Clean your gutters safely
Clogged gutters cause more roof leaks than almost anything else.
What you'll learn
- How overflow water finds its way under your shingles
- Ladder safety — never solo, always level, always stable
- Why scooping beats blowing leaves (downspout clogs)
- The flush test that confirms your downspouts are clear
Step by step
- Use a stable extension ladder on level ground with a spotter.
- Wear safety glasses and work gloves. Bucket hooks to the ladder.
- Scoop debris by hand (skip the leaf blower — pushes debris into downspouts).
- Flush with a garden hose. Water should flow freely from every downspout.
- If water pools anywhere, the gutter has a pitch problem or the downspout is clogged.
Safety note
Two-story home or uncomfortable on a ladder? Call. We clean most single-family gutters for under $200 and always do a quick fascia/flashing check while we're up.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Same-day roofing service across San Diego County. A real roofer picks up.
More guides
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Basics · 5 min watch
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You can catch 80% of roof problems from the sidewalk with a pair of binoculars.
Troubleshooting · 4 min watch
Spot storm damage after a Pacific storm
After any storm over 40 mph, your roof deserves a 10-minute check.
Maintenance · 5 min watch
Check your attic ventilation
Bad attic ventilation cooks your shingles from underneath and drives up your cooling bill.