Residential roofing contractors often offer other services too, including professional gutter cleaning. If not, they may be able to recommend a company that offers gutter cleaning services. As this work is often tedious and dangerous, it’s a good idea to hire a pro to do it for you.
That being said, many homeowners attempt to clean their own gutters. Though hiring a pro can make light work of gutter cleaning, it pays to know the things you should avoid if you ever have to do it yourself. Here are the three most common gutter cleaning mistakes to avoid:
Ignoring Ladder Safety
Your primary tool for doing this is a ladder. Invest in a sturdy one from a known brand. Get the right height, as well. Whenever you use the ladder, inspect it for damage and loose hardware. If you find any, don’t use it. It’s better to buy a new one than risk your safety just because you want to get the work done as soon as possible or you want to save a little money.
Don’t try to overreach while standing on a ladder. Every residential roofing company trains its people never to do this. Go back down, move the ladder, and climb back up again so you can safely reach what you’re trying to remove from the gutter.
Not Wearing Proper Shoes
Don’t go barefoot or wear slippery shoes. Check your shoes for anything that might make them slippery. Shoes with rubber soles that provide good traction are your best bet.
Not Using Protective Gear and the Right Tools
Don’t wear loose-fitting sleeves that can get caught and put you in danger of losing your balance and falling. Invest in a pair of heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands. Wear proper eye protection, as well. You never know what insects are hiding in the debris you’re trying to remove.
Use the right tools, such as a gutter cleaning vacuum attachment, a rotary gutter cleaning system, a gutter sprayer, or anything that can make the job a little easier.
Avoiding these mistakes can make gutter cleaning safer, but it’s still in your best interest to rely on a professional to do it for you. You might also want to consider gutter guards or replacing your old gutters with seamless gutters to reduce debris buildup.
Creative Construction Group is a reputable residential and commercial roofing installation contractor. We also offer gutter cleaning services. Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate. Call us today at (815) 459-1750. We work with homeowners in Crystal Lake, IL, and in other areas around Illinois.