| Why clean your gutter? First off, gutters aren't | | | | job to professionals. You might find the task more |
| self-cleaning devices. Second, you need a clean gutter | | | | difficult than it seems, so don't overshoot. |
| in order to ensure that rainwater flows through | | | | Have the right tools for the job |
| smoothly. Third, a clean gutter means a reliable roof | | | | Bring a garbage bag or a plastic liner with you to |
| that will protect and cover you for years to come. | | | | collect the debris. That way you don't have to clean |
| Getting your gutter clear isn't a fun task at all but it's | | | | up the soggy debris from the ground later. |
| necessary for the upkeep of your home. Here are | | | | If the leaves and debris in your gutters are dry, you |
| practical tips you can use for cleaning your gutter the | | | | could use a leaf blower to make your job easier. If |
| right way. | | | | debris has been left too long in the gutters and are |
| Safety first | | | | encrusted, use a trowel or a strong brush to scrape |
| You will be working on your roof, several feet from | | | | it off. |
| the ground. Keep in mind basic safety rules to avoid | | | | If you have a high-pressure water sprayer, it can be |
| hurting yourself. Wear work boots with good traction | | | | used to wash out the gutters more quickly. Allow the |
| so you are assured of sufficient foothold. Use gloves, | | | | sludge to run off towards the drain outlet and work |
| goggles and a safety hat if necessary. | | | | so that you minimize the amount of mud splashed on |
| If you must work from a ladder, make sure the | | | | the roof or on the walls of your house. |
| ladder is high and strong enough to sufficiently hold | | | | Check the outlet and drainpipes for blockage |
| your weight. Reinforce the gutter with a wooden | | | | Obstructions make your gutters less efficient. When |
| pole to prevent it from bending once you prop the | | | | cleaning your gutters, make sure the pipes are clear |
| ladder against it. Make sure the ladder stands on a | | | | by either flushing the debris down or pulling it out. A |
| hard, level base. Do not lean too far out to the sides | | | | plumber's snake can be very useful for this task. |
| to prevent from falling out. | | | | Clean your gutters two to three times a year. This |
| Know your limits, though. If your house is a | | | | will ensure that they are free of rust and debris. If |
| one-storey house, you probably can work on your | | | | your house stands under a tree or frequently catch |
| gutters. However, if you have a two- or | | | | debris from winds and storms, you'll need to clean |
| three-storey home or even higher, best leave the | | | | your gutters more frequently. |