As fall winds down at the shore, gutters fill quickly with leaves, pine needles, and sand carried by autumn storms. If they aren’t cleared before the heavy rains of late November, clogged gutters can overflow, damage siding, and even cause leaks inside your home.

The big question: should you grab the ladder and clean them yourself, or call in a professional? Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each approach.

DIY Gutter Cleaning

Pros:

• Cost Savings: If you already have the tools, DIY gutter cleaning only costs time.
  
  
• Immediate Action: You can get it done on your own schedule, especially if rain is in the forecast.
  
  
• Closer Inspection: Cleaning yourself gives you the chance to check shingles, flashing, or other roof details up close.
  
  

Cons:

• Safety Risks: Ladders, slippery roofs, and uneven ground make gutter cleaning one of the most common causes of homeowner injuries.
  
  
• Incomplete Job: Without the right tools, clogs deep in downspouts or tight corners often go untouched.
  
  
• Time-Consuming: What seems like an hour-long job often turns into a whole afternoon of hauling ladders and clearing messes.
  
  

Hiring a Professional

Pros:

• Safety: Trained pros have the right ladders, stabilizers, and safety equipment to do the job without risk.
  
  
• Thoroughness: Professionals clear gutters, flush downspouts, and spot small issues (like loose fasteners) that DIY might miss.
  
  
• Convenience: One call and the job is done—no hauling ladders, no debris disposal, no lost weekend.
  
  

Cons:

• Cost: Hiring help is more expensive than DIY.
  
  
• Scheduling: In busy seasons, you may need to book ahead.
  
  

What’s Best for Shore Homeowners?

In Cape May and Atlantic Counties, where fall storms pile up debris quickly, the risks of clogged gutters often outweigh the savings of DIY. If your home is a rental, a second home, or sits vacant for long stretches, professional cleaning ensures gutters are cleared correctly—and on schedule.

How Shore Handyman Can Help

Clogged gutters are more than an annoyance; they’re a risk to your home’s roof, siding, and foundation. Shore Handyman offers safe, thorough gutter cleaning throughout the fall and winter. We’ll handle the ladders, the mess, and the disposal—so your home is protected when the next storm rolls in.

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