Tips And Tricks For Cleaning Gutters If You Don't Have A Ladder

Choosing the right type of gutters is important for the maintenance of your home. They direct water away from your dwelling to prevent possible damage to your walls, yard, and foundation. But all the protection they provide comes at a price: cleaning. Throughout the year, leaves, dirt, and pests lurk in your gutters, creating a buildup that will prevent the drainage system from doing its job. Most people clean them twice a year to help prevent big problems, but you might have to do it more frequently if you have a lot of trees around your home. If you don't have a ladder or are uncomfortable standing on one while doing this maintenance, there are still several ways to keep your gutters in tip-top shape.

One way to clean your gutters without a ladder is by using a hose or power washer with an attachment to wash away the debris. That way, you can stand safely on the ground and still clear your troughs. However, be aware that the hose might not provide enough pressure to get rid of blockages, so you might have to turn to other means. On the other hand, a power washer can provide too much pressure and damage your gutters. Instead of going full blast, use only the amount of power you need to get the job done.

Chances are, if you have leaves, you also have a leaf blower. Consider buying an attachment for your lawn tool that will reach your gutter height and blow the debris out of your system. You'll want to wait until the leaves and dirt are dry to use this method, as your blower probably won't provide enough power to move wet clumps. If you own a shop vac and you'd rather suck out the dirt and leaves, consider getting an extension for the hose. Vacuuming up the debris can be an easy and efficient way to safely clean your system.

Another option is to purchase a telescopic gutter cleaning tool. The pole on this device extends to reach your troughs from the ground and has a brush or scoop on the end to whisk away debris. You can even buy ones with a little rake on the end that fits right inside your gutter to clear the way. 

If none of these options work for you, consider calling in the pros. They have the necessary tools and knowledge to clean your gutters, and you can rest assured that your drainage system will be ready for the upcoming season without any hassle. No matter which method you choose, once the job is done, you might want to install gutter guards to make maintenance easier going forward.