How to Clean Gutters with a Leaf Blower
It’s time to clean out your gutters again, and while this annoying task makes many homeowners squirm, taking care of the gutters on your home doesn’t need to be the difficult chore it’s been in the past.
You can get rid of some debris and clean out your gutters with a leaf blower. Either from the ground or atop a ladder, using a strong leaf blower can help make the job quicker and easier.
Although prevention is always better than cure, we’ll walk you through cleaning out your gutters with a leaf blower. We’ll also explain how our permanent solution to clogged gutters will help you avoid this chore in the future.
In this article:
- The Importance of Cleaning Out Your Gutters
- To Climb or Not to Climb a Ladder
- How to Clean Out Your Gutters with a Leaf Blower
- Cleaning Out the Downspout
- Prevention is Best
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Importance of Cleaning Out Your Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters is usually one of the last things on your to-do list, but it really belongs near the top. If your gutters fail because they’re clogged and haven’t been cleaned out in a while, then the chances are higher that your home could sustain water intrusion or structural damage.
This could lead to expensive but necessary repairs, such as mold removal, interior renovations, or even a total roof replacement.
It’s best to take preventative measures and regularly clean out your gutters. Free-flowing gutters allow water runoff to effectively funnel away from the home and foundation. Gutters that are functioning properly can save you time and money when it comes to your landscaping and home repairs.
To Climb or Not to Climb a Ladder
How do you safely reach inside your gutters in the first place? Climbing a ladder can be dangerous, especially if you’re not experienced in using them. That’s why we recommend hiring a professional to clean out your home’s gutters if you can’t successfully clean them out without a ladder.
If you choose to clean out your gutters yourself and you’re familiar with using a ladder, review the safety guidelines for using a ladder before you begin.
If, on the other hand, you have zero desire to climb a ladder to clean out your gutters, you’re in luck. Options like a garden hose, leaf blower, or wet/dry vac make it easier to clean out the gutters without the risk of falling off a ladder or the roof.
However, cleaning out your gutters from the ground will require extension tools to reach inside the gutters.
How to Clean Out Your Gutters with a Leaf Blower
To clean out your gutters with a leaf blower from the ground, follow these steps:
- Obtain a leaf blower with adequate power (corded or cordless) and gutter extension tool.
- Attach the long extension tool to the leaf blower per the kit instructions.
- Prep the area below and around your gutters to protect outdoor items or landscaping from debris that will come out of your gutters.
- Wear protective gear like safety goggles and heavy gloves.
- Place the end of the extension tool inside the gutter.
- Remove debris near the downspout first, blowing material out of the gutter.
- Clear out the downspout.
Cleaning Out the Downspout
You may or may not be able to clear out the downspout with the leaf blower. Place the end of the extension tool at the top of the downspout to blow any debris down and out.
If you cannot clear the downspout with the leaf blower, there may be a tough clog that needs to be dislodged with a high-powered garden hose or perhaps by a professional.
Prevention is Best
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— LeafFilter Gutter Protection (@LeafFilter) July 18, 2023
The best approach is to avoid having to clean out your gutters in the first place. Products like gutter guards help to keep leaves and twigs from accumulating inside your gutters, so you can avoid the time and effort needed to clean them out yourself.
LeafFilter gutter guards are guaranteed to keep your gutters clog-free. Made with fine micromesh and a durable uPVC frame that won’t warp or degrade over time, LeafFilter gutter guards protect your home from the devastating water damage clogged gutters can cause.
Our award-winning, patented technology prevents everything from leaves and twigs to shingle grit and pollen from entering the gutter, leaving you with clog-free gutters, guaranteed..
Our gutter guards also come with the added peace of mind of a limited lifetime transferable warranty, so you can rest assured knowing that your gutters will be clog-free for the lifetime of your home. Call us toll-free today at 1-800-290-6106 for a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use a leaf blower to clean gutters?
Yes, it’s okay to use a leaf blower to clean out your gutters. Choose a leaf blower with enough power to effectively remove leaves and twigs from inside the gutters. Use an extension tool, and if it’s necessary to use a ladder, we recommend hiring a professional or, at the very least, following all ladder safety precautions.
How do you clear a downspout with a leaf blower?
Aim the leaf blower extension tool to blow down the downspout. If the downspout has a clog, the leaf blower may not be powerful enough to move it. In that case, a garden hose or power washer can help flush out the downspout.
What is the most efficient way to clean out gutters?
First off, it’s important to have the right gutter cleaning tools. However, the most efficient way to clean out gutters is not to have to clean them out at all. Consider having our local experts professionally install gutter guards to prevent your gutters from gathering leaves, twigs, and other debris.
