Get matched with top gutter cleaning pros in West Chicago, IL

Any small amount of standing water can be damaging to your gutters. It’s recommended that a ¼ inch puddle or more should be addressed. Failure to keep water from pooling in your gutters can result in clogs, algae growth, and pests that damage your gutters over time. 

The cost to install a downspout extension or reroute a downspout generally falls between $30 and $200. The final price depends on factors like whether you DIY the project or hire a gutter professional, the complexity of your gutter system, and the length of the new extension. A simple, above-ground DIY installation can cost as little as $30 for materials. In contrast, a more complex project involving professional installation and digging trenches for underground piping could cost over $1,000. This is still a significant saving compared to replacing your entire gutter system, which costs around $1,900 on average.

If not properly maintained, an underground downspout may damage your home's foundation. A clogged downspout can back up, causing water to pool around the base of your home and seep into the foundation. Regular inspections and maintenance keep your downspout in good working order, preventing damage and protecting your home.

Yes, gutters can still get clogged even with gutter guards installed. While guards significantly reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters, they are not 100% effective.

Small debris such as pine needles, seedlings, algae, small leaves, and pebbles can pass through the guard's screen or mesh and accumulate over time. Clogs can also form if the guards themselves are not cleaned and become overwhelmed with debris on top, preventing water from entering the gutter.

If this buildup is neglected, it can lead to clogs, water leaks, mold growth, and even plants sprouting from the gutters. The primary benefit of gutter guards is not the complete elimination of maintenance, but a dramatic reduction in how often you need to perform it, often from several times a year to just once a year or less.