Gutter cleaning and maintenance come with a high level of risk. If you’re looking to take on a DIY gutter cleaning project this weekend, this article will help. Here are some tips and tricks professionals use to ensure safety while cleaning gutters.
Professional Tips and Tricks for Safe Gutter Cleaning
1. Use the Right Tools
Having the right tools on hand is necessary whether you’re a first-timer or a professional. Here are some tools we recommend for gutter cleaning:
- Ladder with standoff stabilizer and shelving (get an extendable one for two-story houses)
- Gutter scoop
- Garden hose equipped with a pistol-grip trigger and spray nozzle
- Tarp
- Towel
- Rake
- Large bucket
Having all these ready before you begin will help you reduce the number of times you go up and down the ladder.
2. Wear Protective Gear
Whether you’re walking on top of your roof or using a step ladder, there is a real risk of slipping. You also risk injuring your hands, eyes, and body while cleaning gutters.
Make sure to protect yourself from injury before going up the ladder by arming yourself with the following equipment:
- Rubber-soled shoes
- Thick gloves
- Safety glasses
3. Follow Proper Cleaning Procedures
Gather all your protective gear and tools first. Wear the gloves, shoes, and glasses before you begin setting up the tarp and ladder. Keep your tools on a tool belt so you can move about hands-free.
Here are a few more tips as you go about cleaning your gutters:
- When setting up the ladder, ensure the bottom is stable and always move it under the spot you want to reach. Use leg levers if necessary.
- Before you start cleaning, rake off debris from the roof so it won’t fall on you while you’re working.
- Position a bucket on the ladder for collecting debris and sludge. Secure it with a lanyard to keep it from accidentally tipping over.
- Always have at least three points of contact. This means keeping both feet and one of your hands on the ladder at all times.
- Once you’re done clearing the gutters, run water through your downspout with your hose. This should clear out any remaining debris.
4. Stay Alert
While cleaning, always keep an eye on your surroundings and pay attention to the job at hand. Watch out for any power lines that are around the gutters. If you notice a power line with signs of damage, stay clear and call an electrician to repair it.
It’s also recommended to have someone helping you with the ladder, even if you’re working at lower heights.
Gutter-Vac: A Simple Solution
Cleaning your own gutters can be difficult and risky. If you want a professional and thorough cleaning, call in a gutter-cleaning service to do the job for you.
Gutter-Vac has a professional and experienced team of technicians who can clean your gutters for you safely and efficiently. You can go about your regular day with the peace of mind that our professionals will take care of your gutters and give them a good clean. Visit the Gutter-Vac website to learn more or call 1300 654 253.
