Clogged gutters can be a major headache, from reducing curb appeal to causing structural damage. Having the right tools on hand makes gutter cleaning much easier.
First and foremost, a sturdy ladder and safety gear are essential for any homeowner who wants to clean their gutters. Once you’re in position on the ladder, start by scooping out the gunk. Read on to know more.
Extendable Poles
Gutter cleaning is easier with the right tools, and one of those key items is an extendable pole. With a telescoping pole, you can reach second-story gutters without having to climb a ladder and risk falling off.
The metal construction of a telescoping pole is non-corrosive and durable enough to stand up to repeated use season after season. Plus, most telescoping poles feature foam grips to add comfort and help ward off cold hands from the water temperatures of gutters filled with wet debris.
For additional ease and safety, consider a telescoping extension pole that attaches to any standard threaded cleaning tool or nozzle. This allows you to perform a variety of high-access cleaning tasks without needing a ladder, including paint rollers, window wipers, brushes, and squeegees. These telescoping cleaning poles are available in several lengths and materials, so you can choose the one that fits your needs best. They’re also great for removing dry debris from a roof, or for cleaning outdoor furniture or flagpoles.
Gutter Brushes
Gutter brushes consist of a heavy circle or square of bristles that sit in the gutter and act as a barrier, blocking large debris from entering while allowing water and smaller leaves to pass through. They can be an effective alternative to commercial-grade gutter screens or filters but require more frequent cleaning to prevent clogging and overflow. They’re also typically more affordable than other gutter protection options.
The center of a gutter brush is usually made of a galvanized wire to avoid rust and ensure durability. The bristles are usually constructed from polypropylene or another durable, lightweight material.
To clean gutter brushes, simply shake them off, rinse with a hose, and inspect for any twigs or debris that remain stuck inside. It’s also a good idea to check the brushes after heavy winds or rain to ensure they haven’t shifted, which could leave holes where debris can enter. A good brush can save you a lot of time and money by preventing gutter clogs, which can lead to water damage, rot, and pest infestations.
Spoons and Scoops
Gutter gunk consists of dirt, animal feces, leaves, sticks, twigs, and other debris. This organic matter contaminates water and promotes mildew, mold, and insect infestations that can harm your health. Clogged gutters also displace water from your roof, damaging it and tearing it apart over time.
The best way to clean your gutters is by hand, using a gutter scoop and a garden trowel. Wear work gloves and protective eyewear. Eye protection is a must because you never know what might fly out of the downspout when you remove a clog. People have reported rats, birds, frogs, wasps, and bees leaving at high speeds.
When cleaning by hand, it’s best to start at the corners and work toward the middle of a gutter section. This prevents pushing debris into the downspouts where it can block drainage or overflow. A plastic gutter scoop has a flexible tip that conforms to any size of gutter and an extended tongue that reaches beneath gutter supports. Its handle position also protects hands from scrapes and scratches.
Vacuums
Vacuum gutter cleaners allow professionals to clean multi-story buildings from the ground, eliminating the need for ladders and scaffolding. They also enable them to travel from job to job more quickly and save on equipment costs.
This method removes the need to climb ladders and work at height, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. It is also a more environmentally friendly option, as it doesn’t release pollutants into the air like traditional cleaning methods.
They also come with a range of attachments that can be used to reach tight corners and difficult-to-access areas, such as over-conservations or in trees. As a result, they’re ideal for use on properties that have difficult-to-access sections of their gutters, such as those with lots of overhanging tiles and odd angles. They also offer superior cleaning results to hand-cleaning, as they can suck up moss and stagnant water along with debris that would otherwise be brushed away or fallen off the gutters. Browse the next article.