Gutters are key to keeping water out of your home. In order for them to function properly, they must be free of dirt and debris. Luckily, there are several effective ways to clean them.
Over time, leaves, moss, debris, and even bird nests can make it difficult for rainwater to drain properly. You can find out how best to clean gutters using our tips.
Which tools for cleaning the gutters?
If you want to properly clean your gutters, there are a number of tools that make the job easier and safer.
- Personal protective equipment – eye protection, non-slip rubber boots, waterproof clothing.
- High-pressure cleaners and attachments – This allows you to quickly remove stubborn dirt.
- Brooms and hand brushes with hard bristles - for clearing the roof of loose debris and emptying the gutters of debris.
- A small hand trowel - for scraping out dirt.
- Green waste bags – for collecting leaves, moss and other debris.
- A sturdy ladder – for single-story buildings, a pressure washer attachment can eliminate the need for a ladder.
- Cleaning solution – a good multi-purpose cleaner that breaks down stuck-on contaminants without damaging the gutter surface.
Wearing personal protective equipment is essential, especially when using a pressure washer, as flying dirt and debris can cause injuries. Always wear non-slip shoes and stay away from electrical wires near or above the work area.
Clean the roof before cleaning the gutters
Since most of the dirt in the gutters comes from the roof, it is advisable to clean the roof first. Use a stiff-bristled brush or blower to remove loose dirt. If on yoursA lot of moss grows on the roof tiles, you can fluff it up with a brush to prevent it from washing into the gutters when it rains. When cleaning the roof, you should also inspect the gutters for cracks or breaks and ensure that all fasteners are secure.
Clean gutters: first by hand
Your gutters are most likely full of rotting leaves, plants, twigs andaccumulated moss. This can resemble a thick, tar-like substance over time. You should not begin pressure washing your gutters until you have removed most of them by hand. If you try to wash them away, you risk clogging downspouts and drains. It is best to remove these deposits from the gutter with a small hand trowel.
Cleaning solution is very helpful
A good cleaning solution will help loosen stubborn deposits and create a lubricating effect that makes it easier to rinse away dirt during pressure washing. Many cleaning solutions also prevent organic debris from building up on the gutter while also penetrating airborne contaminants like grease, tar, and oil. For stubborn dirt, use a rotating brush with your pressure washer for a more thorough clean.
Clean gutters from the ground
Cleaning the gutters without a ladder, from the ground, is a little more time-consuming than from a ladder, as you cannot see what you are doing and therefore has to be systematic and slow, but such cleaning works well and is by far the safest Method. To do this, you will need either a garden hose or a standard wet/dry vacuum cleaner as well as a few practical attachments.
Applying protective paint is a good solution
There are special coatings that prevent rust from forming and aProtective barrier against the weatherform. When repainting your gutters, you should first clean them with a pressure washer, gently scrub them to remove debris, and allow them to dry. Once dry, you can apply a primer coat before applying the weatherproof paint. It's not a good idea to paint plastic gutters because the paint may not stick to them and could contain chemicals that will break them down over time.
Attaching protective devices
If your gutters clog too quickly, installing guards may be just what you need. These are attached to the upper end of the rain gutter and prevent larger amounts of dirt from being washed into the gutters. They are also an effective way to prevent birds from nesting in your gutters and act like a sieve that traps most of thedirt and depositsfiltered out.
Why is cleaning downspouts so important?
If your downspouts are clogged, they can prevent water from draining away from your roof and onto your property.Runs rainwaterover the edge of your gutter, then a clogged downspout is probably the cause. Keeping your downspouts clean will allow your gutters to operate at peak efficiency.
Don't forget to clean the drains
When cleaning gutters, many people forget to clean drains at the same time. While buildup and blockages in gutters are easy to spot, drains are more of a challenge. First, clear the drain lid of debris and then remove the grid. Using a hand trowel, dig out any soil, leaves, and debris that is inside, then pour in a good drain cleaner. If your drains are clogged, there are pressure washers that can be inserted into the drain to clear the clog.
For most people, cleaning gutters twice a year is enough. Once you clean them thoroughly the first time, they will be easier to clean in the future. Cleaning every six months can prevent moss from setting in and can wash away much of the dirt and debris. If you live in areas with lots of trees, you should clean your gutters every 3 months or invest in a guard. Read more about thisin this article.
