How to Clean Gutters
Cleaning gutters is a lot like going to the dentist—nobody really wants to do it, but if we don't, there will be a price to pay. And the longer you wait, tougher the job.
Gutter cleaning is a necessary chore because it prevents drain outlets from damming up and keeps rainwater from filling the gutters, backing up, and overflowing. Water that pools in troughs will rot wooden gutters, and can run over and drain into cellars and foundations. Not good.
For those who live in colder climates, there can also be a problem with ice dams. When rainwater freezes, gutters can also freeze, blocking the path for runoff. Then, when the weather warms up enough to melt the ice, the top layer will melt first and back up onto the roof, and the ice and water can end up underneath the shingles or other roofing material. When this happens, the water can leak into the house, which will in turn cause water damage to your insulation, ceilings and walls.
Clean It Yourself or Hire a Pro?
Those with a (healthy) fear of heights or declining physical condition would be wise to hire a professional to do the job.
Should you decide to hire a professional, expect them to charge you anywhere between $75-200 to do a home, depending on the size of the home and height of the gutters.
We're going to use a second story home to demonstrate:
Tools & Attire for Cleaning Your Gutter
So you've decided to clean the gutter yourself! Make sure to wear proper clothes, like painting togs. Cleaning gutters is a sometimes a messy job.
In addition to a sturdy ladder, preferably OSHA-approved, there are a number of tools you may want to have handy, depending on the weather and the job, including a trowel, work gloves, a bucket for debris, a rubber mallet, and hammer.
Ladder Safety
Ladder safety is the single most important aspect of cleaning two-story gutters. For a more complete guide to ladder safety, go to: http://www.laddersafety.org/LadderTypes/ExtensionLadders.aspx
Always set the ladder on a firm and even surface, preferably concrete (where possible). In the late fall (when the leaves are all down), beware of frozen top crusts that will buckle when you are on the ladder, possibly causing a deadly fall.
Before climbing the extended ladder, make sure the angle is correct. You'll know the ladder is at a correct angle if you can put your feet at the bottom of the ladder and touch both sides of it.
Correct Ladder Angle
Unsafe Ladder Angle
Too Close
Once the ladder is safely in place, it's time to clean some gutters
Cleaning the Gutters
In order to avoid any sharp objects (or other surprises) that may live in your gutter, it is best to use a gloved hand or trowel to remove any debris from the bottom of the gutters.
From This...
To This
After cleaning the gutter, make sure that the downspout is not clogged. If it's warm and a hose is available, rinse the gutter thoroughly, and blast downward into the downspout to clear any clogs.
If it is cold and water is not available (like late fall in the north, for example) gently tap the downspout with the heel of your hand or a rubber mallet, being careful not to dent the gutter or jar any connections loose. Repeat until you no longer hear any loose debris falling through the downspouts. Toss a penny or a small pebble into the cleared opening to ensure that the downspout is indeed free and clear.
While homeowners in the North usually wait until the leaves are all down (and too often when the cold temperatures have set in), how often you clean your gutters depends on your surrounding forestation. Use common sense, and remember that installing Gutter Helmet gutter guards can save you from a messy and/or expensive job!
