Cleaning your gutters can be a tough task. Having the right tools can make it much easier. Keep reading to learn about some of the most recommended gutter cleaning tools.
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Choosing The Right Gutter Cleaning Tool
Gutter cleaning tools aren’t “one-size-fits-all.” Your optimal cleaning tool comes down to your personal preference and your home’s needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a gutter cleaning tool:
- Gutter condition: Consider what kind of shape your gutters are in. What kind of cleaning do they need? A gutter with dry leaves may require a different cleaning tool than a gutter full of mud. For some gutters – for example, those with dents and cracks – you may be best off replacing them altogether instead of spending the time, energy, and money cleaning them.
- Attachments: You may require or desire different attachments to best clean your gutter. Make sure the tool you choose is compatible with the necessary attachments. Do you want to stay on the ground or climb a ladder? Keep this in mind when browsing attachments.
- Versatility: Do you want to use your tool for any other uses like tree trimming or roof cleaning? If so, check for the versatility of your gutter cleaning tools.
- Convenience: Some people want to clean their gutters without complex attachments or prior skills required. They just want to get their gutters cleaned with the simplest and easiest-to-use tool possible. If this is you, there are tools out there to satisfy your needs.
- Other equipment: Consider the external equipment you will need to clean your gutters. For example, if you’re blowing leaves out of your gutters, a ladder, a rake, protective goggles, and garbage bags may be necessary.
Every type of gutter cleaning tool has advantages and disadvantages. The following are breakdowns of gutter cleaning tool recommendations and their pros and cons. Use this list to help you in your search for the best gutter cleaning tool for you. If you think DIY gutter cleaning is not your thing you would be better off hiring a local gutter cleaning service.
Leaf Blower
Leaf blowers are common tools used to clean gutters. These are best for removing dry leaves and plant matter from your gutters. Traditional leaf blowers require a ladder to reach your eaves and effectively blow the leaves out. Make sure you have a plan for what to do with the leaves and debris after.
Pros
- Quick cleaning with high-pressure air
- Minimal skills required
- Good for dry debris like tree droppings
Cons
- Require a ladder which can be dangerous
- Some are heavy
- Lack of control of where the debris flies after blowing it out of gutters
- After-care and clean-up required
Telescoping tools
Telescoping gutter cleaning tools add a level of convenience. Most allow you to stand firm on the ground and clean your gutters with a long extending pole or hose. Common types of telescoping tools include a telescoping hose and telescoping claws.
Pros
- Telescoping gutter cleaning tools with hooked attachments effectively reach inside gutters
- No ladder required for some (telescoping hose)
- May have more precision in clearing gutters and gathering debris
Cons
- More difficult to see inside the gutter from the ground
- Require practice and some skill to use efficiently
- Some require ladders (telescoping claws)
Scoopers and Grabbers
Scoopers and grabbers do exactly as their names suggest. They’re good for directly collecting dirt and debris from your gutters. Grabbing and scooping attachments can help get deep into your gutters and get all the gunk out like extensions of your own hands.
Pros
- Increased precision
- Simple to use
Cons
- Time intensive
- Labor intensive
- Ladder required
Pressure Washers
Pressure washers are among the favorite gutter cleaning tools of both amateur DIY and professional gutter cleaners. They clear out gutters in almost any condition, from dry leaves to thick mud to grime to rust. They use highly pressurized water jets to clean all this and more from gutters.
Pros
- Good for many types of gutters, filth conditions, and seasons
- Quick, high-powered cleaning
- Highly effective and efficient
- Versatile
Cons
- Some skill required
- Ladder sometimes required
- Protective gear required
- Lack of control where gutter contents go after spraying it out of gutters
Vacuums
Gutter cleaning vacuums are another popular tool. They offer the convenience of collecting debris in one place instead of spraying it elsewhere. There are both wet, dry, and combination vacs on the market for all types of gutter cleaning needs.
Pros
- Gutter contents collected in one place
- Quick and efficient
Cons
- Skill required
- Ladder sometimes required
The Bottom Line
There are hundreds of gutter cleaning tools out there. Hopefully, you now have a better idea of some common types. Search for tools that combine your favorite features and fit your skill level. You’ll be on your way to clean gutters in no time.