Quick answer
In the Pacific Northwest, check gutters in early fall, clean them after leaf drop in late November or early December, inspect after the first big storms and east-wind events, clean again in late spring after conifer pollen and cones fall, and use summer for repairs, guard installation and replacement.
September–October: prepare
- Book your fall cleaning before the rush
- Trim branches touching or hanging directly over the roof
- Check that every downspout has an extension
- Reseal any corners you noticed dripping last winter
November–December: main cleaning
- Clean after most maples and oaks have dropped
- Flush every downspout
- Watch the gutters during the first heavy rain for overflow spots
- Clear storm debris after windstorms
January–February: watch and respond
- Check for sagging after ice or heavy wet debris
- Look for water pooling by the foundation or in the crawlspace
- Schedule a mid-winter cleaning if tall firs overhang the roof
March–June: spring cleaning
- Clean after fir pollen, cones and maple seeds fall, usually May or June
- Treat roof moss so it does not wash in next winter
- Inspect fascia for soft spots behind the gutter
July–August: fix and upgrade
- Best time for repairs, replacement and guard installation in dry weather
- Upsize gutters or add downspouts where you saw overflow
- Regrade soil that slopes toward the house
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important gutter task of the year?
The late-fall cleaning with every downspout flushed, done before the heaviest winter rain.
Should gutters be checked after storms?
Yes. Wind and ice can loosen hangers and fill gutters quickly. A quick look from the ground after big storms catches problems early.
Need a hand?
- Gutter Cleaning: Hand-cleaned gutters, flushed downspouts, roof edge cleared and everything bagged and hauled away.
- Gutter Repair: Leaking seams, sagging runs, loose hangers, bad slope and crushed downspouts fixed in one visit.
- Roof Moss Removal: Gentle moss removal and zinc-based treatment that protects shingles and keeps gutters from refilling.