Gutters work to divert rainwater away from your roof, siding, and foundation. Keeping your gutters clean and well-maintained can help prevent water and pests from getting into your home. Here are some tips on cleaning your gutters:
How To Clean Your Gutters
You will need a ladder, long garden hose, protective gloves, and a plastic trowel or scoop (metal may damage your gutters). A pressure washer or leaf blower may make the job easier, but do not use these awkward tools on a ladder—use an extension kit.
- Step One: Starting at the downspout, remove loose and large debris with your hands. Scoop out any additional debris with the plastic trowel.
- Step Two: Flush your gutters with water from your hose, starting at the end opposite the downspout. Keep an eye on the water coming from the downspout—if it’s just a trickle, you have a clog.
- Step Three: Remove any clogs with a high-pressure stream of water from your garden hose. Don’t forget to remove the debris from your gutters, or it will cause another clog.
Proper Ladder Safety
It’s essential to practice proper ladder safety when cleaning your gutters. Keep these tips in mind, and consider hiring a professional if you feel uncomfortable, or if your roof is very high.
- Make sure your roof and gutters are dry before cleaning and do not rest your ladder on an unstable surface like wet mud.
- Do not clean your gutters alone—ask a neighbor or family member to hold the ladder and spot you.
- Never climb higher than the second-last rung, and always maintain three points of contact on the ladder.
- Do not lean while on a ladder. If debris is out of reach, climb down and reposition.
- Be mindful of overhead powerlines, especially when transporting the ladder.
- Resist the temptation to walk on your roof. Shingles are slippery, and leaning downhill (in the direction of your gutters) will significantly increase your risk of falling.
While you’re cleaning your gutters, keep an eye on their condition. Cracked or split gutters will be less effective at diverting rainwater. Heavy debris, including snow and ice, can cause gutters to sag and pull away from your home. If your gutters need replacing, the team at K & P Exteriors can help. We’re happy to provide a fair estimate at no cost. Visit our website or call (303) 853-0072 to learn more.