If you’ve ever noticed unsightly black streaks running down your aluminum gutters, you’re not alone. These streaks—commonly referred to as “tiger striping”—are a frustrating eyesore for many homeowners. They ruin curb appeal and make your gutters look older and dirtier than they really are. But what exactly causes tiger striping, and more importantly, how can you remove it?
Let’s break it down—and show you why calling a professional exterior cleaning service is the best solution.
What Is Tiger Striping?
Tiger striping is a pattern of dark vertical streaks that appear on the exterior of aluminum gutters. It happens when water, dirt, and pollutants run down the face of the gutter instead of draining cleanly through the downspout. Over time, oxidation, acid rain, mildew, and electrostatic bonding cause these streaks to “stick” and become very difficult to wash off.
Unfortunately, standard soap and water won’t do the trick—and scrubbing too hard can actually damage the finish of your gutters.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Aside from being an eyesore, tiger striping is a sign that your gutters and siding are collecting pollutants and grime that could eventually lead to:
- Premature corrosion of the gutter material
- Paint degradation and oxidation
- Reduced home value due to poor curb appeal
- Potential buildup of organic growth like algae or mildew
In other words, those streaks aren’t just cosmetic—they could be hinting at larger maintenance issues.
The Right Way to Remove Tiger Striping
At So Clean Solutions, we use a proven method specifically designed to remove tiger striping without damaging your gutters. Our process includes:
- A gentle, yet powerful gutter-safe cleaning agent that breaks down the grime and oxidation causing the streaks.
- Soft-wash techniques that clean without high pressure, preventing damage to paint or aluminum coating.
- Professional-grade equipment and trained technicians who know how to restore your gutters to a like-new finish safely and efficiently.
DIY solutions often fall short or even make the problem worse. Household cleaners can strip protective finishes, and pressure washing can dent the aluminum. That’s why it’s a job best left to the pros.
Boost Your Curb Appeal Instantly
Tiger striping is one of those small things that has a big impact on your home’s appearance. Whether you’re getting ready to sell or just want to take pride in how your home looks, clean gutters make a difference.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Let our exterior cleaning experts restore your gutters—and your peace of mind.
Ready for a Streak-Free Shine?
Contact So Clean Solutions today for a free quote or to schedule your professional gutter cleaning. We’ll have your home looking spotless in no time.
📞 Call us at 412-513-3751
Let us handle the mess, so you don’t have to.
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