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Safe Work Method Statement

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Author: Warren Ballantyne

Safe Work Method Statement

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

We take safety seriously at Gutter-Vac and because we do a lot of commercial work where this is a requirement, we use a Safe Work Method Statement for every job.

Now what is a Safe Work Method Statement you may ask?

Basically this is a way to work safely on a site, especially a commercial or construction site.

Think of it like a recipe on how to work safely, going from A to B or doing XYZ.  In our case in particular, it is how to get on and off a roof safely plus also how we work whilst on the roof.

Of course, no two properties, no two work sites are the same.  This means that when we arrive at any site, we must assess the site and conditions in which we will be working and then adapt to be able to work safely in this new situation.  This is called a risk assessment. 

The Safe Work Method Statement is the guide to help us ensure safety at all times, no matter what site we are on. 

Most companies are only required to use or to have on hand for commercial or construction sites, but we use a Safe Work Method Statement for all the work we do, including your home.  Safety is important and we take it seriously.

If you ever have a question about how we carry out our work safely, feel free to give us a call and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.  We are more than happy to share what we do and how we do it…. Safely.

Bird Proofing

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

Birds can cause a lot of issues to a property and we see them all.  There are many ways you can protect your property from the results of birds plus their nesting behaviours and do this in a humane way that doesn’t cause injury or harm to the birds.

The biggest issue we come across with birds that can not only be dangerous but also costly is when birds get in under your solar panels and decide to nest.  This is not only just birds, but also rodents and possums as well.  The challenge with solar panels are that there are lots of wires and connections and these can easily be dislodged by the birds (or other critters) causing the panels to simply stop working. 

There is a very simple fix to this and it is by placing a specialised mesh (that won’t affect your solar panels) that is clipped safely around the edge to deter and stop birds and critters from getting in and under your solar panels that could cause expensive damage to the wiring of your solar panels.

Did you know pigeon droppings can be toxic and we are often asked to remove them and we have to take a lot of precautions when doing so?  Wouldn’t it be great if we could deter the pigeons from deciding to rest on your property from the start. 

There are many ways to do this and most are with use of specialised mirrors, revolving objects and in some cases specialised ‘spikes’ to deter birds from taking a break and sitting on your property.

At Gutter-Vac we work closely with a company that manufacturers bird proofing devices so that we can install for our clients.  Because we are fully safety trained and insured to work at heights, there are more things we can do than simply provide a vacuum gutter cleaning service to your property and bird proofing is a more common request than you would first assume.

So if you are having issues with birds or you simply want to protect your property (such as your solar panels) then give us a call and we can discuss your needs and find the best solution for you and your property. 

Call your local franchisees on 1300 654 253.

Happy Father’s Day

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

Stuck for ideas on what to give your Dad this Father’s day?  He really doesn’t need another pair of socks right?

At Gutter-Vac, we have a lot of father’s amongst our Franchisees so we asked them about their favourite Father’s day presents they have ever received. 

I’m sure you won’t be surprised that the favourite gifts were those hand-made gifts, the cards, the pictures, all those things that we did when we were kids.

During this crazy time in the world, we are all discovering how important it is to connect with those that are near and dear to us.

So we have an idea for you this Father’s Day.  Why not support a local small business and get Dad something special this year, but remember it doesn’t have to be big or fancy, but instead something meaningful.

Maybe it is a packet of his favourite biscuits that you can share over a cup of tea.  Maybe he has a favourite beer or wine.  Maybe he loves to fish, so some new fishing gear and an afternoon of fishing would be great.  If he loves to cook, maybe a new cookbook and spend the time with him to cook a meal.

A combination of showing your Dad that you know him and what he likes, then get a gift that will support a local small business owner at this time, but then also, how can you make that gift a gift of time and connection to go with the physical gift.

If you have kids, get out the colouring pencils and paper.  Maybe they might not just write a note or card, maybe they could create their own little book called something like ‘The things I love to do with Dad’.  Maybe it is time to grab the colouring pencils and make your own cards and pictures for your Dad, whilst your kids make something for Grandpa. 

Another great idea is to gather all of your favourite photos of memories with your Dad and put them into a simple flip photo album which will only cost a few dollars, but then take the time to talk about each and every photo with your Dad.  This could be the best gift he has ever received. 

Let’s honour our Dads and show them we not only care, but we know them.  Take a little time this Father’s Day because sometimes the best gift is the gift of time.

Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads out there!  We appreciated all that you do and have done for us.

How efficient are your solar panels?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

It is not something that the average person thinks about on a day to day basis or even something you would notice, but as your solar panels are out in the elements, they will collect dust and dirt.  This dust and dirt doesn’t always wash away with rain, it is often ‘stuck’ to the solar panels.

As the dirt and dust builds up, it will slowly, over time decrease the efficiency of your solar panels to convert solar into electricity for your property.

There is an easy solve and that is to simply clean your solar panels.

Now a word of warning.  This is not a DIY job because firstly, being on the roof with a lot of water is extremely dangerous and without the right safety gear, it is so easy to slip and fall – onto the roof or off the roof.  The second thing to note is that there is a way to clean solar panels so that you don’t damage them.  Using chemicals or harsh scrubbing brushes could damage your solar panels beyond repair which would be a very expensive mistake.

You’d actually be surprised at just how dirty solar panels can get and how much this can reduce their effectiveness, so if you haven’t had your solar panels cleaned in a while (or ever) then give us a call for a free quote and let’s get those solar panels producing maximum energy output for you and your property.

What’s the truth about Gutter Guards?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

In this video, Warren Ballantyne (Founder of Gutter-Vac) explains the difference between gutter guards and why a removable gutter guard works best.  If you have been thinking about getting gutter guards, then take a moment to watch this video for valuable information to help you with your decision.

Want more information on Gutter-Flow – Click Here

The features of Gutter-Flow include:

  • V0 Fire Retardant
  • Prevents build-up of leafy matter in gutters
  • Simple installation
  • Ability to remove for cleaning
  • Will reduce risk to your property
  • Allows water flow
  • Deters vermin
  • Will save you money
  • Cost effective installation

Request a Quote today

A roof can be a slippery place !

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

If you know anything about Gutter-Vac, then we hope you know that we take safety very seriously. 

A roof can be far more dangerous than what people think.  We see it all the time where home owners think that just because their roof surface is relatively flat and only a single storey off the ground that it would be a safe place for them to do a little DIY, but that isn’t the case.

During these winter months in particular, we come across a lot of frosts, ice, dew and simply wet and slippery surfaces.  Even with all of our safety equipment, some days even a simple roof can be too dangerous to work on.  In these instances we will use our ground workers kit to get the job done, because just a slight sheen of frost or dew can be hard to see, but extremely dangerous to work on.

With a lot of rainfall, you can also find that using a ladder can be dangerous because all it takes is for a bit of soft ground under the footing of the ladder and you could be in a world of problems as your ladder sinks or becomes unstable with your weight as you climb.

So for what may seem like a simple task, there are so many things that can go wrong and with changing conditions and weather, the potential dangers increase.  It really isn’t worth putting your health and safety at risk.  Leave it to the professionals, such as Gutter-Vac, that are not only trained to work safely in good conditions, but to also find the safest way to do the job when conditions are not perfect or even good.

Don’t risk a fall, give us a call on 1300 654 253. 

Victorian Stage 4 Shutdown

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

To our valued VICTORIAN customers, 

In accordance with Stage 4 restrictions in Metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire, our Franchisees in these areas have ceased operation for the 6-week lockdown period with an anticipated return to work date of Monday 14th September to be advised by the Victorian State Government. 

At this time, we must all dedicate ourselves to reducing COVID-19 case numbers and the devastating tragedy that can follow for our community.

Our Metropolitan Melbourne/Mitchell Shire Franchisees that are in STAGE 4 Lockdown are:

  • Banyule – Mina Matta
  • Bayside – Kit Aeschliman
  • Beachside – Paul & Julia Reinsch
  • Dandenong – Con Karras
  • Knox – Bryan O’Donoghue
  • Manningham – Mina Moussa
  • Moonee Valley – Sally Olinowski & Andrew Luke
  • Mornington Peninsula – Craig Ladd
  • Whitehorse – Mina Moussa
  • Whittlesea – Mina Moussa
  • Central Victoria – Sally Olinowski & Andrew Luke
  • Yarra Ranges – Steve Bysouth

Our Regional Victorian Franchisees that are currently in STAGE 3 are:

  • Ballarat – Jurgen Martz
  • Bendigo – Adam Isaacs
  • Geelong – Jurgen Martz
  • Mildura – Shayne Cramp
  • Shepparton – Brocq Robertson
  • Albury-Wodonga – Jim McFarlane
  • South & West Gippsland – Michael & Sarah Caile

Your local Gutter-Vac franchisees can still take bookings for when we are able to return to work and they will work to get your service done as soon as possible after this lock down period.

We hope you and your loved ones remain safe and we look forward to helping you again soon. 

If you need to reach out to your local franchisee, please call on 1300 654 253 or visit our website at www.guttervac.com.au

#allinthistogether

How’s your insulation performing?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

Keeping the warm in your home during winter is not only a good idea for your personal comfort, but it is also a consideration on your energy usage. 

If your insulation is old and not performing the way it used to, then it might be time to have it replaced.  You will notice your energy costs are going up and it takes that bit more to keep your house warm during winter.

The challenge with replacing insulation is removing the old insulation from the ceiling cavity.  Even insulation that was laid in batts may no longer be in batts!  Over time it may have broken down so instead of nice rectangular batts that would be easy to remove, they could be in lots of little clumps of insulation. 

If you had ‘blow in’ insulation, then vacuuming it out is the only way to remove it.

We work with many insulation companies to come in and remove the old insulation before they put in the new insulation into your property.  The great thing is, that at the same time as removing the old insulation, we can also do a dirt and dust vacuum to pick up all that dirt, dust and often pest droppings that have settled under the insulation on your ceiling.

If you or anyone in your home suffers from asthma, a ceiling cavity dirt and dust vacuum is a great idea as these dirt and dust particles will filter through the ceiling causing asthma suffers some grief.

Working in a ceiling cavity is not a DIY job.  It can potentially be very dangerous working in a small confined space and electricity is a major danger point.  You never want to do this as a DIY job or a quick cash job to a guy down the street, you need to use a professional. 

If you haven’t had your insulation replaced in a while, it could be worth considering to increase the efficiency of your home.  A dirt and dust vacuum (with or without insulation removal and replacement) is also a good idea for the health of everyone in your home.  With our specialised vacuum system and professional training (plus fully insured) we can help you out with all of the above, just give us a call on 1300 654 253 to discuss your needs.

Are your gutters overflowing?

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

With the winter rains comes lots of calls from home owners that their gutters are overflowing.  It is pretty clear to everyone that their gutters are now full of debris, blocking the gutters from doing their intended purpose of taking the rainfall landing on the roof of the property and moving it through the gutters away from the property (or into a rainwater tank).

A regular gutter clean would prevent this from happening and depending on the type of property and where the property is located (eg. do you have a lot of trees close by) that might be just once every 6 – 12 months, but just like a good insurance policy, it will protect you.

By the time your gutters are overflowing, it could be too late.  Generally, overflowing water will flow over the BACK of the gutters into your property, before the overflow over the FRONT of the gutters – the type of overflow you are more likely to see. 

Gutters are one of the ‘hidden’ maintenance items that are often overlooked by home owners because unless you are like us – obsessed by gutters – how often do you look up at your gutters?  And even if you are looking up at your gutters, how likely are you to see or know if they have debris in them or not?

Gutter cleaning is an essential property maintenance item and it is so important that it is not left off your list of items to get done.  We know that many customers often “forget” about their gutters so we even have a PMP service (Preventative Maintenance Plan) where by once we have completed your first gutter clean, we will let you know when your gutters would require their next service – depending on the environment surrounding your property and the type of gutters you have – and then we will even give you a notification when they are due.  A year can go by pretty fast and we are sure  you are not thinking every month ‘Do we need the gutters cleaned again?’.  We make it easy for you.

If you have blocked gutters that are overflowing, then don’t delay in giving us a call to clean them out.  With our specialised wet/dry vacuum system, it doesn’t matter how wet and muddy your gutters are, we will get them clean and working again for you and then we can help you out with our Preventative Maintenance Plan so you never have to remember to get your gutters cleaned again…. We do the reminder for you!

6 ways to increase the value of your home.

Posted on by Warren Ballantyne

When a potential buyer is looking for a home, after their internet searches, the first thing they will do is a ‘drive by’ of potential properties they have picked out.  If your home from the curb side doesn’t match up, then they will drive on and dismiss your home without stepping a foot inside.

If on the other hand, your property puts on a great first show from the curb side, it can get people to come inside to inspect your home further and it can actually increase the value of your home.

Putting your home’s best foot forward so to speak is really important so we have put together a list of really simple things you can do or organise, that won’t break the bank and will give you the best return on investment for any dollars spent.  Some are so simple that you probably haven’t even considered them.

Even if you are not selling your home, these are great points to consider to maintain and improve the long term value of your home.

The quick list

  • #1 – Clean and Tidy
  • #2 – Mailboxes & Fences… Plus a Street Number
  • #3 – Carports and Carparking Space
  • #4 – Low Maintenance Garden
  • #5 – Time to Paint?
  • #6 – Fix and Repair

Let’s talk about them in a little more detail….

#1 – Clean and Tidy

The easiest way to increase value of your home (inside and out!) is by simply cleaning and tidying up.  A clean and tidy, well maintained home shows that it has been cared for which for the new owners means less upfront or ongoing maintenance, plus peace of mind.

Now, you know we clean gutters, but did you know that this can help increase the value of you home?  You can often see what’s in the gutters from the curb so having clean gutters (without a gutter garden) lets a potential buyer see that you take care and maintain your home.  If you clean your gutters then you probably do other maintenance items as well. 

Another great investment is pressure cleaning of driveways and paths.  It is amazing how much of a difference a simple pressure clean can make to these large surface areas.  Don’t forget your roof … if it is dirty or has mould, then a clean can make all the difference.

Don’t miss the simple things either…. Tidy garden beds, get rid of cobwebs, remove any old furniture, broken tree limbs or dead plants.

Give the outside of your home a wash and pay close attention to windows as a sparkling clean window (without streak marks) will make all the difference to the appearance of your home. (Speak to your local Gutter-Vac Franchisee as many clean windows – particular high set windows)

#2 – Mailboxes & Fences…. plus a Street Number!

How’s your mailbox looking?  Bit old, bit tired?  Maybe it is time for a new one or if in good shape, maybe a quick coat of paint to spruce it up.  If you are getting a new mailbox, then invest in one that suits the style of your home.  The mailbox is often the first thing people see.

Consider your fence because along with the mailbox, it is often the first thing people see.  Need some repairs or a repaint?  Does your fence give a welcome feel to your home and suit the style of your home?  Consider not only the style of your home, but also the location.  If you are on a busy road, then a more sturdy, secure fence will add value to your home. 

An enclosed front yard, even with a simple fence, will always appeal as it allows a buyer to imagine their kids or pets playing in the front yard.

Consider making a driveway gate remote controlled.  Great for busy streets and also just the thought of not having to get out of the car in the rain to open the gate!

Did you know that a well numbered home will actually increase the value of your home?

Yes, get some numbers from the hardware store and add in a clear to see location (eg. your mailbox or on your fence near the gate) and it will add value.  Potential buyers will not only be able to find your house easily, but in their minds they will also be thinking that their visitors will also be able to find the house. 

If you want to go one step further, why don’t you give you home a name?  Do a little research on its history or simply make up a name.  Get a sign made up and then put it up!  You’d be surprised the emotion and story this brings to your home and how that will make it more appealing to a buyer who will WANT to pay top dollar for your home.  Add it to your porch wall next to the front door.

#3 – Carports and Car Parking Space

If you have no car parking on your property, but have room to add it, then add it!  Buyers love to get their cars off the street.  You don’t have to go to the full expense of a garage.  Carports are relatively cheap and pre-fabricated and with a simple slab of concrete, there you go, car parking with shelter.  Consider putting a roller door on a new or existing carport for an open garage.  Simple and cost effective but will add value.

If you have a garage, does it need a spruce up?  Maybe a new roller door? 

Got space for extra parking?  If you find yourself with the luxury of a larger house lot, then maybe add a simple concrete slab to allow for extra car parking.  This won’t go unnoticed or unappreciated by a buyer and certainly will add value.  If it is the right sort of space and a family home, paint on some basketball lines and add a hoop… parking and kids entertainment in one!

#4 – Low Maintenance Garden

As everyone is getting busier, they want the look of a lovely front garden, but many people don’t want to spend their weekend tinkering in the garden to keep it looking lovely.  Go for plants that are easy care.  Don’t think you need colour in a garden to appeal to a potential buyer, green is a colour everyone loves.  If selling, an easy care way to add colour is to add potted flowers.

You might not need to do anything to your garden other than to give it a good trim and add some new mulch to give it a great look and feel.  Adding some simple garden edging will give it a well maintained feel. 

Keeping the lawn mowed may seem like a simple statement, but look around and you will see that this may seem obvious, but not always done.  If you have a few bare patches in your grass, consider reseeding those sections or if the grass never grows, then maybe time to plant a small tree.  If selling, potential buyers will look at the neighbour’s homes, so do a good deed and mow your neighbour’s lawn too.  Good deed = increased value for you.

When looking at your garden, don’t forget to consider some lighting.  It could be some solar powered lights along your path, lights near the gate or even a few ‘mood’ lights within the garden.  Not only do they add a little ambience to your home, they are also great for security or simply making it to the front door in the dark. 

Don’t forget some motion detection lights at the front door and near the garage are great for simply coming home, but also great security.  Things that all new home buyers look for and will continue to add appeal and value to your home.

#5 – Time to Paint?

Even though this can be a bigger investment, hands down, paint is one of the best ways to add value to your home.

If you’re not sure if you want to invest in a total repaint, then consider simply repainting your fence and the trims of your home as just this will make a great deal of difference. 

Another one is to simply repaint your front door.  Even though we love red at Gutter-Vac, that doesn’t mean you should paint your front door that colour.  Tie it into your current home colour.  Contrast works well.  A white home with a black door and trim can look spectacular and give your home a real ‘pop’ and it isn’t even using any colour at all. 

Not sure on colour?  Simply take a walk around your neighbourhood.  Consider the style of your home and look to see what others have done.  You want a colour that will pop out and look fresh and appealing, but it should also suit the style of your home and not be polarising to a potential buyer.  Clean, fresh and traditional colours work the best.

#6 – Fix and Repair

Take a good look around and fix and repair anything you can see.  Do your windows shut properly?  Does the gate or front door squeak?  Cracks in paths or tiles?  Hand rails that need tightening? 

You might be amazed at how much just a fix and repair will add value to your home.  Not just from the look and feel, but for the peace of mind for a potential buyer. 

Walk across the street and look at your home from a distance.  Is anything not secured, not straight, cracked, broken or needs a paint?  Then walk through your front yard to your home and look for anything and everything.  Open and close every gate, door and window.  Look down but remember to also look up.  Get a second set of eyes as they may see something that you miss. 

So that’s a wrap!

What could you do to improve the value and appeal of your home for potential buyers or maybe simply to increase the value of your home whether or not you are planning to sell.

If you need a hand with some of these items then please simply request a quote or call your local franchisee on 1300 654 253.

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