Clean gutters and downspouts

Why It Matters

Clogged gutters overflow against the house, rotting fascia and siding, and dump water at the foundation where it causes leaks and cracks.

Tools

• Ladder
• Gutter scoop
• Garden hose
• Bucket or tarp

How to Do It

1. Set up a ladder at one end of a gutter run, positioning it so you can work along the length safely.
2. Scoop debris from the gutter by hand or with a gutter scoop, working toward the downspout.
3. Drop scooped debris into a bucket or onto a tarp below for cleanup.
4. Flush the gutter with a garden hose, starting at the end farthest from the downspout, to clear remaining debris and check flow.
5. Watch the downspout outlet to confirm water exits freely. If flow is slow or blocked, feed the hose into the top of the downspout and flush until clear.
6. Check where the downspout empties and confirm water drains away from the foundation, not pooling against the house.

Related Tasks

• Inspect foundation and exterior drainage Once a year
• Clean window screens Once a year
• Clean window tracks and weep holes Once a year