Gutter Cleaning Cost - Average Cost In 2024

How Much Does Gutter Cleaning Cost?

The average cost of cleaning gutters is between $1.00 to $1.50 per linear foot. Most homeowners pay between $135 and $215 for this service. For two-story homes, expect to pay between $237 and $297, based on an average of 200 linear feet of gutters. However, various factors can significantly affect the final cost.

Factors That Increase Gutter Cleaning Costs

• For three-story homes, expect a higher cost due to the difficulty of working at such heights. Prices for these jobs range from $1.50 to $2.00 per linear foot.
• If you have gutter guards installed, cleaners may need to remove and reinstall them. This additional labor increases the overall cost. On the bright side, gutters with guards require less frequent cleaning.
• Homes near large deciduous trees or those that haven't been cleaned in a while will take longer to clean, raising costs. Regular cleanings will keep your costs lower.
• Obstructions, such as overhanging tree branches or obstacles around the home, can lead to additional charges.
• Urgency of the job and distance from the contractor's location can also influence the price.

Knowing these factors helps you negotiate a fair price with your gutter cleaning contractor.

Gutter Cleaning Costs Per Hour and Per Square Foot

Gutter cleaning typically costs around $50 to $100 per hour. The cost per square foot can range from $0.20 to $0.40, depending on the complexity of the job and accessibility of the gutters. This pricing is usually applicable for larger roofs or commercial buildings where linear foot measurements may not apply.

Additional Fees Gutter Cleaners May Charge

• Debris removal fees if you want the company to take away the leaves and debris they've cleaned from your gutters.
• Downspout unclogging, especially if high-pressure water or special tools are required to clear blockages.
• Шnspection fees if the contractor performs a thorough inspection of your gutter system during the cleaning.

States That Require More Frequent Gutter Cleaning and Why

You need to clean gutters more often in states with heavy rainfall, abundant tree cover, and severe seasonal changes. These conditions lead to quicker accumulation of leaves, twigs, and other debris in gutters, increasing the risk of clogging. States where more frequent cleaning is necessary include:

Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon):

Abundant rainfall and dense evergreen forests contribute to debris build-up year-round. In places like Seattle or Portland, gutters often fill with pine needles, moss, and leaves, especially during the fall and winter.

Northeast (New York, Vermont, Maine):

The combination of autumn leaves and harsh winters can lead to clogged gutters that may result in ice dams. The large number of deciduous trees in these regions means gutters fill quickly in the fall, requiring frequent cleanings to prevent damage from ice and snow.

Southeast (Florida, Georgia, Alabama):

Heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms, combined with warm weather, can lead to fast-growing trees and plants. Florida, for example, is prone to hurricanes, which can fill gutters with storm debris. Frequent cleanings are necessary to maintain proper drainage.

Midwest (Illinois, Michigan, Ohio):

Midwestern states experience extreme seasonal changes—fall leaves, winter ice, and spring rains. This cycle demands regular maintenance of gutters to prevent overflow, clogging, and damage from frozen water.

Southern California (Los Angeles, San Diego):

While Southern California is generally dry, the areas with a lot of trees, such as oak and eucalyptus, can shed significant debris into gutters, especially after wildfires or during the rainy season. Cleaning frequency should increase before and after the rainy season.

Texas:

In regions like Houston and Austin, trees such as live oaks and pine trees, combined with severe thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes, make frequent gutter cleaning necessary, especially during fall and after major storms.

DIY or Hire a Professional Gutter Cleaner?

While cleaning gutters yourself can save money, it can also be dangerous, especially for multi-story homes. Professionals are not only faster but also have the necessary equipment and insurance to handle the job safely.

Gutter Cleaning Techniques

Gutter cleaning professionals use various techniques, depending on the type of debris and the gutter system's design. These techniques include:

• Hand Removal: Best for light debris like leaves, twigs, and pine needles. It is detailed and works well in hard-to-reach areas.
• Power Washing: Suitable for heavy dirt and clogged downspouts. High-pressure water cleans the gutters thoroughly but requires careful handling to avoid damage.
• Vacuuming: Effective for dry debris. This method sucks debris out of the gutter, leaving minimal mess.
• Gutter Blowing: Uses a high-powered blower to remove dry debris. It's quick but can leave debris scattered around the yard.
• Rotary Brush Cleaning: Ideal for compacted debris, a rotating brush attachment scrapes debris off the gutter’s interior.
• Flushing Downspouts: Water flushing is used to ensure downspouts are clear and functional. It's often done after hand removal or power washing.

How to Find Gutter Cleaners Near Me

Gutter cleaning companies can be found in any city, from large metropolises like New York, San Francisco, Seattle, or Boston to smaller towns. To find a reliable gutter cleaner, create a project online and receive quotes from local contractors. Be prepared to share detailed information about your home to get the most accurate estimate.

FAQ

How Often Do Gutters Need Cleaning?

Gutters should typically be cleaned twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. However, if your home is located near a lot of trees, you may need to clean them more often.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Clean Gutters?

The best time to clean gutters is during the fall and spring seasons. In the fall, cleaning ensures that leaves and debris are removed before winter. In the spring, cleaning removes anything that may have collected during the colder months.