Tips to Clean Your Gutters
Unclogging the gutters can be quick and easy when you find the technique that works for you. Tackle this spring home maintenance task by choosing one of these ways to clean your gutters.
Pressure Washer
Using a pressure washer is an effective and fast way to clean gutters because the high-velocity spray removes caked-on dirt while blasting away leaves and other types of debris. You’ll find gutter wands and gutter kits that work with your pressure washer to get the job done.
If you choose this method, plan to follow your gutter cleaning with a rinse of the roof and exterior walls of your home because pressure washing can be a little messy. Pressure washing is not recommended for old, rusting, or damaged guttering as it could make existing problems worse.
Clean the Gutters with a Wet/Dry Vacuum
A wet/dry vacuum is great for removing damp, soggy debris. These powerful machines usually come with attachments that help you access hard-to-reach areas. A wet/dry vac is designed to handle many types of debris, including dirt and leaves. Once you’ve removed clogs from the gutters, use the garden hose to rinse out the channels.
Leaf Blower
Leaf blowers also have the power to quickly remove twigs, leaves, and debris from the guttering. Look for attachments that extend the reach of the tool so you don’t have to use a ladder.
When using a leaf blower, it’s best to slowly blow out debris as you work your way towards the downspout, taking care not to get leaves into the downspout. Any remaining debris can be flushed away with a hose.
Garden Hose
A garden hose works well for gutters that only need a light cleaning and aren’t yet clogged. Your hose can be fitted with attachments that help you to reach your gutters from ground level.
The most efficient way to clean your gutters is to start at the end farthest from your downspout so you can easily flush the entire channel. Clumps of debris will need to be removed by hand to ensure that your gutters are completely clean.
Manually Clean the Gutters on Your Home
Cleaning your gutters by hand is simple and you just need a few tools. Gather a bucket, gutter scoop, gloves, and a ladder to get the job done. Begin by putting on heavy-duty work gloves. Have a friend or family member steady the ladder and then start scooping out leaves and debris, placing them in the bucket as you go along.
Work from the farther end of the guttering toward the downspout. After removing all the debris, rinse your gutters with the garden hose to make sure water can flow freely through the channels and out the downspouts.
Gutter Cleaning Tips
Your gutters play an important role in protecting your roof from leaks and guiding water away from your home and foundation. When they become clogged, water can overflow and seep under the roofing materials.
Water running down the side of your home can damage your windows and siding and may affect the landscaping and the foundation. Keep the gutters clean to move rainwater and snowmelt off the roof and away from the home’s foundation.
Pro Home Inspection Services offers home inspections to customers throughout the Grand Strand and Greater Charleston areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.