Clean Gutters and Flush Downspouts
Category: Exterior ·
Difficulty: Intermediate ·
Time: 3.1h ·
Estimated cost: $60
Tools needed
- Sturdy extension ladder
- Gutter scoop
- 5-gallon bucket with hook
- Garden hose with jet nozzle
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
- Trash bags
Materials needed
- Plastic gutter scoop (1 ea)
- Heavy duty contractor trash bags (1 box)
- Jet hose nozzle (1 ea)
- Gutter cleaning wand attachment (1 ea)
Execution steps
Set up safely
Place ladder on level ground at a 4-to-1 angle (1 ft out for every 4 ft up). Never lean ladder against the gutter itself.
Duration: 15 min
Scoop debris in sections
Hook the bucket on the ladder. Scoop leaves and gunk into the bucket. Move ladder every 4 feet — never reach more than arm's length.
Duration: 1h 30m
Inspect for damage
While the gutter is empty, check for loose hangers, rust holes, and seams that have separated. Note repairs needed for later.
Duration: 15 min
Flush the gutter run
Use the hose to flush each gutter from the high end toward the downspout. Water should flow freely.
Duration: 20 min
Clear the downspout
If water backs up, the downspout is clogged. Disconnect the downspout elbow at the bottom, jet water up from below, or feed a plumber's snake from the top.
Duration: 30 min
Verify drainage and trash
Re-attach downspout. Run hose one more time top to bottom. Bag debris.
Duration: 15 min
Safety first
- NEVER stand on the top two rungs of a ladder — period.
- Wear safety glasses — debris and old nails fly when scooping.
- Watch for wasp nests in downspouts — listen before reaching in.
When to hire a pro
Two-story houses, steep roofs, or anyone uneasy on ladders — hire a gutter service. The fall risk is real.
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