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. Roofers in our network often clean single-family gutters for under $200 and do a quick fascia/flashing check while they're up there.
Rather have a pro handle it?
We connect you with a vetted local roofer across San Diego County. A real roofer picks up.
More guides
Keep learning.
Basics · 5 min watch
Inspect your roof from the ground
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.