What is the best way to clean gutters, should I use a gutter cleaning attachment with my pressure washer?
Yes, you can use a gutter cleaning attachment for a pressure washer to clean your gutters, but it is not recommended. While the gutter cleaning attachment may help to direct the high-pressure water in a more controlled manner, it is still likely to cause damage to the gutters. The high-pressure water can warp or bend the gutters and cause them to become less effective at directing water away from the home. Additionally, the pressure may loosen or dislodge the gutter brackets, which can cause them to fall off.
So if you choose to use a pressure washer attachment to clean your gutters, use a low pressure around 1,200-1,500 psi. But it’s generally safer and more effective to remove debris with a trowel or gutter scoop before flushing out the remaining debris with a garden hose with moderate pressure. This method is less likely to cause damage to the gutters and still effectively cleans them.
It’s also important to check and clean the downspouts as they play a vital role in directing water away from your house. Use a plumbers snake or a garden hose to clear out the downspout.
Here are a few ways to clean your gutters effectively:
Use a ladder: The most common method of cleaning gutters is to use a ladder. Make sure the ladder is stable and positioned on level ground. Wear gloves and use a trowel or a gutter scoop to remove debris from the gutters. If you are not comfortable working on a ladder or are unable to do so, you can hire a professional gutter cleaning service. They have the equipment and experience to safely and efficiently clean your gutters.
Use a garden hose: A garden hose can be a great tool for cleaning out gutters. Start by removing as much debris as possible with a trowel or gutter scoop. Then, turn on the water and flush out the remaining debris.
Check and clean downspouts: It’s crucial to check and clean the downspouts as they play a vital role in directing water away from your house. If the downspout is clogged, water will back up and overflow, causing damage to the gutters and potentially your home. Use a plumbers snake or a hose to clear out the downspout.
Gutter guards can be installed to prevent debris from getting into the gutters in the first place, they are not a guarantee but can help to minimize the debris that gets in the gutters which will minimize the need for cleaning.
