Clean Gutters
Why It Matters
Clogged gutters cause water overflow that damages foundations, siding, and landscaping - repairs that cost thousands.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: Ladder, Gutter scoop, Garden hose. Materials required: necessary materials.
- 2
Perform the clean gutters
Remove debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. Safety note: Use a sturdy ladder on level ground.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace. If two-story or higher homes, consider calling a professional.
Tools & Materials
Tools
- Ladder
- Gutter scoop
- Garden hose
Community Tips
Standing on the top two rungs of a ladder while scooping gutters is the leading cause of gutter-cleaning injuries; homeowners should never climb higher than the third rung from the top, as this eliminates the stability needed to safely operate a scoop with one hand while gripping the ladder with the other.
A Craftsman Gutter Cleaning Scoop ($12-18) features a curved design that matches standard gutter profiles, allowing users to extract compacted debris in half the time compared to flat shovels or hand methods that require multiple passes per section.
Flush gutters with a garden hose on low pressure after scooping, then inspect downspouts by running water through them—blockages typically lodge 3-4 feet below the outlet, and clearing them immediately prevents the water damage that occurs when gutters back up during heavy rain. ---