How to Clean Gutters

Many homeowners take their gutters for granted. They think that if they ignore the fact that they are clogged with leaves and other debris, the problem will eventually go away. But of course it doesn’t work that way. It only gets worse, and could eventually lead to sagging gutters, flooded basements or even foundation problems. Watch this video and learn the basics of cleaning your gutters and downspouts.

Tools

Steps

  1. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 1

    Remove gutter covers.

  2. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 2

    Scoop out debris with a tool or with your hands. Be sure to wear gloves.

  3. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 3

    Flush the gutter with water and check for proper flow.

  4. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 4

    Check the down spouts for any lodged debris. Put the hose on full force and spray down the spout. If the volume of water coming out is less, there is a clog.

  5. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 5

    If there is a clog, remove the nozzle and work the hose up the down spout.

  6. How to Clean Your Gutters - Step 6

    Make sure that all gutters are securely attached and don’t look loose.


Read Video Transcript

Many homeowners take their gutters for granted. They think that if they ignore the fact that they are clogged with leaves and other debris, the problem will eventually go away. But of course it doesn’t work that way. It only gets worse, and could eventually lead to sagging gutters, flooded basements or even foundation problems. So take some time to periodically inspect and clean out your gutters. It doesn’t take that much time, and in the long run, you and your wallet will be glad you did.

Today we’re going to show you how to clean your gutters and downspouts. We’ll show you the proper methods, recommend some tools to make it easier, and give you some safety tips as well.

So let’s get started.

A fact that might surprise you is that an average sized roof can shed nearly 1,000 gallons of water for each inch of rain that falls. That’s a lot of water. When you gutters and downspouts are clogged or sagging, that water overflows out of the gutters and can damage your roof, your gutter boards, and work its way down your foundation and eventually into your basement, where it can lead to mold, mildew and even flooding. When flowing properly, however, your gutters and downspouts carry this water away from your house.

So when is the best time to clean your gutters? The ideal time is after several dry days. The debris in your gutters won’t be as wet, and dry leaves and debris are less messy to remove. A dry day is also a safer time to work on the ladder.

Now let’s talk about the equipment you’ll need. Cleaning gutters requires getting on a ladder, so if you aren’t comfortable with this, be sure to call a licensed professional to do the work. You’ll also probably want some rubber gloves, especially if the contents of your gutters is wet. To keep from climbing up and down the ladder more frequently than necessary, get a large bucket that you can hang from the ladder with a wire. And finally, you’ll also probably want a trowel or a gutter scoop to help you dig debris out of the gutters.

Whenever using a ladder, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the ladder safely.

These gutters don’t have gutter covers, which certainly makes our job easier. While gutter covers dramatically cut down on the amount of debris that gets in your gutters, most will eventually still need to be cleaned, so be sure to pick a cover that can be easily removed for cleaning.

Now it’s time to get up on the ladder and start scooping out the debris. There is no right or wrong way to do it. It just takes some time and persistence on your part. When it’s clean, flush the gutter with clean water to check for proper flow.

After the gutters are clean, check the downspouts for any debris that might be lodged inside. The best way to do this is with a hose and spray nozzle. On the full spray setting, spray down the downspout and check the volume that comes out at the bottom. You’ll be able to tell if there is a clog. If there is, remove the nozzle and work the hose up into the downspout as far as it will go, flushing it with water. This is also a good time to make sure you splash blocks are placed properly and that all your gutters and downspouts are attached securely.

In between regular cleanings, one way to keep your gutters free of debris is to use a gutter wand like you see here. It has a curved head and a telescoping handle that reaches high enough on a single story home to keep from getting the ladder out.

Well there you have it. Now your gutters are now flowing properly. And you’ve taken proper precautionary measures to keep the water away from where it can do a whole lot of damage to your home.

If you have questions about this or any other home improvement project, be sure to read our list of Frequently Asked Questions for this video. And be sure to print out our Project Instructions, which includes a Tools and Materials checklist, before visiting your local independent home improvement retailer. That’s where you’ll find all the products and helpful advice to complete your project. If you’re not sure where to find your local store, check out our Store Locator.

Good luck with your project and thanks for watching.

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60 responses to “How to Clean Gutters”

  1. Keep up the good work! All the best from Sudell Gutter Cleaning

  2. I am really happy to visit your blog.

  3. It is not a new source for cleaning the gutters. Modern technology has introduced new tools used in gutter cleaning companies. I appreciate your efforts, which have taken a unique topic for the new readers.

  4. where to start planning development, what can you give me additional knowledge

  5. Best way I find is cleaning gutters out by hand, solid trade rated ladder. This way all joints can be checked for leaks too, and any repairs can be carried out if needed.

  6. Schedule regular gutter cleaning: It’s important to clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent debris buildup that can lead to clogs and damage. In Denver, it’s recommended to clean your gutters in the spring and fall.

    Inspect your gutters for damage: During the cleaning process, inspect your gutters for any damage such as cracks, holes, or rust spots. Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage and water leaks.

    Check for proper drainage: Make sure your gutters are properly sloped towards the downspouts and that the downspouts are clear of debris. This will ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your home.

    Install gutter guards: Gutter guards can help prevent debris buildup in your gutters, which can reduce the frequency of cleaning needed. There are several types of gutter guards available, such as mesh screens, foam inserts, and surface tension covers.

    Hire a professional: If you’re not comfortable cleaning or repairing your gutters yourself, it’s best to hire a professional. Look for a reputable gutter cleaning and repair company in Denver to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

    By following these tips, you can maintain your gutters and prevent damage to your home. Gutter cleaning and repair may seem like a small task, but it can have a big impact on the health and longevity of your home.

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    HOMEINSPIRATIONHOW-TO VIDEOS
    How-To Videos > Lawn & Garden
    How to Clean Gutters
    Many homeowners take their gutters for granted. They think that if they ignore the fact that they are clogged with leaves and other debris, the problem will eventually go away.

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    المبيدات الحشرية الأمنة على الصحة تتطلب استخدامها بحذر، ودائمًا يجب إتباع تعليمات الاستخدام الموجودة على العبوة والتي يجب قراءتها بعناية. من الجيد أن يستخدم المرء القفازات، والنظارات، والكمامات في الإجراءات الخاصة بالتطبيق.
    كما ينبغي دائمًا الحفاظ على نظافة المنزل وتعطيل موارد الأمراض والحشرات، وتشمل بعض الطرق إغلاق الفتحات التي قد تؤدي إلى دخول الحشرات، وإبقاء المطبخ نظيفًا، والتخلص من القمامة باستمرار، وتنظيف الأسطح بانتظام.
    على الرغم من وجود المخاوف بشأن استخدام المبيدات الحشرية، فإن الخيارات الآمنة على الصحة قد ثبت فعاليتها وهي تساعد في الحد من أضرار الحشرات المنزلية دون تأثير سلبي على صحتنا. من الأهمية بمكان البحث عن العلامات التجارية الأكثر ثقة والموثوقية، وطلب المشورة من المتخصصين في الموضوع، للحصول على توجيهات حول كيفية استخدام هذه المبيدات بأمان.
    بمجرد أن يتم اتخاذ جميع الخطوات اللازمة لتجنب أضرار المبيدات الحشرية، يمكن تحقيق الحماية الكاملة لصحتنا وللعائلة، وكذلك التخلص من الحشرات المنزلية التي قد تؤثر على راحتنا وصحتنا في المنزل.

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    A ladder, bucket, gutter scoop (or garden trowel), and heavy-duty work gloves are required to clean gutters by hand. Remove the leaves and debris one by one, depositing what you remove in the bucket.

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    It’s a common misconception that gutters can be ignored when they become clogged with leaves and debris. Neglecting gutter maintenance can lead to serious issues such as sagging gutters, basement flooding, and even foundation problems. Official Website
    Therefore, it’s crucial for homeowners to understand the importance of regular gutter cleaning.

    By cleaning your gutters and downspouts, you can prevent these problems and ensure that rainwater is properly directed away from your home. This video will provide you with the basics of gutter cleaning, helping you to maintain your gutters effectively and protect your property from potential damage.

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