What causes tiger striping
Tiger striping is the term for dark vertical streaks on the outside of gutters. It happens when roof runoff carrying shingle granules, algae, pollen, and dirt dries on the face of the gutter, leaving a stripe each time it overflows or runs down the edge. Over the years it builds into a dark, stubborn layer that a rinse cannot remove. Fascia boards, soffits, and downspouts collect the same grime plus spider webs and wasp nests.
What we do and what we do not
We clean and brighten the exterior of the gutters and the surfaces around them: the gutter faces, end caps, fascia, soffits, and downspouts. This is exterior cleaning only. We do not scoop debris out of the inside of gutters or perform repairs. If your gutters are clogged, we can point out where you may need that service.
Gutter exterior cleaning is best paired with a roof soft wash and a house wash, since runoff from a streaked roof is the main cause of tiger striping. Cleaning the roof first helps the gutters stay clean longer.
Why it matters beyond looks
The roofline is the frame of your house. Clean white or tan gutters and fascia sharpen the whole exterior, and removing the film helps the finish last longer. When we clean, we also spot loose or sagging sections and failed seams, and we tell you so you can have them fixed before they cause water damage.
What this removes
- Tiger striping
- Oxidation and chalky film
- Algae and mildew on fascia
- Spider webs and wasp nests
- Dirt on downspouts
- Bird droppings
Why it is worth doing
- Sharper roofline and brighter exterior.
- Removes grime that can degrade the finish.
- Quick add-on that makes a big visual difference.
- We flag issues you may want repaired.
Our gutter exterior process
- AssessWe check how heavily the gutters are striped and what material they are made of.
- ApplyA cleaning solution designed to break down the stripes and oxidation is applied.
- AgitateStubborn stripes may be agitated by hand with soft tools.
- RinseGutters, fascia, and downspouts are rinsed clean.
- NoteWe point out loose sections, sagging runs, or leaks we see.
Signs it is time
- Dark vertical stripes run down the face of your gutters.
- Gutters look dull or chalky.
- You are washing the house or roof and want the roofline to match.
- You are listing or repainting the home.
Make it automatic with a care plan
Included in the Complete Home and Total Exterior Care plans. Plans start at $49 per month and include priority scheduling and member discounts on every other service.
Compare Care PlansFrequently asked questions
Do you clean the inside of the gutters?
We focus on gutter exteriors, fascia, and downspouts. We do not do interior debris clearing, but we will point out if your gutters need it.
Will the stripes come back?
They can, especially if the roof is dirty. Soft washing the roof first helps prevent them from returning quickly.
Can you clean all gutter types?
Yes. We clean aluminum, vinyl, steel, and copper with appropriate methods.
Is it included in a plan?
Gutter exterior cleaning is included in the Complete Home and Total Exterior Care plans.
