Sometimes customers have a hard time deciding whether to do gutter cleaning themselves or hire a professional to do it. Below, we answer many commonly asked questions about gutter cleaning to help give customers the information they need to decide whether to clean their gutters professionally or personally.

We hope you find this FAQ on gutter cleaning helpful. If you do not see your question answered in this article, please email us at office@gutters-ct.com, and we will get back to you shortly with an answer.

Why do gutters need to be cleaned?

Over time, wind and rain cause yard debris (sticks, mud, leaves, insects, etc.) to inevitably build up in gutters. That debris can block rainwater drainage and, if left untreated, eventually cause damage to your property. Most property damage due to clogged gutters is preventable by performing gutter cleaning every six months to a year.

What is the most efficient way to clean gutters?

Gutter cleaning is a messy job. It is best to use rubber gloves for the job. DIYers need a tall ladder (one that can reach all the gutters on the home), a scoop to clean out debris, and a bucket or tarp to hold debris.

For the most efficient gutter cleaning, start at one end of the house and work your way to the other end. We recommend a ladder with a stabilizer built in. The ladder should always rest on solid, flat ground on the bottom end and a solid surface on the top end.

Climb up with your scoop and bucket, scoop the debris out of gutters, and add it to the bucket. Re-situate the ladder every few feet as you clean your gutters.

If you are using a tarp for gutter cleaning, scoop out debris and toss it down onto the tarp. (It is best to avoid this method on a windy day.) You will need to move the tarp as you move the ladder. The distance the tarp and ladder will need to move depends on the length of your arm and your reach.

If you are using a bucket, choose one that is not too large or cumbersome to cause an imbalance. You will need to empty your bucket periodically as you move along your gutters and fill it with debris. Once the major debris has been removed, you can insert a garden hose to gently flush out the small remaining debris and check for any possible leaks in your gutters.

What do professionals use to clean gutters?

Gutter cleaning professionals use a variety of professional tools to clean gutters. These can include industrial-quality extension ladders, power washers, industrial-strength vacuums, and a variety of hand tools. Some companies haul away debris and some also offer exterior gutter cleaning.

Does gutter cleaning include downspouts?

The final step for professional gutter cleaning is to flush out both gutters and downspouts to ensure smooth water flow and clear pipes.

Can I lean a ladder on my gutters?

No. It is never safe to lean a ladder directly on gutters. Your ladder should always rest on a strong, hard surface that is sturdy enough to support it.

What is the best way to clean gutters safely?

Ladder work is the most dangerous part of gutter cleaning. Use caution as you move the ladder each time and climb it. Your ladder should rest on a flat surface and never lean directly on gutters (see above). Ensure that your ladder is stabilized before climbing.

Should I pay someone to clean my gutters?

Whether you should hire a professional for gutter cleaning or do it yourself relies on several factors. First, you need to have a level of comfort working on ladders in order to do your own gutter cleaning.

Second, if your rooflines are especially steep, high, or difficult to access, professional cleaning is always recommended.

Lastly, if you are short on time, find it hard to work gutter cleaning into your busy schedule, or keep deferring this important maintenance, it might be time to call in the pros.