Gutter Cleaning

Gutter cleaning is the removal of leaves, twigs, shingle grit and other debris from your gutters and downspouts so water can drain freely. Clogged gutters overflow, which can damage siding and fascia, flood basements, and undermine the foundation — and standing water is a breeding ground for pests.

As a rule of thumb, gutters should be cleared at least twice a year, and more often under heavy tree cover. The companies below list gutter cleaning as a service on their own official websites.

About gutter cleaning

What a gutter cleaning service usually includes

• Clearing debris from the gutter troughs by hand or vacuum.
• Flushing the gutters and downspouts to confirm they drain.
• Checking for and reporting clogs, leaks or loose sections.
• Bagging and removing the debris.

Signs your gutters need cleaning

• Water spilling over the gutter edge during rain.
• Plants or weeds growing in the gutter.
• Staining or streaking on the siding below the gutter.
• Sagging gutters weighed down by wet debris.
• Birds, insects or pests around the roofline.

Should you clean gutters yourself or hire a company?

Single-story homes with easy access are within reach of a careful homeowner. Two-story homes, steep roofs and hard-to-reach runs are safer left to a company with the right ladders and equipment. If you find yourself cleaning very often, ask about gutter guards to reduce how much debris gets in.

What affects gutter cleaning cost

GutterList does not publish prices. Cleaning cost generally tracks the size and height of the home, how much debris has built up, roof access and pitch, and whether you add extras like a downspout flush or a one-time versus recurring visit. Homes under heavy tree cover that need clearing several times a year sometimes find a seasonal plan more economical.