Gutters serve to direct rainwater and melted snow away from your roof.
But if they are clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, they cannot perform
their function. Leaks, damaged walls, and even basement flooding can
result from this. Which is why it’s essential to clean your gutters regularly.
But how frequently should you do that? Let’s discover.
General Rule: At Least Twice a Year
For the majority of Calgary houses, gutters need to be cleaned at least
twice a year in spring and fall. These periods are critical because:
During spring, gutters might be packed with leaves and debris carried
over from winter. During autumn, gutters tend to become clogged by the
falling leaves and branches. Cleaning the gutters during these periods
will keep the water from overflowing and causing harm to your house.
Houses with Many Trees Need More Gutter Cleaning
If your home is wooded with trees such as pine, maple, or oak, you might
need to clean your gutters every 3 months. Trees shed leaves, seeds,
and needles into your gutters, which causes clogs sooner. Cleaning four
times a year, then, might be ideal in spring, summer, fall, and
late fall before snow arrives.
After Heavy Storms or Snow
Calgary weather is anything but predictable. Following a large storm or
snowfall, it’s wise to inspect your gutters. The wind blows debris into
the gutters, and snowmelt freezes to clog them. Cleaning following
rough weather saves your house from leaks and ice dams.
Gutter Cleaning and Home Value
Clean and functioning gutters also make your home look more attractive
and remain in good condition. When you intend to sell your home,
potential buyers pay attention to watermarks or sagging gutters. A
well-maintained property with clean gutters indicates to buyers that you
maintain your home. It may even enhance your home’s resale value
and prevent inspection issues down the road.
Establishing a Gutter Cleaning Schedule
To make things easier, set a regular reminder to clean or check your
gutters. Use your phone calendar or mark it on your home maintenance
checklist. Spring and fall are the must-do times, but if you’re in a leafy
area or had a storm, add an extra check. You can also subscribe to seasonal
gutter cleaning services with professionals such as Straight Path
Construction, so you never fall behind on cleaning and have your
home shielded all year round.
Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning
Even if you happen to forget the schedule, your gutters will exhibit
signs when they need cleaning. Look out for water overflowing on the
sides during rainfall, vegetation accumulating in the gutters, sagging or
pulled-apart gutters, animals or birds nesting, stains on siding
or water buildup close to your foundation.
If you notice these signs, it’s time to clean your gutters immediately.
Why Regular Gutter Cleaning Is Important
Keeping your gutters clean is not an immediate concern, but it’s extremely
crucial. Blocked gutters can lead to roof leaks and rot, mold growth,
basement flooding, damaged siding, and cracks in the foundation.
Gutter cleaning can be done in just a few hours but can save you
thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.
DIY vs. Professional Gutter Cleaning
You can clean your gutters yourself using a ladder, gloves, and a
garden hose. But for taller homes, or if you’re not comfortable climbing
ladders, it’s better to call a professional. Experts like Straight Path
Construction in Calgary can safely clean and inspect your gutters
to make sure everything is working properly.
Final Thought
Gutters must be cleaned at least twice a year in Calgary. You might need
to clean them more often if you have a lot of trees surrounding your
house or following storms. Cleaned gutters save your roof, walls, and
foundation from severe damage. Make it a part of regular home maintenance.
Call to Action
Need help with gutter cleaning in Calgary?
Call Straight Path Construction today to have a free gutter inspection.
We’ll clean your gutters and ensure your home remains safe,
dry, and damage-free.
