Euclid Roofing & Siding

Are Gutter Guards Worth It? An Honest Breakdown

Hayley Betteridge — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 06:26:04 +0000

If you’ve ever stood on a ladder in October scooping wet leaves out of your gutters, gutter guards probably sound like an easy decision. But they aren’t cheap, they aren’t all built the same, and they don’t work equally well on every home.

So, are gutter guards worth it? For many homes in the Chicago suburbs, yes. For some, they’re an expense you don’t need. This guide covers how gutter guards work, the main types, the real pros and cons, and how to tell whether they make sense for your house.

What Do Gutter Guards Do?

Gutter guards are covers or inserts that sit over or inside your gutters. They let rainwater flow in while keeping out leaves, twigs, seeds and other debris. The goal is to stop clogs, which cause overflowing gutters, water damage to fascia and siding, wet basements and, in winter, ice buildup along the roof edge.

Do Gutter Guards Work?

Good gutter guards, properly installed, work well. They keep most debris out and greatly reduce how often you need to clean your gutters. What they don’t do is make gutters maintenance-free. Small debris, roof grit and seed pods can still collect on top of or inside some guards, and most types need an occasional rinse or brush-off.

How well they work depends on three things: the type of guard, the debris around your home, and whether they were installed correctly for your roof and gutter size.

Types of Gutter Guards

There are five common types of gutter guards, and each handles debris differently.

Screen guards

Plastic or metal screens with fairly large openings that sit over the gutter. They’re the least expensive and easiest to install, and they keep out large leaves. Smaller debris like seeds and pine needles can get through or get stuck in the openings, and lightweight screens can sag or blow loose.

Micro-mesh guards

Fine stainless steel or aluminum mesh on a rigid frame. Micro-mesh blocks almost everything, including small seeds, pine needles and roof grit, while still letting water through. It’s usually the most effective option and one of the more expensive. The surface may need an occasional brushing to clear buildup.

Reverse curve (surface tension) guards

Solid covers that curve over the gutter. Water follows the curve into the gutter while leaves slide off the edge. They handle leaves well, but in very heavy rain, water can overshoot the gutter, and they’re more visible from the ground.

Brush guards

Long bristle brushes that sit inside the gutter and catch debris on top. They’re inexpensive and easy to install, but debris gets tangled in the bristles, so they need to be pulled out and cleaned regularly.

Foam guards

Foam inserts that fill the gutter and let water soak through. They’re cheap and simple, but small debris and seeds can sprout on the foam, and the foam can break down over time.

Pros and Cons of Gutter Guards

The pros

Fewer cleanings. Most homeowners go from cleaning gutters a few times a year to a quick check or rinse.
Less ladder work. This matters most on two-story homes, where gutter cleaning is a real safety risk.
Fewer clogs and overflows. Water stays in the gutter and goes where it should, away from your foundation, siding and landscaping.
Less ice buildup. Gutters packed with wet leaves freeze solid in winter. Keeping them clear helps meltwater drain, although guards alone won’t prevent ice dams.
Fewer pests. Clean, dry gutters are less inviting to mosquitoes, birds and rodents.

The cons

Upfront cost. Professionally installed guards cost more than a few years of gutter cleaning, so the payoff takes time.
Not maintenance-free. Most guards still need an occasional brushing or rinse, and some types need more attention than others.
Overshooting in heavy rain. Some designs, especially reverse curve guards, can let water spill over during downpours.
Ice on top in winter. In very cold weather, snow and ice can sit on top of some guards.
Harder to clean if something does get in. If debris gets under a guard, it has to be removed to clear the gutter.

How Much Do Gutter Guards Cost?

Gutter guard cost depends on the type you choose, the length of your gutters, the height of your home and whether your gutters need repairs first. Screens and foam are the least expensive and are often installed by homeowners. Micro-mesh systems cost the most but last longer and block more debris. Professional installation adds to the cost, but it makes sure the guards are fitted correctly to your roof and gutters, which is what determines how well they perform.

When you compare cost, compare it with what you’d spend on gutter cleaning over the next 10 to 15 years, plus the cost of any water damage that clogged gutters could cause.

Gutter Guards in the Chicago Suburbs: What to Consider

Homes across the north and northwest suburbs deal with debris year-round, and that’s a big part of why gutter guards make sense for so many of them:

Spring: Maple seeds, the “helicopters” or “whirlybirds,” pile into gutters by the thousands. They’re small enough to get through basic screens, which is why micro-mesh often works better here.
Summer: Heavy thunderstorms test whether your gutters and guards can handle a lot of water at once.
Fall: Oak and maple leaves clog gutters fast on streets with mature trees.
Winter: Clogged gutters freeze and can add to ice dams on your roof, which push water back under the shingles.

Are Gutter Guards Worth It for Your Home?

Gutter guards are usually worth it if:

You have trees near your house, especially maples, oaks or pines
You have a two-story home or a steep roof that makes ladder work risky
Your gutters clog more than once or twice a year
You’ve had overflowing gutters, a wet basement or ice buildup along the roof edge
You’d rather not clean gutters yourself or pay for frequent cleanings

They may not be worth it if:

You have few or no trees nearby and your gutters rarely clog
You have a single-story home and don’t mind cleaning gutters yourself
Your gutters are sagging, leaking or undersized, in which case it makes sense to repair or replace the gutters first

Adding guards to damaged or poorly pitched gutters only covers up the problem. If your gutters are older, it’s often more cost-effective to install new gutters and guards together.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Gutter Guards

Choose a guard for your debris. If you have maple seeds or pine needles, a fine micro-mesh will outperform a basic screen.
Make sure the gutters are in good shape first. Guards work best on gutters that are properly sized, sloped and securely attached.
Check them twice a year. A quick look in spring and fall, plus a brush or rinse if needed, keeps them working.
Have them installed to fit your roof. Guards that are installed incorrectly can lift shingles, block water flow or come loose in wind.

For more on why clear gutters matter, see our post on why it’s essential to maintain your gutters.

Gutter Guard FAQs

Do gutter guards really work?

Yes, when you choose the right type for your home and have them installed properly. They won’t eliminate maintenance entirely, but they greatly reduce clogs and how often you need to clean your gutters.

Do gutter guards work in heavy rain?

Most do, but performance varies by type. Micro-mesh guards generally handle heavy rain well. Reverse curve guards can let water overshoot the gutter during very heavy downpours.

Do gutter guards cause ice dams?

No. Ice dams form because heat escapes into the attic and melts snow on the roof. Gutter guards don’t cause that, although ice can form on top of some guards in very cold weather.

Which type of gutter guard is best?

For most homes with trees nearby, micro-mesh guards offer the best protection because they block both leaves and small debris like maple seeds and pine needles. The right choice depends on your debris, your gutters and your budget.

How long do gutter guards last?

It depends on the material. Metal micro-mesh and solid aluminum guards generally last much longer than plastic screens, foam or brush inserts.

Talk to a Local Gutter Expert

Euclid Roofing & Siding installs and repairs gutters, downspouts and gutter guards for homeowners across Chicago’s north and northwest suburbs, including Palatine, Schaumburg and Arlington Heights. We’ll look at your gutters, the trees around your home and your roof, and give you an honest recommendation, even if that means you don’t need guards at all.

Learn more about our gutter services, or call (847) 202-3740 to schedule a free estimate.

Ice Dams on Your Roof: How to Prevent and Fix Them in the Chicago Suburbs

Hayley Betteridge — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 06:15:01 +0000

If you’ve lived through a winter in the Chicago suburbs, you’ve probably seen thick ridges of ice and long icicles along the edge of a roof. They can look harmless, but an ice dam on your roof can force water under your shingles and into your attic, walls and ceilings. By the time you notice a stain on the ceiling, the damage has often been building for weeks.

This guide explains what causes ice dams, the signs to watch for, how to remove them safely, and how to prevent them so they don’t come back every winter.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the lower edge of a roof, usually at the eaves and in the gutters. It blocks melting snow from draining off the roof. The water pools behind the ice, and because shingles are designed to shed water rather than hold it, that standing water can work its way under the shingles and leak into your home.

What Causes Ice Dams on Roofs?

Ice dams form when the upper part of your roof is warm enough to melt snow while the lower edge stays below freezing. Snow melts higher up, runs down the roof, and refreezes when it reaches the colder eaves. Over days or weeks, that ice builds into a dam.

The most common causes are:

Heat escaping into the attic. Warm air from your living space leaks into the attic through gaps around light fixtures, vents, chimneys and attic hatches, and warms the underside of the roof.
Not enough attic insulation. Thin or uneven insulation lets more heat reach the roof deck.
Poor attic ventilation. Without balanced intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents near the ridge, warm air gets trapped under the roof instead of being replaced by cold outside air.
Freeze-thaw weather. Northern Illinois winters swing above and below freezing, which means repeated cycles of melting and refreezing.
Clogged gutters. Leaves and debris left in gutters give ice a place to start forming at the roof edge.

Older homes are especially prone to ice dams. Many houses built in the 1950s, 60s and 70s across the northwest suburbs were built with less insulation and ventilation than today’s standards call for.

Signs You Have an Ice Dam

Not every icicle means trouble, but these signs suggest an ice dam is forming or already causing damage:

A thick ridge of ice along the eaves or inside the gutters
Large icicles hanging from the gutters or roof edge, especially with water dripping behind them
Water stains or damp spots on ceilings or upper walls near exterior walls
Peeling paint or bubbling drywall near the top of exterior walls
Wet or compressed insulation in the attic, or frost on the underside of the roof deck
Gutters pulling away from the house under the weight of ice

How Ice Dams Damage Your Roof and Home

Ice dam roof damage isn’t limited to the roof. Water that backs up under the shingles can soak the roof decking, drip into the attic, and run down inside exterior walls. Over time, that can lead to:

Rotted roof decking and loose or damaged shingles
Wet insulation that stops working and can grow mold
Stained ceilings, damaged drywall and peeling paint
Bent or detached gutters and downspouts

Because the leak often starts out of sight, an ice dam roof leak can go unnoticed until the damage is already done. If you see stains inside after a cold snap, it’s worth having the roof inspected before the next thaw.

How to Remove an Ice Dam Safely

If an ice dam has already formed, the goal is to let water drain off the roof without damaging your shingles or putting yourself at risk.

What you can do safely

Rake snow off the lower part of the roof from the ground. A long-handled roof rake removes the snow that feeds the ice dam. Clear the first few feet above the eaves, and never stand on a ladder or the roof to do it.
Use calcium chloride, not rock salt. Filling a nylon stocking with calcium chloride ice melt and laying it across the ice dam can melt a channel for water to drain. Rock salt can damage shingles, gutters and plants below.
Call a professional for large or stubborn ice dams. Ice dam removal professionals use low-pressure steam to melt the ice without damaging the roof.

What to avoid

Don’t chip at the ice with a hammer, ice pick or shovel. This almost always damages shingles and gutters, and can create new leaks.
Don’t climb onto an icy roof. Falls from roofs and ladders are a serious risk in winter.
Don’t use a pressure washer or open flame. High pressure can strip granules and lift shingles, and heat guns or torches are a fire hazard.

Removing an ice dam deals with this winter’s problem. Preventing the next one means fixing why it formed in the first place.

How to Prevent Ice Dams

The most effective ice dam prevention keeps your roof deck cold and evenly cold, so snow doesn’t melt in one place and refreeze in another.

1. Seal air leaks into the attic

Air sealing is usually the most effective step. Sealing gaps around light fixtures, plumbing and electrical openings, chimneys and attic hatches stops warm, moist air from reaching the roof deck.

2. Add attic insulation

Once air leaks are sealed, adding insulation helps keep heat in your living space and out of the attic. An energy auditor or insulation contractor can tell you whether your attic is under-insulated.

3. Balance your attic ventilation

A properly ventilated attic draws cold air in through soffit vents at the eaves and lets warm air out through ridge or roof vents. Blocked soffit vents, too few exhaust vents, or a mix of incompatible vent types can all trap warm air. We check ventilation on every roof we inspect, because it affects both ice dams and the lifespan of your shingles.

4. Install ice and water shield when you replace your roof

Ice and water shield is a waterproof membrane installed under the shingles along the eaves, valleys and other vulnerable areas. It doesn’t stop ice dams from forming, but it helps keep water from getting into your home if one does. Building codes in cold climates generally require an ice barrier along the eaves, and it’s a standard part of every roof replacement we complete.

5. Keep gutters and downspouts clear

Clean gutters before winter so meltwater has somewhere to go. Downspouts should also be clear and direct water away from your foundation. If your gutters fill with leaves and seeds every fall, gutter guards can help. Our post on why gutter maintenance matters covers more.

6. Use heat cables as a short-term fix

Heat cables installed in a zigzag pattern along the roof edge can keep drainage channels open. They’re useful on problem areas, but they treat the symptom rather than the cause, and they add to your energy bill. If you need them every winter, it’s a sign your attic needs attention.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Ice Dam Damage?

It depends on your policy. Many homeowners policies cover sudden water damage inside the home caused by an ice dam, such as damaged ceilings, walls and insulation, but they may not cover removing the ice itself or problems caused by poor maintenance. Check your policy or ask your agent, and document any damage with photos as soon as you find it.

When to Call a Roofer

Call a roofing contractor if you:

Find water stains or leaks inside after snow or a cold snap
Get ice dams in the same spots every winter
See damaged shingles, sagging gutters or soft spots on the roof once the ice melts
Have an older roof that may not have ice and water shield along the eaves

At Euclid Roofing & Siding, we inspect the whole system: shingles, flashing, decking, attic ventilation and gutters. Then we explain what’s causing the problem and what it will take to fix it. If a roof repair will solve it, we’ll tell you. If your roof is due for replacement, we’ll make sure the new one is built to handle northern Illinois winters. For leaks after winter storms, see our storm damage roof repair services.

Ice Dam FAQs

Are icicles a sign of an ice dam?

Not always, but large icicles along the roof edge often mean snow is melting higher on the roof and refreezing at the eaves, which is how ice dams form. If you see icicles along with a ridge of ice at the edge of the roof, or water stains inside, have the roof checked.

Do gutter guards cause ice dams?

Gutter guards don’t cause ice dams. Ice dams form on the roof itself because of heat loss from the attic. Ice can build up on top of some gutter guards in very cold weather, but keeping gutters free of debris generally helps meltwater drain.

Can ice dams happen on a new roof?

Yes. A new roof doesn’t fix attic heat loss or poor ventilation. That’s why we look at ventilation and the eave protection as part of every roof replacement, not only the shingles.

What is the best way to prevent ice dams?

Sealing air leaks into the attic, adding insulation and balancing attic ventilation are the most effective long-term fixes. Ice and water shield at the eaves adds protection if an ice dam does form.

Get a Free Roof Inspection

Euclid Roofing & Siding is a family-owned roofing company that has served the Chicago area since 1976. We work with homeowners across the north and northwest suburbs, including Palatine, Schaumburg and Arlington Heights.

If you’re dealing with ice dams or a winter leak, call (847) 202-3740 or contact us to book a free roof inspection.

Storm Damage Roof Inspection: A Chicago Homeowner’s Checklist

admin — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:02:10 +0000

Your roof takes the first hit every time a storm rolls through Chicago, and with hail, high winds, and heavy rain a regular part of the forecast here from spring through fall, a storm damage roof inspection isn’t optional maintenance. It’s protection for the rest of your home. A missed shingle or a hairline crack in flashing can turn into a five-figure repair if it goes unnoticed through even one more storm.

Here’s exactly what to check, and when it’s time to call in a professional.

Do This Right After a Storm

Before you get into the detailed checklist below, here’s your immediate post-storm routine:

Walk the yard first: Granules in the gutters or yard, shingle pieces on the ground, or dented downspouts are all quick visual cues something happened up top.
Check ceilings and walls inside: A fresh water stain means water already found a way in. Don’t wait to investigate.
Photograph everything you can see from the ground: This helps with insurance later, even before a professional inspection.
Call for an inspection within a few days, even if nothing looks obviously wrong. Some storm damage isn’t visible until it’s already caused a leak.

Your Storm Damage Roof Inspection Checklist

1. Missing or Damaged Shingles

High winds can lift, crack, or tear shingles loose, exposing the roof deck underneath. Even a single cracked shingle can let water seep in and damage the structure below. Look for shingles that are missing entirely, curling at the edges, or visibly cracked.

2. Interior Water Stains or Leaks

Water stains on ceilings or walls are one of the clearest signs a storm has already compromised your roof. Leaks can travel before they show up, so a stain isn’t always directly under the entry point. That’s exactly why a full roof inspection matters, not just a glance at the obvious spot.

3. Clogged or Damaged Gutters

Gutters move water away from your roof and foundation. If they’re clogged with debris or storm-damaged, water pools instead of draining, which damages both the gutters and the roof edge over time. Confirm they’re clear and still securely attached after any major storm.

4. Damaged Flashing

Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is one of the most common places for leaks to start, and one of the hardest for homeowners to inspect safely from the ground. Corroded, cracked, or missing flashing should be checked by a professional after any significant wind or hail event.

5. Hail Bruising and Granule Loss

Hail doesn’t always leave a visible hole. Often it just bruises the shingle mat or knocks granules loose. Dark spotting on shingles or a sudden increase in granules in your gutters are both signs worth a closer look, even if the roof looks fine from the street.

6. Roof Age

If your roof is 20+ years old, it’s more vulnerable to storm damage even without visible wear, since aging shingles lose flexibility and wind resistance over time. An older roof is worth a professional storm damage inspection even after a moderate storm, not just a severe one.

Chicago’s Storm Season: What to Watch For

North Suburbs and Chicagoland homeowners deal with a few storm patterns worth knowing:

Spring and summer hail season brings the highest risk of the granule loss and bruising described above.
High-wind derecho-style storms can cause the kind of shingle lift and tear damage that’s often mistaken for normal wear.
Winter ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge, forcing water back up under shingles. It’s a different mechanism than storm wind or hail damage, but just as damaging if ignored.

When to Call a Roofing Professional vs. Wait

If you have an active leak, exposed roof deck, or visible hole from debris, that’s an emergency. Call immediately. If the damage is cosmetic, or you’re unsure whether there’s damage at all, it’s still worth a prompt inspection within a few days. Hail bruising and granule loss don’t always leak right away, but documenting them promptly matters if you need to file an insurance claim later.

Free Storm Damage Roof Inspections in Chicago

If you’ve spotted any of the signs above, don’t wait for a small issue to become a bigger one. Euclid Roofing & Siding offers free storm damage roof inspections across the North Suburbs. We’ll document what we find, walk you through what (if anything) needs attention, and help with the insurance process if you need to file a claim.

Hail Damaged Roof: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

admin — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:41:22 +0000

Hail Damaged Roof: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

In northern Illinois, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used on residential homes. You should be aware that hail and wind storms can cause a great deal of damage to asphalt shingle roofs. This may require replacing all or part of your asphalt shingle roof. Otherwise, the damage may later lead to water leaking into your attic and living space causing damage to ceilings and walls as well as your belongings.

Depending on the wind direction during a hail storm, some parts of your roof may sustain more hail damage than other parts. In fact some parts may have no damage to the asphalt roof shingles whatsoever. The extent of damage varies according to the size, shape, hardness and density of the hail. There is therefore no “rule of thumb” to go by.

Bruising occurs when hail crushes the shingles’ mat. This leaves dark spots about an inch or larger on the roof’s asphalt shingle. The broken mat compromises the ability to shed water. The hail damage can also loosen the granules on your asphalt roofing shingles. This causes the granules to separate from the coating and eventually wash away from the roof. The center of the shingle is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays which may cause further damage.

Indicators of Potential Hail Damage To Your Roof

Depending on size, hail may damage your homes’ shingles, air vents, gutters, skylights and roof flashing immediately upon impact. Generally smaller size hail will not damage your roof shingles. However, even numerous small hits over time may cause damage. In either case, water may eventually penetrate causing leaks and further damage.

Our advice is to inspect your asphalt shingle roof and siding immediately following a hailstorm in your area for tell-tale signs of hail damage. Even if you can not see it, this doesn’t mean damage to your asphalt shingles wasn’t cause by hail. If there is damage, ideally your asphalt shingle roof should be repaired or if necessary replaced as soon as possible following the storm.

Check cars, patio furniture, roof vents, fascia, gutters, siding and shutters for dents. Also check windows and skylights for cracks or breakage. Another indicator may be plants and trees near your home that were stripped of leaves.

Delaying repairs to your hail damaged roof can reduce its life expectancy, void warranties and ultimately lead to cracks and holes which turn into leaks. It may also leave you with additional cost in repairs when you try to sell your home.

If you are unable to inspect your roof by yourself, by all means have one of Euclid Roofing and Siding trained technicians do it for you. Call today at (847) 202-3740 for our free roof inspection.*

Maintain your peace of mind knowing Euclid Roofing and Siding has you covered!

* Our Free, no obligation roofing inspection is a one time per address offer.

Do I Need a Permit to Replace My Roof? Chicago Building Permit Requirements Explained

admin — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:41:17 +0000

Image Courtesy of InterNachi

If you’re planning a roof replacement in the Chicago area, one of the first questions to ask is: do I need a permit to replace my roof? The short answer for most homeowners in Northern Illinois is yes. Most towns and villages in the area served by Euclid Roofing and Siding require contractors to be registered with the municipality and to obtain, or “pull,” a building permit before re-roofing or installing a new roof on your home.

On top of that, the contractor doing the work must hold a current State of Illinois Roofing Contractor License. This isn’t just paperwork. It’s a requirement designed to protect you as a homeowner.

Why Roofing Permits Matter

These requirements exist to protect you, the homeowner, from being taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors or fly-by-night operations. The permit fee is generally a small part of the total cost of installing a new residential roof. Skipping this step might seem like a way to save money upfront, but it can end up costing you far more later in the form of shoddy workmanship or inferior materials that don’t meet code.

Inspections tied to these permit fees help ensure that certain code requirements are actually followed. This can include things like proper installation of ice and water shield, correct roof ventilation, and other details that affect how well your roof performs over its lifespan.

We’d advise being cautious of any roofing contractor willing to work without following local code. It’s not worth the risk. Always make sure your project adheres to local regulations. Euclid Roofing and Siding is a licensed Illinois Roofing Contractor and follows local requirements for registration and permitting on every roof we install. Call us today at (847) 202-3740 for your free roofing estimate, or get in touch online if you’d rather start there.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Permits

Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Illinois?

In most Northern Illinois municipalities, yes. Nearly every town and village in the Chicago area served by Euclid Roofing requires a building permit for re-roofing or new roof installation, along with contractor registration with the local municipality.

What happens if my roof is replaced without a permit?

Work done without a permit typically hasn’t been inspected against local code, which means issues like poor ventilation or improperly installed ice and water shield can go unnoticed until they cause damage. It can also create problems later if you try to sell your home, since unpermitted work often has to be disclosed or addressed before closing.

Who is responsible for pulling the permit, me or the contractor?

Your roofing contractor should be the one to pull the permit, not the homeowner. If a contractor asks you to pull the permit yourself, or suggests skipping it altogether, that’s a red flag worth taking seriously.

Does a permit affect the cost of my roof replacement?

Permit fees are typically a small fraction of your total project cost. A licensed, insured roofing contractor will usually include this in your estimate upfront rather than adding it as a surprise later.

How do I know if my contractor is properly licensed?

Ask directly for their State of Illinois Roofing Contractor License number, and confirm they’re registered with your specific municipality. Euclid Roofing and Siding holds a current Illinois license and is registered across the municipalities we serve, including Winnetka, Skokie, Arlington Heights, Glenview, Deerfield, Highland Park, Hinsdale, and Lake Forest.

Sample Permit Requirements by Illinois Municipality

Permit requirements vary by town, so it’s worth checking your specific municipality’s rules directly. Here are references for permit requirements in several Illinois towns, villages, and counties for new roof or re-roof installations:

Not sure whether your project needs a permit, or want a contractor who already handles all of this for you? Contact Euclid Roofing and Siding for a free roofing estimate, and we’ll walk you through exactly what’s required for your specific municipality

The Impact of Roofing Material Choices on Home Energy Efficiency

admin — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:16:41 +0000

Selecting the right roofing material can greatly impact your home’s energy efficiency, an essential consideration for Chicago homeowners dealing with extreme weather variations.

Impact on Energy Efficiency

Reflective Materials: Roofs made of reflective materials, such as cool roofs, reduce heat absorption, keeping your home cooler in the summer.
Insulating Properties: Materials like asphalt shingles and metal roofing offer excellent insulation, maintaining a stable indoor temperature and reducing heating costs in the winter.
Environmental Benefits: Energy-efficient roofs lower your home’s carbon footprint by reducing the need for heating and cooling systems.

Popular Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and energy-efficient with proper insulation.
Metal Roofing: Highly reflective and durable, offering long-term energy savings.
Tile and Slate: Natural insulators that keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Roofing

Lower Utility Bills: Significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs.
Increased Comfort: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature regardless of outdoor conditions.
Enhanced Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and can command higher prices on the market.

Conclusion

Investing in energy-efficient roofing materials can lead to substantial savings and increased comfort for Chicago homeowners. Contact Euclid Roofing & Siding to explore the best roofing options for enhancing your home’s energy efficiency.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters? A Gutter Maintenance Guide

admin — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 20:30:59 +0000

Gutters are easy to forget about until something goes wrong. Then it’s water spilling over the edge in a storm, a damp basement, peeling paint on the fascia, or a row of icicles hanging off the roof in January. Most of those problems come back to the same cause: gutters that weren’t cleaned or maintained.

The good news is that gutter maintenance doesn’t take much. This guide covers how often you should clean your gutters, the best times of year to do it in the Chicago area, the signs your gutters need attention, and when it’s time to repair or replace them.

Why Gutter Maintenance Matters

Your gutters have one job: collect rain and snowmelt from the roof and carry it away from your home. When they’re clogged, damaged or loose, that water goes where it shouldn’t. Regular gutter maintenance helps prevent:

Foundation and basement water problems. Overflowing gutters dump water right next to your foundation, where it can seep into basements and crawl spaces.
Roof and fascia damage. Water that backs up in a clogged gutter can rot the fascia boards behind it and work its way under the edge of the roof.
Siding and paint damage. Overflow runs down exterior walls, staining siding and causing paint to peel.
Mold and moisture. Standing water and damp walls create the conditions for mold inside and outside your home.
Ice dams in winter. Gutters packed with wet leaves freeze solid and can contribute to ice dams on your roof, which force meltwater back under the shingles.
Landscaping erosion and pests. Overflow washes out garden beds, and standing water in gutters attracts mosquitoes and other pests.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

For most homes, clean your gutters at least twice a year: once in late spring and once in late fall. That’s enough to clear out the heaviest debris before it causes problems.

You’ll need to clean them more often if:

You have trees overhanging the roof. Homes with mature trees nearby may need cleaning three or four times a year.
You have pine trees nearby. Pine needles fall year-round and pack tightly into gutters, so check them more often.
Your gutters overflowed in the last storm. That’s a sign of a clog, no matter when you last cleaned them.
Your roof is older. Aging asphalt shingles shed granules that settle in gutters and add to buildup.

Homes with few trees nearby may only need a once-a-year cleaning, but it’s still worth checking them in spring and fall.

The Best Times to Clean Gutters in the Chicago Area

Timing matters as much as frequency. In the Chicago suburbs, these are the times that make the biggest difference:

Late spring

Wait until after maple trees drop their seeds, the “helicopters” or “whirlybirds” that pile into gutters by the thousands. Clearing gutters after that, and before summer thunderstorms, keeps them ready for heavy rain.

Late fall

Clean gutters after most leaves have fallen but before the first hard freeze. Leaves left in gutters over winter freeze into a solid mass that blocks meltwater and adds weight that can pull gutters away from the house.

After major storms

High winds can dump branches, leaves and roof debris into gutters at any time of year. After a big storm, check that your gutters and downspouts are clear and still securely attached.

Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning or Repair

Don’t wait for your next scheduled cleaning if you notice:

Water spilling over the sides of the gutters during rain
Plants, moss or seedlings growing in the gutters
Gutters sagging or pulling away from the fascia
Little or no water coming out of the downspouts during rain
Water stains or peeling paint on siding or fascia below the gutters
Pooling water or erosion along your foundation
Birds or pests nesting in the gutters
Large icicles or ice buildup along the gutters in winter

Your Gutter Maintenance Checklist

Every time you clean or check your gutters, work through these steps:

Remove debris. Scoop out leaves, seeds and sludge, starting near the downspouts.
Flush the gutters. Run water through each section with a garden hose to wash out remaining grit and confirm water flows toward the downspouts.
Clear the downspouts. If water backs up, flush the downspout from the top or use a plumber’s snake to remove the clog.
Check the slope. Standing water after flushing means a section isn’t pitched properly toward the downspout.
Inspect seams and joints. Look for leaks, gaps and rust spots, especially at corners and end caps.
Check the hangers. Make sure gutters are firmly attached and not pulling away from the fascia.
Check the downspout outlets. Water should discharge several feet from your foundation. Add extensions or splash blocks if it doesn’t.

A note on safety: Gutter cleaning means ladder work, and falls are a real risk, especially on two-story homes. Use a sturdy ladder on level ground, have someone hold it, and never lean out past the rails. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder, hire a professional.

How Gutter Guards Reduce Maintenance

If you’re cleaning gutters several times a year, gutter guards can cut that down considerably. They cover the gutters to keep leaves, seeds and other debris out while letting water flow through. We recommend Valor Gutter Guards, which keep debris out and maintain steady water flow, even in heavy rain.

Gutter guards don’t make gutters completely maintenance-free, and they aren’t the right fit for every home. Our post Are Gutter Guards Worth It? An Honest Breakdown covers the pros, cons and types of guards to help you decide.

When to Repair or Replace Your Gutters

Cleaning won’t fix gutters that are damaged or failing. Consider repairs if you have a few leaking seams, a loose section or a bent downspout. Consider replacing your gutters if:

They’re sagging or pulling away in several places
There are cracks, holes or rust along multiple sections
Water keeps pooling because the slope can’t be corrected
The fascia boards behind them are rotting
They overflow in heavy rain even when clean, which can mean they’re undersized for your roof

If you’re replacing your gutters, it’s the ideal time to add gutter guards, since both can be installed together.

Gutter Maintenance FAQs

How often should you clean your gutters?

At least twice a year, in late spring and late fall. Homes with overhanging trees or pine trees nearby may need cleaning three or four times a year.

What is the best month to clean gutters?

In the Chicago area, late May or June works well in spring, after maple seeds have dropped. In fall, aim for November, after most leaves have fallen and before the first hard freeze.

What happens if you never clean your gutters?

Clogged gutters overflow, which can damage your foundation, basement, fascia, siding and landscaping. In winter, they can freeze and contribute to ice dams that cause leaks inside your home.

Do gutter guards mean I never have to clean my gutters?

No, but they greatly reduce how often you need to. Most gutter guards need an occasional check and rinse to keep working well.

Let Us Take Care of Your Gutters

Euclid Roofing & Siding inspects, repairs and replaces gutters for homeowners across Chicago’s north and northwest suburbs, including Palatine, Schaumburg and Arlington Heights. Our team will check your gutters for damage, clogs and weak points, and fix problems before they turn into costly repairs.

Learn more about our gutter services, or call (847) 202-3740 to schedule an inspection.