Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters cause foundation damage, ice dams, and rotted fascia. Fall and late spring are the two key cleanings.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 2–3 hrs for average house Cost: $0–$30
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Ladder safetyAlways have someone home when you're on a ladder. Never reach more than an arm's length to either side — move the ladder instead. Skip this DIY entirely on two-story houses if you're uncomfortable.

Tools

Materials

  • No materials needed.
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Steps

  1. 1

    Set up safely

    Place the ladder on level ground. Use a stabilizer to keep it off the gutters themselves. 4-to-1 angle rule: 4 feet up for every 1 foot out from the wall.

  2. 2

    Scoop out debris

    Hook a bucket to the ladder. Hand-scoop leaves and gunk into it. Move the ladder every 4 feet or so.

  3. 3

    Flush with the hose

    Run the hose into the gutter from the high end and watch water flow toward downspouts.

  4. 4

    Clear downspouts

    If water backs up, the downspout is clogged. Run a plumber's snake down from the top, or detach the elbow at the bottom and clear from below.

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