By Omer Okic, owner of Ultimate Exteriors · 28 years on Des Moines homesOriginally published February 2022 · Updated November 2026
Clean gutters in late fall before the first hard freeze, keep downspouts clear through winter, and never climb an icy ladder. Gutters that keep clogging or icing up may need guards, better drainage or attic fixes.
- Clear leaves before the ground and gutters freeze
- Check seams and downspouts for leaks and blockages
- Safety first: no icy ladders, gloves always
- Repeated ice buildup can point to an ice dam problem
Des Moines winters are hard on gutters. Leaves that didn't get cleaned out in the fall freeze into a solid block, snowmelt has nowhere to go and the weight of ice can pull gutters right off the fascia. A little attention before and during winter goes a long way.
Get the leaves out before the freeze
The best time to clean gutters is late fall, after most leaves have dropped but before the first hard freeze. Wet, rotting leaves clog downspouts, hold water against the fascia and attract pests. Once they freeze, they're much harder to remove.
Check your gutters while you're up there
If you clean your own gutters, take a minute to inspect them:
- Look for holes, cracks and leaky seams
- Make sure every downspout drains freely
- Check that hangers are tight and the gutter isn't sagging
- Note any shingle granules piling up, which can mean an aging or hail-damaged roof
Downspouts that dump water right next to the house can freeze into an ice sheet on walks and driveways. Extensions that carry water away help.
Stay safe during winter gutter work
- Don't climb a ladder on ice or snow, or when the gutters are coated in ice
- Wear slip-resistant shoes and gloves; gutters hide sharp metal and screws
- Have someone hold the ladder
- Don't chip at ice in the gutter; you can damage the gutter and the roof edge
- Never lean a ladder against the gutter itself
If ice keeps building up
Gutters full of ice and big icicles at the eaves every winter usually aren't a gutter problem alone. They often mean heat is escaping into the attic, melting snow that refreezes at the cold roof edge. That's an ice dam, and it can push water under the shingles. Our guide to ice dams in Central Iowa explains causes and fixes.
Consider gutter guards
If you're tired of cleaning gutters, guards cut down on clogs a lot. They won't make gutters maintenance-free, but they keep most leaves out. We install both mesh and perforated guards; see seamless gutters and guards.
Quick answers
When should I clean my gutters in Des Moines?
Late fall, after most leaves fall and before the first hard freeze, plus a spring check. Homes under lots of trees may need it more often.
Is it safe to clean gutters in winter?
Only on a dry, ice-free day with good footing. If the ladder, roof edge or gutters are icy, wait or call a professional.
Gutters that won't stay clear?
Ask about gutter guards and seamless gutters, or get a free estimate.