When Is the Best Month to Clean My Gutters?

Best Month for Gutter Cleaning

Keeping your gutters clean isn’t just about curb appeal. It’s essential for protecting your home. Millions of homes across the U.S. have gutter systems, and when they’re working properly, they channel rainwater away from your foundation, siding, roof, and landscaping. Regular gutter cleaning helps prevent water damage, mold growth, sagging gutters, and costly repairs. Even if your home has gutter guards, debris can still collect, especially after fall and winter storms. Knowing the best month to clean your gutters can help you avoid major headaches down the road.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Clean Gutters?

Before we get to the best month to clean your gutters, let’s discuss the best times of year and why.

Late Autumn

Once the autumn leaves have fallen, it’s prime time to clean your gutters. Even if your gutters have screens or guards, smaller debris like twigs, pine needles, and maple seeds can still sneak in or pile up on top.

Clogged gutters in the fall can lead to water backup, ice dams, and even foundational issues during the colder months. By cleaning your gutters after the last of the leaves fall, you’ll clear the way for winter storms and snowmelt.

Springtime

Spring is another important time to check your gutters. Winter storms often leave behind small branches, debris, and grit that can build up over time. With spring’s heavy rainfall in many regions, clean gutters are crucial for keeping water flowing properly to downspouts.

Clogged gutters in the spring can cause overflowing during storms, leading to water damage around your roofline, siding, and foundation. Get ahead of the rainy season by cleaning out that winter debris.

What If I Have Gutter Guards?

Even homes with gutter guards need occasional cleaning. While guards reduce the amount of debris, they don’t eliminate it entirely. Small particles can still collect, and in some cases, debris may accumulate on top of the guard.

Spring and fall remain the best times to clean or check these systems to ensure water is flowing freely and no buildup is blocking the openings.

So, when is the best month to clean gutters?

• Autumn: November
• Spring: April

How to Tell Your Gutters Need Cleaning

Not sure it’s time to clean your gutters? Watch for these common signs:

• Gutters are sagging or pulling away from the roofline
• Water visibly overflows during rainfall
• You see plant growth, debris, or nests in the gutters
• Birds or squirrels hang out near the gutters
• Stains, water damage, or mold on your foundation or siding
• Your roof is leaking or shows signs of water intrusion

These are all red flags that it’s time for a good cleaning, and possibly a professional inspection.

What Happens If You Never Clean Your Gutters?

Neglecting your gutters can lead to a range of costly problems. Beyond clogs and overflows, debris buildup can damage:

• Your roof and shingles
• The home’s foundation and structural integrity
• Landscaping and garden beds
• Driveways and sidewalks
• Siding and trim

Worse yet, many home and gutter warranties don’t cover damage caused by a lack of maintenance. Most homeowners insurance policies won’t cover these issues either, which makes regular cleaning even more important.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

At a minimum, you should clean your gutters twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. Some homeowners in low-debris areas may get away with once a year, but the twice-a-year rule ensures you’re covered through all seasons.

If you have lots of trees near your home or live in a storm-prone region, more frequent cleanings might be necessary.

How Much Does Gutter Cleaning Cost?

Professional gutter cleaning typically costs between $128 and $320 in the U.S., depending on factors like:

• Your location
• Size of your home
• Roof slope or complexity
• Type and length of your gutters

For a full pricing breakdown, check out our gutter cleaning cost guide.

Can You Clean Your Gutters Yourself?

Yes, DIY gutter cleaning is possible, but there are benefits to hiring a pro:

• Cost-Efficiency: By the time you buy tools and safety gear, you might spend as much as, or more than, a professional service.
• Safety and Convenience: Professionals are trained to work on ladders and roofs safely.
• Added Value: A pro can also inspect your gutters and flag any early signs of leaks, cracks, or other issues.

If you’d rather skip the ladder and save time, bringing in a professional is a smart and stress-free solution. Additionally, gutter pros will know the best month to clean gutters for your location.