Let’s be real, gutters are easy to forget about until they start causing problems. Overflowing water, sagging sections, or even ice dams are all **signs your gutters need cleaning**. This article shows you what to watch for, why it matters, and how a little maintenance now can save you a lot of money later.

Gutters are boring until they fail and cost you thousands. Real talk: clogged gutters cause slow, sneaky damage that shows up as mold, foundation problems, pests, or roof issues. This guide tells you what to look for, why it matters, what the evidence says, and what to do next.

Why gutters actually matter

Gutters channel water off your roof and away from your home so you do not get leaks, damaged siding, or foundation problems. When they clog, water overflows or pools next to the house, and that is how small problems turn into huge bills.

Top signs your gutters need cleaning (and why each sign is serious)

**Water is spilling over the edge during rain**

If gutters overflow when it rains, that means debris is blocking the flow. Overflowing water soaks soil near the foundation, which can cause erosion, basement leaks, and foundation damage over time. Fix the gutters now or expect costly foundation work later.

**Gutters are sagging or pulling away from the fascia**

Gutters should sit straight. If they sag, the weight of wet debris and runoff is stressing the hangers and fascia. That makes the whole system weaker and more likely to fail during a big storm. Replacement or repair is often cheaper than letting them fall off mid-winter.

**Plants, moss, or seedlings growing in the gutter**

If you see green stuff sprouting in gutters, those gutters are full of decomposed organic material and moisture. That means the water is not flowing freely, and the debris holds moisture against the gutter metal and roof edges. This speeds up rot and corrosion.

**Dark streaks, stains, or mould on siding or under the eaves**

When water overflows it carries dirt and organic matter onto siding and under-eaves. That wet spot is prime real estate for mould. Mould can start growing fast if wet materials are not dried. Public health guidance says dry wet building materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth. If your gutters are making parts of your house stay damp, that is a mould risk.

**Pools of water or soggy soil near the foundation**

Standing water near the foundation means water is not being diverted away. Over time repeated saturation leads to cracks, settlement, and basement moisture issues. Good gutter flow and properly directed downspouts are basic prevention.

**More mosquitoes, flies, or other pests around the roofline or yard**

Clogged gutters trap water that becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and attracts other pests. Mosquito eggs hatch quickly, and in warm conditions the egg-to-adult cycle can be under 10 days, so standing water in gutters is a real public health and comfort nuisance. Emptying standing water eliminates breeding sites.

**Big icicles, frozen gutters, or ice dams in winter**

If gutters are blocked before winter, they can trap melt water and contribute to ice dam formation. Ice dams can lift shingles, force water under roofing, and rip gutters right off the house. Cleaning gutters before freeze-thaw cycles reduces this risk.

**Gutters that leak or make weird noises during storms**

Leaks and loud banging or rattling can be signs of separated joints, loose hangers, or partially clogged downspouts. Those little leaks add up to rotted fascia and soffit over time. Regular cleaning or a pro inspection catches problems before the repair bill spikes.

How often should you clean them? spoiler: more than you think

General recommendation is at least twice a year, spring and fall, but homeowners with lots of trees, or after big storms, should check more often. In cold climates do one pre-winter clean to reduce ice-dam risk. Frequency should match your tree cover and weather patterns.

Quick cost guide (Calgary-friendly ballpark)

Cleaning costs vary by house size, roof pitch, number of storeys, and how clogged things are. In Calgary typical single clean prices often fall in the $125 to $350 range, with two-story and complicated roofs at the higher end. Many pros also price by linear foot, commonly $0.70 to $2.50 per linear foot depending on complexity. Get a quote because every home is different.

Gutter guards: worth it or nah?

Gutter guards can seriously cut the amount of debris entering gutters and reduce how often you need to clean, but they are not magic. Quality matters, and some types struggle with fine roof grit or pine needles. Pros say high-quality micro-mesh or screened guards help, but you still need periodic maintenance. Also weigh upfront cost and roof compatibility before buying.

DIY vs professional cleaning

DIY pros: cheaper if you are comfortable on a ladder and know what to check. Big risk: ladder falls and missing hidden damage. Pro pros: safer, faster, they check downspouts, seams, and can fix minor leaks on the spot. If your gutters are two storeys or you have complex rooflines, hire a pro. This Old House and other home pros recommend professionals for safety and thorough results.

Preventive checklist you can follow right now

Clean gutters in spring and fall, plus after major storms.
Run water from a hose into the gutter and verify water exits the downspout at grade, away from the foundation.
Trim tree branches that overhang the roof so fewer leaves land in the gutters.
Install or upgrade downspout extensions to direct water at least several feet from the foundation.
Consider high-quality micro-mesh gutter guards if you have lots of trees. They reduce maintenance but do not eliminate it.

What to do next!

If you see any of the signs above, do not wait. A simple gutter cleaning now can save you from major repairs later.

That is where AlignWorks Solutions comes in.

Our team provides professional gutter cleaning and gutter guard installation in Calgary for both residential and commercial properties. We are licensed by the City of Calgary, fully insured, and committed to protecting your home or business from costly water damage.

Book your gutter service today and keep your property safe year-round with AlignWorks Solutions.

Top Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning Before It’s Too Late