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How to clean gutters

Overview

Keeping your gutters clean is a simple job that can help prevent problems like blocked downpipes and rainwater leaking into your ceiling cavity. Dried out leaf litter can also be a fire hazard. You can do this job yourself with the most basic equipment. This video shows you all you need to know to clean gutters safely.

Steps

1Prepare your ladder and equipment

When you work on a ladder, you want to do it safely and avoid climbing up and down too much. Make sure you have your bucket, gloves and accessories ready to go. For added safety, it's worth getting a Ladder's Little Helper, which holds your ladder steady.

2Clear the gutters of debris

With one gloved hand, pull all the debris out and put it in your bucket. Your other hand should be holding the ladder to help keep you balanced. Use your scraper if the debris is sticking too much, or the gap between your gutter and tiles is too narrow. Once you've removed most of the mess, give the bottom of the gutter a good sweep with your brush. Don't worry if you leave a small amount of debris behind, the next rains should wash that away.

Suggested products

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.