It is safe and relatively cheaper to budget an amount for gutter cleaning than face the consequence of a clogged gutter that might result in water damage.
Gutters are most times forgotten and not regularly maintained, especially when they work well to channel excess water away.
However, gutters are prone to collecting debris which accumulates to form a clog. You can regularly clean your gutters using gutter cleaning services to save you cost and prevent larger damages in the future.
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Factors in Calculating Gutter Cleaning Cost
A lot of factors influence the price you pay for a gutter cleaning service. Although, on the surface, gutter cleaning looks easy a lot has to go into the plan to make it work.
Factors that your cleaning service agency uses to determine cost includes the gutter length, depth, and condition, the house length, its slope, risk and accessibility level, location, and travel time.
Gutter Length and Condition
One very important consideration when calculating the cost for gutter cleaning is the length of the gutter. Houses come in sizes and types, the gutters also.
Most gutter pros calculate the length by the foot and have standard fees for each foot. The longer a gutter, the more it would cost to clean.
On the other hand, a gutter’s condition can be mild, moderate, and extremely clogged and dirty.
A mildly clean gutter requires little work unlike the clogged and extremely dirty. By instinct, the latter will cost more than the former.
House Height
Single-story houses have easier drainage systems and gutters that are easy to reach and clean and hence would be cheaper when compared to cleaning 2 or 3 stories.
Houses with heights require special equipment and gutter cleaners that reach the desired height; this is why they will cost more to clean.
Labor, Travel, and Demand
Since you are employing the help of gutter cleaning services, there is a need to pay for labor. Labor is also a significant part of the cost of gutter cleaning services and it varies from one company to another.
Sometimes, there is a need for a company to travel to the location of the client if not within the company’s area. Expect to be charged for travels, if you ask a gutter cleaning service not near you for help with your gutter cleaning.
Location
Where you live can also have effects on the cost of gutter cleaning. Certain urban areas with a higher cost of living will affect the total price of gutter cleaning.
The level of demand in your area/location also affects the pricing. High demand and low supply of gutter cleaning services will drive the price high.
Risk and Accessibility
Usually, jobs with a high-risk level come with additional costs. Houses that are multistory, or have steeply pitched rooflines with difficult-to-access gutters have increased risk factors and consequently a price increase.
Gutter Accessories and Extras
Aside from generally cleaning the gutters, gutter cleaners are trained to check and inspect the gutters to ensure each part is functioning well. If there is a need for the replacement of accessories such as guards, fascia, or caps.
The Average Cost for Gutter Cleaning
Having seen factors that affect pricing, expect to pay between $120 and $300. One foot usually costs $1 which is doubled for multistory buildings. The average cost for a single-story house is $155 while a multi-story with increased risk factors and accessibility may cost up to $300.
Signs You Need Gutter Cleaning
Signs that gutters need cleaning can be quite obvious but also subtle when much attention is not given to it. A few signs are:
Damaged Walls
Damaged walls are evident when the gutters have been clogged for too long. A blocked gutter can damage both interior and exterior walls because the stagnant water has weakened the walls over time.
An Excessive Amount of Leaves and Debris
Leaves and debris are not strange to the gutter. However, when you notice an excessive deposit of leaves and debris, there is a need for cleaning. It is only a matter of time before this debris and leaves stick together in water to form a clog.
Pests
Insects and pests love moist places; with most insects breeding well in stagnant water. You do not want a house infested with pests and insects, hence you should clean your gutters when there is a slight indication of pests around.
When insects and rodents lurk around gutters, the gutter likely needs cleaning. A pile of leaves and debris in gutters can become home to pests that can attract predators such as snakes.
Plant Growth
A gutter that is abandoned and left unclean might even begin to breed plants since it has water, nutrients from the fallen leaves and debris, and sunlight for proper photosynthesis – what more can a plant ask for?
Unfortunately, gutters are not for growing plants, even though that idea is fascinating. When you notice plants growing in the gutters, be quick to seek cleaning help because the root of the plant can, over time, damage the gutters.
Sagging
Weight of excessive debris, snow, leaves, or improper installation may cause gutter sagging.
Whatever might be the cause, gutter sagging is not a good sign and your gutters require the attention of gutter cleaning pros who might just clean it for debris, repair, or replace essential components.
Staining and Mildews
The easiest sign to note when your gutter needs cleaning is to check for stains and mildew on the walls. Gutters that have been clogged get exposed when leaks make stain markings on the walls, other times, mildew and mold grow and spread quickly.
Time Elapsed Since the Last Cleaning
The last sign to know if your gutters need cleaning is no sign at all. If you cannot recall the last time you cleaned your gutters but have not noticed any damage, then debris is piling up and you should get rid of them before notable damage is done.
Conclusion
You do not have to break the bank to clean your gutters. Your gutters will last longer and portray your home’s value for cleanliness when properly taken care of. Book a gutter cleaning service today and save yourself the stress tomorrow.
