Windows and Gutters – Keep Your Parents Off Ladders!

Written By Brian Howe

Because gravity is undefeated… and Mom doesn’t bounce like she used to.

The Problem No One Talks About (Until the ER Visit)

Every fall and spring, thousands of homeowners across Minnesota dust off the old extension ladder, prop it up against the side of the house, and climb up to clean gutters or wash windows.

And every year, thousands of people regret that decision.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that over 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries in the U.S. each year, and more than 300 people die from falls. Most of these injuries happen at home. Even more sobering: people over 55 are at significantly higher risk for serious injury from falls — longer healing times, more complications, and a much greater likelihood of a hospital stay.

So here’s the question: Why are your parents (or you) still climbing ladders?

The Gutters Are Not Worth It

You know what’s in your gutters right now? Leaves. Twigs. Pine needles. That random tennis ball from last summer. And — depending on the time of year — a few mosquito nurseries disguised as puddles.

Cleaning them is necessary. Clogged gutters lead to:

  • Roof leaks and rot

  • Ice dams in winter (hello, Minnesota)

  • Foundation cracks and basement flooding

  • Siding damage

  • That disgusting waterfall right over your front steps

But… cleaning them yourself is not worth a broken hip.

Windows: The Other Ladder Trap

Gutters are the main ladder culprit, but window cleaning is right up there.
That streak-free shine comes at a price — one wrong move, and you’re testing your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Dirty windows aren’t just about aesthetics:

  • Grime can etch into the glass over time, making permanent damage.

  • Pollen and dust buildup affects indoor air quality.

  • Hard water stains from sprinklers can ruin curb appeal (and yes, buyers notice).

Clean windows are great. Falling while cleaning them is not.

The Minnesota Twist: Our Climate is Out to Get You

In the Twin Cities, we have unique “fun” challenges:

  • Ice dams: Clogged gutters trap melting snow. That water refreezes at night, creating a dam. Water backs up under shingles → leaks inside.

  • Freeze-thaw cycles: Gutters expand and contract, pulling away from the house.

  • Pollen & dust storms in spring: A thin yellow film coats everything, including windows.

  • Autumn leaf dump: Weeks’ worth of debris in one windy night.

  • Winter grime: Road salt particles cling to lower windows.

This means maintenance is not optional — but also not something you should ask your parents (or yourself) to handle on a rickety ladder.

Fun Fact You Probably Didn’t Know

You know that little drip edge on your shingles? It’s there to guide water into the gutter.
If your gutters are clogged, water doesn’t just spill over — it can seep backward into your fascia board. That’s expensive wood, friends. And the rot it causes often goes unnoticed until a contractor says, “Yeah, this whole section needs replacing.”

Another one: the “black streaks” you see on your siding near the gutters? That’s often mold spore residue mixed with asphalt shingle dust. You’re breathing it.

And for windows: high mineral content in water from sprinklers can leave permanent etching if not removed within weeks. A quick wipe won’t fix it — it needs professional-grade cleaning agents before the damage is set.

Why the MyCrew Maintenance Plan Exists

Too many falls. Too many preventable repairs. Too many weekends lost to ladders.

The MyCrew Maintenance Plan is designed to keep you, your parents, and your neighbors on the ground — and your home in top shape.

How It Works

  • 2 cleanings per year — choose windows, gutters, or both.

  • 20% discount per cleaning compared to single-service pricing.

  • Locked-in pricing for 3 years — no seasonal rate hikes.

  • Preferred scheduling during peak seasons (spring & fall).

  • Cancel anytime — no long-term contract traps.

It’s like having a seasonal pit crew for your home — without the risk of Dad taking a 10-foot dive into the flowerbeds.

The Perks of Staying Grounded

Time Back – Spend weekends with family, not on ladders.
Lower Repair Costs – Prevent problems before they become expensive fixes.
Safety – We bring the right equipment and training.
Sparkle Factor – Streak-free windows and free-flowing gutters improve curb appeal instantly.

The “Gravity-Proof” List

(Things you don’t have to do anymore with the MyCrew Maintenance Plan)

  • Drag out a 24-foot ladder

  • Balance a bucket while climbing

  • Play “just one more reach” with a squeegee

  • Pretend the wasp nest isn’t a problem

  • Spend the afternoon covered in gutter sludge

A Serious Note About Falls

CDC data shows:

  • Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults.

  • One in five causes a serious injury like a broken bone or head trauma.

  • After a hip fracture, 1 in 3 adults over 50 doesn’t return to independent living within a year.

This is not just about convenience — it’s about avoiding life-changing injuries.

The Smarter Way Forward

MyCrew Maintenance Plan:

Step 1: We visit twice a year for your windows, gutters, or both.
Step 2: You enjoy a 20% discount, locked-in pricing, and first pick of prime seasonal slots.
Step 3: You spend your weekends on something — anything — other than a ladder.

Special Offer: Sign up before October 15th, 2025 - we are filling up.

Free Quote at 612-502-5608 or at www.mycrew.pro.

Final Thought

Ladders are for painters, roofers, and stunt performers.
Keep your parents safe. Keep yourself safe. And let us handle the windows and gutters — with both feet on the ground.

Brian Howe