Who likes a roof with stagnant water? Water on the roof is a major reason behind most of the problems of the roof. Roof gutters help the to water drain out from the roof and the water flows through the pipes to the bottom which can be stored as well for future use. But the problem many people face is the gutter cleaning. In this article, we will understand the various ways and advantages of gutter cleaning.
Cleaning of the gutter is as essential as any other work in the house. Gutters if not clean can lead to water clogging which can further affect the condition of the building. People often turn to professionals for this simple task which can be done easily by one. Cleaning of gutters does not require much labor but is a technical job and requires complete attention. Since gutters are situated at the periphery of the roof, it’s high above the ground and a simple mistake while cleaning can cost a life.
Gutter cleaning is a very easy task, and anyone can do it after watching a couple of online tutorials. One needs to take all the precautions and should have help ready in case of an accident.
A few things to keep in mind while cleaning the gutter are given below:
- Ladder: While working with the ladder one has to ensure that it is well supported and does not displace from its position at any cost. A person should also have someone with him while using the ladder to clean the roof gutters. A four-step ladder is ideal in case of cleaning a one-storey building. It should be able to bear the load of the person and the waste collected from the gutters. A wooden ladder should be avoided as it is not very stable.
- Use a scoop: A scoop can be used initially to clean the debris from the gutters. Most of the debris will be collected in this manner and water can be discharged into the gutters afterward.
- Use a sprinkler: A water sprinkler can be used after the debris is removed for washing the gutter. This will ensure that all the smaller particles are washed away, and the gutter is rendered clean. If the debris is not scooped initially, the chances of clogging of the pipe are high.
- Shoes: Use proper shoes so as to get the maximum grip. A good grip considerably reduces the chances of slipping which is one of the most common accidents while cleaning gutters.
- Protect eyes and hands: Use good quality rubber gloves to cover your hands and glasses to protect your eyes from the minute particles. Gloves and glasses are essential as they protect your body parts from getting damaged and prevents some accidents.
Advantages of Gutter Cleaning
Since we now know about the precautions that must be taken while cleaning gutters, it’s time we know some of the advantages of gutter cleaning.
- It increases the life of the roof by keeping it free from water and debris, thus reducing the load on it.
- It prevents leakage of water from the roof. Stagnant water on the roof is one the main reasons behind seepage cleaning of gutter eliminates it.
- Gutter cleaning ensures a clean surrounding and does not provide insects a place to breed. Stagnant water is the breeding place for most of the insects.
If you have been planning to clean the gutter for a long time, it’s time for you to do it. Just pick up a pair of gloves, shoes and glasses and all the other pieces of equipment and clean up the gutter to prevent water clogging in monsoon and after a snowfall. Do not forget to be cautious while cleaning.