The gutter system on your home is vital in protecting all of the systems involved, including the roof, walls, foundation and landscaping from water damage. However, when exposed to falling leaves and pine needles or buried by other detritus, gutters can clog quickly — and then the headaches begin. At Ontario Siding and Gutters, we’ve witnessed the hidden dangers of living with no leaf guards. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Clogged Gutters Lead to Water Damage
Leaves suffocate your gutters, and rainwater cannot get through the system as designed. Instead, it overflows and runs down the sides of your house, where it can cause:
- Fascia boards and siding
- Exterior paint and trim
- Window and door frames
- Foundation walls and basements
If left unattended, water damage can erode your home’s very structure and lead you into costly repairs.
2. Basement Flooding and Foundation Cracks
Foundation damage is one of the most under-the-radar consequences of clogged gutters. Standing water around your house offers a chance for the moisture to collect and eventually make its way into your basement or crawlspace. Over time, this can cause:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Mold and mildew growth
- Structural instability
Leaf guards installation contributes to safe water flow out of your home.
3. Pest Infestations
Gutters clogged with soggy leaves are prime real estate for pests such as:
- Mosquitoes (which lay eggs in stagnant water)
- Mice and birds (which nest in the rubble)
- Ants, termites and other wood-boring insects
Lying on top of debris, leaf guards eliminate the one thing that draws pests to your rain gutter.
4. Ice Dams and Winter Hazards
Blocked gutters can cause ice dams in the cold months of Ontario. Water is trapped beneath the debris, freezes and ice forms along the edge of your roof. Ice dams can:
- Force water under the shingles
- Cause roof leaks
- Damage to insulation and drywall
Their leaf guards help the gutters run free of debris all year long, even through winter.
5. More Frequent and Dangerous Gutter Cleaning
When you don’t have leaf guards, your rain gutters require frequent hand-cleaning — a task that’s time-consuming and can be risky. Whenever you ascend a ladder, you are taking a chance:
- Slips and falls
- Injuries from sharp debris
- Exposure to bacteria and mold
Gutter guards either reduce or eliminate the need for regular gutter cleaning.
Protect Your Home with Leaf Guards Today
We provide you with trustworthy leaf guard products specifically designed for your home. Why deal with frequent clogs or the potential of future damage when you can let us help to install proper protection for your gutters?
Ready to safeguard your home?
Ontario Siding and Gutters is a professional when it comes to leaf guard installation. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.