Gutter clogging could become a major issue for homeowners, as it may lead to water, foundation, or roof damage and mold growth. Cleaning the gutters three times a year is essential. However, reports show over 700,000 mishaps occur each year from falls while cleaning gutters. So, one might find it safer to leave these tasks to the professionals. Experts typically do a fantastic job, and one can choose services based on one’s budget.

What is included in gutter cleaning?
These are the services generally covered by professional gutter cleaning companies:

Removal of leaves, sticks, and other debris from the gutters and downspouts
Clearing of leftover sediment or dirt with a hose
Checks for blockages
Thorough inspection of the gutters for any damages or leaks
Disposal of all waste material
Recommendations for any additional maintenance that may be necessary

There are some telltale signs that signal a gutter cleaning is due.

Pest infestations
Debris-filler gutters become a playground for pests such as feral cats, snakes, mice, and raccoons, as they have a dark and moist interior. If one notices an increase in the presence of these animals around the home, it may be time for a gutter cleaning.
Mold, mildew, or stains
As gutters gather dust and dirt, their efficiency reduces. The collected debris remains stationary, causing it to rot. This can lead to the proliferation of mold and mildew, which spread quickly around the house.
Leaves
If one notices too many leaves in the gutter, it may be time for a cleaning!
Plant growth
When left to rot for a long time, leaves and other plant debris turn to soil and may begin sprouting new plant growth. This is a big signal to have the gutters cleaned!
Excess moisture
Over time, dirty gutters may also cause leaks in the roof or down the side of the house, signaling a need for cleaning.

How much does gutter cleaning cost?
Pricing for gutter cleaning and installation services can vary greatly by location, size of home, roof pitch, number of gutters/downspouts, and other factors. Most gutter cleaning companies charge by linear feet, with a rate of $1 to $7 per linear foot on average. For a single-story home with 125 linear feet of gutters, professionals may charge anywhere between $125 and $875 for an in-depth cleaning.

Certain factors that may impact the cost of service include:

Height of the home
Three-story homes typically cost $75 to $200 extra, as they tend to require special equipment or extra hands for safe cleaning.
Gutter length and condition
Long gutters generally cost more. Some professionals may also charge extra if downspouts are extremely clogged.
Landscaping
Large bushes and trees that interfere with cleaning can present a safety hazard, adding considerable time to cleaning. As a result, professionals may charge an extra fee for the same.
Slope
The slope of the home may also increase the risks involved in cleaning, adding an extra fee to professional services.
Gutter screens
Many people install gutter screens to keep the gutters free of debris. Removing and replacing these takes a significant amount of time, and thus, they may charge more for these services.
Travel fees
Those who live outside the gutter contractor’s service area may have to pay an additional premium for travel. This is generally negligible in urban areas.

In addition to this, homeowners must also consider the cost of add-ons, such as:

Gutter inspection
Before cleaning the gutters, most professionals will conduct a thorough inspection. Based on the conditions, they may also recommend replacements or repairs. This service may add an additional $50 to $100 to the cleaning rate. In the case of replacements, professionals may charge $4 to $30 per linear foot.
Downspout installation
Downspout installation may also have additional costs associated with it. Most professionals charge around $5 to $20 per linear foot for this service, depending on the material.
Downspout cleaning
Downspout cleaning is a common add-on offered with gutter cleaning and may cost an extra $50 to $100. Since these areas are difficult to access, they can be more expensive to clean.

How does one save money on gutter cleaning?
Employing professionals for periodic tasks such as gutter cleaning can be expensive. Here are steps one can take to reduce money and resources spent on gutter cleaning:

Try to time the gutter cleaning for spring or fall, when companies offer discounts.
Speak to neighbors for referrals or recommendations to find better professional rates.
Research! Speak to at least three local companies to get an estimate and compare prices. A simple browser search with the terms “gutter cleaners nearby,” “gutter cleaning and guards near me,” or “gutter service in my area” can help one find a number of local gutter cleaning services along with their costs.
Ask for discounts for first-time customers.
Install gutter guards to keep dirt and debris out of the gutters, reducing the need for maintenance.