How often should gutters be cleaned?

At least twice a year: late fall and spring. More under big trees.

Are seamless gutters worth it?

They have fewer joints to leak and are made to fit each run. Ask about gauge and hanger spacing for snow loads.

Gutters & Downspouts in Madison, WI | Madison Roofing Experts

Common problems

Sagging runs, leaking corners, gutters pulled away from the fascia by ice, downspouts that empty against the foundation, and overflow in summer downpours.

Ice in gutters

Gutters full of leaves trap meltwater that freezes solid. The weight can rip hangers loose, and the ice adds to ice dams at the eaves.

Fall leaves

Older neighbourhoods have big maples, oaks and elms that fill gutters every October and November. Clean them after the leaves drop.

Downspouts

Extend downspouts several feet from the house so water doesn't soak the soil next to the basement wall.

Sizing

Larger gutters and extra downspouts help on big roofs and steep pitches that shed a lot of water at once.

Guards

Guards reduce cleaning but don't end it. Ask how a guard handles seeds and needles and how it behaves with ice.

Fascia repairs

Soft or rotted fascia behind old gutters should be replaced before new gutters go up.

Get a quote

Tell the roofer where water overflows or pools. Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.

Heat cables in gutters

Some homes use heat cables in gutters and downspouts to keep a channel open for meltwater. They help in specific trouble spots but use electricity and need checking each fall. They don't replace attic fixes.

Underground drains

Downspouts that run into underground pipes can clog or freeze. If water backs up out of the top of a downspout, the buried line may need clearing or the downspout redirected above ground.

Snow guards

On some roofs, snow slides off in large sheets and tears gutters away. Snow guards can hold it in place so it melts gradually instead.

Gutters & Downspouts in Madison, WI

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