Gutter cleaning is an essential yet often overlooked part of home maintenance, and understanding the costs involved is crucial for property owners. We’re here to shed light on the various factors that affect the pricing of gutter cleaning services, from the size and type of your property to the complexity of the job. We’ll explore these factors and provide average price ranges so you can make informed decisions and maintain your home effectively without breaking the bank.
We'll cover the following topics in this pricing guide:
- Average gutter cleaning costs
- Gutter cleaning cost calculator
- How long does gutter cleaning take?
- How to reduce gutter cleaning costs
- FAQ
- Your gutter cleaning checklist
Average gutter cleaning costs
The average gutter cleaning cost in the UK is typically between £75 and £425. A terraced house may incur lower costs, while a detached property could require more extensive work, increasing the price. Scaffolding, if needed for hard-to-reach areas, will also add to the expense.
Here are some of the average prices according to property type and whether scaffolding is required. Remember, the prices here represent averages, offering a general idea of expected costs. They serve as a guideline, but actual prices may differ due to specifics of the property, regional location and variations, and the scope of the cleaning required.
Prices without scaffolding
| Property Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Terraced | £75 |
| Semi-detached | £100 |
| Detached | £150 |
Prices with scaffolding
| Property Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Terraced | £375 |
| Semi-detached | £400 |
| Detached | £425 |
What is the gutter cleaning cost per hour?
The gutter cleaning cost per hour in the UK from a professional gutter cleaner can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the job's complexity and the expertise of the tradesperson hired. On average, you can expect to pay between £18 and £25 per hour for professional gutter cleaning services or a daily rate between £150 and £300. Unlike many other contractor jobs, no materials cost will be involved as it isn’t a replacement or installation job.
While hiring a gutter cleaning specialist may seem expensive, it has several advantages. Firstly, experts have the necessary experience and equipment to clean your gutters efficiently and safely. They can identify and address issues such as blockages, leaks or damage that may not be obvious to a homeowner. This can prevent more significant and costly problems down the line, such as water damage to your home's foundation or roof.
Plus, specialists are trained to work at heights and follow safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries during cleaning. They can also dispose of gutter debris properly, ensuring it doesn't clog drainage systems or harm the environment.
Additionally, hiring a professional will save you time and effort. Gutter cleaning can be labour intensive and time consuming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process. Specialists can complete the job efficiently, allowing you to focus on other important tasks or enjoy your free time.
If you need help choosing the right tradesperson, have a look at our guttering specialist hiring guide.
Gutter cleaning cost per linear metre
Gutter cleaning services are sometimes charged per linear metre, which can be a component of the total cost. Typically, the cost for gutter cleaning falls within the range of £4 to £5 per metre. Alternatively, the gutter cleaning cost per linear foot would be approximately £1.22 to £1.52.
The price of gutter cleaning is typically not calculated in cost per square foot, because gutters are linear features rather than areas. Gutter cleaning costs are more commonly expressed in terms of linear metres or feet, as you're paying for the length of the gutter that requires cleaning. However, if you wanted to estimate the cost per square foot for gutter cleaning, you would need to consider additional factors such as the height, accessibility and condition of the gutters, which can vary significantly from one property to another. It's often more practical to obtain quotes based on linear measurements for accurate pricing.
Cost of removing guttering
The cost of removing guttering can vary based on factors such as the labour fees, the type of guttering material and the length and complexity of the gutter system. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £18 and £50 for gutter removal. PVC or plastic gutters are generally less expensive to remove compared to metal ones. Additional costs may arise if repairs are needed to the roofline or fascia after removal.
Waste can be disposed of with a skip or through an alternative waste removal service. Waste disposal will likely cost between £50 and £150 depending on the approach or service used, and hiring a skip can cost between £250 to £330.
Gutter cleaning cost calculator
To determine the cost of gutter cleaning, you should assess your property's size and type, considering the gutter material and accessibility. More extensive or complex homes may incur higher expenses. The type of gutters, whether PVC or metal, also impact the price. Metal gutters are less prone to clogging and special tools aren’t required to clean them, making them generally easier to clean.
Accessibility, especially for hard-to-reach gutters, might require additional equipment like scaffolding, further affecting costs. Rates for tradespeople vary by location and expertise, so obtaining quotes from multiple professionals is advisable. Consider any extra services, such as repairs, as they can add to the overall cost. Lastly, the frequency of maintenance also plays a role, with regular cleaning potentially costing less than addressing severe clogs.
How long does gutter cleaning take?
Depending on the complexity of the job, gutter cleaning could take anywhere from two to ten hours. Terraced houses tend to be quicker to clean, while properties that require scaffolding will take longer. Here are some examples of timeframes.
Time to complete without scaffolding
| Property Type | Time to Complete |
|---|---|
| Terraced | Three to six hours |
| Semi-detached | Four to seven hours |
| Detached | Four to seven hours |
Time to complete with scaffolding
| Property Type | Time to Complete |
|---|---|
| Terraced | Five to eight hours |
| Semi-detached | Five to nine hours |
| Detached | Five to nine hours |
How to reduce gutter cleaning costs
By following these practical tips and exploring partial DIY options, you can effectively reduce the expenses associated with gutter maintenance.
- Install gutter guards or screens to prevent debris buildup.
- Regularly inspect gutters for early signs of blockage or damage.
- Address minor issues promptly to avoid expensive repairs.
- Consider partial DIY gutter cleaning if you feel comfortable with it.
- Ensure you have the right equipment and follow safety guidelines carefully.
- Collaborate with neighbours to share the cost of professional services. Many companies offer discounts for multiple homes in the same area.
- Stay proactive in maintenance to prolong gutter lifespan.
FAQ
How can you tell if your gutter needs cleaning?
Recognising when your gutter needs cleaning is essential to prevent potential damage to your home. Look for signs such as overflowing water during rain, sagging or warped gutters and visible debris accumulation. Water stains on the exterior walls or foundation can indicate overflowing or clogged gutters. Additionally, if you notice plants growing in your gutters, it's a clear sign that they need attention. Signs of pest infestation, such as by rodents or bugs, can also signify that your gutter needs cleaning.
Regular inspections, especially throughout autumn and winter, can help you identify these warning signals early, ensuring your gutters remain in optimal condition and protect your home from water-related issues.
Can I clean guttering myself?
Yes, it’s possible to clean guttering yourself, but it's essential to consider your safety and comfort with heights. DIY gutter cleaning involves using a ladder, removing debris by hand or with tools, and flushing the gutters with water.
If you want to clean a gutter yourself, ensure you have proper safety gear, a stable ladder and someone to assist you. You should also consider whether scaffolding will be required.
While a DIY job can save money, professional services may be safer and more efficient, especially for multi-storey homes or extensive gutter systems. The decision depends on your confidence in handling the task and the accessibility of your gutters.
Do I need scaffolding to clean my guttering?
The need for scaffolding to clean your guttering depends on the height and accessibility of your gutters. Generally, if the guttering is three metres or higher from the ground or is otherwise challenging to access, you should hire scaffolding for safety purposes.
For single-storey homes with easily reachable gutters, scaffolding is typically unnecessary. However, multi-storey buildings or gutters located in high, hard-to-reach areas may require scaffolding for safe access. Scaffolding ensures stability and reduces the risk of accidents when working at significant heights. Assess your specific situation, prioritise safety and consider consulting with a professional to determine whether scaffolding is needed for your gutter cleaning project.
Your gutter cleaning checklist
When hiring a gutter cleaning professional, creating a checklist can be helpful to ensure the job is done effectively.
Consider these factors:
- Experience: Look for an experienced contractor who knows the ins and outs of gutter cleaning.
- Previous work: Review any potential contractor’s past projects to understand the quality of their work.
- Client ratings: Check client reviews and ratings to understand customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: While not essential, qualifications and accreditation can be a bonus.
- Practical experience: Practical experience often trumps formal qualifications.
Choosing an experienced and competent professional who can clean and unclog your gutters effectively, will help to ensure your home's maintenance for a long time to come.
Finding an expert guttering specialist is free, easy and quick with MyBuilder. Just post the details of your job on our platform, and any local available, qualified and interested tradespeople can reach out.