Five Easy Steps To Jump Start Your Deck (Or Other) Business

Hi Hugh!

> My occupation line on the flyers
> was "I clean, repair and install rain
> gutters and downspouts."

Question 1: Are you talking about cleaning the outside, or getting rid of the muck from the inside, or both?

Question 2: How do you clean the inside of a downspout? (My gutters need cleaning out. I've got a specially designed scoop which does nicely [looks like a deformed Track Ball handle], but the downspouts I am clueless about.)

Thanks.

Michael Ross.

Michael,

> Question 1: Are you talking about cleaning
> the outside, or getting rid of the muck from
> the inside, or both?

Cleaning out the inside only. Best done when the dirt in the gutter is dry, if possible. Just scoop it out. Once the bulk of the dirt/leaves/debris is out of the gutter, you can wash it down with a hose if you want to get it fully clean (but clear the downspout first, see below).

> Question 2: How do you clean the inside of a
> downspout? (My gutters need cleaning out.
> I've got a specially designed scoop which
> does nicely [looks like a deformed Track
> Ball handle], but the downspouts I am
> clueless about.)

Usually, all you have to do is take a hose, place the nozzel in in the top of the downspout and turn it on. Swoosh, out comes the dirt and debris. Sometimes, you have to dig out the muck from the top of the downspout (with a wire coat hanger or the like --- I have even used a shop vacuum to do it) before you can clear it with a hose.

Happy cleaning!

---- Hugh

This is a variation of the technique a company called "Address America" teaches its distributors. Address America manufactures and sells reflective address signs. According to them it's a very effective techique. It involves taping a letter and a response form to, or around a home's door. If a homeowner wants a sign, they complete the form and tape it to their window (facing out, of course). The distributor drives by a day later looking for the paper in the window, get's the details, installs the signs, then either collects payment immediately afterwards, or leaves an invoice.

DNO mean Do Not Open:

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