You Should Stop Cleaning Your Gutters
By ProMatcher Staff
The Problem with DIY Gutter Cleaning
Did you know that most contractors recommend that gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year?
Clogged gutters can lead to a number of different problems, including wet basements and leaky roofs. So, you’re probably wondering why would we tell you to stop cleaning your gutters?
We don’t have a problem with clean gutters.
The truth is that we have a problem with the number of people who get injured each year while trying to clean their own gutters.
We think that you should stop cleaning your gutters and think about hiring an experienced gutter cleaning contractor instead!
RELATED: Get Matched to Gutter Contractors
Accidents happen!
Although you may feel comfortable climbing up on the roof, it’s just not as safe as you think. You don’t want to be one of the 165,000 people that get injured each year while using a ladder. After a fall, a bruised ego will be the least of your worries. A trip to the emergency room is the more likely outcome.
Older people, in particular, are more likely to get injured as a result of a fall. According to the CDC, about 2.5 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries every year. Adding a ladder to the equation is a recipe for disaster. For this very reason, many gutter cleaning companies offer a discount to senior citizens.
Cost of Professional Gutter Cleaning
There are a number of factors that impact the cost, including your geographic location, the steepness of your roof, and the length of your gutters and downspouts. To learn more about the factors that may increase (or decrease) the cost, check out our gutter cleaning cost checklist.
The best way to get a good deal is to request multiple estimates from local gutter contractors. By comparing each quote, you'll be able to determine which service delivers the most value.
SEE MORE: ProMatcher's Gutter Cleaning Cost Report
Before hiring any gutter cleaning service, it's important to check references and verify that the contractor is fully insured. They should also have the appropriate business license.
DIY Gutter Cleaning Tips
If we couldn’t convince you to stop cleaning your gutters, here are a few safety tips to follow.
1) Pick the right ladder. Avoid using the old, rickety ladder that has been collecting dust in the back of the garage for years.
2) Wear gloves to protect your hands from any potential hazards.
3) Avoid cleaning your gutters when it’s windy or raining outside. It’s best to save this task for a clear, dry day.
4) Wear slip-resistant footwear and avoid wearing looser clothing. You don’t want your clothing to get caught on anything.
5) Make sure the ladder is tall enough to reach the gutter while firmly positioned on the ground. Don't try to re-position the ladder while you're on it.
Related Articles:
Gutter Cleaning Prices
Finding the Right Gutter Cleaner
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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