Raise your hand if you like cleaning that nasty sludge out of your gutters and downspouts……
No hands then huh?
That’s because this job is beyond gross. Nobody in their right mind would want to touch that stuff even with a glove on. The problem is, sooner or later you have to do it, or pay someone else to. If those gutters go untouched for a long period of time, you will have big time trouble like leaky roofs, flooded yards, or even damage to your foundation due to moisture spilling over the sides of your gutters and settling around the base of your home, or even worse, seeping in.
If you let it go until winter time, you will get humongous icicles, and if you are lucky, a large dam of icy snow at the edge of your roof that melts from underneath, and can lead to leaky roofs. Decaying leaves, roofing material, twigs, dirt and other debris are notorious for settling in your gutters. Once there is enough in there, it will block water flow and cause your gutters to fill and spill, rather than direct water along a path and down the downspout. Now you can’t see this debris from the ground, so most of us end up finding out that it’s in there only after a clog is obvious.
How To Clean Gutters Properly
Cleaning gutters is an essential maintenance task for homeowners to ensure the proper function of their roofing system and protect their property from water damage. Gutters play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from the roof and foundation of a house, preventing water buildup, leaks, and structural issues. However, gutters can become clogged with leaves, debris, dirt, and other particles over time, impeding water flow and leading to potential damage if left unaddressed. Regular gutter cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of the gutter system. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best ways to clean gutters effectively and safely, whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional.
Why Clean Gutters?
Gutters are designed to channel rainwater away from your home’s foundation, preventing water damage, flooding, and structural issues. However, when gutters become clogged with leaves, debris, and other particles, they can no longer function properly. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, leaks, and damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Additionally, standing water in clogged gutters can attract pests, promote mold and mildew growth, and cause wood rot. Regular gutter cleaning is essential to ensure proper drainage and protect your home from costly repairs.
DIY Gutter Cleaning Methods
Cleaning gutters can be a physically demanding and potentially hazardous task, so it’s essential to take proper safety precautions and use the right tools and techniques. Here are some DIY gutter cleaning methods to consider:
Safety Precautions: Before starting any gutter cleaning project, ensure your ladder is sturdy and secure, and always use proper safety equipment such as gloves, safety goggles, and non-slip footwear. Avoid working on the roof or near power lines during windy or wet conditions.
Remove Debris by Hand: Start by removing large debris such as leaves, twigs, and branches from the gutters by hand. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects and bacteria. Place debris in a bucket or tarp for easy disposal.
Use a Gutter Scoop or Trowel: A gutter scoop or trowel can be helpful for removing compacted debris and mud from the gutters. Scoop out any remaining debris, starting from the downspout and working your way toward the corners.
Flush Gutters with Water: Once the gutters are clear of debris, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle or pressure washer to flush out any remaining dirt and grime. Start from the end opposite the downspout and work your way toward the downspout, ensuring water flows freely.
Check Downspouts and Extensions: Inspect downspouts and extensions for clogs or obstructions. Use a plumber’s snake or pressure washer to clear any blockages and ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.
Trim Overhanging Branches: To prevent future gutter clogs, trim back overhanging branches and foliage that may deposit debris into the gutters.
Professional Gutter Cleaning Services
While DIY gutter cleaning can be cost-effective, some homeowners may prefer to hire a professional gutter cleaning service for convenience, safety, and peace of mind. Professional gutter cleaners have the expertise, equipment, and experience to efficiently clean gutters and ensure optimal performance. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a professional gutter cleaning service:
Safety: Professional gutter cleaners are trained in proper ladder safety techniques and have the necessary equipment to work safely at heights. They can navigate steep roofs and handle challenging gutter cleaning tasks with minimal risk of accidents or injuries.
Efficiency: Professional gutter cleaners can complete gutter cleaning tasks quickly and efficiently, saving homeowners time and effort. They have the right tools and techniques to remove debris, unclog gutters, and ensure proper drainage without damaging the gutter system or roof.
Quality Results: Professional gutter cleaning services provide thorough and comprehensive cleaning, ensuring that gutters are free from debris, leaves, and obstructions. They can also inspect gutters for signs of damage or wear and recommend repairs or maintenance as needed.
Preventive Maintenance: Regular professional gutter cleaning helps prevent costly repairs and extends the lifespan of the gutter system. Professional cleaners can identify potential issues such as loose fasteners, rust, or sagging gutters and address them before they escalate into major problems.
Convenience: Hiring a professional gutter cleaning service eliminates the hassle and inconvenience of DIY gutter cleaning. Homeowners can schedule regular gutter maintenance appointments at their convenience and rely on professionals to keep their gutters clean and functional year-round.
Tips for Maintaining Clean Gutters
In addition to regular gutter cleaning, there are several preventive measures homeowners can take to maintain clean gutters and minimize the risk of clogs and damage:
Install Gutter Guards: Gutter guards or screens can help prevent leaves, debris, and pests from entering the gutters while allowing water to flow freely. There are various types of gutter guards available, including mesh screens, foam inserts, and brush guards.
Trim Trees and Foliage: Keep trees and foliage trimmed back from the roofline to prevent leaves, branches, and debris from falling into the gutters. Regular tree maintenance can reduce the amount of debris that accumulates in the gutters and prolong the intervals between cleanings.
Inspect Gutters Regularly: Periodically inspect gutters for signs of damage, wear, or sagging. Look for loose fasteners, rust, corrosion, or separation at the seams. Address any issues promptly to prevent water damage and prolong the lifespan of the gutter system.
Monitor Downspouts: Ensure that downspouts are securely attached and free from obstructions. Redirect downspout extensions away from the foundation to prevent water pooling and erosion around the perimeter of the house.
Schedule Routine Maintenance: Schedule regular gutter maintenance appointments with a professional gutter cleaning service to ensure that gutters remain clean and functional year-round. Consider seasonal cleanings in the spring and fall to remove debris and prepare for heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
Cleaning gutters is an essential task for homeowners to maintain the integrity of their roofing system, prevent water damage, and protect their property from costly repairs. Whether you choose to tackle gutter cleaning as a DIY project or hire a professional gutter cleaning service, it’s crucial to prioritize safety, use the right tools and techniques, and perform regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the gutter system. By following the best practices outlined in this guide and taking proactive measures to maintain clean gutters, homeowners can safeguard their homes and enjoy peace of mind knowing that their gutters are functioning effectively.
Are There Tools You Can Buy To Help?
Yes, there are various tools and accessories available on the market to aid in gutter cleaning, making the task more efficient and safer. Here are some tools you can buy to help with gutter cleaning:
Gutter Cleaning Scoop: A gutter cleaning scoop is a handheld tool specifically designed to remove debris, leaves, and dirt from gutters. It features a curved shape that fits neatly into the gutter channel, allowing you to scoop out debris quickly and efficiently. Some gutter scoops have serrated edges or brushes to help dislodge stubborn debris.
Gutter Cleaning Tongs: Gutter cleaning tongs are long-handled tools with pincers or claws at the end, allowing you to grab and remove debris from gutters without having to reach into them manually. These tongs are ideal for clearing out leaves, twigs, and other debris from hard-to-reach areas.
Telescoping Gutter Cleaning Wand: A telescoping gutter cleaning wand is a lightweight and extendable tool that attaches to a garden hose. It features a curved nozzle or spray head that can be adjusted to reach gutters at varying angles. The high-pressure water stream helps flush out debris and unclog gutters without the need for climbing a ladder.
Gutter Cleaning Attachment for Pressure Washer: If you already own a pressure washer, you can purchase a gutter cleaning attachment that allows you to clean gutters from the ground. These attachments typically feature a curved wand with a high-pressure nozzle that blasts away debris and dirt while standing safely on the ground.
Gutter Cleaning Brush: A gutter cleaning brush is a flexible brush attachment that attaches to an extension pole or telescoping handle. It is designed to scrub away dirt, leaves, and debris from gutter surfaces, including hard-to-reach corners and crevices. The brush bristles help dislodge stubborn buildup and restore gutter flow.
Gutter Flusher and Cleaner: A gutter flusher and cleaner is a specialized attachment that connects to a garden hose or pressure washer. It features a rotating nozzle or brush head that sprays water in multiple directions, effectively dislodging debris and flushing out gutters. Some models come with adjustable water pressure settings for customized cleaning.
Safety Equipment: While not specific to gutter cleaning, safety equipment such as a sturdy ladder, safety harness, non-slip footwear, gloves, and safety goggles are essential tools for any gutter cleaning project. Invest in high-quality safety gear to protect yourself from accidents and injuries while working at heights.
Before purchasing any gutter cleaning tools or accessories, consider your specific needs, the type of debris commonly found in your gutters, and your preferred cleaning method. Choose tools that are durable, ergonomic, and compatible with your existing equipment to ensure efficient and safe gutter cleaning. Additionally, always follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines when using gutter cleaning tools to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Are There DIY Tips and Tricks That Can Help?
Absolutely! Here are some DIY tips and techniques to help you clean your gutters effectively and safely:
- Plan Ahead: Before you start cleaning your gutters, check the weather forecast. Ideally, choose a dry and sunny day to perform the task. Wet gutters can be slippery and more challenging to clean, while rain can make the task dangerous.
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety when cleaning gutters. Use a sturdy and properly positioned ladder, wear non-slip footwear, and use safety equipment such as gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from debris and potential falls.
- Use the Right Tools: Gather all the necessary tools and equipment before you begin. This may include a ladder, bucket, gutter scoop or trowel, garden hose with spray nozzle, and any additional tools or accessories you plan to use.
- Start from the Downspout: Begin cleaning your gutters near the downspout and work your way outward. This allows you to clear any clogs or obstructions near the downspout first, ensuring proper drainage.
- Remove Large Debris by Hand: Use your hands or a gutter scoop to remove large debris such as leaves, twigs, and branches from the gutters. Place the debris in a bucket or tarp for easy disposal.
- Flush Gutters with Water: After removing the bulk of the debris, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle or pressure washer to flush out remaining dirt and grime. Start from the end opposite the downspout and work your way toward it, ensuring water flows freely.
- Check Downspouts and Extensions: Inspect downspouts and extensions for clogs or obstructions. Use a plumber’s snake or pressure washer to clear any blockages and ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.
- Inspect Gutters for Damage: While cleaning your gutters, take the opportunity to inspect them for signs of damage or wear. Look for loose fasteners, rust, corrosion, or sagging sections of gutter. Address any issues promptly to prevent water damage.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: To prevent future gutter clogs, trim back overhanging branches and foliage that may deposit debris into the gutters. This reduces the amount of debris that accumulates in the gutters and prolongs the intervals between cleanings.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Make gutter cleaning a part of your regular home maintenance routine. Depending on your location and surrounding vegetation, aim to clean your gutters at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall.
By following these DIY tips and techniques, you can effectively clean your gutters and ensure they remain free from debris, allowing for proper drainage and protecting your home from water damage. Remember to prioritize safety, use the right tools and equipment, and perform regular maintenance to keep your gutters in optimal condition.
How Long Does The Job Take?
The time it takes to clean gutters can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your home, the condition of your gutters, the amount of debris present, and whether you’re cleaning them yourself or hiring a professional. Here’s a general overview of the time it might take to clean gutters:
DIY Gutter Cleaning:
- Preparation: Setting up a ladder, gathering tools and equipment, and putting on safety gear can take about 15-30 minutes, depending on your familiarity with the process.
- Cleaning: The actual process of cleaning gutters typically takes around 1-3 hours for a typical single-story home with a moderate amount of debris. However, larger homes or homes with multiple stories may take longer, potentially up to 4-6 hours or more.
- Finishing Touches: After cleaning the gutters, you may need additional time to inspect downspouts, flush gutters with water, and perform any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks. This can add another 15-30 minutes to the overall cleaning time.
- Cleanup: Finally, you’ll need to clean up any debris that has fallen to the ground, dispose of it properly, and put away your tools and equipment. This typically takes an additional 15-30 minutes.
Professional Gutter Cleaning:
- Assessment: A professional gutter cleaner will assess the condition of your gutters, identify any areas of concern, and determine the best approach for cleaning. This usually takes around 15-30 minutes.
- Cleaning: The actual cleaning process conducted by a professional gutter cleaner can vary depending on the size and complexity of the job. For a typical single-story home, professional gutter cleaning usually takes around 1-2 hours. Larger homes or homes with multiple stories may take longer, potentially up to 3-4 hours or more.
- Finishing Touches: After cleaning the gutters, the professional may perform additional tasks such as inspecting downspouts, flushing gutters with water, and making minor repairs or adjustments. This typically adds another 15-30 minutes to the overall service time.
- Cleanup: The professional gutter cleaner will clean up any debris that has fallen to the ground, dispose of it properly, and ensure that your property is left in a clean and tidy condition. This usually takes an additional 15-30 minutes.
Factors Affecting Time:
- Amount of Debris: The more debris present in your gutters, the longer it will take to clean them.
- Accessibility: If your gutters are difficult to access or require special equipment to reach, it may take longer to clean them.
- Experience: DIY gutter cleaning may take longer if you’re not familiar with the process or if it’s your first time doing it.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, wind, or extreme temperatures can affect the time it takes to clean gutters and may require additional precautions or delays.
Overall, the time it takes to clean gutters can vary depending on these factors, but with proper planning and preparation, you can complete the task efficiently and effectively to ensure the optimal performance of your gutter system and protect your home from water damage.
How Often Should You Do It?
The frequency of gutter cleaning depends on various factors, including your location, surrounding vegetation, climate, and the type of gutter guards or covers you have installed. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine how often you should clean your gutters:
- Seasonal Cleanings: In most regions, it’s recommended to clean your gutters at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. These seasons are associated with increased leaf shedding and debris accumulation, which can clog gutters and impede water flow.
- High-Volume Debris Areas: If you live in an area with a high volume of trees, particularly deciduous trees that shed leaves in the fall, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently. Consider cleaning your gutters every three to four months or as needed to prevent clogs and blockages.
- Heavy Rainfall or Storms: After heavy rainfall, storms, or severe weather events, it’s a good idea to inspect your gutters for debris and ensure they are functioning properly. Gutters can quickly become clogged during storms, leading to water overflow and potential damage to your home.
- Gutter Guard Maintenance: If you have gutter guards or covers installed, you may still need to perform periodic maintenance to ensure they are working effectively. Check gutter guards regularly for debris buildup or damage and clean or repair them as needed.
- Visual Inspection: Regularly inspect your gutters for signs of clogs, blockages, or damage. Look for overflowing water, sagging gutters, rust, corrosion, or vegetation growing in the gutters, as these may indicate the need for cleaning or repairs.
- Professional Recommendations: If you’re unsure how often to clean your gutters or if you have specific concerns about their condition, consider consulting with a professional gutter cleaning service. They can assess your gutters, provide expert advice, and recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to your home’s needs.
- Weather Considerations: Take into account weather conditions and seasonal changes when planning gutter cleaning. For example, it may be more challenging to clean gutters during rainy or windy weather, so plan accordingly and prioritize safety.
By following these guidelines and staying proactive about gutter maintenance, you can ensure that your gutters remain clean and functional year-round, protecting your home from water damage and prolonging the lifespan of your gutter system. If in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and clean your gutters more frequently than risk potential damage to your home.
Are Gutter Guards Worth The Cost?
Whether gutter guards are worth the cost depends on various factors, including your specific circumstances, budget, and preferences. Here are some considerations to help you decide if gutter guards are worth it for your home:
Benefits of Gutter Guards:
- Reduced Maintenance: Gutter guards help prevent leaves, debris, and other particles from entering your gutters, reducing the frequency of gutter cleaning and maintenance. This can save you time, effort, and potentially money spent on professional cleaning services.
- Prevent Clogs and Blockages: By keeping gutters clear of debris, gutter guards help ensure proper water flow and drainage, preventing clogs, blockages, and water overflow. This reduces the risk of water damage to your roof, siding, foundation, and landscaping.
- Extended Gutter Lifespan: With fewer instances of clogs and blockages, gutter guards can help prolong the lifespan of your gutter system by reducing the risk of rust, corrosion, and structural damage. This can save you money on costly repairs or replacement of your gutters.
- Prevent Pest Infestations: Gutter guards help deter pests such as birds, rodents, insects, and mosquitoes from nesting or breeding in your gutters. This can reduce the risk of pest infestations and the associated health hazards and property damage.
- Improved Water Quality: By preventing debris from accumulating in gutters, gutter guards help ensure that rainwater flows freely and is properly directed away from your home’s foundation. This can improve water quality and reduce the risk of water infiltration or damage to your basement or crawl space.
Considerations:
- Cost: Gutter guards come in various types and price ranges, from simple mesh screens to more advanced systems with micro-mesh filters or solid covers. The cost of gutter guards depends on factors such as material, design, installation method, and the size of your home. Consider your budget and the long-term savings potential when evaluating the cost-effectiveness of gutter guards.
- Effectiveness: While gutter guards can help reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning and maintenance, no system is entirely maintenance-free. Some types of gutter guards may be more effective than others at preventing certain types of debris or handling heavy rainfall. Research different types of gutter guards and read reviews to determine which option is best suited to your needs.
- Compatibility: Not all gutter guards are compatible with every type of gutter system or roof configuration. Before purchasing gutter guards, ensure they are compatible with your existing gutters, roof pitch, and roof material. Consider consulting with a professional gutter installer to assess compatibility and recommend the best solution for your home.
- Installation: While some gutter guards are designed for DIY installation, others may require professional installation for optimal performance. Consider your skill level, comfort with home improvement projects, and the complexity of the installation process when deciding whether to install gutter guards yourself or hire a professional.
In summary, gutter guards can offer numerous benefits, including reduced maintenance, prevention of clogs and blockages, extended gutter lifespan, pest prevention, and improved water quality. However, the cost-effectiveness of gutter guards depends on factors such as cost, effectiveness, compatibility, and installation requirements. Assess your specific needs, budget, and preferences to determine if gutter guards are worth the cost for your home. If you’re unsure, consider consulting with a professional gutter installer for expert advice and recommendations tailored to your situation.
View Comments
I can't see using the gutter spray as the gutter contents would go every where: siding windows and drop on the user. Sounds to me like a way to make a total mess and create more work!
Actually, since you have such good control over the spray and angle, you can direct debris from one end of the gutter, down to the other. From there it can be easily washed right down and out of the drain spout to collect in a nice pile. Although you could make a nice mess with this tool, it can be used quite easily to reduce time, effort and frustration when cleaning out your gutters.
I actually thought this exact same thing at first, but once I actually used it I found that it wasn't true at all! Not only does it not make a giant mess, it's also so much easier than scooping it all out by hand :)
If you're not touching squishy stuff with your hands, you're probably doing something right.
Looks like easy to handle. I personally called professionals to clean my gutters last couple of times.
Yes. This is an easy way to do it, but many people prefer to avoid this job. You can find many companies and individuals in your local area that would be happy to do it for you in exchange for a small fee.
I need to clean my gutters this spring so thanks for sharing this. I like your point about using a hose to clear any pipes and holes first. I'll be sure to do this so I can get most of the debris without having to touch it.
I like your tip about pointing the nozzles down over the spout. That makes sense considering you want to clean the gutters well. I'll have to consider your tips especially after a heavy storm.
This guide was very helpful. We didn't have to call local contractors to clean our gutters
I have been considering cleaning out my gutter this May. A lot of blossoms and leaves from my pear trees have been getting in my gutters. It is good to know that I might need to spray some water into my gutters while cleaning them out. Personally, I would want to get a professional to help me clean them out.