We get it. Gutters are probably the last thing you think about when you’re maintaining your home. They’re up there on your roof, doing their thing, and most people forget they even exist. Until something goes wrong.
I’ve been running Prime Time Window & Gutter Cleaning since 1996, and let me tell you—I’ve seen what happens when gutters get ignored. It ain’t pretty. And it definitely ain’t cheap.
So if you’ve been putting off your gutter cleaning, this is your wake-up call. Because what starts as a small problem with clogged gutters can turn into thousands of dollars in damage before you even know what hit you.
The Foundation Damage That’ll Make You Cry
Here’s the thing about gutters. Their whole job is to move water away from your house. When they’re clogged up with leaves, sticks, and all that other stuff that accumulates up there, water starts pooling around your foundation instead of flowing where it should.
And water sitting against your foundation? That’s bad news. Real bad news.
Foundation repairs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 depending on how severe the damage gets. I’ve seen homeowners in Schaumburg who ignored their gutters for just two years end up with cracks in their basement walls. One customer in Elmhurst told me their foundation repair bill was $8,500. That’s a lot of money for something that could’ve been prevented with regular gutter maintenance.
Water finds its way into everything. Once it starts seeping into your foundation, you’re looking at structural issues that only get worse over time. The freeze-thaw cycle we get here in Chicago makes it even worse—water gets in those cracks, freezes, expands, and boom. Bigger cracks.
Your local gutter specialists can prevent all of this with simple maintenance. We’re talking about spending a couple hundred bucks on affordable gutter cleaning nearby versus thousands on foundation work later. The math is pretty simple.
Basement Flooding (And Everything That Comes With It)
Speaking of water and foundations—let’s talk about basement flooding. This is one of the most common problems I see with ignored gutters.
When gutters overflow, all that water dumps right next to your house. Eventually, it finds its way into your basement. Maybe through cracks in the foundation. Maybe through window wells. Maybe through that one spot where the concrete didn’t quite seal right.
However it gets in, you’re now dealing with a flooded basement. And flooding isn’t just about wet carpet and ruined boxes of old photos (though those suck too). You’re also looking at:
- Mold growth (which can cause serious health problems)
- Electrical hazards
- Damaged HVAC systems
- Ruined drywall and insulation
- Lost personal belongings
The Insurance Information Institute notes that water damage is one of the most common homeowner insurance claims. But here’s the kicker—many policies don’t cover flooding caused by poor maintenance. So if your insurance adjuster determines your gutters were clogged and that’s what caused the flood, you might be on your own for the bill.
I worked with a family in Glenview last year who had $12,000 in basement damage from a single heavy rainstorm. Their gutters hadn’t been cleaned in three years. Insurance didn’t cover it because it was considered preventable maintenance. Ouch.
Don’t wait until you’re dealing with water damage! Contact us today for a free gutter inspection. We’ll let you know exactly what condition your gutters are in and what needs to be done.
Roof Damage That Starts Small and Gets Big Fast
Clogged gutters don’t just cause problems down below. They cause problems up top too.
When gutters fill up with debris, water backs up onto your roof. This is called “ice damming” in winter, but it happens year-round in different ways. That standing water sits there, soaking into your shingles, getting under your roof materials, and causing all kinds of damage.
Wood rot is the first problem. Your roof deck, fascia boards, and soffits start rotting when they’re constantly wet. Once wood starts rotting, you’re looking at expensive repairs. Replacing rotted fascia can cost $6-$20 per linear foot. Roof deck replacement? That’s hundreds or thousands depending on the extent of the damage.
Then there’s the shingles themselves. Shingles aren’t meant to sit in standing water. They deteriorate faster, lose their protective granules, and start failing prematurely. A roof that should last 20-25 years might only last 15 because of water damage from clogged gutters.
Trusted gutter cleaners can spot these issues early. When we clean gutters, we’re also looking at the condition of your roof edges, fascia, and overall gutter system. We’ll tell you if we see problems developing so you can fix them before they become major issues.
The Mosquito and Pest Problem Nobody Talks About
Here’s something people don’t think about—clogged gutters are basically five-star hotels for pests.
Standing water in gutters is perfect for mosquitoes to breed. One clogged gutter can produce thousands of mosquitoes over a summer. And we’re not just talking about annoying bugs at your backyard barbecue. Mosquitoes can carry diseases like West Nile virus and other nasty stuff.
But mosquitoes aren’t the only guests. Clogged gutters also attract:
- Birds who build nests in the debris
- Squirrels and rodents looking for shelter
- Wasps and hornets who love building nests in protected spaces
- Carpenter ants and termites drawn to rotting wood
I’ve pulled bird nests, wasp nests, and even found a whole family of squirrels living in clogged gutters. One house in Lake Zurich had carpenter ants that had completely destroyed the fascia board because the constant moisture from clogged gutters created the perfect environment.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, eliminating standing water around your home is one of the most effective ways to control mosquito populations. Your gutters are part of that equation.
Landscape and Hardscape Destruction
When gutters overflow, all that water has to go somewhere. Usually, it’s straight down onto your landscaping and hardscaping.
Those nice flower beds you planted? Get ready to watch them turn into muddy pits. The topsoil erodes away, plants get waterlogged and die, and you’re left with a mess.
Your driveway and walkways take a beating too. Constant water overflow causes:
- Erosion around concrete slabs
- Settlement and sinking of pavers
- Staining on concrete
- Ice buildup in winter (which is a safety hazard)
I’ve seen driveways develop serious cracks and settlement issues because water was constantly pouring off clogged gutters in the same spot for years. Replacing a driveway can cost $4-$15 per square foot. A typical two-car driveway replacement? You’re looking at $3,000 to $7,000 easy.
And let’s talk about your lawn. Constant water dumping in the same spots creates channels, kills grass, and makes your yard look like crap. Fixing drainage issues and re-landscaping isn’t cheap either.
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Siding Damage and Paint Problems
Your siding is meant to shed water, not be constantly soaked by it. When gutters overflow, water runs down your siding instead of away from your house. This causes all kinds of problems.
Wood siding starts rotting. Vinyl siding can warp and crack. Even brick and stone aren’t immune—the constant moisture can cause efflorescence (those white chalky deposits) and even structural issues over time.
Paint doesn’t hold up well to constant water exposure either. You’ll see:
- Peeling and bubbling paint
- Staining and discoloration
- Mold and mildew growth
- Faster deterioration of exterior finishes
Repainting a house isn’t cheap. You’re looking at $3,000-$7,000 for a typical single-family home. And if your siding is damaged beyond just cosmetic issues, replacement costs can run $5,000-$15,000 or more.
Our neighborhood roof and gutter care services include checking for these kinds of problems. We look at how water is flowing (or not flowing) and can tell you if your siding is at risk before major damage occurs.
The Ice Dam Disaster in Chicago Winters
Living in the Chicago area means dealing with winter. And winter plus clogged gutters equals ice dams. This is a huge problem that a lot of people don’t understand until it’s too late.
Here’s what happens: When your gutters are clogged, water can’t drain. When temperatures drop, that water freezes. The ice builds up, gets heavier, and starts causing problems. The weight alone can pull gutters right off your house. I’ve seen gutters completely torn away from the fascia because of ice buildup.
But the real damage happens when that ice creates a dam that forces water back up under your shingles. Water gets into your attic, insulation, walls—places it should never be. The damage from one bad ice dam can easily cost $5,000-$10,000 to repair.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends keeping gutters clean as a key part of ice dam prevention. It’s simple maintenance that prevents major winter disasters.
How Much Does Gutter Damage Really Cost?
Let’s add it up. If you ignore your gutters long enough, you could be looking at:
- Foundation repairs: $2,000-$15,000
- Basement waterproofing: $3,000-$10,000
- Roof repairs: $1,500-$8,000
- Siding replacement: $5,000-$15,000
- Landscaping repair: $1,000-$5,000
- Driveway/walkway replacement: $3,000-$7,000
That’s potentially $15,500 to $60,000 in damage. From ignoring something as simple as gutter cleaning.
Now compare that to regular gutter maintenance. Most homeowners spend between $150-$400 per cleaning, twice a year. That’s $300-$800 annually. Over ten years, that’s $3,000-$8,000.
Would you rather spend a few hundred bucks a year on prevention, or potentially tens of thousands on repairs? Yeah, I thought so.
And if you’re wondering “how much does window washing cost” when combined with gutter services, we often offer package deals that save you money. Getting your window cleaning and gutter cleaning done at the same time makes sense for your schedule and your wallet.
Why Professional Gutter Cleaning Matters
I know what some of you are thinking. “I can just clean my own gutters.” Sure, you can. But let me tell you why that might not be the best idea.
First, safety. Ladder accidents send thousands of people to the ER every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ladder-related injuries are way more common than people think. We have proper equipment, training, and insurance. If something goes wrong when we’re on your property, you’re covered.
Second, we actually know what we’re doing. Best-rated gutter cleaning professionals don’t just scoop leaves out. We:
- Check for proper pitch and drainage
- Inspect for damage or deterioration
- Clear downspouts completely
- Test water flow
- Look for potential problems before they become major issues
I’ve been doing this for almost 30 years. I can spot problems that most homeowners would miss. That fascia board that’s starting to rot. The gutter seam that’s about to fail. The downspout that’s not draining properly.
When you search for “rain gutter cleaning near me” or “window washers near me,” you’re looking for nearby exterior maintenance pros who know what they’re doing. That’s us. We’re bonded and insured, we’ve served over 100,000 homes in the Chicago area, and we actually care about doing the job right.
Ready to protect your home from expensive gutter damage? Get in touch with us now for same-day or next-day service throughout the area. We respond fast!
What About Window Washing Services?
Here’s something most people don’t realize—there’s a connection between your gutters and your windows.
When gutters overflow, that dirty water splashes all over your windows, siding, and everything else. You can get your windows professionally cleaned, but if your gutters are a mess, those windows are going to get dirty again real quick.
That’s why we offer combined services. When you’re getting gutter cleaning done, it makes sense to get your window washing done too. Same crew, same visit, and you save money compared to scheduling separately.
We’re not just window washing companies or just gutter cleaners. We’re a full-service local home gutter service that handles all your exterior cleaning needs. Windows, gutters, power washing—we do it all, and we do it right.
How Often Should You Actually Clean Your Gutters?
Most homes need gutter cleaning at least twice a year. Spring and fall are the big ones. Spring cleaning gets rid of winter debris and prepares your system for spring rains. Fall cleaning is crucial because of all the leaves and stuff that accumulates.
But some homes need more frequent cleaning:
- Lots of trees nearby (especially pine trees or oaks)
- Previous problems with clogging
- Older gutter systems
- Areas prone to heavy storms
Homes in Vernon Hills or St. Charles with mature trees might need cleaning three or four times a year. It all depends on your specific situation.
As a community gutter cleaning company, we can set you up on a regular maintenance schedule. Some customers have us come out quarterly. Others are fine with twice a year. We’ll assess your property and recommend what makes sense for you.
The Cost of Procrastination
Every season you wait to clean your gutters, the damage potential increases. It’s not like putting off washing your car where the only consequence is a dirty vehicle. This is your biggest investment—your home—and ignoring basic maintenance can literally destroy it over time.
I’ve had customers call me in a panic because they waited too long and now they’re dealing with real problems. Water in the basement. Gutters falling off. Foundation cracks. And they always say the same thing: “I wish I’d called sooner.”
Don’t be that person.
The truth is, how much is window washing or gutter cleaning compared to the cost of ignoring the problem? It’s a fraction of a percent of what you’ll spend on repairs if things go south.
Why Prime Time Window & Gutter Cleaning?
We’ve been doing this since 1996. That’s almost 30 years of experience in the Chicago area. We’re not some fly-by-night operation that’ll be gone next year. We’re established, bonded, insured, and we have thousands of satisfied customers.
Our team of licensed gutter cleaning contractors treats every home like it’s our own. We’re not here to rush through the job and move on to the next one. We’re here to do it right, protect your investment, and make sure you’re happy with the results.
We service the entire Chicago area, from the city to the far suburbs. Whether you’re looking for window cleaning in the northwest suburbs or gutter services in the south suburbs, we’ve got you covered.
And here’s something that matters—we’re local. We understand Chicago weather, we know what problems are common in this area, and we’re part of this community. When you hire us, you’re supporting a local business that’s been serving neighbors for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gutter Maintenance
How much does professional gutter cleaning cost in the Chicago area?
Most residential gutter cleaning runs between $150-$400 depending on your home size, how many stories, and the condition of the gutters. A typical single-story ranch might be $150-$200, while a larger two-story home could be $250-$400. We always give free estimates so you know exactly what you’ll pay before we start.
Can I clean gutters in the winter, or do I have to wait until spring?
You can clean gutters any time temperatures are above freezing. Actually, late fall/early winter cleaning is really important in Chicago to prevent ice dam formation. If gutters are already full of ice, we’ll wait for a thaw, but general debris removal can happen year-round.
What happens if my gutters are completely falling apart? Can you fix them?
We can assess the situation and let you know if repairs are possible or if replacement makes more sense. Sometimes gutters just need to be re-secured or have sections replaced. Other times, the whole system needs to go. We’ll be honest with you about what’s best for your home and budget.
Do you offer any guarantees on your gutter cleaning service?
Yes! If you have any issues with clogging or drainage within 30 days of our service, we’ll come back and take care of it at no charge. We stand behind our work because we do it right the first time.
Is gutter cleaning really necessary if I have gutter guards installed?
Gutter guards help, but they don’t eliminate the need for cleaning entirely. Debris can still accumulate on top of guards, small particles get through, and the guards themselves need inspection and cleaning. We recommend annual maintenance even with guards installed.
Take Action Now Before Damage Happens
Look, I’m not trying to scare you. Well, maybe a little. But only because I’ve seen what happens when gutters get ignored, and I don’t want that to happen to your home.
The good news? Preventing all these problems is easy. Regular gutter maintenance, professional cleaning a couple times a year, and paying attention to warning signs before they become emergencies.
Your home is probably your biggest investment. Protect it. Don’t let a $300 maintenance task turn into a $10,000 repair bill.
Ready to get your gutters cleaned by professionals who actually care? Contact Prime Time Window & Gutter Cleaning today for a free estimate. We’ll take care of your gutters, check your whole system, and make sure everything is working the way it should. Same-day and next-day service available throughout Chicagoland!
Whether you need window washing services, gutter cleaning, or both, we’re here to help. Don’t wait until you’ve got water in your basement or cracks in your foundation. Call us now and let’s get your gutters in shape before the next big storm.
Prime Time Window & Gutter Cleaning has been serving homeowners throughout the Chicago area since 1996. We’re fully bonded and insured, with nearly 30 years of experience protecting homes from water damage through professional gutter maintenance and window cleaning services. Contact us today to schedule your service!