staining.

Do you have zebra stripes forming on your gutters? Contact us and lets discuss your project needs.