How to Clean Gutters Safely

Your gutters are one of the most overlooked parts of home maintenance—but they play a critical role in protecting your house. By channeling rainwater away from the roof, siding, and foundation, they prevent serious water damage. But when gutters get clogged with leaves, twigs, and dirt, they can overflow and cause leaks, rot, and even structural issues.

The challenge? Gutter cleaning is messy and often dangerous. At JenyClean, we’ve seen many homeowners either put it off or attempt it without the right tools—sometimes leading to accidents or incomplete work. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean gutters properly and, most importantly, safely.

Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important

Ignoring clogged gutters can lead to:

• Roof leaks – water backs up under shingles and seeps inside.
• Foundation cracks – pooling water erodes soil and causes shifting.
• Siding and fascia damage – overflowing gutters stain, warp, or rot exterior materials.
• Basement flooding – when water isn’t directed away, it often ends up seeping below ground.
• Pest infestations – stagnant water in gutters attracts mosquitoes and other insects.

A little maintenance twice a year is far cheaper than repairing water damage later.

How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned?

• Standard homes: Twice a year—spring and fall.
• Homes with lots of trees nearby: Three to four times a year.
• After storms or construction: Check gutters for unexpected blockages.

If you see water spilling over the sides, sagging gutters, or plants growing inside, you’ve already waited too long.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Gutters Safely

1. Prepare Proper Tools and Safety Gear

• Sturdy extension ladder with stabilizers
• Work gloves and protective glasses
• Non-slip shoes
• Bucket or tarp for debris collection
• Gutter scoop or small garden trowel
• Garden hose with a spray nozzle

Pro tip: Never lean the ladder directly against gutters—they can bend or crack.

2. Work Safely with a Ladder

• Always have someone hold the base of the ladder.
• Avoid overreaching—move the ladder instead.
• Never clean gutters in wet, windy, or icy conditions.

3. Remove Debris

• Start near the downspouts.
• Scoop out leaves, mud, and twigs, placing them into your bucket or tarp.
• Work in small sections to stay balanced.

4. Flush Gutters with Water

• Use a hose to rinse each section.
• This helps spot hidden blockages and ensures proper flow.

5. Check and Clear Downspouts

• Spray water directly into the downspout.
• If clogged, tap the sides or use a plumber’s snake.
• For stubborn clogs, a pressure washer attachment may be needed.

6. Inspect for Damage

• Look for loose fasteners, cracks, or rust spots.
• Seal small leaks with gutter sealant.
• Replace broken brackets before the next rainfall.

Tips to Make Gutter Cleaning Easier

• Install gutter guards to minimize future clogs.
• Schedule cleaning at the same time as roof inspections.
• Mark it on your seasonal home maintenance calendar so you never forget.
• For two-story or steep roofs, leave it to the professionals—it’s not worth the risk.

DIY vs Professional Gutter Cleaning

DIY is doable for single-story homes with easy access and minimal buildup. But if your gutters are heavily clogged, hard to reach, or require repair, calling professionals is safer and more effective.

Professional cleaners have:

• Industrial-grade vacuums and pressure tools
• Safety harnesses and proper ladders
• Experience spotting leaks, cracks, and damage early

JenyClean Gutter Cleaning Services

At JenyClean, we take the risk and hassle out of gutter cleaning. Our team safely removes all debris, flushes gutters and downspouts, and checks for hidden issues to keep your system working properly.

Whether it’s seasonal maintenance or an urgent cleanup after a storm, we ensure your gutters are clear, safe, and ready to protect your home. With us, you don’t have to worry about climbing ladders or dealing with messy, time-consuming work—we handle it all.