Stop Winter Ice Dams: Eavestrough Repair, Cleaning, and Guards Guide

Toronto’s freeze–thaw cycle can turn a small roofing issue into a costly winter headache. When heat escapes into the attic and melts roof snow, water runs toward the colder eaves and refreezes, creating ice dams. Left unchecked, they force water under shingles, stain ceilings, warp fascia, and turn walkways into hazards. The good news: with timely eavestrough cleaning, targeted repairs, and smart guard installation, GTA homeowners can dramatically reduce risk before the holidays and the harshest winter weeks arrive.

What causes ice dams—and why clean eavestroughs matter in the GTA

While insulation and ventilation drive the root cause of ice dams, drainage is your first line of defence. Clogged eavestroughs and blocked downspouts trap meltwater at the eaves, where it refreezes into a ridge. In older Toronto homes—think semi-detacheds in the city core or bungalows in Etobicoke—shallower soffits and aging troughs make this worse. A clear, correctly pitched eavestrough system helps meltwater exit safely, lowering the chance it becomes ice at the roof edge.

Do leaf guards prevent ice dams?

Leaf guards don’t eliminate ice dams on their own because ice dams originate from roof heat loss and snow load. However, quality aluminum guards keep out leaves, shingle grit, and debris so gutters flow freely during winter thaws. That improves drainage, reduces standing water at the eaves, and helps limit refreezing. In short: guards are a prevention booster when paired with clean eavestroughs, sound downspouts, and—as needed—better attic insulation and ventilation.

Your winter defence: cleaning, repair, and guard installation

Perfect Window and Eaves Cleaning Inc. delivers a comprehensive approach tailored to Toronto winters:

Eavestrough cleaning: We remove leaves, needles, and shingle dust; flush downspouts; and clear tight elbows that often freeze solid in January.

Repairs and realignment: We fix leaks, reseal seams, correct sagging/pitch, and replace damaged sections so meltwater moves quickly.

Leaf guard installation: Durable aluminum guards keep debris out all season, cutting maintenance and helping prevent freeze–thaw blockages.

When to book eavestrough service in Toronto

November is ideal for eavestrough cleaning in the Greater Toronto Area—after the last big leaf drop and before sustained sub-zero temperatures. If early snow arrives, book the first clear window; even a mid-winter cleaning during a warm spell can prevent an ice dam from escalating. Homeowners in tree-heavy neighbourhoods like North York and Scarborough often benefit from a late-fall cleaning plus a guard install to stay ahead of December storms.

Quick checklist: signs your eavestroughs need attention

Water spilling over the sides during rain or thaw

Visible sagging, gaps at seams, or peeling fascia paint

Persistent icicles forming along the eaves

Damp attic insulation or ceiling stains near exterior walls

Pooled water around the foundation after a melt

Local insights to improve results this winter

Focus on downspout extensions: In dense Toronto lots, directing meltwater at least 6 feet from the foundation helps prevent icy walks and basement seepage.

Mind south-facing roof planes: These thaw first on sunny GTA days. Clear gutters ensure midday melt doesn’t refreeze at shaded eaves.

Combine services for holiday readiness: Pair eavestrough service with exterior window cleaning so natural winter light brightens interiors before guests arrive.

Why choose Perfect Window and Eaves Cleaning Inc.

With more than 20 years of experience, our Toronto-based team puts safety first on every job and treats your property with care. We provide a free on-site estimate, explain our recommendations clearly, and complete work to the highest standard. Our upper management follows up to ensure 100% customer satisfaction—because perfection isn’t just a promise, it’s our principle. From eavestrough cleaning and repair to leaf guard installation, we’re your trusted partner across the GTA.

Ready to stop winter ice dams before they start?

Book your free estimate today. Perfect Window and Eaves Cleaning Inc. will assess your eavestroughs, recommend the right cleaning, repairs, or guards, and prepare your home for a safe, welcoming holiday season. Visit perfectwindowcleaning.ca to schedule your service.