How to Get Fir Needles Out of Gutters

Fir needles are shorter and finer than most pine needles, but equally adept at clogging your downspout. Fall and spring are the times when your gutters get the biggest workout and even smaller items need to be removed to keep a clear drainage path and avoid clogs. Removing fir needles is not difficult but can be dangerous due to the need for a ladder. You should have someone with you or tie off at the roof ridge line to keep yourself safe when using a ladder. After cleaning the gutters, consider a gutter screen or cover to keep debris out of the gutter and minimize your cleaning chores.

With a Ladder

• 1

  Set up your ladder near the highest point of the system or farthest away from a down spout. Put on ear and eye protection. When you are secure on the ladder have someone hand up the blower and blow out the gutter. Blow toward the down spout. Some debris will hit the ground, which you can mulch or rake later.

• 2

  Cut a U-shaped channel out of the soap container on the opposite side from the handle using a utility knife. You are making a scoop for debris remaining in the gutter. Move the ladder to the end of the gutter near the downspout. Fix the bucket to the ladder. Clean out the debris you blew to the end by scooping it out. Place the debris in the bucket.

• 3

  Move the ladder back to its original position and bring a hose with a spray nozzle up with you. Turn on the spray and rinse out the gutter. Move the ladder one final time to the downspout and force a stream of water down it to push out any needles still remaining.

Without a Ladder

• 1

  Connect the extension cord to the shop vac. Put the extend-able hose and nozzle onto the shop vac body. They are specially made for gutters. Plug in the shop vac and vacuum out the gutters from the safety of the ground.

• 2

  Empty the shop vac canister frequently to keep it from backing up and clogging the hose. The debris from the gutter can go in the yard waste or compost. The vacuuming method works best if done in dry weather.

• 3

  Screw the wire gutter brush onto the telescoping handle. Extend the handle far enough so you can reach the gutter and use it at a slight angle. Walk parallel to the gutter dragging the brush along the inside of the gutter.