Whether you’re planning on cleaning the gutters now while the weather is still somewhat predictable or waiting until the fall, it’s an important home maintenance task that will keep water flowing freely through your gutter system. Since falling off a ladder while working around the house is one of the top five reasons for a trip to the emergency room, knowing how to clean gutters safely is essential.
Pick a day and plan ahead.
Especially if you will be gutter cleaning later in the fall, you don’t want to be on the roof or climbing a ladder if the roof and the ground will be wet. Check the 14-day forecast and pick a day that won’t be windy or hot. When planning ahead, select a day at least 24 hours after predicated rainfall.
Wear the right clothing.
Wear clothing that is not too tight or too loose. A long-sleeved shirt and pants instead of shorts will offer more protection. Shoes should have closed-toes with non-slip soles.
Use the right protective gear.
Cleaning gutters safely requires basic safety gear. Thick work gloves keep hands safe from cutting them on sharp edges and coming into contact with decomposing materials. Safety goggles keep water from splashing up into your eyes and flying debris from attacking you.
Ask someone to help you.
Have a helper. Having someone on the ground keeping the ladder secure makes it much safer for you. An assistant can also hand you equipment as needed, which will eliminate the number of times you have to climb up and down the ladder.
Inspect any piece of equipment you’ll be using.
Ensure the ladder is in good working order. If you will be using a power vacuum or leaf blower inspect the plug and cord for undue wear-and-tear. Check to see that the garden hose is long enough to use without overreaching.
Set up the ladder for safety success.
Place the ladder on stable ground or an even surface.
When using a stepladder, make sure that the hinged metal part that opens and closes the ladder, is locked into place before climbing on it.
When using a straight ladder or an extension ladder, place it the appropriate distance away from the wall – when it’s too close or too far away, the ladder won’t be stable when standing on it.
If there are power lines near the house and you feel comfortable working around them, use a ladder made out of fiberglass instead of metal.
Be mindful when using the ladder.
Keep your body centered between the two side rails at all times. Only work directly in front of you. To clean a new section of the gutters climb down the ladder and move it.
Don’t use the top two steps of a straight or extension ladder. When standing on the ladder feet should be slightly apart.
Always have two feet and one hand or both hands and one foot on the ladder when cleaning the gutters or climbing up and down.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Look out for overhead wires or power lines.
Avoid tripping hazards such as the garden hose – when it’s on the ground and when you are using it.
When you’re working on the ladder gutter cleaning will there be trees or other structures inhibiting your accessibility?
Take your time and stay focused.
No one really enjoys cleaning the gutters, but mistakes are made and accidents occur more often when we rush or become distracted. Take breaks and don’t forget to hydrate. If you don’t finish cleaning the gutters and have to leave it for the next day, it’s better to take your time and be safe.
