With changing weather conditions, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, gutters quickly accumulate leaves, branches, dust, and other debris.
Regular maintenance is essential to prevent overflow, sagging gutters, and water infiltration that can cause significant damage to your building.
Walking through our streets, it’s not uncommon to see buildings where plants are literally growing inside the gutters. Even if it may seem harmless or give a touch of greenery, this situation is problematic: roots, soil, and leaves obstruct the normal flow of water and compromise the integrity of the system.
How often should you clean your gutters?
To ensure proper functioning, it is recommended to clean them twice a year:
- in the spring, after the snow has melted;
- in the fall, after the leaves have fallen.
If your building is located in an area with many mature trees, more frequent maintenance may be necessary.
Why is this so important?
- A clogged gutter can:
- sag under the weight of debris;
- cause water infiltration through the roof;
- overflow and redirect water too close to the building;
- overload the foundation drain and increase the risk of basement infiltration.
A simple preventive cleaning can help you avoid costly repairs and protect the structure of your building.
You will find several partners specializing in gutter and drain/catch basin maintenance in our digital newsletter or in the APQ Directory.
Call on a professional for safe and compliant maintenance.