For many Calgary homeowners, “clean the gutters” is a task that gets added to the to-do list twice a year. But with our city’s unpredictable weather, from heavy leaf fall in autumn to sudden spring melts, knowing precisely when to schedule this crucial maintenance can make all the difference. Timing your gutter cleaning ensures you’re not doing it too early, only to have them fill up again, or too late when blockages have already started causing problems.
Here’s a guide to the ideal gutter cleaning schedule for your Calgary home.
Fall Cleanup: Wait for the Final Leaf Drop
The most critical time of year for gutter cleaning is in the fall. Clogged gutters in winter can lead to destructive ice dams, which can cause significant damage to your roof and eaves. The key is to wait until most of the leaves have fallen from the surrounding trees. If you clean them too early, you’ll likely have to do it again after the next big gust of wind.
By scheduling your gutter cleaning for late autumn, after the trees are bare but before the heavy snow and freezing temperatures set in, you ensure your gutters are clear and ready to handle the winter. This prevents snowmelt from backing up and freezing, protecting your home from costly water damage.
Early Spring: Prepare for the Thaw and April Showers
As winter comes to an end, your gutters have likely accumulated debris like branches, shingle grit, and anything else that has been dislodged by snow and wind. A spring cleaning is essential to prepare your gutter system for the heavy spring runoff and seasonal rainstorms.
The best time for this is in late winter or early spring, once the risk of significant snowfall has passed. This allows you to clear out any lingering winter debris and ensure your downspouts are free of blockages. Properly flowing gutters are crucial for directing the large volumes of water from melting snow and heavy spring rains away from your home’s foundation, preventing potential flooding and water damage.
The Importance of Clear Gutters
Consistently cleaning your gutters is a vital part of home maintenance that protects the integrity of your property. When gutters and downspouts are clogged, they can cause a range of issues, including:
- Roof and foundational damage
- Basement flooding
- Pest infestations
- Damage to your landscaping
Let A Touch Of Glass Inc. Handle the Heights
While it might be tempting to tackle gutter cleaning yourself, it can be a risky and time-consuming job. Working on a ladder, especially with Calgary’s gusty winds, can be dangerous.
At A Touch Of Glass Inc, our experienced and insured team has the proper safety equipment and expertise to do the job safely and efficiently. We ensure your gutters are thoroughly cleaned and ready for whatever the Calgary seasons throw their way.
Ready to get your gutters in top shape? Contact A Touch Of Glass Inc. today for a free, no-obligation estimate and let us take care of the dirty work for you!
