When Ottawa gutters fill up
Trees common in the region, such as broadleaf sugar maple, red maple, bur oak, hickory, American elm, white pine, and spruce, drop debris throughout the year. Fall leaf drop usually peaks in mid October, filling roof channels with heavy foliage, acorns, and pine needles. Spring brings maple seed wings that block the entrance to every downspout. Freezing nights happen regularly in Ottawa, Illinois, where winter snow is likely. Trapped water in a clogged channel freezes, creating ice dams in gutters that pull gutters away from the roofline. We recommend gutter cleaning at least twice a year, spring and fall, to protect your home from winter ice and spring heavy rain.