Lawn Sweepers: Worth It or Waste of Space?  Family Handyman

Original post:
Lawn Sweepers: Worth It or Waste of Space? - Family Handyman

Pro Team Works Encourages Timely Gutter Cleaning Appointments as Schedules Fill Up  EIN News

See more here:
Pro Team Works Encourages Timely Gutter Cleaning Appointments as Schedules Fill Up - EIN News

How to Clean Gutters the Right Wayand Help Protect Your Home From Water Damage  Martha Stewart

Originally posted here:
How to Clean Gutters the Right Wayand Help Protect Your Home From Water Damage - Martha Stewart

You Can Save Money On These 8 Home Tasks By Completing Them At The End Of Summer  Forbes

See more here:
You Can Save Money On These 8 Home Tasks By Completing Them At The End Of Summer - Forbes

HomeCraft Gutter Protection: Reviews, Services and Costs of 2024  MarketWatch

Excerpt from:
HomeCraft Gutter Protection: Reviews, Services and Costs of 2024 - MarketWatch

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Cleaning your gutters can be a hassle. Leaves and pine needles will drop into them, and they can easily get clogged and overflow, causing you homeownership headaches. Keeping them clear is important, not just during the rainy season, but as winter weather rolls in, as keeping gutters clear will help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof.

But getting up on a ladder to clean out gutters isnt always the safest or most convenient option. Here are some tools and tool extensions that will help you clear out your gutters without ever leaving the ground.

An extension for a standard leaf blower will allow you to clear gutters by stretching the nozzle to roof height and adding an attachment that points down toward the gutter. This universal leaf blower extension kit will work with most leaf blowers and can reach up to 11 feet up. You can also use this extension with a shop vac converted to a blower by switching the vacuum hose from the intake to the exhaust port.

Here are our top recommendations for tools and tool extensions to help you clean your gutters from the ground.

To avoid a climb, use water to blast leaves out of your gutters. You have a few options here. The first is a garden hose attachment that will squirt water from your hose up into the gutter, washing leaves up and over the sides. This telescoping garden hose attachment can reach up to seven feet, six inches into the gutter, making ladders unnecessary on first floor gutters.

If you have lower water pressure or a more challenging packed-in leaf situation, using a pressure washer extension is a good choice. This universal pressure washer extension will reach up to nine feet, and can accommodate up to 4000 PSI to blast caked-together leaves out of your gutters. (Just be careful not to use too much pressure, or you'll risk damaging your gutters.)

If you have a tool that works from the ground, starting with a good telescoping extension pole can set you up for success. A standard seven- to 24-foot extension pole will reach the gutters on most houses, and you can use one pole to swap out multiple tools. Keep in mind that the longer your pole is extended, the more difficult it will be to control.

If you have a clump of leaves or another object like a ball blocking your gutters, fish it out using a grabber on an extension pole. This gutter cleaning grabber is operated using a rope and a pole and can be mounted on most tool poles. Its jaws will open up to about a foot to accommodate even relatively large objectsbut be careful picking up anything too heavy, since the spring operated mechanism isnt geared for major extractions.

For a low-tech option, you can use attach a telescoping handle to a tiny rake that you can angle to reach into the gutter to remove leaves. Since it attaches with standard fittings like those on painters poles, you can use it at whatever extension you like. As its small, this rake might be a little too floppy for larger jobs, but it will get the job done for most standard cleanup operations.

You can also use an inspection mirror to check out whats in your gutter so you know what tool to use to clear it. Discovering that what you thought was a clump of leaves is really a ball can totally change your approach to the project. Add an inspection mirror to your telescoping pole to see whats going on from the ground, and check them out again when you're done to make sure you've cleared everything out.

Read more from the original source:
Clean Your Gutters Without a Ladder With These Tools and Extensions - Lifehacker

Material

Depending on the type of material of your gutter guard, you may need to maintain, repair or replace your gutterguard within a few years or sooner. Higher-end materials will help your gutter guards last longer, so youll have fewer gutter issues.

Copper

Copper gutter guards are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Used in constructing micro-mesh and screen gutter guards, they develop a natural patina over time, which gives them a distinct and elegant look. Copper guards are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them a long-lasting option.

Aluminum

If youre looking for a gutter guard thats lightweight, affordable and easy to install, aluminum gutter guards are highly recommended. Used in constructing micro-mesh and screen gutter guards, these guards are resistant to rust and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Theyre also customizable to fit different gutter sizes for a seamless look.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel gutter guards are popular for homeowners looking for long-lasting protection against debris, rust and corrosion. Stainless steel guards are typically more expensive than other options, but thats because theyre highly durable and resistant to all kinds of harsh weather and damage. They are typically used in constructing reverse-curve, micro-mesh and screen gutter guards.

Plastic

If youre looking for an affordable and easy-to-install gutter guard, look no further than plastic options. Mostly found in the construction of reverse-curve and brush guards, plastic guards may not be as durable as metal options, but they still offer effective debris protection.

Foam

Foam gutter guards provide an excellent solution for maintaining clear and debris-free gutters. Created to fit snugly inside the gutter, these guards allow water to pass through freely, leaving the debris out of the gutter. Typically crafted from porous polyurethane or similar materials, foam gutter guards offer a practical and efficient way to safeguard your gutters from clogging.

Measuring your roof and knowing exactly how much material you need will ensure you buy the right size gutter guards. Gutter guards range from 3 to 8 feet long and 5 inches wide on average. Once you measure your gutters and roof, a pro can help you pick the best size.

Do you care if your gutter guards are visible from the ground, or do you prefer your roof to look as streamlined as possible? Answering this question will hopefully give you more insight into whether a gutter guard is for you and which type you should get. A key difference between gutter guards is how they attach to your gutters.

The visibility of gutter guards varies depending on their type and design. For instance, mesh guards installed on top of the gutters blend in with the gutters and have a low-profile appearance. Reverse curve guards, installed over the gutters, are relatively discreet but can be somewhat visible depending on their design and color.

On the other hand, certain gutter guard types are more visible than others. Bottle brush guards are noticeable, and the visibility level depends on the bristle length and thickness. Solid covers, which fully cover the gutter, offer great protection but can be more visible due to their design.

An extended warranty is a testament to the manufacturers confidence in their products quality and durability. It can be reassuring for homeowners to know that their gutter guards are protected in the event of an issue.

However, the warranty for your gutter guard system can differ depending on your chosen installation method. If you choose to do it yourself, the manufacturers warranty on the product may vary. This is because proper installation is critical to the performance and longevity of gutter guards, and manufacturers may have specific requirements for professional installation to ensure warranty coverage.

Its essential to understand the terms and conditions of any warranty thoroughly. Some warranties may only cover specific defects or damage, and others may have limitations or requirements for maintenance and installation that must be met to maintain warranty validity. Thus, a comprehensive grasp of the warranty details ensures you make an informed decision and protect your gutter guards effectively.

When choosing the right gutter guards, cost is an important factor, but it should not be the only thing that matters. When youre deciding which gutter guard to buy, consider the value of the protection it will provide against costly home repairs. Often, this value can outweigh the initial cost of purchasing gutter guards.

For instance, while you may be initially drawn to a low-cost gutter guard, its long-term benefits and potential savings are also worth considering. High-quality gutter guards can help you prevent water damage to your homes foundation, siding and landscaping, which are all costly repairs. Moreover, gutter guards can play an important role in streamlining your gutter cleaning and maintenance process, saving both time and money for years to come.

Continue reading here:
Best Gutter Guards Of 2023 Forbes Home - Forbes

Different gutters require different types of gutter guard types, some which are more effective for specific types of debris, so select a guard based on the debris your home experiences.

Gutter guards are also susceptible to ridges of ice that form at the edge of your roof, known as ice dams. Ice dams prevent melting snow from draining off your roof, leading to icicles and water damage. We recommend choosing a gutter guard with a heating element if you live in a snowy or icy climate.

Brush gutter guards are easy to install on your own. These guards use large bristles to capture debris but leave enough of an opening for water to pass through. Brush gutter guards are best for large debris, such as leaves and pine cones. Smaller debris like pine needles can get stuck in bristles and clog.

Foam gutter guards are an easy-to-install piece of foam that fits into your gutters. The foam maintains water flow while blocking debris. However, leaves can still build up and clog foam guards, and seedlings can take root and grow inside. These guards are best suited for homeowners who dont have heavy tree coverage.

Micro-mesh gutter guards are a highly efficient option. They have a compact screen made of finely woven mesh that blocks even small debris, such as shingle grit, pine needles and pollen.

Many micro-mesh gutter guard companies claim youll never have to clean your gutters again, which is somewhat misleading. These gutter guards still require cleaning, but they dramatically decrease the frequency. You should clean gutters roughly twice a year without gutter guards. With gutter guards, you only have to clean them every one to two years.

Reverse-curve gutter guards, sometimes called surface tension gutter guards, are among the most efficient options. The guards designs vary by brand, but they all utilize surface tension to push debris onto the ground. Some debris may stick during heavy downpours, but you should be able to brush this off or wait until it dries and falls to the ground.

Reverse-curve gutter guard installation often requires replacing your entire gutter system and moving roof shingles. Be aware that the installation may conflict with your roof warranty.

Screen gutter guards have large holes that block debris as rainwater flows through. These guards are typically made of plastic or metal, but smaller debris may still get through, depending on the size of the holes in the screen. This type of gutter guard is ideal for homeowners in temperate climates who dont have nearby pine trees.

Read the original here:
Gutter Guard Installation Costs of 2023 - MarketWatch

Regular maintenance will make your gutters last longer. At some point, they will need to be repaired or replaced to help protect your home from water damage. Here are a few signs that will help you determine if your gutters need to be repaired or replaced.

Cracks or splits

Even small cracks will grow, allowing water to seep into the fascia boards behind the gutters, the shingles above the gutter and the foundation below. Replace any split or crack sections of gutter.

Paint damage and rust

The paint on your gutters is weather resistant. Peeling paint or rust indicates that water is present on the surface on a continuous basis. Look for clogs and remove debris to get the water flowing. Replace or touch up the paint on the damaged section of the gutter.

Pools of water and mold

If you see standing water or mildew near the foundation, it can indicate that the gutters are clogged or there could be a defect in the gutter system. Remove the clog. If the problem persists, replace that section of gutter and downspout.

Water damage or water marks

Inspect directly beneath the gutters on a dry, sunny day for any evidence of water damage. Water damage underneath gutters can indicate that they are leaking or overflowing with water. Look for possible blockages in the area. If there are none, this indicates that the section has a crack or a leak which will need to be repaired or replaced.

Sagging gutters

Gutter sag is a definite sign that its time to replace gutters. Gutters should never sag or pull away from the house. Sagging gutters means that it is no longer draining properly and needs to be replaced. This may be a good time to look into upgrading your old ones with gutter guards or screens or with seamless gutters.

Go here to see the original:
How to Clean Gutters - The Home Depot

Photo: istockphoto.com

Of all the necessary evils that make up a comprehensive fall yard maintenance routine, cleaning the gutters may be the most dreaded of all. Tedious though this task is, homeowners are wise not to neglect it. Properly functioning gutters, after all, ensure that storm water does not find its way indoors.

Learning how to clean gutters isnt difficult and with proper precautions in place, is safe. There is a variety of ways to get those leaves out of the gutters before they clog and lead to gutter damage, and theres no one best way for every homeowner. Some folks dont like using power washers, and others dont want their feet to leave the ground in the process. The best way to clean gutters is to use a safe, effective method youre comfortable with.

Gutters serve the vital purpose of collecting the rain that falls on the roof and diverting it through downspouts away from the homes foundation. Without gutters, water that falls near the foundation could leaks through windows, or seep into a basement or crawlspace.

Rain gutters typically require very little upkeep to function well, other than keeping them free of debris. Gutters that are filled with leaves can lead to clogged downspouts, which cause water to spill out over the top of the gutter channel and fall to the ground below. Worse, winters melt and freeze cycles can cause snow on the roof to melt into the gutter and freeze there. These ice-filled gutters are sometimes so heavy that they detach from the roof.

RELATED: How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams

Teetering on a telescoping ladder while trying to scoop leaves out of a gutter isnt the safest way to get the job done. The good news is that there are several gutter-cleaning tools that allow homeowners to clean the debris while keeping both feet on the ground.

If you have to climb a ladder clean the gutters, dont use a stepladder, which is prone to tipping if you get off balance. Instead, use a sturdy extension ladder and have a helper stand at the base to stabilize the ladder.

For all homes over a single story in height, its best to hire a gutter-cleaning service to do the work for you. These companies have the proper equipment to access high gutters safely. Dont attempt climbing on your roof to clean guttersits not worth the risk.

RELATED: What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Homes Rain Gutters

Cleaning gutters from the ground is effective and is by far the safest gutter cleaning method. You will need to proceed slowly and systematically because you cant really see what youre doing, and yes, it will probably take you a little longer than it would if you were standing on a ladder. The most common ways to clean gutters from the ground require either a garden hose or a shop-type wet/dry vacuum, plus a couple of handy attachments. Here are the two best gutter-cleaning techniques for those who prefer to work with their feet planted firmly on the ground.

As long as they are not thoroughly clogged, its relatively easy to clean your gutters from the ground using a garden hose equipped with an attachment such as the GutterMaster Telescopic Water Fed Pole, or another such water-fed tube with a curved end that can be aimed inside the gutter. Start at the end nearest the downspout, spray out the entire channel length, and then work your way back to the downspout. Water, leaves, and small twigs are likely to spray over the sides of the gutter, so dress appropriately.

RELATED: Are Gutters Actually Necessary?

Another way to remove debris from your gutters is to use a wet/dry vacuum equipped with the hoses and curved attachments you need to reach the obstructed gutters from ground level. Home improvement stores and online retailers carry these gutter-cleaning kits (one to consider is the Craftsman Gutter Cleaning Kit for Shop Vacuums). Once youve removed most of the debris from the gutters, flush the gutters and downspout with water from a garden hose.

Climbing on a ladder to clean the gutters isnt as safe as cleaning them from the ground since theres always a risk of falling. To reduce this risk, its essential to use the right ladder. Avoid using a step ladder, which can tip over.

A safer bet is to use a sturdy extension ladder that has been fitted with stabilizer arms. These arms, such as the Werner True Grip Stabilizer, brace the ladder against the siding and keep it from slipping to the side. Its also always a good idea to have an assistant on the ground who can hold the ladder, and hand up the tools as you need them. Before you climb up high and get ready to clean, decide which of the following methods best suits your situation.

RELATED: Never Make These 13 Mistakes With a Ladder

Many leaf blowers come with a nozzle attachment designed to release a powerful air stream, and its perfect for blasting leaves and twigs out of the gutter. Position your ladder so that you can work from one end of the channel to the other, blowing out obstructions as you go. Block the downspout first with a rag or old towel to keep from blowing leaves into it. When youre done with the blower, flush out any lingering leaves or twigs with a hose.

Has it been a while since you last cleaned your gutters? If it has, be ready for a layer of dirt and debris that has probably built up in the meanwhile. Blast it away with the fine-spray nozzle of your power washer. (This type of cleaning can get messy: You may have to rinse the roof and siding afterward.) For clogged gutters and downspouts, in particular, theres no better recourse than a pressure washer. Simply point the nozzle down the hole and rinse the shaft until water can run freely through it.

RELATED: How to Pressure Wash a House

To clean gutters manually, youll need a ladder, bucket, gutter scoop (or garden trowel), and heavy-duty work gloves. Remove leaves and debris by the handful, depositing what you remove into the bucket. When youre done, flush the gutters and downspout with water until you are certain both are clear and functioning correctly. Tip: If your downspouts are clogged and you dont have a power washer, try busting through the obstruction with a plumbers snake, then rinse with a hose.

An ounce of gutter-clogging prevention saves a lot of time and goes a long way toward keeping gutters clean and free from debris. To reduce the frequency of cleaning guttersor keep from having to do it altogetherconsider installing a screen like the Raptor Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard. It allows water to drain through the screen while blocking leaves and twigs.

Other types of gutter guards, such as the LeafGuard gutter system, direct running water into the gutter but keep leaves and debris out. This type of system requires professional installation and is extruded on-site to fit the length of the roof edge so there are no splices in the guttering. A seamless run of gutter means little to no leaking and dripping.

Though weve outlined various methods for cleaning gutters, you may still have some questions about the process. The following frequently asked questions may clarify certain points about this outdoor chore.

Once per year is usually sufficient, after leaves fall in autumn. This is when gutters are full of leaves that should be removed before winter.

The best gutter cleaner depends on the amount of leaves that accumulate and how easy it is to access the gutter. If youre cleaning from a ladder, a scoop is handy. If you prefer to clean the gutter while remaining firmly on the ground, a telescoping wand is a better choice.

It isnt safe. While some professional gutter cleaners may walk on the roof, the average homeowner shouldnt try it. Follow some of the methods listed above for safer gutter cleaning.

Hate cleaning your gutters?

Hire a pro to do the dirty work for you. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from gutter experts today.

View original post here:
How to Clean Gutters: The 5 Best Ways to Get the Job Done - Bob Vila