Sava’s Best Gutter Cleaning Tips

20 Jul Sava’s Best Gutter Cleaning Tips

We’re pretty sure that nobody looks forward to or actually enjoys cleaning their gutters out. We can think of a million other things we’d rather do than clean them out, but we also know we’d rather clean our gutters and downspouts out than have to deal with what happens when they’re clogged up and not functioning properly!

Unfortunately, it’s just one of those homeowner jobs that we all have to do, but we have some great methods that make cleaning them out a whole lot easier!

Method #1: The Scoop & Drop

Pros:

• Works well for wet debris
• The fastest method
• Requires the least amount of prep work

Cons:

• Doesn’t work as well with dry debris.

Steps:

1. Layout a plastic tarp or drop cloth on the ground below where you’re working.
2. Scoop out the debris from the gutter and drop it onto the cloth below.
3. You will have to periodically move the tarp around as you clean up.
4. When you’re done, you can dump the debris into a compost bin or a trash bag.

Method #2: The Gutter Bucket

Pros:

• Works well for wet & dry debris
• Requires the least amount of prep work

Cons:

• Requires a lot of climbing up and down the ladder.
• Requires some added prep work.

Steps:

1. Get a plastic bucket with a metal handle.
2. Cut the handle in half and bend it so you can hook it over the side of the gutter.
3. Scoop the debris into the bucket and move the bucket along the gutter as you go.
4. You will have to get down periodically to empty the bucket out as it fills up.

Method #3: The Gutter Bag

Pros:

• Works well for dry debris
• The fastest method
• Requires the least amount of prep work

Cons:

• Doesn’t work well for wet debris.
• Requires some climbing up and down on the ladder.
• Requires the most added prep work.

Steps:

1. Get a plastic bucket with a metal handle.
2. Cut the handle in half and bend so it can hang over the side of the gutter.
3. Cut the bottom of the bucket out.
4. Attach a trash bag to the bottom of the bucket using a rubber band and duct tape.
5. Scoop the debris from the gutters into the trash bag.
6. Remove the bag periodically before it gets too heavy. Remember, you’re up on a ladder!

Bonus Tips!

• If you don’t have a trowel or garden spade, you can make your own scooper by cutting a plastic jug with a handle (something like an old bleach bottle works great)
• Extension ladders are the best option for cleaning your gutters.
• Always place your ladder on dry, level ground and always have a spotter below who can hold onto the ladder with both hands.
• Work in small sections along the gutters, never overreach from the ladder.
• Always keep your body upright. Once you would have to lean to the side to extend your reach, you know it’s time to move the ladder.
• Check your gutters for leaks and damage and that your gutter hangers are firmly attached.

Do you have a clogged downspout? Check out our Tips for Clearing a Clogged Downspout Blog.

Be sure to check out our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Blog for more helpful tips!