Our gutters are a necessary and vital part of our home. In order for them to function properly, they must be clean, allowing water to flow through them as intended. Unfortunately, gutter cleaning isn’t an easy task and can be dangerous, but there are ways to make the job easier.
Use the Proper Tools
Most of us have a 6-foot or 8-foot ladder at home, but rarely is that sufficient for cleaning high gutters safely. The most dangerous part of gutter cleaning is when you’re on a ladder that isn’t tall enough or safe at the height you need to stand. Leaning and straining to reach are the leading cause of falls during gutter cleaning.
Of course, a ladder is just one tool you’ll need. You should also have a pair of waterproof and puncture-proof gloves, as well as a bucket in which to place debris. There are specific gutter cleaners made to help with this messy task that attach to a pole so you don’t have to climb up and down the ladder as often. If you don’t want to make the purchase, a garden trowel works to remove large clumps and a strong brush will help loosen stubborn debris. Be sure to move your ladder every few feet to avoid leaning and potentially falling. The better the tools you have, the less likely you are to fall.
Clean Regularly
How to keep gutters clean will depend upon where you live and the trees in your yard. Desert areas in dry climates may only need once-a-year cleanings. Homeowners in most parts of the country need to clean at least twice a year. When cleaning gutters is part of your spring cleaning and winter preparation tasks, it becomes easier because there isn’t as much debris to be removed. If you live in an area where strong storms occur throughout the summer, you may want to add a cleaning between spring and fall.
Reduce the Need to Clean
If you don’t want to deal with the messy, dangerous and time-consuming task of cleaning your gutters, consider having gutter covers installed. Leaf-free gutter covers eliminate the need to clean your gutters season after season, year after year. Gutter Helmet’s lifetime performance warranty and material warranty ensures your gutters don’t need to be cleaned as long as you own your home (and you can transfer this warranty to the next homeowner!). Stay safe on the ground – call (800) 824-3772 today to find the authorized Gutter Helmet® installer near you or contact us.
