Mosquitoes and Clogged Gutters
Updated
Short answer
Clogged gutters hold water for days, which is what mosquitoes need. Cook County's health department lists "keep gutters clean and in good repair" among its tips for preventing West Nile virus.
Where gutters hold water
- Behind a clog at the outlet.
- In low spots where the gutter has lost its slope.
- Under matted seeds and leaves, even after the rain stops.
What to do
- Clean in late spring, ahead of mosquito season.
- Re-pitch sagging runs that hold water ($75 to $200 by HomeGuide).
- Flush after cleaning to confirm water drains completely.
Quick answers
Can mosquitoes breed in gutters?
Yes, wherever water stands. Public health departments include clean gutters in their mosquito prevention tips.
Rather have someone else do it?
Tell us the address, how tall the house is and what you need. A local crew calls back with a price before anything is booked.