1. When to clean gutters in Chicagoland
Two windows matter: late October–early November (after most leaves drop) and early April (after snow melt reveals what winter left behind). In-between cleanings depend on tree density — if you have mature oaks or maples within 30 ft, add a mid-summer check.
2. Tools that actually work
- Extension ladder rated for your roof height. No step-ladders from the ground for 2-story homes.
- Gutter scoop (plastic, curved) — not a trowel that dents the aluminum.
- Bucket on an S-hook clipped to the ladder.
- Garden hose with a nozzle for the final flush — never pressure washer (it warps seams).
- Work gloves + safety glasses. Decomposed leaves hide nails and wasps.
3. The 30-minute DIY flow (1-story homes)
- Clear the largest debris by hand into the bucket.
- Scoop sediment — work from the downspout outward.
- Flush with the hose. Watch the downspout outlet; if water backs up, the downspout is clogged.
- Clear downspouts by tapping the length, then flushing from the top.
- Inspect for loose hangers, separated seams, or sagging sections.
4. Four signs you need a pro
- Your home is 2 stories or taller — the ladder physics stop being safe.
- You see plants growing out of the gutter (years of organic matter).
- There's a sag or separation — DIY flushing can make it worse.
- You had ice damming last winter — the cleaning needs to pair with a soffit/attic check.
5. What a professional gutter cleaning looks like
At Francis Multi Services, a standard visit includes: hand-scoop + flush of all runs, downspout flush, inspection of hangers and seams, before/after photos, and a written report if we find issues. Pricing by story and sqft — from $150 (1-story standard) to $570 (3-story on a 9,000+ sqft home). See full rate sheet.
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