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Whether or not you can use a pressure washer to clean your gutter guards depends on the type of gutter guard you have and the strength of the pressure washer. Most gutter guards can handle a low-pressure setting but check first. If you’re unsure if your gutter guard is designed for pressure washing, check your manufacturer’s instructions, ask a pro, or use a garden hose to clean the gutter guard instead. As gutter guards age, they become less resistant to the strong forces of a power washer, so treat older gutter guards with more care.

Walking on the roof to clean gutters is unsafe and not recommended due to significant safety risks. It is especially dangerous on steep or slippery roofs, or if the roof is wet or covered in leaves, which increases the chance of a fall. In addition to personal injury, walking on the roof can damage shingles, potentially leading to water leaks. Instead of walking on the roof, use a sturdy ladder positioned on a stable surface to access the gutters. Be aware that using a ladder also carries risks, as it can be difficult to maintain balance while performing the work. You can also use ground-based cleaning tools. For safety reasons and to prevent damage to your roof, hiring a professional to clean your gutters is the best and safest option.

Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, in the spring and in the fall, to remove the debris from trees that can clog the eavestroughs and downspouts. Debris like leaves, twigs, and seed pods can build up and cause your gutters to overflow, potentially causing damage to your roof and foundation. Water backing up under the shingles can rot the edge of your roofline. Overflow water falling next to your foundation can end up leaking into your basement or crawl space.

Shingle granules can be cleaned out of gutters using a small scoop or a hose, depending on the quantity of granules and how much other debris is in your gutters. First, clear your gutters of leaves and other debris. This may remove granules in the gutters if they are mixed in with the debris. Use a plastic scoop to remove larger quantities of granules or a hose with a high-powered nozzle for smaller amounts, and collect and dispose of the granules once they’ve been removed.