Gutters are an essential part of your home. They divert rainwater away from your roof and help prevent water damage and mold growth inside your home. But they can also be dangerous for people who aren't trained to clean them properly.
In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported that falling off ladders is a common injury during gutter cleaning. The agency estimates that 90,000 people visit the emergency room annually due to a fall off a ladder.
Ladder Safety: Always use a sturdy ladder. It should be securely footed, and it's best to have someone hold the base of the ladder for you.
It is also important to be careful when moving the ladder to reach different sections of your gutters. Doing this increases your risk of falling since the weight and the distance you're leaning towards shifts your center of gravity to the side, which can cause you to lose balance.
Aluminum gutters have sharp edges that can cut your hand or fingers. This can lead to cuts and abrasions or even severe injuries.
Other hazards include splinters, punctures and scrapes from falling leaves or branches. In addition, aluminum gutters can rust or discolor if they aren't cleaned regularly. Professionals are trained to keep the gutters and surrounding areas free from rusting and rotting.
Protective Equipment: Wear gloves and eye protection when working on gutters. This is especially important if you're using a pressure washer to remove the clogs and debris. Gloves should be made of a thick, leather or suede material to prevent them from shredding and breaking after exposure to hot water.
Invest in a good-quality soft washer, and make sure you have the right pressure settings for the job. You should also consider getting a pistol-grip spray nozzle that lets you adjust the amount of pressure you use to shoot at your gutters.
Don't Overreach: Avoid extending your ladder far from the ground when removing clogs, as doing so can increase your risk of falling. Instead, focus on reaching near the gutter's drain outlet and work your way progressively to the gutter's edge.
Be Consistent: Take frequent breaks while cleaning gutters to avoid muscle fatigue. It's easy to get tired of moving a heavy ladder over and over again.
If you're not used to heights, climbing a ladder can be dangerous and can lead to vertigo. This can make you dizzy and nauseous, which can cause you to fall and injure yourself.
The only safe way to climb a ladder is with an experienced friend or professional, and that's why you should hire a pro to do it for you. A professional gutter cleaning service such as Gutter Cleaning Chesterfield MO can also ensure that your home's gutters are safely protected and they will know exactly how to access areas that aren't easily accessible by a person without training in gutter cleaning and installation. This can save you time and money on repairs.
Often, professionals go through specialized training to become familiar with the need for thorough gutter cleaning and installation. They're also aware of how to work around trees, bushes, and other landscaping that can obstruct their view.
