Gutters are crucial in preventing roof leaks and water damage in your home. Since they are often near trees, they can get filled with leaves, twigs, seeds and other debris. It’s not a good idea to allow these materials to sit for too long in your gutters because they can obstruct water flow. Home exterior damage, basement flooding and foundation issues are among the most common consequences of ignoring clogged gutters.
Regular cleaning from a reputable gutter contractor will save you from costly home repairs. Read on to discover how much this service usually costs.
It may seem that cleaning gutters is a simple task, but it is not. For your safety, be sure to leave the job to experienced professionals. They have the appropriate safety gear, equipment and tools to clean your gutters without harming other areas of your home. You can also count on them for advice on how to make your gutter system last longer.
Hiring a gutter cleaning company in the U.S. can cost anywhere from $73.33 to $466.67. The average price for the service is $207.33. However, the cost can increase by up to $100 for additional services such as cleaning downspouts and reinforcing gutters.
Your Home’s Size and Structure
The size and structure of your house will determine the length and width of your gutter system. Your roof’s size and slope can also influence the type of gutters you need. 5-inch gutters are the most common in residential properties. You can also get them in 4- and 6-inch variations. The wider your gutters are, the more debris they can contain. It means they might cost more to maintain.
Experts measure the length of gutters in linear feet. Houses in the U.S. often have 200 linear feet of gutters. If your home has more, you might need to pay more for gutter cleaning.
Gutter Type
There are two types of gutters, which are sectional and seamless. A sectional gutter system features sections connected by brackets and joints. Each section has a seam where debris can settle. On the other hand, seamless gutters lack joints and seams, lowering the risk of debris buildups, clogs and leaks. Expect contractors to charge more for sectional gutters because it takes longer to clean than seamless gutters.
Accessibility
Are there plenty of trees surrounding your home? Workers might find it harder to access your gutters if limbs or branches are towering over them. Anything that can make the task more challenging can raise gutter cleaning prices. It’s the same if the slope of your land makes ladder placement harder.
How many stories does your home have? It can be trickier for professionals to clean gutters on the upper floors of your house. They might need special equipment to perform the job safely and efficiently. Cleaning gutters in single-story American homes typically costs around $1.31 per foot. The cost can be up to $2.73 per foot on upper-story gutters.
Maintenance
You must schedule gutter cleaning and maintenance at least twice a year. Doing so will keep your gutters unobstructed. Routine maintenance can also help maintain your gutters’ efficiency and prolong their lifespan. If you wish to make them easier to care for, consider investing in a quality gutter protection system.
If you don’t maintain your gutters regularly, debris will accumulate in them and eventually cause clogs. Professionals might charge more for neglected gutters because these can take more time and effort to clean.
Extra Services
A conventional gutter cleaning service does not usually include removing debris from downspouts. If you want to have your downspouts cleaned, let your contractor know. The workers might handle the job for you for an additional fee. It’s the same if you need to have sagging gutters fixed or reinforced.
Reduced Upkeep Costs
Does your gutter often get clogged and need constant cleaning? With high-quality gutter covers, you won’t need to have your gutters cleaned as much. They can prevent twigs, branches, leaves and other debris from entering and obstructing your gutters. It means they can save you money on maintenance costs. You can also spend your time doing more productive tasks or enjoyable activities.
Improved Water Flow
When your gutters are full of debris, rainwater won’t be able to flow freely. It can cause water to back up to your roof and overflow to the rest of your home’s exterior. When not addressed, clogged gutters will eventually cause flooding in your basement and damage to your foundation.
A gutter protection system can help prevent water-related problems in your home. It can keep your gutters unobstructed, resulting in better water flow. Gutter guards can reduce the risk of water damage on your property and save you from expensive repairs.
Extending the Lifespan of Gutters
Like other home exterior components, gutters get constant exposure to the elements. Gutter protection can make it less susceptible to clogs and corrosion. Debris-free gutter systems are not as prone to damage and early deterioration. You will save more money in the long run with quality gutter guards since you won’t have to replace your gutters as frequently.
Avoid Pests
Neglected gutters can attract birds, mice, squirrels and other small animals. They can use the organic materials in your gutters to build nests. Standing water in a clogged gutter system can increase the risk of pest infestations. Some insects, like mosquitoes, can carry viruses that can harm your family’s health. You can keep them away with a gutter protection system.
Preserving Curb Appeal
Another thing gutter protection can do is preserve your property’s aesthetic appeal. Water that overflows from clogged gutters can leave unsightly stains on your siding and cause ponding in your landscaping. Gutter protection can ensure your gutter system continues to function well, preserving the beauty of your home.
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