Are you properly equipped for cleaning the gutters?

Autumn is officially here and as the trees start to change colours, paired with the weather cooling down many DIYers will slowly start moving projects indoors.

Normally we’ve got to wait for a while, to know if our roof has any cracks, leaks, or faulty guttering – but, over the last few weeks with the sporadic downpours, it’s likely you may have been alerted to a gutter related problem recently. 

Gutter cleaning may not be glamorous but it can save you money in the long run when done properly! This got us thinking, what equipment do you need to clean your gutters properly?

Tools 

machines can now vacuum the dirt and grime right out of the gutter in a few minutes flat! These machines might be a large investment but if you are looking for another exterior service to provide customers it will be well worth it. 

For most gutter cleaning projects all you will need is simple bucket doesn’t need to be large – especially if it’s going to be hung from your ladder. You’ll likely need a garden trowel or spoon to remove debris. 

We also recommend you wear a pair of waterproof workman’s gloves – just in case you start a project when it is nice dry but then the rain comes!  Waterproof workman’s gloves can help you grip the ladder or the trowel as well if it starts raining. There may also be emergency situations (like a clogged gutter) where you may need to remove wet debris from the gutter. 

Ladders

Once you have your tools, you’ll need to make sure you have a ladder with the right height to get the job done! In order to find the right ladder, you must make sure the working height matches your roof or gutter height. 

And please, keep in mind working height is the area you can safely reach while using your ladder!

To safely reach single storey or bungalow roofs you may only need a step ladder to reach the guttering. Most two storey homes will need a proper extension ladder as we’ve previously discussed, many DIYers and trade professionals stand by the Werner fibreglass trade extension ladder.

Helpful Tips 

The first helpful tip is to consider purchasing a ladder standoff because this piece of metal will help you reach the best working height. The efficient design will hold your ladder away from the building and can make it easier for you to clean the gutters. 

Another tip is to use a ladder bucket hook to secure your debris bucket to the ladder. This hook shouldn’t be destabilising to the ladder in any way and will help keep your hands free to work! 

Lastly, we always recommend you keep your knees inside the ladder frame to prevent overreaching. And if you need additional help with your ladder, be sure to consult our checklist for using ladders before you begin any work at height! 

If you need a new ladder to get the job done properly, we’ve got plenty for you to choose from! You can explore our range of extension ladders and stepladders right here at Browns Ladders, and if you have any questions, or you need any help or advice, we’re always happy to help – just give us a call on 01282 615517!