You likely already know that your roof plays a major role in protecting your home—but did you know that its gutter system is the trusty sidekick?
Rain or shine, it quietly saves the day by whisking water away before it starts trouble. That’s why keeping a well-maintained gutter system is essential for overall roof health.
As one of the leading roofing companies in Calgary, we’re here to share some gutter maintenance and repair wisdom every homeowner should know.
Table of Contents | The Role of Gutters in Roof Health: Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Roof
1. Protect Your Roof: Make Gutter Cleaning a Seasonal Ritual
2. Install Gutter Guards: Your Roof’s First Line of Defence
3. Inspect for Sagging or Leaks—Don’t Let Gravity Win
4. Downspouts: Point Them in the Right Direction
5. Trim Overhanging Branches: Give Your Gutters Some Breathing Room
6. Check for Rust, Holes, and Corrosion
6. Watch Out for Pests: Unwanted Tenants in Your Gutter System
7. Secure Loose Gutters and Fasteners
8. Watch for Ice Dams in Winter
9. Mind the Gutter Slope
10. Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
Build Your Gutter Game Plan With One of The Leading Roofing Companies in Calgary
1. Protect Your Roof: Make Gutter Cleaning a Seasonal Ritual
Leaves, twigs, and maybe even the occasional rogue tennis ball you forgot to retrieve last summer can all eventually turn into a compost heap that causes common gutter problems over time.
Clogged gutters are the leading cause of water damage, and that’s why regular maintenance is your best defence. Clean your gutters at least twice a year—spring and fall. If your home is surrounded by trees, consider a quarterly schedule.
2. Install Gutter Guards: Your Roof’s First Line of Defence
The importance of gutters just can’t be overstated. As such, it only makes sense to ensure they’re well-guarded.
That’s where gutter guards come in to keep all that debris out. Think of them as sunglasses for your eavestroughs, keeping the bad stuff out while letting the good stuff (rainwater) flow. They’re an investment that’ll cost you a bit at first, but compared to the average cost of a new roof from any roofing company, they’re a bargain. The right gutter guards mean less risk of clogs and a properly functioning drainage system.
3. Inspect for Sagging or Leaks—Don’t Let Gravity Win
All the best roofers in Calgary will tell you this: sagging gutters are a major red flag. Water pooling in your gutters means they’re not doing their job, and leaks can lead to rot, mould, and a call to the nearest roofing contractors asking them to fix major issues on your roof. After heavy rainfall, do a perimeter check—look for sagging, leaks, or overflow. This helps prevent water damage to your roof and foundation.
4. Downspouts: Point Them in the Right Direction
Downspouts should extend at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) away from your home’s foundation. If they’re dumping water next to your house, you’re just inviting basement leaks and foundation issues. Consider asking Calgary roofing companies to add extensions if needed to protect your home from water damage and to save you from costly repairs.
Remember, directing water away from the foundation is the goal here.
5. Trim Overhanging Branches: Give Your Gutters Some Breathing Room
Of course, trees are lovely friends. But their branches can turn gutters into leaf magnets. You’ll want to trim back any overhanging branches to reduce debris and minimize the risk of roof damage during storms. This proactive step is one that top roofing companies recommend for keeping your roof and gutters in harmony. It also helps preserve your roofing material and extends the life of your entire system.
6. Check for Rust, Holes, and Corrosion
Sure, metal gutters are durable—but they’re not invincible. Rust, holes, and corrosion can sneak up on them, especially in Calgary’s fluctuating climate. During your seasonal cleaning, inspect every section. Small holes can be patched, but extensive damage may require the expertise of roofing contractors. A well-maintained gutter system ensures your home stays dry and safe, so patch up those minor issues before they turn into costly problems.
6. Watch Out for Pests: Unwanted Tenants in Your Gutter System
If you’ve ever wondered why birds, squirrels, or even insects seem to love your gutters, it’s because a clogged or poorly maintained gutter system is actually prime real estate for critters.
Let’s not forget that nests, hives, and pest droppings can clog your gutters, damage your roofing material, and even lead to infestations inside your home. Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning are your best defences against these unwanted guests. If you spot any signs of pest activity, address it right away to protect your roof and entire home.
7. Secure Loose Gutters and Fasteners
Did you know that loose gutters can compromise your entire roof system? Tighten any loose screws or brackets, and replace missing hardware as soon as possible. Stable gutters mean water goes where it should—so ensure your gutters are always secure to avoid unexpected surprises.
8. Watch for Ice Dams in Winter
We’re no strangers to how fierce Calgary winters can be. And it often results in ice dams that trap water, which can seep into your roof and attic, causing serious damage.
Ice dams form when heat escapes through your roof, melting snow that refreezes in your gutters. Fight back by insulating your attic, keeping gutters clear, and considering heat cables if ice dams are a recurring issue. There are always solutions out there that can help you maintain a properly functioning roof.
9. Mind the Gutter Slope
Gutters need a slight slope (about a quarter-inch for every 3 metres) to guide water toward the downspouts. If water is pooling or not draining, your slope might be off. Adjusting the pitch and getting the right gutter slope is a DIY job for the handy, or a quick fix for professional roofers in Calgary that locals trust.
10. Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
Even the most diligent homeowner can miss a hidden problem. But don’t worry—all you have to do is book an annual inspection with reputable Calgary roofing companies so you can have peace of mind.
Professionals spot issues you might overlook and can recommend repairs before minor issues become major headaches. Think of it as an annual check-up for your home—much cheaper than an emergency call or even a full roof replacement cost in Calgary that homeowners dread.
Build Your Gutter Game Plan With One of The Leading Roofing Companies in Calgary
Gutter maintenance is the secret ingredient for a long-lasting roof and a worry-free home.
By keeping your gutters clean, secure, and free-flowing, you’ll fend off costly repairs, protect your foundation, and extend the life of your roof.
But let’s be real—it’s a lot of hard work if you’re taking care of it all by yourself,
When you need a team of experts to help you out, trust Jamieson Roofing—one of the most reliable roofing companies in Calgary with 10+ years of experience. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing the top-notch service and peace of mind you deserve.
Get a free quote from us today!
Looking for more expert tips on roofing in Calgary? Check out our other blogs below:
- Innovative Roofing Materials and Techniques Used by Calgary Roofing Companies
- The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance: Insights from Calgary Roofing Experts
- The Role of Weather in Roofing: How Calgary’s Climate Affects Your Roof
- Roof Replacement in Calgary: Signs It’s Time to Invest in a New Roof
- The Ultimate Guide to Roofing Options in Calgary: Materials, Styles, and More
