As a Perth homeowner, you are responsible for keeping the gutters clean. It can help you to overcome the damages that clogged gutters can make. However, you will also need to have the right tools to proceed with gutter cleaning. Let’s take a quick look at the different gutter cleaning tools that you should have before you get started.
First, assess if you’ll be working from a ladder or the ground. Ladders allow you to reach the entire gutter line but can be dangerous. Telescopic pole attachments allow safer gutter access from the ground for single-story homes. Or consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service if you lack proper equipment or mobility.
Handheld Gutter Scoops and Scrapers
Basic hand tools like flexible plastic scoops, small garden shovels or trowels, and leaf rakes or grabbers are essential for safely pulling out loose debris. Serrated gutter scrapers help detach caked leaves or stubborn gunk while cleaning brushes remove algae and mineral buildup. A good rule of thumb is to buy tools long enough to keep hands away from potential sharp objects or chemicals inside the gutter line.
Gutter Cleaning Power Tools
Taking hand tools up a notch are handy power assist devices like electric leaf blowers or durable high-capacity rain gutter cleaning heads mounted on extendable poles and powered by either an electric drill or a wet/dry shop vacuum. These make clearing out wet leaves, decomposing plant material, and other compacted gunk a breeze compared to manual cleaners. Consider noise and if you have available power sources when choosing between corded electric or battery-operated tools.
Gutter Guards and Strainer Baskets
Prevent future clogs by installing durable metal or plastic gutter guard screens between cleaning sessions. Mesh and perforated designs allow water flow while blocking most debris. Covering downspouts with removable strainer baskets offers another layer of protection in key problem areas. This regular gutter maintenance helps limit future clog headaches.
Ladders, Scaffolds, Lift Equipment
No gutter cleaning job is complete without safe and sturdy access equipment. Choose ladders, scaffolding towers, pole stands, or professional lifts designed specifically for gutter maintenance. Consider height, weight restrictions, rating certifications, rubber stabilizer feet, leveling mechanisms, and locking devices when selecting options matched to your home’s specific roofline. Don’t take risks by standing on chairs, buckets, or makeshift supports.
Protective Gear
Wear slip-resistant gloves for grip, closed toe shoes to avoid piercing injuries, protective eye goggles in case of spray back from powerful cleaning wands and secure any long hair or clothing that could caught up in equipment. For professional jobs, wearing a safety harness properly anchored to your roof or ladder provides an extra precaution against falls.
Gutter Vacuum Cleaners
For heavy-duty gutter cleaning jobs, consider investing in an industrial-strength wet/dry vacuum designed specifically to handle debris-laden water. High-powered vacuum heads attach to extension wands and suck out leaves, dirt, and clogs without needing to constantly stop and empty a reservoir.
Look for durable models with large storage tanks, sufficient horsepower, blower functions to clear damp leaves. You should also keep an eye on different hose attachments, and non-marking wheels to transport around your property. While pricier than standard shop vacuums, these hardcore suckers make quick work of seriously neglected gutter systems over multiple cleaning cycles.
Get Professional Gutter Cleaners If Needed
As you can see, you will need to have different tools to proceed with gutter cleaning. It may not be possible for you to get all these tools and proceed. That’s where you need to get in touch with a professional gutter cleaning company. If you are from Perth Western Australia we at Complete Gutter Cleaning can help. Feel free to contact us and schedule your appointment today.