How to Clean Your Gutters From the Ground
Cleaning gutters can be a messy job and not everyone is comfortable perched precariously on a ladder. A professional service can take care of this chore and ensure your home is protected from costly damage.
A garden hose with an attachment that has a curved end can be used to clean the gutter from the ground without the need for a ladder. This method also flushes out the downspout and helps to confirm it is not clogged.
1. Rake
Gutters channel water away from your house, but if they become clogged with leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris, it can overflow onto sidewalks or back up into the home itself. This creates a hazard and can damage the siding, roof, eaves, soffit, and foundation of your home.
One of the most common ways to clean gutters without using a ladder is with a gutter wand that attaches to a water hose. This can be purchased at most home improvement stores and is relatively inexpensive. It’s important to wear face and eye protection as the wand can throw debris out of the gutter and into your yard.
While cleaning your gutters may seem like a daunting task, it is necessary for the proper maintenance of your home. If you have a fear of heights or other health issues that prevent you from working on a ladder, hiring a professional is always an option. The most popular method is to hire a company that offers gutter cleaning services.
2. Water Hose
Several different attachments for your garden hose exist that allow you to clean gutters from the ground without having to use a ladder. Many of these attachments are long tubes with a curved end that you can insert into your gutter. Using this tool can help you remove twigs, packed leaves and dirt and blast the gutters with water.
If you choose to use this method, make sure to wear work gloves and a pair of safety goggles. You’ll also want to be wearing long sleeves and pants to protect your arms and legs from scratches or other injuries. It’s also a good idea to wear a mask to avoid breathing in any dust or other debris that may be airborne.
Cleaning your own gutters is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to save money on expensive repairs later. However, it’s always an option to hire a professional instead if you’re uncomfortable working from a ladder or don’t have the time.
3. Power Washer
Gutter cleaning is necessary to prevent the clogging of eavestroughs and downspouts. When this happens, water is unable to drain and may overflow and puddle next to your home’s foundation. This dumping water can rot your roofline and shingle or damage your home’s wood siding.
Fortunately, there are tools that make gutter cleaning easier and safer. A gutter cleaner attachment attaches to a standard garden hose and sprays debris off the side of the gutter. These are available online or at hardware stores. They are especially helpful for light gunk such as mild dirt or dry leaves.
You can also use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the bulk of gunk from your gutters. Just remember to wear protective eyewear and work gloves. Keeping your gutters clean will protect your home from damage and extend their lifespan. However, if you’re acrophobic or don’t feel comfortable climbing a ladder to clean your gutters, hiring a professional is always an option.
4. Leaf Blower
Gutter cleaning is one of those chores most homeowners dread, but it needs to be done to ensure the proper flow of rainwater away from your home. Clogged gutters can lead to mildew, rot, sagging gutters, broken gutter brackets, and wet basements, among other problems.
Many leaf blowers have a nozzle attachment that releases a powerful air stream, perfect for blasting away loose debris and leaves. If you decide to use this method, be sure to block the downspout first to prevent pushing any of the blown debris into it and clogging it.
No matter which technique you choose, be sure to use a sturdy extension ladder that is placed on firm, level ground. Ladders that sway can cause you to lose balance, leading to a fall and serious injury. If you feel uncomfortable climbing a ladder, hiring a professional is always an option that will save you time and frustration. They can also help you determine the best method for your home’s gutters.
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Cleaning gutters can be a messy job and not everyone is comfortable perched precariously on a ladder. A professional service can take care of this chore and ensure your home is protected from costly damage. A garden hose with an attachment that has a curved end can be used to clean the gutter from the…