Gutter Cleaning & Repair: Protect Your Roof and Foundation

Keeping your gutters clean isn’t just about curb appeal. It’s about shielding your roof, walls, and even your home’s foundation from costly damage. Picture rainwater pouring off your roof like a waterfall—beautiful in nature, but a nightmare for your property.

At STL Roofing, we’ve seen how fast clogged gutters turn a small problem into an emergency roofing call. Regular gutter cleaning and timely repairs make all the difference for both residential and commercial buildings.

Why Gutters Matter 🌧️

Gutters are like your roof’s rain boots. They guide water safely away from your house, keeping your foundation dry and your roof free of leaks. When they’re blocked with leaves or debris, trouble starts:

• Water backs up under shingles, causing rot or leaks.
• Overflow spills down walls, staining siding and soaking insulation.
• Pooling water near foundations leads to cracks, shifting, or even basement flooding.
• Ice dams form in winter, prying up shingles and letting water sneak inside.

According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), regular gutter maintenance is key to roof longevity and protecting the structure of your home.

How to Clean Gutters Safely

Before you grab a ladder and bucket, pause. Gutter cleaning can be risky—falls from ladders are a leading cause of home injuries (CDC). Here’s how to keep it safe:

Safety Checklist

• Use a sturdy, extendable ladder—always place it on level ground.
• Wear gloves to guard against sharp debris or hidden nails.
• Protective eyewear shields you from flying dirt.
• If possible, have a second person nearby for extra stability.
• Never overreach—move the ladder often.
• Don’t attempt steep or multi-story roofs. Let professionals handle those.

Tools You’ll Need

• Ladder (with stabilizer if possible)
• Gutter scoop or small garden trowel
• Bucket or tarp to collect debris
• Hose with spray nozzle
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Gutter Cleaning

1. Set up your ladder securely at one end of the gutter run.
2. Scoop out leaves, dirt, and debris—start near the downspout.
3. Drop debris into a bucket attached to the ladder or onto a tarp below.
4. Flush the gutter with a hose to clear out fine dirt and check water flow.
5. Inspect joints and seams for signs of leaks while you’re up there.
6. Make sure downspouts are clear—flush with water and remove any clogs.

Take your time. Rushing leads to accidents.

Repairing Leaks and Joints

If you spot dripping seams, rusted spots, or water escaping where it shouldn’t, it’s time for repair. Here’s what to look for and basic fixes:

Signs Your Gutters Need Repair

• Sagging or pulling away from the roofline
• Visible cracks or splits
• Peeling paint or rust spots
• Water stains on siding
• Pools of water at the base of your home

Simple Repairs

• Leaky joints: Apply gutter sealant inside the seams once dry.
• Loose hangers: Refasten with new screws or brackets.
• Small holes: Patch with roofing cement or pre-fab gutter patches.
• Disconnected downspouts: Secure with new screws or a connector.

If the damage is widespread, or gutters are old and brittle, repairs may not be enough.

When to Replace Gutters

No gutter lasts forever. Most aluminum and steel gutters last 20 years or more, but only with regular care. Consider replacement if:

• Sections are badly rusted or bent
• Joints no longer hold, even after resealing
• Multiple leaks are present
• Gutters have pulled away and won’t stay attached
• Downspouts are crushed, missing, or constantly clog

Upgrading to new seamless gutters or adding gutter guards can prevent future headaches and reduce maintenance. STL Roofing offers professional gutter installation and replacement to keep your system working like new.

STL Roofing’s Gutter Services

Whether you’re dealing with an overflowing gutter in a midnight storm or need a completely new system, STL Roofing is here. We handle:

• Emergency gutter repairs—fast response 24/7
• Routine gutter cleaning for homes and businesses
• Seamless gutter installation
• Downspout repair and replacement
• Gutter guard installation for reduced maintenance

Our crews arrive ready for any situation, from a quick cleaning to emergency roofing and gutter repairs after a major storm.

Costs & Time Factors

Gutter cleaning is usually affordable—most homes can be done in an hour or two. Larger buildings or those with complex rooflines may take longer. Repairs depend on the extent of damage and accessibility.

• DIY cleaning: Only costs your time and basic equipment.
• Professional cleaning: Typically ranges from $100–$300, depending on size and story count.
• Repairs: Minor fixes are quick, but replacing large sections or downspouts will take more time and materials.

Regular cleaning can prevent expensive emergencies and roof repair near you.

When It’s an Emergency

Some gutter problems can’t wait:

• Water pouring over gutters during heavy rain
• Detached, hanging, or collapsed gutter sections
• Severe leaks causing interior water damage
• Blocked downspouts during storms

If you notice these, call STL Roofing immediately. Quick action can prevent thousands in roof, wall, or foundation repairs. We’re always ready for emergency roofing and gutter services.

DIY or Call a Pro?

Cleaning single-story gutters is doable for many homeowners, but if you have:

• Multi-story buildings
• Steep or slippery roofs
• Persistent leaks
• Unusual gutter systems

…it’s safer and often more effective to bring in the pros. Licensed roofing contractors know local building codes and use specialized equipment to work safely at heights (see OSHA guidelines for ladder safety).

Prevention & Maintenance

A little investment in regular maintenance saves big headaches later. Here’s how to protect your roof and foundation:

• Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall recommended by the National Association of Home Builders)
• Trim trees overhanging your roof
• Inspect after every major storm
• Add gutter guards to reduce clogs
• Schedule annual professional inspections

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🏠

In regions with heavy fall leaf drop, more frequent cleaning may be needed. In winter, check for ice dams. After storms, look for clogged downspouts and overflows. STL Roofing tailors maintenance to your local weather and building type—residential or commercial.

FAQ

How often should gutters be cleaned?
Twice a year is standard, but more often if you have lots of trees or frequent storms.

What’s the best time of year for gutter maintenance?
Late spring and late fall, before and after the leaves drop and before freezing temperatures.

Can clogged gutters cause roof leaks?
Absolutely. Blocked gutters trap water, which can seep under shingles and into your home.

What if I see plants growing in my gutters?
That’s a clear sign of long-term neglect. You’ll need a thorough cleaning—and possibly repairs.

Ready to protect your home or business from gutter disasters?
Call STL Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  888-887-3097 .