6 Easy Steps to Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Cleaning your gutters is one of those jobs that’s easy to procrastinate, but the longer you wait, the bigger the job can get. Debris can build up and clog gutters and downspouts, which can cause water damage to your roof and fascia. And all that water pouring over the gutters can end up next to your foundation – and ultimately in your basement or crawlspace.

Thoroughly cleaning your gutters every spring and fall will keep them working like they’re supposed to. Follow these tips to keep your gutters free-flowing and in good repair.

1. Check the forecast. Water-soaked gutter debris is heavy and difficult to remove. If you wait for a few days of dry weather, the debris won’t be as soaked, making cleaning much easier.
2. Assemble the right tools. You will need the following tools to clean gutters: a trowel, ladder, two buckets with wire hooks, a garden hose with a nozzle or gutter cleaning attachment, work gloves, latex gloves and safety glasses.
3. Use the right ladder. Cleaning your gutters means working on a ladder, so if you are not comfortable doing this, contact a professional for help. Use a sturdy step ladder placed on solid, level ground whenever possible; an extension ladder may be needed for a two-story home.
4. Use the two-bucket method. To make the job easier, use one bucket for gathering debris and a second to carry tools. Putting tools in your pocket could cause you to lose your balance and result in injury. Carry the buckets up one at a time and hook them to the ladder.
5. Clean out debris. To clean gutters, start near the downspout and remove leaves, twigs and large debris, placing it in the bucket. Use a trowel to remove packed material and smaller debris. Wet debris can soak through gloves and leave a bad odor on your hands, so wear latex gloves under your work gloves for protection.
6. Flush the gutters and downspouts. Once large debris has been removed, use the garden hose to wash out remaining dirt and grime. If the water doesn’t drain, there is probably a clog in the downspout. Use the hose and heavy water pressure to flush out the spout, then flush out the entire gutter system.

Now that your gutters are clean and clear, keep out future clogs and debris by installing Gutter Helmet® on your home! For more than three decades, Gutter Helmet® gutter guards have been the #1 choice of homeowners around the country. Contact us today at (800) 824-3772 for a no-obligation estimate from a dealer near you.