It’s important to recognize when your gutters are blocked. You can use any of these methods from the ground, but if the blockage remains and you can’t find it from here, a professional may be necessary. Some leaf blowers as well as wet/dry vacuum cleaners also come with extendable gutter cleaning attachments, so be sure to check if you have what you need already. If you own a pressure washer, there are attachments available to extend the reach of these as well, such as theTwinkle Star Pressure Washer Extension Wand Set ( $29, Amazon). This attaches directly to your hose and features an adjustable nozzle so you can direct it into the gutter. All you need to do is combine your hose with an extension tool, such as the Orbit 58543 Telescoping Gutter Cleaning Wand ( $30, Amazon). Although, practically speaking, you don’t have as great a view of your progress.įirst, for light debris, you can simply use a hose to wash the leaves away. If ladders are a no-go, there are still ways you can clean your gutters safely from the ground. Would you believe it, this is one of the best uses for a drone if you own one. Keep an eye on your gutters - Don’t forget to keep checking your gutters intermittently in the future to keep on top of blockages. If any sections have completely cracked or come away from the wall, these will need replacing.ĩ. Make sure the angle and positioning of your gutters is adequate for the water to drain - adjust this if necessary. You can also install gutter guards and gutter screens to prevent future issues. If you spotted any leaks as you flushed out the gutter, those will need patching up with sealant. Make necessary repairs - Now that your gutters are squeaky clean, it’s time to make any necessary repairs. You can also try using a leaf blower or a wet/dry vacuum cleaner from the bottom of the downspout to force the blockage out.Ĩ. You will then need to run water through from above again to flush the debris.Īlternatively, you can feed through a plumber’s snake to physically unblock the pipe, much like what you use for drains, such as the DrainX Drain Auger Pro ( $32, Amazon). Use the highest pressure you can for the most impact. First, try spraying water into the downspout from the ground using your hose. To release this blockage, you have a couple of options. Spray water in from the top and check the speed at which it comes out - if the flow has slowed, something is blocking it. Check the downspout - While your gutter may look clean and shiny from above, don’t forget about the downspout. Whatever you do, don’t climb on the roof to clean your gutters.ħ. Make sure there’s at least two steps or rungs spare at the top of the ladder - if you need to overstep this point, or you’re struggling to reach, the ladder is not a sufficient height. You can make use of a ladder stabilizer to keep things still if necessary, such as the Louisville Ladder LP-2200-00 Stabilizer ( $44, Amazon). When placing your ladder, make sure it is locked, stable and sitting on flat grout. Place the ladder - You’re going to want to start from the downspout and work your way up to the end of the gutter for reference. They will keep the ladder grounded and can assist with emptying the bucket and passing up any tools.Ĥ. Find someone to help - While you might feel confident in this job, it’s essential that you have a second person on hand to help. Make sure you’re wearing practical clothes for the work as well - you’re likely to get dirty.ģ. Alternatively, you can buy dedicated tools for this job, such as The Wedge Gutter Cleaning Scoop ( $11, Amazon). You’re also going to need a sizable bucket to collect the debris, a pair of strong rubber gloves (check out our best gardening gloves list for guidance) and a small plastic spade which will fit into your gutters.
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