I've noticed the type of trees definitely matters—my neighbor has pine trees, and those needles slip right through most mesh guards. If you're dealing with larger leaves, though, they might work better. Just be ready to still climb up there occasionally... unfortunately nothing's totally maintenance-free!
I usually tackle mine twice a year—late spring and late fall. A few quick thoughts:
- Pine needles are definitely tricky...had the same issue at my old place. Ended up switching to a finer mesh guard specifically designed for needles, and it helped a lot (though still not perfect).
- For larger leaves, standard mesh guards do pretty well, but yeah, you'll still find yourself up there occasionally.
- One thing I've found helpful is timing the cleaning right after most leaves have dropped in fall, but before heavy rains or snow hit. Saves you from dealing with soggy messes later.
- Also, if climbing ladders isn't your favorite thing (definitely isn't mine), those gutter cleaning attachments for leaf blowers or shop vacs can be a lifesaver. Not perfect, but way easier on the back.
Good luck!
Twice a year sounds about right. I'm still figuring out the best timing myself—first year in our place and we have these huge maple trees nearby. I tried the leaf blower attachment last fall, and honestly, it worked better than expected. Still had to climb up briefly to clear a stubborn clog, but overall way easier than scooping by hand. Might look into those finer mesh guards you mentioned though, since we do have some pine needles drifting over from the neighbor's yard...
Twice a year seems pretty solid—especially with maples around. Glad the leaf blower trick worked out for you. Those mesh guards might really help with the pine needles, but I've heard mixed things...let us know how it goes if you try them.
"Those mesh guards might really help with the pine needles, but I've heard mixed things..."
Yeah, mesh guards can be hit or miss, especially with pine needles. I've seen some homeowners swear by them, while others end up frustrated because the needles still manage to wedge themselves in. If you do go that route, I'd suggest checking them periodically at first to see how they're holding up. Twice a year is definitely a solid routine though—you're already ahead of most folks I deal with. Good luck!
