How to Clean and Repair Gutters Safely
Clogged gutters overflow during rain, creating unsightly streaks down your siding and potential foundation damage. Clean gutters are essential for both curb appeal and home protection. Here's how to do it safely and thoroughly.
Quick Summary
Time needed
2-4 hours
Cost
DIY: Free | Hire: $100-$200
Difficulty
Medium (height risk)
Why Clean Gutters Matter Beyond Curb Appeal
Overflowing gutters create black streaks down your siding that scream "neglected home." But the bigger issue is what you can't see: water pooling near your foundation can cause basement flooding, foundation cracks, and landscape erosion - expensive problems that cleaning gutters twice a year prevents.
Safety Warning: Falls from ladders cause thousands of injuries annually. If you're uncomfortable with heights, have a steep roof pitch, or lack proper equipment, hire a professional. It's worth the $100-200.
The visual impact of clean gutters is subtle but important. Clogged gutters often have plants growing from them - a clear sign of neglect that potential buyers or guests immediately notice.
Safety Essentials You Must Follow
Critical Safety Rules
- ✓Use a sturdy extension ladder rated for your weight plus 20%
- ✓Set ladder on level, firm ground - never on soft soil or uneven surfaces
- ✓Use ladder stabilizer bar to prevent leaning directly on gutters
- ✓Maintain 3 points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand)
- ✓Never reach too far - move the ladder frequently
- ✓Have someone spot you, especially if you're inexperienced
- ✓Avoid power lines - if gutters are near lines, hire an electrician
Recommended Equipment
- • Type I or Type IA ladder (professional grade)
- • Ladder stabilizer/standoff bars ($20-40)
- • Heavy-duty work gloves (protection from sharp debris)
- • Eye protection (debris will fall in your face)
- • Non-slip shoes with good tread
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Start at the Downspout
Begin at the downspout and work away from it. This prevents pushing debris toward the drain opening and creating a clog. Use a plastic gutter scoop or garden trowel to remove leaves, twigs, and accumulated sediment.
2. Remove Large Debris First
Scoop debris into a bucket hung from your ladder (don't throw it on the ground - you'll have to pick it up later). Remove all leaves, sticks, and sediment. Wet debris is heavy - don't overfill your bucket.
Pro Tip: Old plastic scoops from kitty litter containers work perfectly as gutter scoops and are disposable.
3. Flush Gutters with Water
After removing bulk debris, flush gutters with a garden hose. Start at the end opposite the downspout and spray toward it. This reveals leaks, confirms proper slope, and clears remaining sediment.
- •Water should flow steadily toward downspouts, not pool
- •Look for drips at seams indicating leaks needing sealant
- •Check that water exits downspouts freely
4. Clear Downspout Clogs
If water backs up instead of draining, you have a downspout clog. Options for clearing:
- •Run hose down from top - water pressure may dislodge it
- •Use plumber's snake from bottom to break up blockage
- •Tap downspout with rubber mallet to loosen debris
- •As last resort, disassemble downspout elbow to access clog
5. Inspect for Damage
While cleaning, check for these common issues:
Loose fasteners
Tighten or replace gutter hangers and brackets
Sagging sections
Indicates insufficient support - add hangers every 24"
Rust or holes
Small holes: patch with gutter sealant. Large holes: replace section
Separated seams
Clean thoroughly and reseal with gutter caulk
6. Check Downspout Extensions
Downspouts should direct water at least 4-6 feet from your foundation. Add extensions if water pools near your house. This prevents foundation damage and keeps landscaping beds from eroding.
Seasonal Maintenance Schedule
Spring (Late May)
Clean out seed pods, blossoms, and spring debris. Perfect timing before summer storms.
Fall (Late November)
Most important cleaning. Remove all leaves before winter to prevent ice dams and overflow.
After Major Storms
Quick visual check for debris accumulation. Clear if needed to ensure next storm drains properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my gutters?
Clean gutters at least twice a year: once in late spring after trees finish dropping seeds and pods, and again in late fall after leaves have fallen. If you have pine trees or heavy tree coverage, you may need to clean them quarterly. Regular cleaning prevents overflow, ice dams, and foundation damage.
Can I clean gutters from the ground?
Gutter cleaning tools with extension poles exist but aren't very effective. You can't see what you're doing, check for damage, or ensure downspouts are clear. The safest and most thorough approach is using a proper ladder with a stabilizer bar. If you're uncomfortable with heights, hire a professional.
Should I install gutter guards?
Gutter guards reduce but don't eliminate cleaning. They keep out large debris but small particles still accumulate. Quality guards cost $8-20 per linear foot installed. They're worth it if you have many trees or can't safely access your roof. Avoid cheap mesh screens - they clog quickly and make cleaning harder.
Ready for the Next Step?
Now that your gutters are clean, make your windows sparkle to complete your exterior refresh.