What Happens If You Never Clean Your Gutters?

If you’ve ever looked up and thought, “Eh, I’ll deal with the gutters later,” you’re not alone. But ignoring your gutters for too long can lead to serious damage, not just outside your home, but inside too. At Darren Does That, we clean gutters so homeowners don’t have to climb ladders, get dirty, or deal with costly repairs later on.

Here’s what can happen when your gutters are left clogged for too long:

1. Water Starts Going Where It Shouldn’t

Your gutter system is designed to direct rainwater away from your house. When gutters are clogged, that water overflows, and takes the path of least resistance: down your walls, into your siding, or toward your foundation.

This kind of water overflow can lead to:

Damage to your siding and paint
Stained exterior walls
Mold growth inside insulation
Moisture in your attic or ceiling

Even a small blockage can cause water to enter your home where it doesn’t belong.

2. Your Foundation Faces Risk

Water pooling around your home’s base can slowly erode the soil and put pressure on your foundation walls. Over time, this can lead to:

Cracks in the foundation
Landscape erosion
Flooded basements
Long-term structural damage

Ignoring gutter maintenance might seem harmless now, but the damage it causes beneath the surface can be expensive to fix.

3. Roof and Shingles Take a Hit

Dirty gutters can create the perfect storm up top, especially in colder weather. When water backs up under your roof shingles, it can lead to:

Ice dams and thick, heavy icicles
Rotted wood fascia and eaves
Water leaks inside the attic
Damaged shingles and decking

Trapped moisture can also cause mold to grow inside your roof structure, which can be tough to detect and costly to remove.

4. Pests Find a New Home

Clogged gutters full of leaves, standing water, and other debris create a breeding ground for unwanted guests, including:

Mosquitoes
Wasps
Carpenter ants
Mice and other rodents

Once pests settle into your gutter clogs, it’s only a matter of time before they start exploring inside your house.

5. Gutters Sag, Crack, or Collapse

Leaves and debris don’t just block water, they also add extra weight. Over time, this can cause your gutters to:

Sag or pull away from your home
Crack or rust along seams
Shift out of pitch, preventing proper drainage
Damage your roofline and wood fascia

Left unattended, clogged gutters can stop working altogether, leading to more water damage, not less.

FAQ: Gutter Cleaning Questions Homeowners Ask

How often should I clean my gutters?

Most homes should have their gutters cleaned at least twice a year, once in spring and again in fall. Homes near trees or with heavy roof debris may need more frequent cleanings.

Do I still need to clean gutters if I have gutter guards?

Yes. Gutter guards help reduce debris but don’t eliminate it. Dirt, leaves, and even shingle grit can build up on top or sneak through. We recommend inspecting and cleaning once a year, even with guards in place.

Can clogged gutters damage my foundation?

Absolutely. When rainwater can’t flow through your gutter system, it pools around your home, eventually causing cracks and weakening your foundation.

What’s the safest way to clean gutters?

Hiring a professional. Cleaning your gutters requires ladders, tools, and sometimes rooftop access, which can be risky without the right gear or experience. Most professionals can clean safely and spot potential damage early.

Can I clean gutters in the winter?

Winter gutter cleaning is difficult and usually not recommended unless it’s an emergency. Freezing temperatures can make debris hard to remove and create unsafe conditions on ladders or roofs.

How do I know if my gutters need cleaning?

Watch for:
Overflowing gutters during rain
Visible debris or plant growth
Water stains on siding
Sagging or pulling gutters
Pooling water around your foundation

What do professionals do when they clean gutters?

Professionals clear out all debris, check downspouts for clogs, and inspect for damage or sagging. They also make sure water drains properly and clean up any mess before leaving.

How much does gutter cleaning cost in Edmonton?

Most homes in Edmonton can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for gutter cleaning. Pricing depends on the size of the home, how full the gutters are, and how easy they are to access.

Don’t Want to Risk It?

If climbing a ladder and scooping out muck isn’t your thing, we get it. That’s exactly why we offer professional gutter cleaning services in Edmonton, so your home stays safe, dry, and protected year-round.