Like the roof, a gutter system is essential in keeping water away from the property’s interior section and foundation areas. And like the roof, gutters don’t always get the attention they deserve. Out of sight, out of mind, as they say. Or so until something happens.
Experts highly recommend bi-annual gutter cleaning to keep it in tip-top shape. Some homeowners take the do-it-yourself approach, while some prefer to hire professionals for the best value. Regular gutter cleanup can prevent costly repairs and damages at manageable costs.
If you want to know how much gutter cleaning services cost and the factors influencing the price, you’ve come to the right place.
Average gutter cleaning prices
According to a survey, the national price range for professional gutter cleaning services ranges from USD$120 to USD$225 and averages USD$160 for every 200 linear feet. Note that these are only estimates, and the actual gutter cleaning charges will vary from client to client because of the cost considerations below.
Cost factors affecting the gutter cleaning price
You may think cleaning gutters is one of the easiest home chores, which is true to some extent. However, this task has accompanying risks that could expose you to injuries if you don’t have the right equipment and experience. That’s why hiring professional gutter cleaners is still the best option for cleaning and repair.
Several factors must be considered when calculating the cost of cleaning gutters. These include gutter type and length, property size, site conditions, and location, among many others.
1. Gutter length
This aspect primarily dictates how much you will pay for professional gutter cleaning. Most contractors charge the service by linear footage. The bigger the property, the higher the costs.
Gutter clearing can vary from USD$0.70 to USD$2.50 per linear foot, depending on the property’s structure and gutter height. In some instances, cleaners will charge according to the size of your home, charging per square foot. The charge could range from USD$0.40 per square foot for the first story and twice the cost if the gutter is on the second, third or higher level.
2. Building type or house height
As you may have realized, cleaning gutters on the second floor or higher is costlier. That’s because of the accompanying risks and the special equipment needed to do the job well and safely, like specialized ladders, scaffoldings, and other lifts.
Additionally, residential and commercial properties may be charged differently. The latter may require more extensive cleaning than home gutters because of the space and gutter system or structure. As such, those used in single-family homes often demand the lowest gutter cleaning price compared to more complex residential properties, including townhomes, apartments, and duplex units.
3. Gutter type
There are different types of gutter structures and materials, each with pros and cons. For instance, vinyl might be the cheapest, but they’re the most fragile and the likeliest to need repair or replacement.
Conversely, metal gutters require less maintenance and are more resistant to breaking and leakage. Until recently, some properties have been using seamless gutters, which minimize the need for joints and seams. Their structure makes them less prone to dirt and debris accumulation and would require less effort to clean, which cuts professional charges.
4. Site location and accessibility
Livable wages can also impact how much your contractor charges you for roof cleaning. Some states have higher living costs than other jurisdictions, leading to costlier rates.
Gutter accessibility can impact gutter cleaning costs as well. If your property is built on challenging terrain, using a ladder won’t suffice, and the contractor will require special equipment and skills, padding the cleaning price. The same is true for gutters that are hidden and obstructed by objects like trees.
5. Schedule
Gutter cleaning services are seasonal, meaning they have peak and off-peak seasons. As you may have guessed, autumn is the best time to clean, and the demand for these services is at its peak. Prepare to pay more and wait longer for a fall cleaning schedule.
Consider hiring professionals during off-peak season to save costs or get in touch with gutter cleaning companies near you to learn about their discount offers. Businesses often offer promotions for their work during off-peak seasons to maintain a healthy cash flow.
6. Gutter condition
A well-maintained gutter will also require less effort to clear, which can reduce your charges too. In contrast, expect to pay more if you’ve only booked gutter cleaners after suspecting leaks and experiencing overflow and clogging.
When left unattended, the accumulated debris will require more effort to remove the longer they are stuck in the gutters. Even worse, the damage may negatively impact other sections of your home, including the siding, walls, ceiling, and foundation, resulting in costlier home fixes or installations of essential parts, like roof insulation, deck protectors, and capping shingles.
Conclusion
Gutter cleaning may sound simple, but safety risks are involved if you don’t know what you’re doing. It’s best to hire professionals who can do the job right. The discussion above gives an idea of how much you’re likely pay for the service.
Moreover, gutter experts are capable of more than cleaning. They can fix gutter problems once they spot them, providing you with a well-functioning gutter that helps keep your family and property safe.
