How to Clean Clogged House Gutters Properly

Properly cleaning and servicing clogged house gutters will save a home owner $200 or more per year. Clogged gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year. If the roof is located directly below trees more frequent cleanings may be required.

To properly clean clogged gutters and assure safety on a ladder or roof, only tackle this project if the roofs height is a single story. Hiring a professional is recommended for homes that are two stories or higher.

Ladder choice and placement are an essential safety precaution when cleaning clogged gutters. While using a ladder, the ground surface should be firm and level. If using an extension ladder never lean the ladder against clogged gutters, there is risk of the ladder slipping and a possibility of damaging house gutters.

A tall step ladder is safe and effortless to work with; it supports the body evenly parallel to the clogged gutter, as apposed to an extension ladder which will be on a slant forcing the body to curve in order to gain access to the gutter, which may throw the body off balance causing unnecessary injury.

Maintain good posture and balance by keeping hips and waist between the ladders side rails, do not lean the body passed the sides of the ladder when cleaning clogged gutters and never stand on the top two rungs (steps) of any ladder.

Working from the rooftop is another option when cleaning clogged gutters. Depending on the pitch of the roof, access to the house gutters may be easier than using a ladder. When working on a rooftop, wind, water and icy conditions are unsafe, only work on a roof when weather conditions permit.

Never lean over the edge of a roof or work under or near power lines, nonslip shoes are recommended. When using a water hose on the roof the hose should be long enough to anchor at a point higher or even with the location of the work. Water hoses can pose the threat of pulling a person over the edge.

It is recommended to wear heavy, waterproof work gloves to protect against clogged gutters sharp metal edges and joint fasteners. Also safety glasses are recommended. If the house gutters have cover systems, be sure to safely remove them before cleaning.

The following is a list of recommended materials and tools for cleaning clogged house gutters.

Ladder

Strapped cloth sack or bucket

Blunt and narrow scoop or trowel

Extra long water hose with controllable water pressure nozzle

Heavy waterproof work gloves

Plumbing snake/wire hanger (occasionally needed)

Gutter sealant caulk (optional)

Clean clogged house gutters beginning at the drain opening and working toward the middle of the gutter, this prevents further clogging of the leader the drain empties into. Place debris in strapped cloth sack or bucket emptying as frequently as needed for safe mobility.

Using the water hose, clean out each gutter forcefully working the runoff toward the drain opening keeping a safe enough pressure as to not damage the gutter connection to the roof. A stiff brush can be used gently to remove stubborn buildup if needed.

To assure a clear drainage path check all drainpipes. If debris obstructs water flow, hold the hose directly over the drain hole in the clogged gutter and continue to flush the pipe until the clog is free. For stubborn clogs use a plumbers snake or wire hanger to clear the pipe at ground level.

To be sure your house gutters are functioning properly allow water to flow through the system. During this process inspect the house gutters by checking for leaks near jointed areas. If leaking areas are discovered clean then caulk the inside of the gutter with sealant.

Properly cleaning clogged gutters is a big job and when maintained properly gutters will provide years of protection for your home.