How to Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors in Your Home
Learn how to seal air leaks around windows, doors and outlets with caulk and weatherstripping to cut drafts and energy bills.
Knowing how to clean gutters protects your roof, siding and foundation. Clogged gutters overflow, and the water then seeps into places it should never reach. The good news is that this job takes about two hours. This guide shows you how to clean gutters safely, even if you have never done it before.
Why Gutter Cleaning Matters
Gutters carry rainwater away from your house. When leaves and debris block the flow, water backs up. Consequently, it can rot fascia boards, stain siding and flood basements. In cold climates, standing water also freezes and forms heavy ice dams.
Most homes need cleaning at least twice a year. Clean them in late spring and again in late fall. However, homes under large trees may need cleaning every few months.
Tools and Supplies You Need
Gather everything before you climb the ladder. This saves trips up and down.
- A sturdy extension ladder with stabilizer arms
- Waterproof work gloves
- Safety glasses
- A gutter scoop or small garden trowel
- A bucket with an S-hook, or a tarp
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle
How to Clean Gutters Step by Step
1. Set Up the Ladder Safely
Place the ladder on firm, level ground. Extend it so it reaches about three feet above the gutter line. Then keep three points of contact while you climb. Never lean sideways, because that is how most falls happen. The OSHA ladder safety guidance offers more detail.
2. Remove the Large Debris
Start near the downspout. Scoop out leaves, twigs and sludge with gloved hands or a scoop. Drop the debris onto a tarp below, or into your bucket. Work in small sections, and move the ladder often instead of overreaching.
3. Flush the Gutters With Water
Next, rinse the gutters with a hose. Begin at the end farthest from the downspout. The water should flow freely toward the drain. If water pools, the gutter may sag or have a clog in the downspout.
4. Clear the Downspouts
Run water down each downspout. If the flow is weak, you have a clog. Try a plumber’s snake or a strong blast from the hose. Also, tap the downspout lightly to loosen stuck debris.
5. Check for Damage
Finally, look for loose brackets, small holes and separated seams. Tighten screws and seal tiny leaks with gutter sealant. Make sure the gutters slope slightly toward the downspouts.
Tips to Keep Gutters Clean Longer
- Trim branches that hang over the roof.
- Install gutter guards if you have many trees.
- Extend downspouts at least four feet from the foundation.
- Schedule cleaning right after the last leaves fall.
When to Hire a Professional
Skip the ladder if your home has three stories or a steep roof. Likewise, hire help if you feel unsteady at heights. A professional usually charges a modest fee, which is far cheaper than a hospital bill or foundation repair.
Gutter care fits into a larger plan. Add it to your home maintenance checklist so you never forget it.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to clean gutters in five clear steps. Use the right tools, work safely and repeat the job twice a year. Clean gutters guard your home against water damage, and they cost almost nothing to maintain.