Gutter Cleaning Cost

Spending the day cleaning gutters is no one’s idea of fun, but let them slide, and your home could suffer. Rain gutters play an essential role in protecting your property from damage, and the good news is — the cost of professional cleaning is as little as $1.50–$3 per linear foot. On average, homeowners spend $160 –$300 for the peace of mind that comes with clean, clog-free gutters. It’s simple, cost-effective maintenance.

As an experienced licensed home improvement contractor, I know first hand what it should cost for various levels — from Basic, Better, and of course the best.

This Gutter cleaning cost estimator, will provide you with up to date pricing for your area. Simply enter your zip code and the linear footage, click update and you will see a breakdown on what it should cost to have your gutters cleaned near you.

Gutter Cleaning cost Calculator
Zip Code Linear feet
One-story Two-story Three-story
Supplies $40.00 – $104.00 $200.00 – $424.00 $400.00 – $632.00
Labor Cost $248.00 – $304.00 $320.00 – $360.00 $400.00 – $480.00
Total $288.00 – $408.00 $520.00 – $784.00 $800.00 – $1112.00
Gutter Cleaning – Total Average Cost per Linear foot $2.17 $4.08 $5.97

How Much Does It Cost To Have Gutters Cleaned on Average?

The average labor cost of gutter cleaning is $160 with many paying $240 on average for a single-story family home. However, the cost rises for each additional floor your home has. If you own a 2-story home, expect to pay between $1.90 to $2.50 per linear ft of gutter cleaning.  Get a free gutter cleaning quote from a professional.

Cost To Clean 160′ of Gutters single-story
National Average $240
Low $85
Mid-range $160
High-end $290

How much should you pay to have gutters cleaned?

Spending the day cleaning gutters is no one’s idea of fun, but let them slide, and your home could suffer. Rain gutters play an essential role in protecting your property from damage, and the good news is — the cost of professional cleaning is as little as $1.60–$2.50 per linear foot. On average, homeowners spend $160 –$250 for the peace of mind that comes with clean, clog-free gutters. It’s simple, cost-effective maintenance.

How much does it cost to clean gutters?

Rain is one of nature’s most destructive forces. Runoff from your roof can flood the basement, crack the foundation and rot wood siding. By directing water away from the structure, gutters are your home’s best defense against the damaging effects of moisture. Experts recommend cleaning them at least annually.

The process is simple:

  • Technicians inspect your gutters for defects that could affect the cleaning process.
  • Agreed upon repairs are made as needed.
  • Tarps or buckets are positioned to catch large debris as it’s removed.
  • Gutters are power-washed.
  • Workers rake the area around your home to remove fallen debris.

For 160 linear feet of gutter, professional services range in price between $160–$350 depending on the condition of your gutters and complexity of the job.

Factors that Increase the Cost of Gutter Cleaning

House Height

Gutters on single-story homes are the easiest to clean. Additional levels have longer downspouts that add to the number of linear feet, plus it takes specialty ladders or scaffolds plus two technicians for safety.

Cleaning gutters on an average condition on a single-level 1200 square-foot home runs between $90 – $105. Two-story houses have up to 20% more gutter and prices run from $125 to $150. Each story above two adds another $100 – $140.

Location

The time it takes for technicians to working around trees, flowers and shrubbery adds to the cost of gutter cleaning. If safe spaces aren’t available for ladders, renting and erecting scaffolding may also contribute to a higher price.

Gutter Condition

Most of the cost of gutter cleaning is labor — the more time it takes, the higher the price. Well-maintained gutters require only a quick cleaning, keeping prices on the low end of average. Neglected gutters contain more loose debris and may also harbor moss and caked-on mud that’s tougher to remove. Downspouts clogged with sticks and leaves cost up to an extra $85 to clear.

Gutter Repair

Gutters are vulnerable to the elements and may occasionally need repair. Common problems include:

  • Warped gutters and downspouts
  • Rust holes in metal gutters
  • Cracked vinyl gutters
  • Loose gutter hangars
  • Gutters that have pulled away from home’s fascia

Since these issues impact how effective your gutters are, repairs may be necessary before cleaning. A full-service gutter contractor can take care of both for you. Unless full lengths of gutter require replacement, the cost of minor repairs should add no more than 15% to the cost of cleaning. For an average home, that’s about $20.

Removing and Cleaning Gutter Screens and Accessories

Plastic or metal mesh guards that fit over gutters keep leaves and sticks at bay, but over time, small debris still accumulates. Before gutters are cleaned, guards must be removed, adding to the cost of labor. If fine mesh guards are clogged, they too must be cleaned and reinstalled.

Problems Caused by Clogged Gutters

Water can’t move through clogged gutters, and the overflow can result in costly home repairs, including:

Basement Flooding

Too much water around a home can seep into a basement or crawlspace, causing damage to flooring, stored belongings, and in the worst-case scenario, the structure.

A Cracked Foundation

In cold climates, pools of excess water near your home can freeze, causing the surrounding soil to heave and crack your foundation. Repairs could run thousands.

Slippery Surfaces

Water overflowing from clogged gutters can collect on walkways and create a hazard — especially if it freezes. According to top insurers, the average claim for residential slip-and-fall injuries is $20,000.

A Leaky Roof

When ice forms above a clogged gutter, it lifts low-lying shingles. Known as an ice dam, it forces water into your home and can damage plywood underlayment.

DIY vs. Professional Gutter Cleaning

Cleaning gutters isn’t rocket science, but it requires skill on a ladder and equipment the average homeowner may not have. Removing dry debris from gutters by hand is time-consuming, and the one-time rental fee for a power washer may exceed the entire cost of expert cleaning. Most homeowners agree they’re better off taking the day off and leaving it to the pros.

FAQs

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Depending on your location and climate, once to twice per year is recommended. Gutters surrounded by trees fill with debris faster, and dense shade encourages the growth of moss. Where winter ice and snow are problems, clean gutters are essential for preventing ice dams and roof leaks.

What are the benefits of regular gutter maintenance?

Regularly-maintained gutters prevent costly home repairs — and because they’re cleaner and in better condition when each time they’re cleaned, the cost should be lower.

Do gutter guards reduce the need for cleaning?

Guards keep your gutters clog-free so that water flows away from your home with ease. In most cases, they’ll reduce the need for cleaning, but they won’t eliminate it.

Does homeowner’s insurance pay for water damage caused by clogged gutters?

If you’ve done your part by maintaining your gutters, most insurers will pay. But not keeping gutters clean may be considered neglect and could compromise claims.

Hiring a Gutter Cleaning Company

Before hiring a gutter cleaning professional, consider these tips:

  1. Get at least three estimates.
  2. Choose companies that are licensed, if necessary, and fully insured. You could be responsible for both injuries and the cost of damage to your home if contractors aren’t covered.
  3. Ask for an itemized estimate. Lower bids may not include essential services such as inspection and clean-up.
  4. Consider a contract. Some companies offer a discount for pre-scheduled maintenance.
  5. If your gutters need repair, bundling cleaning and restoration services into one visit can save on travel charges.
  6. Inquire about discounts for doing some of the work yourself. Trimming shrubbery and assuming responsibility for cleaning up fallen debris can save you money.

Final Thoughts

Damage caused by clogged gutters is avoidable. Protecting your home with professional gutter cleaning is an easy and affordable solution.

View More Gutter Prices, Styles & Accessories

  • PVC & Vinyl Gutters
  • Metal & Wood Gutters
  • Leaf Gutter Gaurds

External References:

  • This Old House: How to install gutters with installation costs
  • Estimating Building Costs: for the Residential and Light Commercial Buildings

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