Gutters play a crucial role in protecting our homes from water damage. To keep them functioning at their best, you need to give them a little TLC every once in a while. Now there are two ways you can go about that: either hire professional gutter cleaning services or make and use DIY gutter cleaning tools. We’ll help you with the latter.
What Materials Do You Need?
- Plastic PVC pipe (length depends on your gutter height)
- 90-degree PVC elbow
- PVC T-connector
- PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw
- Hose connector or a plastic bottle with the bottom cut off
- Hose clamp
- Screws or adhesive
- Drill with bits
How to Make a Gutter Cleaner Out of PVC Pipe
Step 1: Measure and Cut the PVC Pipe
Start by measuring the height of your gutters to determine the length of the cleaning tool. Use your PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the PVC pipe to the desired length. Make sure it’s long enough to reach your gutters comfortably.
Step 2: Attach the Elbow and T-Connector
Next, attach the 90-degree PVC elbow to one end of the pipe. This elbow will help you navigate the twists and turns of your gutters, making it easier to clean even without a ladder. Then attach the T-connector to the other end to create a structure that resembles a giant L.
Step 3: Create the Cleaning Nozzle
Attach the hose connector to the open end of the T-connector. If you don’t have an extra hose connector, you can use a plastic bottle by cutting off the bottom and securing it onto the T-connector.
Step 4: Secure the Nozzle
If using a hose connector, secure it tightly onto the T-connector with a hose clamp. For a plastic bottle, use screws or adhesive to ensure it stays in place during use.
Step 5: Drill Holes for Water Flow
Consider drilling small holes along the length of the PVC pipe. These holes allow water to flow out and assist in dislodging debris from your gutters.
Step 6: Test Your DIY Gutter Cleaning Tools
Connect your DIY tool to a garden hose, position it in the gutter, and turn on the water. This hands-on testing ensures your tool is effective before tackling the real deal.
Step 7: Make Adjustments if Necessary
If your tool isn’t performing as expected, make adjustments such as altering the size or number of holes or modifying the cleaning nozzle’s angle.
Step 8: Safety First
Before you start, prioritize safety. If uncomfortable with heights, consider cleaning gutters from the ground using a specialized tool. Ensure any ladder used is stable and positioned on a flat surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tool can I use to clean gutters without a ladder?
Consider an extended-reach gutter cleaning tool made from a long PVC pipe. It allows you to clean your gutters safely from the ground.
How do you make a device that cleans gutters?
Make a PVC pipe gutter cleaner by assembling a PVC pipe, a 90-degree elbow, and a T-connector. Add a hose connector or repurpose a plastic bottle for the cleaning nozzle, securing it with a hose clamp or adhesive.
What is the best thing to clean gutters with?
A purpose-built DIY gutter cleaning tool made from PVC components, ensuring effective debris removal when connected to a garden hose.
Creating your own gutter cleaning tool is a rewarding and cost-effective way to maintain your home. With a few simple materials and a bit of effort, you can clean high gutters without a ladder and tackle gutter cleaning with confidence.
If you need help creating your homemade gutter cleaning tool or don’t have time to take care of your roof gutters, give us a call. We have everything you need to keep your gutters in tiptop shape. Schedule an appointment with us here.