Now that it’s spring, you should be gearing up for that chore everyone loves, cleaning the gutters. It’s not just a matter of setting up a ladder and grabbing a trash bag. Make the gutter cleaning process a bit easier on yourself: take the time to prepare before you begin.
Safety
When cleaning the gutters safety first; safety always. Don’t risk injury when it can be prevented. Necessary safety precautions include:
- using the right kind of ladder – do you need one with an extension? what is its maximum weight capacity?
- checking the ladder for loose hardware, worn rungs and broken parts
- having someone hold the ladder while you are on it – even if the ladder is level and it feels secure
- moving the ladder instead of overreaching
Dress for Success
Gutter cleaning is a dirty job. Ensure you are dressed properly for the task at hand by wearing:
- protective eyewear/safety goggles
- work or rubber gloves
- shoes with rubber soles
- long sleeves
Home Exterior
Get your home exterior ready for when you clean the gutters by:
- closing all windows and doors
- turning off the power to any nearby outdoor outlets
- covering any outlets with plastic if the power can’t be turned off
- removing anything such as the barbeque grill, bicycles, etc. that might be sprayed by water and/or gunk
- wrapping plants, trees or shrubs in a protective tarp
Roof
Start at the top: plan on cleaning the roof first. If you don’t, accumulated debris from the roof will end up in your freshly cleaned gutters.
