Are your gutters clean? Gutters play an important role in the safety of our homes. These fixtures collect rainwater that falls on the roof and divert it through downspouts away from the foundation of the home. When gutters are damaged or dirty, the water falls near the foundation of the home. It can not only seep into the foundation of the home and seep in through the windows but also cause damage to the foundation by increasing the force and weight of the soil against the foundation. This causes the foundation to bow and crack. If the situation is not remedied, structural damage that affects the entire home may occur. This can be expensive to repair. It would be much more affordable to invest in gutter cleaning.
Gutter Cleaning Safety
Before getting into how to clean gutters, it is important to consider safety. Cleaning gutters comes with lots of risks. It is not only important to have the right tools and equipment, but also to know how to use them. For example, don’t use a stepladder to climb to clean gutters as these ladders are prone to tipping when you get off balance.
The safest and best way to clean gutters is by hiring a professional cleaning company to do the work for you. These companies have the equipment and experienced professionals to ensure safety while cleaning gutters.
Tips for Cleaning Gutters From the Ground
Cleaning gutters from the ground is one of the safest ways to clean your gutters. Remember to proceed slowly and systematically. This is because you can’t really see what you’re cleaning.
Tips for using a garden hose
If your gutters aren’t badly clogged, you can clean them effectively using a garden hose. You will however need an attachment such as a telescopic water fed pole with a curved end to be able to effectively aim water into the gutter. Begin at the end nearest the downspout and spray along the channel then work your back to the downspout. Debris such as small twigs, leaves and even water may spray over the sides. You should therefore dress appropriately.
Clearing gutters with a wet/dry vacuum
You can also use a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of debris in your gutters. You will need to equip it with a curved attachment to reach the gutters. Once you have cleared the gutters of most debris, flush them down with water from a garden hose.
Tips for Cleaning Gutters While Standing on a Ladder
There is great risk of falling when using a ladder to clean gutters. If you do need to use a ladder, avoid using a step ladder. You should also use stabilizer arms for the extension of your ladder.
How to clean with a leaf blower
Use your leaf blower on the most powerful air stream. This will help to get rid of leaves and twigs in the gutter. Position your ladder in such a way that you will be able to work from one end of the gutter channel to the other. You should use an old rag or towel as a stopper in the downspout to prevent leaves and other debris from getting into it. When you’re done removing most debris, flush the gutters with a hose.
Cleaning with a power washer
Be careful to fit the power washer with the fine-spray nozzle. Flush the gutter channels. Point the nozzle down the hole of the downspout and rinse until the water is running freely.
How to Prevent Clogged Gutters
You can protect your gutters and save money by investing in gutter guards. These will allow water to drain through but block debris such as leaves and twigs. There are different types of gutter guards including micro mesh gutter guards and seamless run gutter guards. Speak to a professional to learn which ones will be best for you.
Hate Cleaning Your Gutters? We Can Help You
Reflection of Perfections provides the leading gutter cleaning service in Issaquah. We offer professional services at affordable rates. Contact us now and learn how we can help.