How to Clean Gutters on Your Own

If despite all warnings you still want to clean your own gutter, you must at least follow the tips and guidelines we have outlined below for your own safety. Remember that gutter cleaning is a professional’s job, if only for the fact that they have the proper tools and safety gear to get the job done.  

It’s true that it’s fairly easy to clean gutters. But it’s also a dangerous job. Climbing up the roof puts you at the risk of falling, which means broken bones and sometimes, permanent injuries. To keep you safe when cleaning your gutters, be sure to: 

1. Choose a good ladder. 

A good ladder is the one that carries your weight fairly well. It should also be sturdy and stable. If you live in a single-story house, the use of a four-legged stepladder is highly recommended. You’ll need a much higher ladder if yours is a two-story home. 

2. Inspect the job site. 

Before doing anything, be sure to inspect the job site first. Is the soil soft? If so, you’ll need to place plywood under the ladder to keep it from tilting. Make sure that there are no hazards in the work area and that all the tools you need are at hand.   

3. Don’t rest the ladder on the gutters. 

Don’t assume that your gutter can carry your weight. Gutters aren’t designed to hold so much pressure. If you rest the ladder on the gutter, all your weight will be transferred to it. As a result, they’ll break, bend, or collapse.   

4. Wear thick gloves.

Gutter cleaning is not a very pleasant job. Protect your hands by wearing worker’s gloves as you’ll be removing dirt, debris, and possibly animal waste from the gutter. Suede and leather gloves are the ones best fit for the job.  

5. Wear protective gear. 

It is strongly advised that you wear eye gear or goggles while cleaning the gutter to prevent possible eye injury. You don’t know what kinds of insects are living in the gutter and they may come up to your eyes as you move the leaves around.  

6. Try not to walk on the roof.  

You may clean the gutter without stepping on the roof. But if it is necessary, be sure to use rubber-soled shoes. Those kinds will give your feet the traction that it needs to prevent you from falling down.  

7. Find a spotter.   

Never attempt to clean the gutter on your own. Find another person to hold on the ladder while you’re doing the chore. This way, you’re sure that the ladder remains steady even when you move your body.  

8. Attach a bucket to the ladder. 

Most adders have a shelf. Make good use of that by securely attaching the bucket to it. That way, you don’t have to hold the bucket when collecting dirt all the time. That way, you’ll be able to use both of your hands and you can better balance yourself.   

These are just some of the tips that you need to follow to make sure that your gutter is clean without you injuring yourself in the process. If you need help, there are professional gutter cleaners who can help you out.