How To Clean Rain Gutters Safely And Effectively

While it may not be the most pleasant of tasks for any homeowner, having to clean your rain gutters is a real 'must'. A clogged gutter system can create a whole host of major problems over time, from roof and shingle problems to major foundation and basement problems. The costs can be astronomical in some situations, not to mention the inconvenience of having wet basements and rotting wood.

Most home rain gutters and eaves need cleaned out twice a year. Generally in the spring and fall. But this is only a general rule of thumb. If your home sits under a lot of trees, or you live in a climate with above average rainfall, you may need to clean gutters 4-6 times a year. In any event you'll want to at least check them once a month to see if they are filled with any leaves, twigs and other debris.

Gutter Cleaning Tools

To get started you'll need to have a few tools on hand. Naturally, an extension ladder will be needed in order to get up to the roof. (Be sure the ladder is leaned against the gutter in a safe manner and that it is sitting on level ground before climbing. Ladder safety is number one.)

A bucket or trash bag will come in handy to put in the debris from your gutters. Yes, you can let it fall to the ground but it means having to clean it up again later. No need to do another job in addition.

You'll want a garden spade or some sort of scrapper to scoop out the leaves, seed pods and other debris. There are also some plastic gutter tools designed for this task specifically, but it's not necessary.

Cleaning Your Rain Gutter

I always like to start at the downspout area and work my way down the length of the gutter from there. Once completed, wash the gutter channel out with your garden hose.

But what about the downspout, they always get clogged? If this happens to you, take the hose and insert it into the top of the downspout and turn it on. In most cases it will power flush the clogged debris out the bottom. You'll be able to tell by the amount of water coming out of your hose compared to the amount coming out the downspout.

If the downspout is still clogged you can try a few other tips. First, you could unscrew the neck of the downspout or the elbow at the bottom, which is where most clogs form, and clean it out. Or, you can use one of those plumber's snakes to get through the clogged debris in extreme circumstances.

Gutter Cleaning Prices

Finally, you can always hire someone to clean out your rain gutters. Costs will naturally depend on the size of your home, but to get a ballpark idea, an average 2500 square foot home with around 200 feet of guttering will cost anywhere from around $100-$250.

Other Gutter Cleaning Options

There are several options available that can prevent you from having to clean your gutters all the time. Systems like a gutter helmet and leaf guard will work, but can be very expensive and difficult to install. Another option to consider is the gutter brush. It's an inexpensive, easy to install and effective way to keep rain water freely flowing down your gutters all year long. You can find our more, as well as read my full review by going here: Gutter Brush Review