HOW TO CLEAN OUT GUTTERING – Cleaning out your guttering is not a difficult job and you really should inspect your guttering and clean it out on a regular basis. If you allow the guttering to become full of debris then it will end up blocking the guttering system and water will simply overflow and end up damaging your brickwork. In this handy guide you can learn how to clean out your guttering effectively and safely.
Step 1
When cleaning out your guttering you need to be very careful. Remember you are working at heights. Ladder safety is paramount here. Make sure it is on a level surface and that it is propped up against a flat and stable surface at the top – prop the ladder on the wall – NOT the guttering. Have a friend or family member hold the ladder at the bottom. If it is a particularly windy day then leave the job for a day when the wind is calm.
Step 2
Get a bucket and thread your arm through the handle as you climb the ladder – this way you can still hold onto the ladder with both hands as you climb.
Step 3
Take a hand trowel or hand spade to clear out the guttering. Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands.
Step 4
Place all the debris that you collect in the bucket – you can attach the bucket to the ladder with string or a hook so that you can work with both hands.
Step 5
DO NOT over stretch! Once you have cleared out a section then descend, empty your bucket, move the ladder along the wall to the next section and repeat the process.
Step 6
When cleaning out your guttering check for any cracks or breakages in the seals. Both can lead to your guttering leaking so it’s a good time to fix any leaking guttering while you are at it.
Acknowledgements: Video – B&Q
