Before you head for the ladder, consider a solution that we use ay Aqua Force Pressure Washing... high-pressure gutter jetting. In order to clean your gutter in this way, you will need is a pressure washer (minimum 2.5 GPM - the more the better though), a telescoping wand (24' can be had for $80-200+ depending on style and material) and an gutter cleaning attachment.
The process is simple. If you would like to try the "no ladder method," here is how we do it:
1. Position the gutter cleaning attachment (hook) into the top of the downspout of the run of gutter that you intend to clean.
2. Pull the trigger and keep going until you have clear water flowing out the bottom. Stubborn clogs can often be knocked out by pulsing the water (pull trigger, release, pull trigger, release).
3. Once the downspout is free-flowing, you can begin to work your way along the gutter as such: For gutters with lots of debris, start on the end with the downspout, spraying sections completely clean in one to two foot increments. For gutters with minimal debris, start on theend opposite the downspout and simple flush the system toward the downspout... as long as the downspout continues to flow continue cleaning.
Most homes we service have one major problem - the downspouts are clogged. If the downspouts are kept open throughout the year, the remainder of the system will remain fairly clean as well. A great way to check if your downspouts are flowing is this - simply spray water from a garden hose on the roof just above the downspout. Water should begin flowing quickly from the downspout if it is unobstructed.
Gutter cleaning is usually a chore needed twice per year. In Ohio, May/June and November/December are idea times.
