When Is the Best Time of Year to Clean My Gutters?

What Is the Best Time of Year to Clean Gutters?

For most homes, the best time of year to clean gutters is late fall (after leaves drop) and
spring (after winter debris and before heavy rain). Here’s 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 seeds can still sneak in or pile up on top.

Clogged gutters in the fall can lead to water backup, ice dams, and even foundation issues during the colder months. Cleaning after the last major leaf drop helps your gutters handle winter storms and snowmelt.

Springtime

Spring is another key time to check your gutters. Winter storms often leave behind small branches, debris, and grit that can build up over time. With heavier rainfall in many regions, clean gutters help keep water moving properly to the downspouts.

Clogged gutters in spring can overflow during storms, leading to water damage around your roofline, siding, and foundation. Cleaning out winter debris helps you get ahead of the rainy season.

Best Months to Clean Gutters

If you want a simple rule of thumb: schedule gutter cleaning once in late fall and once in spring. In many parts of the U.S., that often means:

• Late fall: November (after leaves finish dropping)
• Spring: April (before peak spring rain)

Your exact timing may vary based on tree coverage and local weather patterns, but late fall and spring are the most reliable windows for most homeowners.

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 inside, and debris may also accumulate on top of the guard.

Spring and fall are still the best times to clean or at least inspect these systems to ensure water is flowing freely and nothing is blocking the openings.

How to Tell Your Gutters Need Cleaning

Not sure if 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 red flags that it’s time for a cleaning and possibly a professional inspection.

What Happens If You Never Clean Your Gutters?

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

• Your roof and shingles
• Your 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. Many homeowners’ insurance policies also won’t cover these issues, which makes routine gutter cleaning even more important.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

At a minimum, clean your gutters twice a year: once in spring and again in late fall. Some homeowners in low-debris areas may get away with once a year, but twice yearly helps cover all seasons.

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

How Much Does Gutter Cleaning Cost?

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

• 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: Tools and safety gear can cost as much as a one-time professional service.
• Safety and convenience: Pros are trained to work safely on ladders and roofs.
• Added value: A pro can inspect for leaks, cracks, and early signs of damage.

If you’d rather skip the ladder and save time, hiring a professional is a smart solution, and a local pro can recommend the best time of year to clean gutters for your specific area.