Last Updated on August 3, 2024 by Sharaj
Autumn is that time of the year when leaves fall off trees, litter the ground and block your gutters. But, while dry leaves on the ground are quite easy to rake up and dispose of, the same cannot be said of leaves stuck in gutters and downspouts.
Little wonder why most people keep putting off unclogging their gutters.
However, what if we told you there are better and easier ways of removing sludge from your gutter than scooping them out with your gloves-covered hands?
Try out the following unusual gutter unclogging methods.
Table of Contents
Easy Way To Keep Leaves Out of Gutters
Here are some easy ways to take out the leaves and debris from the gutter without ladder. Most of the tools here need extension pole/kit to operate from the ground.
Cleaning Gutters With Leaf Blower
Though it requires extreme caution to use on a rooftop, a gutter leaf blower can help to clean your gutters without getting your hands all dirty with slime. To use it, you’ll need to climb the roof, walk along its edge and blow the debris out as you go.
A much safer way to use a leaf blower on your gutter, however, is to use a kit that extends the reach of your leaf blower such that you won’t have to climb anything to reach your gutter. With this method comes the need to wear goggles.
This is because the debris flying around can enter your eyes if they’re left bare. Also, note that you may end the session with loads of debris on your body– reason why you should wear your DIY work clothing.
Using A Power Washer
Especially with wet sticky gutters, a power washer will be very effective. It can be more challenging to clean wet gutters with a leaf blower. A power washer, on the other hand, is very powerful.
The only way you can work with a power washer from the ground is if you use a telescoping wand that has got a u-shaped attachment at its end.
Use a rake or broom to gather all the debris that has fallen to the ground. Before using the machine, get rid of your patio furniture. Also, get ready to wipe your windows clean after cleaning because the debris will likely fall on them too.
Using A Wet/Dry Gutter Vacuum
One advantage of using a wet/dry vacuum for cleaning out your gutter is that it’ll minimize your work. Rather than blowing away slime from the gutters and having them drop on the ground where you’d have to pack them again, why not use a wet and dry vac and reduce work for yourself?
Of course, you’ll need to use an extension kit to reach the gutter with the vacuum from the ground level.
Warning
No matter how eager you are to get the gutter-cleaning done with, never fail to exercise serious caution. Since you’ll be working on your rooftop, it is paramount that you adhere to the following safety precautions:
- Wear thick gloves made from suede and googles to guard your hands and eyes. Also, put on appropriate work clothing so you don’t ruin your good clothes while your work.
- Get someone else to help you hold the ladder and assist you like your clean your gutter.
- Only walk on the roof if it is absolutely necessary. You put yourself in more danger of falling when you reach downwards to get to the gutter. It is better that you access the gutter from your extension ladder. Also, ensure that you wait until it is midday before you begin your gutter cleaning exercise. At these period, the roof will be dry and there’ll be less chance of you slipping.
- You will also want to get rid of all debris and leaves sitting on the roof before you start with cleaning your gutter. By doing this, you’ll ensure that these dirt don’t clog your gutter again once it rains. A broom or leaf blower will prove useful here.
- As you clean your gutter, also clean the downspout. A malleable rod that has a brush at its end like those used to clean dryer vents is good for cleaning downspouts. After using this tool, pour water into the downspout to ensure all the gunk are gone.
- Make sure you have all the necessary gutter cleaning tools (like this) to operate the cleaning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to clean gutters?
The simple way to clean your gutter fast is to climb a ladder to reach the roof, walk along the edge, and blow away with a gutter leaf blower.
Can I clean my gutters myself?
Yes, If you have all the tools like a ladder, a leaf blower, you can do it yourself. You can also use a telescopic cleaner to clean from the ground. That's risk-free.
Despite all these other available gutter cleaning aids, the thought of cleaning your gutter yourself may still be scaring you. Don’t worry, you can always get help from a professional gutter cleaner.
