What happens if you don't clean gutters?

Water overflows, damaging siding, foundation, and landscaping. Standing water breeds mosquitoes and ice dams form in winter.

Can you clean gutters from the ground?

Yes, with gutter cleaning attachments for leaf blowers or telescoping wands for garden hoses. Not as thorough as ladder access.

They significantly reduce debris but don't eliminate cleaning entirely. Best for homes with many overhanging trees.

If you're uncomfortable with ladders, have a multi-story home, or have extensive clogs, professional cleaning ($150-$300) is worth the safety.

Outdoor

Outdoor surfaces take a beating from weather, dirt, and use. Here's how to clean your gutters and keep them looking great.

1
Set up safely
Place the ladder on stable ground. Never lean a ladder against gutters. Wear gloves and safety goggles.
2
Remove debris by hand
Scoop out leaves, twigs, and packed debris with a gutter scoop or trowel. Work toward the downspout.
3
Flush with water
Use a garden hose to flush remaining dirt toward the downspout. Check that water flows freely through the downspout.
4
Clear the downspouts
If water backs up, insert the hose into the top of the downspout and flush. For clogs, use a plumber's snake.

TIPClean gutters in late fall after leaves drop and in early spring after seed pods and pollen season.
TIPInstall gutter guards to reduce debris accumulation. They don't eliminate cleaning but reduce frequency significantly.
TIPWhile you're up there, inspect the gutter slope. Water should flow toward downspouts with no ponding.

XLeaning the ladder against the gutter, which can bend and damage the gutter and is unstable.
XIgnoring the downspouts, which are where most clogs actually form.
XCleaning gutters in wet or windy conditions, which makes the ladder and roof slippery and dangerous.

Twice a year: late fall and early spring. More often if you have many trees overhanging the roof.