Cleaning your gutters is a key part of keeping your home maintained that often goes left for next year. Neglected gutters can lead to costly damage to your home's foundation, roof, and walls. To keep your gutters flowing right, it is best to know how to clean them while reducing the risk of injury. In this article, we will explore the best methods for safely cleaning your gutters, and we will look at how using gutter guards makes the process even safer.
Step 1: Get Your Tools
Safety Gear:
- Sturdy gloves are key for keeping your hands safe from cuts on debris or sharp edges in the gutters.
- Safety goggles help to protect your eyes, as plant matter may fall or be blown into your eyes while you clean.
- A long-sleeved shirt is a great way to minimize skin exposure to dirt and likely allergens found in the gutters.
Ladder:
- The ladder should be made of a stable material, such as aluminum or fiberglass, and be in good working order.
- Choose a ladder tall enough that you can comfortably reach your gutters without the need to reach too much and put your balance at risk.
- We recommend a stabilizer bar as a way to add even more stability to your ladder. These bars will also help to prevent damage to your gutters and siding.
Garden Hose:
Opt for a hose with a nozzle that gives high amounts of pressure. The more pressure you have, the easier it will be to flush debris out of your gutters.
Scoop or Trowel:
A scoop or trowel is a handy tool for getting the leaves, sticks, and other debris out of your gutters. It will allow you to remove more gutter trash at a time than just using your hand.
Buckets or Trash Bags:
Use these as a place to put the debris as you clean. Add a bucket hook to your ladder to make it easy to keep your hands free to clean the gutters.
Brush:
This tool is optional but can help you out when it comes to scrubbing at stubborn dirt and algae that may have collected in your gutters.
Step 2: Do a Safety Check
Safety is vital when you are working on a ladder. You should make sure that:
- The ladder is set on an area of ground that is level to stop any tipping.
- The ladder is secured in place and locked in position.
- You inform a friend or spouse of what you are doing and, ideally, have them there to watch and assist you or call for help if needed.
- Check the weather for the day so you don't get caught in the rain while cleaning your gutters.
- Check your ladder for faults or damage before use, and pay attention to the rungs, locks, as well as any other moving parts.
Step 3: Remove Waste
Start to remove debris from the gutters. Use your gutter scoop or trowel to loosen and scoop up the waste. Start at the downspout and work along the gutter's length, making sure that you remove the leaves, twigs, and other debris thoroughly. Place the waste in your bucket or trash bag for later disposal.
Step 4: Flush the Gutters
After removing most of the debris, use your hose and a high-pressure nozzle to flush out any remaining dirt, leaves, or small particles. Starting at the end farthest from the downspout and working towards it helps to make sure that any loosened debris flows out of the gutters and down the downspout.
Step 5: Check for Clogs
While you flush the gutters, be vigilant for any clogs or obstructions. If you spot a blockage, use a long, flexible tool to get the clog moving by pushing it gently. Avoid using sharp objects that could pierce or damage the gutters.
Step 6: Check for Damage
As you clean, check your gutters for any damage or components that have come loose. Tighten loose screws, brackets, or hangers and replace any damaged sections. Making sure your gutters are in good repair is crucial for proper water flow.
Step 7: Consider Gutter Guards
Gutter guards are a great answer for those looking to reduce manual gutter cleaning frequency.
- Types of Gutter Guards: Gutter guards come in many types, including mesh or screen guards, solid covers, and foam inserts. Each type offers unique benefits and may better suit certain environments or gutter styles.
- Mesh or Screen Guards: These guards consist of a fine mesh or screen covering the gutter while allowing water to pass through. These work great against leaves, twigs, and larger waste.
- Solid Covers: Solid covers are designed to cover the entire gutter, preventing debris from entering. They often have a small gap or channel allowing water to flow while easily keeping debris out. They are suitable for areas with heavy leaffall.
- Foam Inserts: These inserts are placed inside the gutter, preventing debris from settling and allowing water to flow through. They are easy to install and cost-effective.
Benefits of Gutter Guards:
- Reduced Maintenance: Gutter guards significantly reduce the need for cleaning by hand, saving you time and effort.
- Extended Gutter Lifespan: By preventing debris buildup, gutter guards have been shown to prolong the life of gutter systems.
- Improved Water Flow: Gutter guards keep gutters free from clogs, ensuring proper water flow and reducing the risk of water damage to your home.
- Minimized Pest Infestations: Debris-filled gutters can attract pests like mosquitoes and rodents. Gutter guards can deter such infestations.
Considerations When Installing Gutter Guards:
- Compatibility: Ensure the gutter guards you choose are compatible with your gutter system.
- Professional Installation: While some gutter guards are DIY-friendly, professional installation may be necessary for specific complex structures.
- Maintenance: Although gutter guards reduce the need for cleaning, they may still require occasional maintenance, such as clearing off debris that accumulates on top.
