Gutter cleaning is critical to preventing roof leaks and other damages. So, we constantly remind our customers to schedule professional gutter cleaning at least twice a year.
Unfortunately, some complain that gutter cleaning is expensive, resorting to DIY cleaning. So, today we want to address the issue – how much should you pay for gutter cleaning for a typical two-story house?
Gutter cleaning cost for a two-story house
The national average cost of professional gutter cleaning for two-story homes ranges from $100 to $325 for 200 linear feet of gutters. This is about $30 to $75 more than cleaning gutters on single-story homes and $50 to $175 lower than three-story houses. The cost per linear foot ranges from $1.25 to $2.50. Alternatively, you may be charged $0.8 per square footage.
What is Gutter Cleaning? What are you Paying for?
Professional gutter cleaning includes removing twigs, leaves, moss, and debris from the gutters and power washing the inside of the gutters.
Many gutter cleaning companies also clean complementary gutters parts, including downspouts and eavestroughs. Always ask for details before signing on the dotted line.
Factors Affecting Gutter Cleaning Costs
Gutter cleaning costs vary so widely because it involves many factors. Although the basic steps are similar, the length of the gutter and the severity of clogging often vary, resulting in different quotes. The type of gutter and gutter attachments also vary.
The following are the eight most important factors to consider and how they impact gutter cleaning costs;
- Size of the home (gutter length): Home size is arguably the most important factor when determining gutter cleaning costs as it directly impacts gutter length. Typically, you’ll pay less for a smaller home and shorter gutter length. Remember, roofing companies measure the gutter length in meters or linear feet.
- The number of stories (the house height): Single-story house gutters are the easiest to clean because of quick access. On the other hand, accessing gutters on two and three-story buildings is much more challenging. Of course, gutter cleaning on higher roofs is also riskier.
- Seamed vs. seamless gutters: Seamed gutters are traditional gutters sold and installed in sections, creating seams where the sections connect. Meanwhile, seamless gutters are not partitioned. Many gutter cleaning companies charge a 10% premium for seamed gutters as they have more areas where debris can pile.
- The presence of gutter accessories: Gutter accessories directly impact cleaning costs. For instance, gutter guards reduce debris accumulation, reducing gutter cleaning frequency. However, removing them during cleaning is extra work that often increases cleaning costs. Similarly, you’ll pay more if the gutters need downspout cleaning.
- The last time to clean the gutter: Your gutters are more likely to be clogged if you can’t recall the last time you cleaned them. Unfortunately, it costs more to clean clogged gutters. Also, many roofing companies offer discounts if you schedule regular gutter cleaning.
- General accessibility: Several factors impact gutter accessibility. These include roof slope, home height, and time of the year. For instance, accessibility is very poor during winter weather. Similarly, steep-sloped roofs are more difficult to access and pose more safety risks, thus attracting higher gutter cleaning costs.
- Travel and labor costs: Service providers consider the scope of work, travel time and costs, and the demand for gutter cleaning services. For example, you’ll pay more for interstate cleaning services. You’ll also pay more if you live in a remote area.
Gutter Cleaning Costs Per Linear Foot
Standard gutter cleaning costs $1 per linear foot on single-story houses and $2 per linear foot for 2-story homes or higher. However, the lowest cost to clean gutters is $0.40, mostly for well-maintained single-story gutters.
The highest cost is $2.15, mainly applicable to poorly maintained gutters on two-story and higher homes.
So, to determine the total cost of cleaning your gutters, measure the length of the gutter in linear feet and multiply the figure by $2. For instance, if your gutter system is 170 feet long, you’ll pay 170 x $2 = $340.
But most gutters are between 150 feet and 200 feet long. So, you can expect to pay $300 to $400 for the project.
Sometimes you may arrive at fraction figures. For example, suppose your gutter system is 150 feet, 8 inches long. In this case, the best advice is to round off the figure to the next (not nearest) whole number.
So, for instance, if the exact figure is 150 feet, 8 inches, round it off to 151 feet. Similarly, if it’s 150 feet, 3 inches, round it off to 151 inches.
Many gutter cleaning companies do the same. However, you’re safe even if they use the exact figure, like 150.67 feet for a 150-foot, 8-inch long gutter system, or round off the figure to the nearest whole number, like 150 feet for a 150-foot, 3-inch gutter system.
Gutter Cleaning Costs Per Meter
The average cost of rain gutter cleaning is $4 to $7 per meter for two-story buildings. However, only a few service providers charge gutter cleaning services per meter, which equals 3.28 linear feet.
Again it’s easy to determine the total cost of the project. First, measure the length of the gutter in meters (a meter equals 100 cm) and include all fractions.
For example, a 200-foot gutter equals 60.96 meters, while a 150-foot gutter equals 45.72 meters. Then multiply the figure by the cost per meter.
For example, a 50-meter gutter system costs 50 x $4-$7 = $200 to $280 to clean. Meanwhile, for a 60-meter gutter system, the gutter cleaning costs range from $240 to $420.
Fractions are even more important here. So, don’t ignore them. For instance, a 50m, 70cm gutter is 50.7m long, while a 50m, 21cm gutter is 50.21 cm. If you must, round it off to the nearest hundredth.
Gutter Cleaning Costs Per Square Footage
A gutter cleaner may also charge service fees “per square footage.” This formula uses the home’s size rather than the length of the gutter to determine the final charges.
For instance, it costs $90 to $225 to clean the gutters on a standard 2,000-square-foot two-story home.
The formula can leave you with a smaller gutter cleaning bill if your home comprises a deck, patio, and other gutter-free spaces.
Unfortunately, it’s dubious given that, like single-story homes, two-story homes have only one roof. Therefore, it makes little sense to charge a 2,000-square-foot two-story home (with a shorter gutter length) at the same rate as a 2,000-square-foot single-story house with a longer gutter system.
Gutter Cleaning Prices Per Hour
- Average rate: $75/hour
- Low-end rate: $25-$40/hour
- High-end rate: $129-$140/hour
Hourly rates are the next most common after “per-linear-foot” charges. So, don’t be surprised if the cleaning company sends you an hourly bill.
Unfortunately, hourly bills have the highest variations. For example, although the average cost to clean gutters in the US is $75/hour, prices in some states are as high as $140/hour.
Consider New Jersey and New York, for instance. Most gutter cleaning companies in New Jersey charge from $75-$115/hour, depending on accessibility and risk factors.
Most companies in New York charge from $125/hour, depending on accessibility, to $250/hour for risky jobs on two-story buildings or higher.
Why is Gutter Cleaning so Expensive?
Gutter cleaning is inexpensive if you schedule a regular cleaning. However, the costs skyrocket if you allow the dirt and grime to cake in and the gutter damages to worsen.
For instance, minor gutter cleaning projects cost as little as $25/hour, translating to $75 to $90 for the whole project. Of course, you can expect to pay a little more for two-story and higher buildings. However, a modest $225 should do the job even in that case.
Problems only start if your gutter is in a poor state due to the lack of proper maintenance. For instance, downspout replacement costs an extra $480 (national average), with vinyl downspouts costing up to $1,000 to install. Yet, you can avoid downspout replacement with proper gutter maintenance.
Similarly, a badly clogged gutter takes more time to clean and restore. Moreover, the service provider may need to patch up sections of the gutter, necessitating new materials and parts. You can avoid the extra costs by ensuring regular gutter maintenance.
Cleaning the gutter doesn’t look expensive when you consider the consequences of not cleaning your gutters. For example, there’s a high risk of roof damage if you don’t clean the gutters.
Moreover, foundation damage and water damage are possible. These damages can cost way more, with standard foundation repairs costing $2,000 to $7,000.
How to Save Money on Gutter Cleaning Services
If you’re worried about the costs, there are a few ways to lower the bill. Consider the following;
- Hunt for discounts: A neighbor who cleaned their gutter may have a referral discount. Similarly, some companies offer discounts for first-time customers. You can save $100+ this way.
- Installing gutter guards: Gutter covers (also known as gutter guards) make cleaning more complex because removing the guards takes extra time. However, it reduces the cleaning frequency from two to one or three to two times a year. Cutting gutter cleaning frequency from three two two times a year reduces annual gutter cleaning costs by $200+.
- Install gutter screens: Gutter screens perform the same function as gutter covers. However, they are different in design. The screen mesh sits over your gutter, keeping out the debris while allowing rainwater to enter the gutters. Moreover, they cost as little as $0.5/foot.
- Ensure regular maintenance: Regular cleaning keeps gutters debris-free and in good shape, resulting in lower cleaning costs. Also, regular maintenance prevents premature damage, eliminating repair and replacement costs.
How Often should you Clean Gutters?
Ideally, you should clean your gutters twice a year, though we recommend cleaning them every three months if you have high-foliage trees in your home, like pine trees.
Other factors to consider are the age of the home/gutter and weather conditions. For example, older homes require frequent roof and gutter inspections and cleaning. Otherwise, minor issues like clogging can easily cause gutter failure and water damage.
Similarly, clean the gutters more frequently during storms, and rainy weather as debris accumulates faster in these conditions. Failure to clean the gutters promptly can cause more serious damage.
DIY Gutter Cleaning vs. Professional Gutter Cleaning Companies
There’s a common debate on whether professional gutter cleaning is worth the cost. The short answer is – yes. However, DIY gutter cleaning can be a wise option under certain circumstances. The following pros and cons should help you make the right decision.
DIY Gutter Cleaning Pros and Cons
The main advantage of DIY gutter cleaning is cost-effectiveness. Since gutter cleaning expenses are mainly labor charges, you can save the entire cost if you do it yourself. Meanwhile, the biggest disadvantage is an injury risk, especially on two, three, or more stories. Other pros and cons include;
Pros
- No scheduling or waiting
- You don’t need complex equipment (only garden hose and ladder)
Cons
- It’s time-consuming
- You may damage the gutter system
Professional Gutter Cleaning Pros and Cons
The main advantage of hiring a professional gutter cleaning service is quality. Trusted gutter cleaning companies do a thorough job, ensuring a cleaner, safer gutter. Meanwhile, the main downside is cost. Although valuable, professional gutter cleaners can be expensive. Other pros and cons of hiring a gutter cleaning company are;
Pros
- It takes less time
- Reduced risk of damages
- Professionals can identify necessary roof repairs
Cons
- Service depends on the availability of the provider
Benefits of Clean Gutters
Regular gutter cleaning is critical for many reasons. The following are just some common benefits;
- Prevent water damage: Clogged gutters increase the risk of water damage. For instance, spillover from rains and storms can damage the walls and foundation, necessitating expensive repairs. Clogging in gutters also increases the risk of basement flooding.
- Prevent pests and birds: Pests and birds love clogged downspouts and gutters. Unfortunately, these pests can cause multiple problems in the home, including health and safety hazards.
- Extend the life of the roof: Clogged gutters put extra weight on the roof, often causing sagging and premature damage. Moreover, the trapped water can trigger rusting in galvanized steel and iron sheet roofs.
- Landscaping and aesthetic benefits: Clean gutters complement your landscaping and increase curb appeal.
Signs you need Gutter Cleaning
Ideally, you should get your gutters cleaned regularly. However, consider cleaning them immediately if you notice the following signs;
- Accumulated debris: You know it’s time to clean the gutters if you can see the accumulated debris from the ground. Remember that excessive debris puts extra weight on the gutter and roof, increasing the risk of damage.
- Plant growth: Occasionally, you may notice plants growing in the gutter. This is another important sign that you should get the gutters cleaned. Otherwise, the plants can attract pests and harbor insects.
- Staining and mildew: Staining and mildew negatively impact curb appeal and may soon attract mold and other microorganisms, which pose various health risks.
- Sagging gutters: Finally, consider immediate gutter cleaning if your gutters are sagging. Otherwise, you’ll soon need expensive repairs.
Gutter Cleaning Cost for 2 Story House FAQs
How High is the Gutter on a Second Story?
The gutters on the second story are about 5.7 meters (18.7 feet) from the ground. The standard height of first-story gutters is 3.3 meters (10.83 feet), while the second story adds about 2.5 meters (8.2 feet). Therefore, you need a taller ladder to get to the gutters on the second floor or higher.
How Long does it Take to Clean Gutters?
The average time to clean gutters on a 2,000-square-foot home is 30-45 minutes for gutter systems on a maintenance program (those professionally cleaned at least twice a year). If the gutters are clean, it takes as little as 30 minutes to finish the job. However, it can take up to an hour if the gutters are filthy.
How do you Clean Gutters that are High Up?
To clean high gutters, such as on second, third, or higher floors, you need a 24-foot extension ladder, leaf blower, and power washer. First, climb the ladder and use the leaf blower to eliminate leaves and loose debris, working your way from one end to the other. Then use the power washer to force out caked debris and stains.
Is it Okay to Lean a Ladder on the Gutter?
No, you should avoid leaning ladders on gutters. First, it’s a major safety hazard. Secondly, you will likely damage the gutters. Instead, lean your ladder against a strong resisting point. Alternatively, use a ladder stabilizer or standoff. This is why hiring a professional is the most sensible solution.
Summary
The average cost to clean gutters on a typical two-story home with 200 linear feet of gutters is $100 to $325, $30 to $75 more than single-story homes.
The exact cost mainly depends on the length of the gutters (in meters or linear feet), accessibility, the presence of gutters accessories (like gutter covers), and where you live.