Yes, you should bother cleaning second-storey gutters. Accumulated debris in gutters can lead to water overflow, potentially damaging the facade of your building or causing internal water leaks.
Melbourne experiences variable weather, with heavy downpours not uncommon. Properly maintained gutters ensure efficient water flow, reducing the risk of damage to the property.
In this blog, we’ll talk about how you can clean second-storey gutters and whether or not you should hire gutter cleaning pros for the job.
How Do You Clean Second Storey Gutters?
You clean second-storey gutters by using the following methods:
By Hand
Cleaning second-storey gutters by hand is a traditional method that involves manual labour. You’ll need a sturdy ladder, gloves, a bucket, and a scoop or small hand trowel to do this. Secure the ladder firmly against the building, ensuring its stability. Climb up with your tools and manually scoop out the debris, placing it into the bucket.
Regularly move the ladder along the length of the gutter to ensure you clean the entire section. This method is effective for removing larger debris like leaves and twigs.
However, hand cleaning is more time-consuming than using specialised equipment like a gutter vacuum.
Have you ever asked yourself, “How does dirt get in my gutters?” Find out the answer by checking out our blog here.
By Using a Vacuum
A gutter vacuum is a modern solution for gutter cleaning that offers efficiency and safety. This equipment uses powerful suction to remove debris from gutters.
Typically, gutter vacuums come with a long hose and nozzle, allowing users to reach second-storey gutters from the ground. The debris is sucked into a collection bin or bag, making disposal easy.
Gutter vacuums are particularly effective for removing smaller debris like pine needles, dirt, and moss, providing a comprehensive clean without the need to ascend a ladder.
Should I Hire a Professional Gutter Cleaner Instead?
Yes, you need to hire a professional gutter cleaner instead of doing it yourself. Hiring an expert is far better due to the following reasons:
- Safety: Cleaning gutters, especially those on the second storey or higher, poses significant risks. Professionals are trained to handle the height and potential hazards. They have the right equipment, such as stabilised ladders and harnesses, to ensure their safety during the job.
- Efficiency: With experience comes efficiency. Professional gutter cleaners have cleaned countless gutters and have developed techniques that allow them to do the job quickly and effectively, saving you time.
- Thoroughness: A professional will not just clean the gutters; they’ll often inspect them for signs of wear, damage, or potential issues. They can spot problems like cracks, rust, or loose fasteners that an untrained eye might miss.
- Specialised Equipment: Professionals typically invest in top-tier equipment, such as high-powered gutter vacuums, that may not be feasible for a homeowner to purchase for occasional use. This equipment ensures that the cleaning is thorough and done right the first time.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that a trained and insured professional is handling the job can provide peace of mind. If any damage occurs or if there are any issues during the cleaning, a professional service is more likely to address and rectify the situation.
Want to learn about the laws concerning tenant gutter cleaning? Read our blog for more details.