This $19 gutter tool makes fall home maintenance a breeze
As fall rapidly approaches, it is easy to get bogged down in maintenance lists. So, if you only get around to doing one task, let it be a gutter refresh.
For such a basic chore, you’d be surprised at how effective it is at protecting your home from costly damage through winter, and this $19 gutter cleaning tool from Amazon means it can be done in minutes, rather than hours.
Here’s how it makes cleaning gutters quick, easy, and most importantly, safe, and why the pros urge you to do this task ASAP when the leaves start to fall.
Gutter Cleaning Mini Rake Tool
This gutter cleaning tool allows you to clean gutters from the ground, roof, or ladder, providing multiple options for efficient gutter maintenance. It fits onto any standard threaded pole (available from Walmart) to allow for safe, ground-level cleaning.
Fall home maintenance is essential if you want to protect your home from damaging weather over the winter.
Preventing gutters from clogging can prevent overflowing or freezing water from damaging your roof and causing internal leaks or mold. While installing gutter guards is one approach, knowing how and when to clean gutters is the easiest option.
Of all the outdoor cleaning tasks to complete in fall, however, gutter refreshes are among the trickiest, especially if you are not comfortable working at height. Luckily, this gutter cleaning rake lets you work from the ground, scraping out dead leaves and debris with ease.
It’s a trick the experts always recommend when DIY-ing the job yourself.
Car Lanphier, contractor and CEO of Improovy, says, ‘I see lots of homeowners who are getting up on too-tall ladders with nobody else home to try and clean gutters. If you’re dealing with second-storey gutters, I tend to recommend some kind of telescoping gutter cleaning tool so you can remain safely on the ground or at least on the lower rungs of a ladder.’
Over 400 people decided on this gutter cleaning tool alone last month, with verified Amazon shoppers such as Carissia praising the tool for ‘making a not-so-fun job a whole lot easier!
‘I used it to clean leaves and debris off my gutter guards without having to get up on a ladder, which is a huge win in my book. It attaches easily to a standard threaded pole and gives just enough reach and control to rake out everything from the ground.
‘The mini rake is sturdy and gets into the tight spots without damaging the gutter covers. It’s simple, but super effective, and saves time (and your back). If you’re looking for a safer, easier way to clean your gutters, this is definitely worth having on hand.’
Gutter guards can also help to prevent blocks from occurring in the first place, but can be pricey and tricky to install everywhere.
(Image credit: Getty Images / Jeremy Poland)
Fellow Amazon shopper Jessie agreed, adding, ‘I bought this for my husband to use on our gutters and wasn’t sure it would make much of a difference – and boy was I wrong!
‘We live in the south and have a lot of windstorms that cause leaves and other debris to clog our gutters. He attached it to a long handle and has actually been having fun cleaning the gutters. It’s really easy to use and very easy to clean.
‘No more getting on rickety ladders in the rain!’
Gutter cleaning essentials
Frost King Plastic Gutter Guard
Michael Casolaro, president and owner of MCAS Roofing & Contracting recommends this budget-friendly option. ‘If you need a more affordable option, Frost King’s Plastic Gutter Guard works well if you don’t have a lot of trees on your property,’ he says.
‘The Raptor Gutter Guard is a solid option,’ recommends Michael. ‘It’s rust-resistant, filters out fine debris, and fits most standard gutters.’
Pressure Washer Extension Wand for Gutters
After removing leaves and debris, use an extension pressure washing tool to blast away tough deposits and algae. This can also help blast water down the downspout to remove clogs
This metal ladder attachment helps to stabilize ladders when working at heights, such as when cleaning gutters, helping to avoid slips and falls.
30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner
Using an outdoor cleaner to kill algae and moss will prevent plant mater blocking your gutters and drains too quickly again after cleaning
Meet the expert
Carr Lanphier is the CEO of Improovy, a Chicago-based residential and commercial painting and home repair company, offering (among others) water damage repairs, power washing, and plaster repairs.
While cleaning, avoid the common gutter cleaning mistake of assuming your gutters are in good, working order. Check them for cracks, leaks, or erosion, and replace parts as needed to protect your home from water damage.
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