How to Clean Your Gutters Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning debris like this from your gutters on a regular basis will prevent costly damage to your home.
NOTICE DEBRIS IN YOUR GUTTERS? A QUICK GUIDE TO CLEANING GUTTERS LIKE THE PROS.
Gutter cleaning is an essential home maintenance task that protects your home from water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water that damages your roof, siding, foundation, and landscape. In addition, overflowing gutters in winter can cause water to freeze on sidewalks and driveways, creating additional fall hazards. If left unchecked, debris in gutters can also cause rust, rotting, and even attract pests. This comprehensive guide covers the tools, techniques, and safety tips you need to clean your gutters efficiently and safely.
Why Cleaning Gutters Is Important
Your gutters serve an important purpose: channeling rainwater away from your roof and foundation. When gutters become clogged with leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris, water cannot flow freely through the downspouts. This can lead to:
Water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation.
Flooding in the basement or crawl space.
Roof leaks due to water backup & freezing under shingles.
Pest infestations, as standing water in clogged gutters attracts mosquitoes and other insects.
Cleaning your gutters at least once or twice a year—typically in the spring and fall—can help prevent these issues and keep your home in top condition.
Tools You Need to Clean Gutters
Before you begin, gather the right tools. A little preparation will make the job much easier and safer.
Ladder – A sturdy ladder is essential. Use an extension ladder if your gutters are out of reach. Make sure the ladder is on level ground and always have someone to help steady it. Ladder stabilizers like this increase safety if you’re working alone.
Gloves – Protect your hands from debris and sharp edges in the gutters. If gutter debris is wet from recent rain storms, get a heavy duty, long cuff nitrile dish washing glove to keep your hands dry and warm.
Garden Trowel or Scoop – Use a gutter scoop like this tool to remove debris from the gutters.
Bucket or Trash Bag – To collect debris as you go.
Hose with a Spray Nozzle – A hose will help rinse out the gutters after debris removal and confirm if the downspouts are flowing freely.
Gutter Cleaning Tool or Gutter Wand – For hard-to-reach areas or stubborn debris, use a tool like this on an extension pole.
Safety Gear – Always wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and safety goggles for protection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Gutters
Prepare and Set Up Your Ladder
Position the ladder at a safe angle (about 75 degrees). Ensure it’s on a flat, stable surface. It’s best to have a spotter, especially if you’re using a tall ladder.
Do not overreach. Move the ladder frequently to avoid leaning too far, and use a gutter cleaning tool on an extension pole to reach farther.
Remove Large Debris by Hand
Start at one end of the gutter and begin scooping out large debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt. Place debris in a bucket or trash bag as you go to keep things tidy.
Make sure to remove all the gunk from the gutter to prevent future clogs.
Flush the Gutters with Water
Once you’ve removed the bulk of the debris, use a garden hose to flush out the gutters. Start at the opposite end of the downspout and work your way toward it. This helps ensure that water flows smoothly through the gutters and downspouts.
Check for any clogs in the downspouts. If water doesn’t flow through freely, you may need to clear the downspout by using a plumber’s snake or a high-pressure nozzle.
Check for Damage
While cleaning, look for any signs of damage to your gutters, such as cracks, holes, or rust spots. If you notice any, repair them promptly to avoid water leakage.
Check that the gutters are properly secured to the house. They should be slightly tilted toward the downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
Clean and Repair Downspouts
If the water from the hose doesn’t drain quickly, the downspouts may be clogged. You can use a plumber’s snake or a special downspout cleaning tool to remove blockages.
Make sure the downspout is clear from the bottom as well. It’s a good idea to flush the area with a hose to remove any dirt or leaves.
Rinse and Final Check
After cleaning the gutters and downspouts, rinse them again to ensure that everything flows freely.
Check that water is flowing smoothly from the gutters and downspouts away from your home’s foundation.
Tips for Gutter Maintenance and Prevention
Install Gutter Guards: Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning. These mesh covers help prevent leaves and debris from entering the gutters while allowing water to flow freely. However, trees that drop larger leaves like Maple trees can easily cover the gutter guards and prevent water from entering the gutter. If you have trees like this, regular cleaning will be necessary with or without gutter guards.
Use a Gutter Cleaning Tool: For high or hard-to-reach areas, consider using a gutter cleaning wand attached to a garden hose. This tool allows you to clean your gutters from the ground, reducing the need for a ladder.
Consider Professional Gutter Cleaning: If you’re uncomfortable with heights or have complex gutter systems, hiring a professional gutter cleaning service is a smart option. They have the tools and experience to do the job quickly and safely.
How to Avoid Common Gutter Cleaning Issues
1. Clogged Downspouts:
Regularly check that your downspouts are clear of debris. Use a high-pressure nozzle or a plumber’s snake to break up any blockages that may form.
2. Water Pooling in Gutters:
Ensure your gutters are pitched correctly. Over time, gutters can sag and create pools of water. You may need to adjust the hangers or re-pitch the gutters to encourage proper drainage.
3. Gutter Damage:
Look for cracks or holes in your gutters. If you find any, seal them using a silicone-based sealant. For larger issues, consider replacing damaged sections of the gutter.
Safety Tips for Cleaning Gutters
Work in Pairs: Cleaning gutters is safer with two people—one to steady the ladder and another to clean. This reduces the risk of accidents.
Be Mindful of Electrical Lines: Always be aware of electrical lines around your home. Never lean a ladder against a power line, and keep your body and any extension poles used for cleaning away from them.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes: Always wear shoes with good grip to prevent slips, especially when climbing the ladder or walking on your roof.
Conclusion
Regular gutter cleaning is an important home maintenance task that ensures your gutters remain functional and protect your home from water damage. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can clean your gutters efficiently and safely. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the task, don't hesitate to call in a professional to help. If you’re located in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star, Middleton, or Nampa Idaho, you can quickly request a quote here. Your gutters are an essential part of your home’s exterior, and taking the time to care for them can save you from costly repairs in the future.
