How much does gutter cleaning cost? A homeowner’s quick guide

Gutter cleaning allows water to flow properly and prevents costly issues like foundation cracks and roof leaks. It also reduces the risk of mold growth, wood rot, and landscaping erosion.

But how much does gutter cleaning cost exactly?

Keep reading for a complete breakdown of the cost of gutter cleaning, key factors influencing the price, and the best time to clean house gutters. We'll also share tips to help you save money without compromising quality.

How much does gutter cleaning cost on average?

Homeowners can expect to pay between $120 and $250 for a single-story home. This cost is calculated per linear foot, with contractors charging around $0.95 to $1.25. The total price depends on the size of the house, the gutter cleaner, the length of the gutters, and the location.

The cost for gutter cleaning increases for a two-story home, with prices reaching up to $400 on average. This is due to the additional height, which requires more equipment and time. For a three-story home, the price can go as high as $500 on average.

Factors that affect the cost to clean gutters

Gutter cleaning costs vary significantly depending on several key factors that affect the job's complexity, time required, and labor needed. Here's a breakdown of these primary factors:

Gutter length and type

Gutter cleaning services are usually priced per linear footage, so a more extended gutter will cost more as it requires more time and effort to clean. Additionally, the type of gutters you have can influence the cost and ease of cleaning. 

Seamed gutters are more susceptible to clogs, making cleaning more time-consuming and labor-intensive. This leads to higher costs of $150 to $300. In contrast, continuous gutters don’t clog easily and are generally easier and cheaper to clean, with prices ranging from $115 to $175. Due to the reduced difficulty and labor involved, some contractors may even offer a 10% to 25% discount for cleaning joint-free gutters.

Home height and roof accessibility

Single-story homes are less expensive to clean and require less time because the gutters are easier to reach. In contrast, multi-story homes are more challenging to clean, so their cost can be up to 50% higher. The added height increases the risk to the workers, the time required, and the job's complexity, especially if they need ladders or scaffolding. The cost to clean roof gutters can rise even more by 10% to 15% for homes with steep or complex rooflines. 

Gutter condition and cleaning frequency

If your gutters have been ignored for a long time, they will become heavily clogged. Cleaning will take longer, and the service provider will charge more. In some instances, heavily clogged gutters can increase the cost of cleaning by 10% to 50%. 

As such, you should clean your gutters at least twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. This will prevent them from becoming clogged and neglected and help keep costs lower in the long run.

Additional services that increase the price for gutter cleaning

These additional services also increase the gutter cleaning cost, depending on the extent of the work required and any extra maintenance needed.

Downspout cleaning and installation

Downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation, preventing damage and maintaining proper drainage. They must be cleared of debris, as blocked downspouts can cause water to overflow, damaging the gutters and surrounding area. 

Cleaning downspouts adds an extra $50 to $100. However, if your downspouts are damaged or you’re installing for the first time, you can expect to pay between $5 and $20 per linear foot.

Repairs and inspections

A standard gutter cleaning involves removing debris and ensuring the gutters function properly. However, additional repairs may be necessary if the contractor finds any underlying issues during the cleaning. Common problems include sagging gutters, rust, leaks, or loose fixtures, and repair costs vary between $100 and $250, depending on the extent of the damage.

Gutter guards

Gutter guards help reduce the frequency and average cost of gutter cleaning by up to 50% in the long run. They are designed to prevent debris from entering the gutters, potentially extending the life of your gutters. Depending on the material and type of guard chosen, installing gutter guards costs between $6 and $8 per linear foot.

When is the best time to clean rain gutters?

The best times to clean your gutters are in fall—after the last leaves have fallen, and in early spring—after the last snow has melted. These seasons coincide with the times when gutters are most likely clogged with leaves, twigs, pollen, and other debris. On the other handd, fall and spring are peak seasons, so you may end up paying 10% to 50% more than during off-peak times. 

To save money, schedule gutter cleaning during off-peak seasons when many companies offer discounts or promotions. Also, install heating cables in gutters during winter to prevent ice from forming and ensure proper drainage. 

If you live in wildfire-prone areas, leaving pine needles and other dry debris in your gutter is risky, as they can be a fire hazard. Hence, you need to clean your gutter regularly and install gutter guards to prevent debris buildup and reduce gutter cleaning frequency.

How to save money on gutter cleaning

Here are some practical ways to reduce costs and save money on gutter cleaning.

• Getting multiple quotes: Shop for quotes from different service providers and compare prices and services to find the best deal. Be sure to ask about any discounts or special offers they might have.
• First-time customer deals and bundled services: Many gutter cleaning companies offer discounts for first-time customers. They may also have bundled services that combine gutter cleaning with other home maintenance tasks like pressure washing or roof inspections. Take advantage of these deals to reduce your overall cost.
• Installing guards to reduce frequency: Gutter guards can reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning by preventing debris from accumulating. Although the initial cost of gutter guards (around $6 to $8 per linear foot) may seem high, they can lower your cleaning costs over time, sometimes by up to 50%.
• Asking neighbors for trusted referrals: Neighbors who have had their gutters cleaned recently can recommend reliable, cost-effective contractors to you, so don’t hesitate to ask them.
• Scheduling in off-seasons: Gutter cleaning prices are lower during winter and summer because demand is low. Companies offer discounts, so you can schedule your gutter cleaning during these times to save money.
• DIY - How to clean gutters yourself: If you feel comfortable cleaning your gutters yourself, you'll need a trowel, garden hose, and possibly a gutter scoop. You can also use a leaf blower or shop vac to clear debris. 

However, safety is paramount. Use a stable ladder, wear non-slip shoes, and avoid leaning too far over the sides. If you’re uncomfortable with heights, your home is more than one story, you lack the proper equipment, or your gutters are in a difficult-to-reach location, consider hiring a professional.

Is the cost of gutter cleaning worth it?

The cost to clean house gutters is an investment that offers significant long-term benefits. Gutters are essential for directing rainwater away from your roof and foundation. When they’re clogged with debris, water can overflow and seep into your home's foundation, leading to water damage, cracks, and basement flooding.

Cleaning your house gutters ensures that water flows freely, preventing these costly issues and protecting the integrity of your home. By spending a small amount on regular cleaning, you’re avoiding expensive, unexpected repair bills.