Gutters Overflowing

Gutters overflowing during rain? Learn causes, DIY cleaning steps, and gutter repair costs ($100–$350).

Typical repair cost: $100–$350 · DIY difficulty: Moderate · About 1–3 hours.

What usually causes it

• Leaf and debris buildup
• Sagging gutters
• Undersized gutters
• Clogged downspouts
• Improper slope

What you need

• Ladder
• Garden hose
• Gloves
• Gutter scoop
• Bucket

How to fix it yourself

1. Set up ladder safely on firm, level ground
2. Wearing gloves, scoop out leaves and debris from gutters
3. Flush gutters with garden hose toward the downspout
4. Check downspouts for clogs — flush from top, if water backs up, use a plumber's snake
5. Check gutter slope — water should flow toward downspouts
6. Tighten any loose gutter hangers or brackets

When to call a pro

For multi-story homes, if gutters are sagging badly, or if you're uncomfortable on ladders — gutter cleaning is a common fall injury.

Get a fixed price from a local pro