The average cost of professional gutter cleaning is about $162 per appointment, according to LeafFilter, but you could pay anywhere between $80 and $390 depending on your location and your home’s structure. Cleaning your gutters is an essential home maintenance task, but it’s also something homeowners may not want to deal with themselves. Read on to learn what you could pay for professional gutter cleaning services and factors that influence pricing.
Note: The cost data featured in this guide is based on information obtained from companies such as LeafFilter, local gutter contractors, and estimates from Angi and Modernize.
Key Takeaways
- Professional gutter cleaning costs an average of $162 per appointment, with prices ranging from $80–$390, depending on your location and the structure of your home.
- Gutters on two- and three-story homes cost more to clean due to the added height and accessibility, with prices starting around $95 and reaching up to $425.
- Installing gutter guards can reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning by blocking debris such as pine needles, leaves, shingle grit, and other similar materials.
Gutter Cleaning Cost
The national average cost of gutter cleaning is about $162 per appointment when you work with a professional team. However, this average price doesn’t tell the whole story about what you’re likely to pay for service. Depending on factors like your location, the size and structure of your home, and any added services you need, you could pay as little as $75 for gutter cleaning or $300 or more.
Here’s a quick overview of general price ranges for home gutter cleaning:
| Low | Medium | High |
|---|---|---|
| $75–$120 | $130–$190 | $200–$400+ |
What Factors Affect Gutter Cleaning Costs?
In addition to gutter length, numerous secondary factors can affect your gutter cleaning costs. Anything that makes a gutter cleaning job more difficult or lengthy will increase your project’s price. A quick inspection of your gutters to search for leaves and other debris can usually tell you if a cleaning is needed.
Number of Stories in Your Home
The number of stories in your home also plays a role in the price you’ll pay for gutter cleaning. In general, you can expect to pay more for a cleaning if your home has multiple stories. Most professional services charge a higher rate per linear foot to clean gutters located on the second or third story of a house, as special equipment and training are often needed to access these areas. Learn more about gutter cleaning costs by home size below:
| House Size | Cost Range per Linear Foot | Total Gutter Cleaning Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 story | $0.70–$1.30 | $70–$120 |
| 2 stories | $1.25–$2.50 | $95–$200 |
| 3 stories | $1.75–$2.75 | $170–$425 |
Home Size
Larger homes typically have more linear feet of gutters, also called gutter runs, which increases the time and labor required for cleaning. Homes with multiple stories, wraparound porches, or complex rooflines require longer service times due to more challenging access points and additional safety setup. For example, a 2,500-square-foot home will cost more to clean than a 1,200-square-foot single-story house due to longer gutter runs and more time spent on ladders.
Gutter Type
Different gutter types and materials also influence cleaning costs. Open K-style gutters, which have wide openings, are generally easier and faster to clean. In contrast, half-round gutters typically clog more easily and take longer to clear. Custom or seamless gutters may require special care or tools, which can add time and expense to the job. Steel or copper gutters can also raise the cost of cleaning and require extra caution or protection against scratching.
Gutter Condition
Debris builds up over time inside unprotected gutters. This debris will become waterlogged, causing your gutters to hold increased weight. Left unchecked, the gutters can detach from the roof and collapse. Repairing damaged gutters, such as replacing fascia or reattaching gutters to your roof, will increase cleaning costs. Gutters in good condition will cost less to clean.
Location
The cost of labor makes up about 70% of the total price of gutter cleaning, according to LeafFilter, which makes sense when you consider the amount of climbing and raking involved. Your location also plays a role in gutter cleaning pricing because the state you live in largely determines labor rates.
Contractors in states with a higher cost of living, such as California, Connecticut, and New York, often charge more due to higher wages and increased seasonal demand. Some of these areas also may require more frequent gutter maintenance during the fall and winter months due to heavy leaf fall or snow buildup. In contrast, homeowners in lower-cost states such as Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina generally pay less for gutter cleaning. These states have milder weather and lower labor rates, which can reduce both the need for frequent cleanings and the cost of service.
Additional Services and Fees
Depending on the condition of your home’s gutters and the type of company you hire, you could owe additional charges for necessary services and fees, including:
- Downspout Flushing ($75–$150): Flushing ensures downspouts are completely clear of blockages, which can prevent water from backing up and causing roof or foundation damage. Some gutter cleaning services include flushing with the cost of service, while others charge for it as an add-on if needed.
- Roof Debris Removal ($75–$250): Leaves, pine needles, and branches often accumulate on a home’s roof, and can quickly wash back into cleaned gutters if not removed. Removing this debris can also extend the life of the cleaning and prevent future clogs, especially after storms or in heavily wooded areas. Depending on the size of debris and the slope of your roof, gutter cleaning companies can remove debris for an added charge.
- Minor Gutter Repairs ($75–$250): This includes resealing joints, rehanging loose sections, tightening brackets, or patching small holes. Some service providers may allow you to bundle gutter repair services with your cleaning, or will charge for repairs separately depending on the severity and materials needed.
- Gutter Guard Installation ($4,000–$6,000): Gutter guards are protective covers that sit over your gutters to block leaves and debris while still allowing water to flow through. Prices vary widely depending on the type, material, and installation process involved, and may represent a significant upfront investment. However, gutter guards can also greatly reduce the amount of time and money spent on gutter cleaning solutions over time.
Other Cost Factors
The area around your home and how often you clean your gutters can impact your price.
You’ll see higher labor rates and service fees if the area around your roofline is difficult to access. Common accessibility issues include trees blocking your gutters or thick shrubs around the base of your home.
Regular gutter cleaning is key to shaving costs. Gutters that haven’t been cleaned in a while require more attention than gutters that are cleaned frequently. You should have your gutters cleaned twice per year. You’ll only need to clean them once every year or so if you have gutter guards.
Homes built on steep slopes are more difficult and dangerous to work on. This increased risk will result in higher labor rates and service fees.
Autumn is the peak time for gutter cleaning services. High labor demand will increase costs. Scheduling a gutter cleaning after demand slows down may decrease your rate.
The type of debris in your gutters directly affects the length and difficulty of the cleaning process. Dense, compacted material like wet leaves, pine needles, or shingle grit takes more time to remove than dry leaves or light twigs.
How To Save Money on Gutter Cleaning
If you’ve decided to hire a professional to clean and maintain your gutters, here are a few tips to keep costs down:
- Check with friends, family, and neighbors for referrals to local gutter companies with low costs.
- Consider annual contracts for gutter cleaning. Planning for the expense now might save you money in the long run.
- Install gutter guards to keep out debris that can clog your gutters and lead to more expensive cleaning and repairs.
- Look for coupons or seasonal promotions online.
- Look for discounts for seniors, veterans, teachers, or first responders on company websites.
- Shop for at least three free cost estimates from gutter cleaning companies and compare to find the lowest price.
- Undertake regular gutter maintenance to keep them in good condition and lower costs.
Why Is Gutter Cleaning Worth It?
Keeping your gutters clean can help protect your home from water damage. When gutters clog, water can overflow and seep into your roof, walls or foundation—leading to issues like wood rot, mold, and even severe structural damage. While it may not seem like the most crucial home maintenance task, cleaning your gutters on a schedule that works with your local climate can help you avoid costly damage in the long run.
Michael Feazel, the CEO of Roof Maxx, elaborates on these risks:
“When gutters become blocked without allowing proper flow, water will overflow and seep into the home’s structure, which will of course cause wood rot [and] mold growth and even compromise the foundation,” he said.
If you have trouble keeping up with your gutter cleaning schedule, we recommend considering professional services. Depending on your area and home construction, you could pay as little as $75 for a cleaning appointment that saves you hours of time spent on a ladder. No matter if you opt for professional help or you go the do-it-yourself (DIY) route, it’s important to establish gutter cleaning as a regular part of your property maintenance.
Why is it important to keep your gutters clean?
Signs You Need To Clean Your Gutters
Recognizing when your gutters need cleaning can help prevent costly structural damage and service calls. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:
- Overflowing water during rainstorms: If you see water spilling over the sides, it likely means the gutters are clogged and can’t drain properly.
- Sagging or separated gutters: The weight of debris and trapped water can cause gutters to pull away from the fascia or sag.
- Plants or weeds growing from the gutters: Visible vegetation is a clear indication that dirt and organic material have accumulated inside your gutters.
- Pest activity near the roofline: Birds, rodents, and insects often nest in clogged gutters filled with leaves and standing water.
- Basement leaks or foundation cracks: Poor drainage from clogged gutters can cause water to pool around your foundation, leading to structural damage.
- Ice dams in winter: In colder regions, blocked gutters prevent snowmelt from draining. This can lead to ice dams that force water under your shingles and into your home.
If you’re seeing these signs frequently, you may start considering a more permanent solution, such as gutter guards.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It?
Gutter guards can prove a worthwhile investment if you need a long-term solution to clogged gutters. These systems create a protective barrier that allows rainwater to pass through while blocking leaves, twigs, and other debris. As a result, guards reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning and help maintain a safer, cleaner home exterior.
We surveyed 1,000 gutter guard owners in 2025 to learn about their experiences, cleaning routines, and how effectively their systems block debris.
Before installation, only 10% of respondents reported never cleaning their gutters, while 74% had to clean them at least once a year. After installing guards, 44% reported that they never needed to clean their gutters again, and another 38% said they only cleaned them once a year.
The performance results were equally positive. More than 93% of surveyed homeowners reported being satisfied with the overall performance of their gutter guards, and 94% were satisfied with their ability to block debris specifically. These high satisfaction rates suggest that most gutter guards meet homeowners’ expectations, especially when professionally installed.
We recommend LeafFilter as the best gutter guards due to their effective filtering of various types of debris. In our hands-on testing, LeafFilter’s 270-micron micro-mesh screen blocked 90% of debris, including fine materials like pine needles and shingle grit.
While professional gutter guard installation can cost thousands of dollars, this upfront expense often pays off in reduced cleaning needs—especially in areas with dense tree cover or high local labor costs. If you’re looking for a more budget-conscious option, do-it-yourself (DIY) gutter guards are widely available. However, keep in mind that professionally installed systems typically provide better long-term performance and protection.
DIY vs. Professional Gutter Cleaning
The method of cleaning your gutters depends on your budget, time, comfort with ladders, and the type of home you own. DIY gutter cleaning is typically the cheaper route, but it can become time-consuming and physically demanding. It’s best suited for homeowners on a tight budget, those who are comfortable with tools and heights, and owners of single-story homes with easy access to the roofline.
On the other hand, hiring a professional contractor is ideal if you live in a multi-story home, have mobility concerns, or simply prefer a hands-off approach. In addition to efficiency, professional cleaners offer a level of safety and thoroughness that’s hard to match on your own.
“Hiring a professional gutter cleaner saves time and reduces safety risks, as working on a ladder can be dangerous for homeowners,” says Feazel. “Professionals have the right tools and experience to thoroughly clear debris and check for hidden issues.”
Professional Gutter Cleaning
Pros
- Trained and equipped to work safely at heights, which reduces homeowner risk
- Saves homeowners the time it would take to gather supplies, climb up and down ladders, and rake gunk out of your gutters
- Cleans gutters more completely, flushes downspouts, and checks for blockages or drainage issues
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than cleaning gutters yourself
- Service quality will vary by the provider and requires letting strangers onto your property
- Appointments for gutter cleaning services can book up fast, especially if you live in a heavily wooded area
DIY Gutter Cleaning
Pros
- Eliminates labor costs and creates a more budget-friendly option
- Gives you a close-up look at your roof, gutters and fascia, which can help you spot minor issues before they become bigger problems
- Offers more control over service timing since you can clean your gutters on your own schedule
Cons
- Can become time-consuming and physically demanding, often taking two hours or more
- Presents a safety risk, especially with multi-story homes or uneven ground
- Homeowners may not catch hidden drainage or structural issues that a professional would spot
Expert Insights and Tips
What are the pros and cons of hiring a professional gutter cleaner compared to DIY cleaning?
What is the importance of gutters?
What services should homeowners consider when looking for a gutter company, and what should they watch out for?
FAQs About Gutter Cleaning
How often do you need to clean your gutters?
Gutters need to be cleaned at least twice per year, while gutter systems with gutter guards installed only need to be cleaned once a year or so.
Are gutter guards worth it?
Gutter guards are worth it for homeowners who want to make gutter cleaning easier and less frequent. Gutter guards may not be worth it for homeowners who live in arid climates or who don’t receive much rainfall or debris around their homes.
What is the average cost to clean gutters per linear foot?
The average cost to clean gutters is $0.95–$2.25 per linear foot.
Can clogged gutters cause damage to my home?
Yes, clogged gutters can cause damage to your home. Clogs in your gutters result in overflows and water damage that can hurt your home’s foundation, soil, shingles, fascia, and other structures.
How long does professional gutter cleaning take?
Professional gutter cleaning usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour depending on the size of your property. If your home is more than 5,000 square feet in size, expect gutter cleaning to take between 2–3 hours.
