Gutter Care and Ice Dam Prevention: Your Winter Guide

Milwaukee's brutal winters demand proactive gutter maintenance—and ignoring it can cost you thousands. With 52+ inches of annual snowfall, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, and lake-effect weather off Lake Michigan, gutters in the greater Milwaukee area face some of the harshest conditions in the Midwest. This guide covers everything North Shore homeowners need to know: why maintenance matters, who to call, what to pay, and how to prevent costly damage before it starts.

Whether you live in a historic Shorewood bungalow, a Whitefish Bay colonial, or a newer Mequon home, proper gutter care and ice dam prevention aren't optional—they're essential for protecting your biggest investment.

Why Milwaukee winters are tough on gutters

Milwaukee's proximity to Lake Michigan creates a perfect storm for gutter problems. The city receives significantly more snow than inland communities due to lake-effect precipitation, and the humid continental climate produces wide temperature swings that wreak havoc on roofing systems.

Ice dams form when heat escapes from inadequately insulated attics, warming the roof deck and melting snow. That water runs down toward the colder eaves, refreezes at the gutter edge, and creates an ice ridge that blocks drainage. As this cycle repeats, backed-up water seeps under shingles, causing interior leaks, mold, and structural damage.

The consequences aren't cheap. Water damage repairs average $2,400 to $5,600, while foundation damage from chronic gutter overflow can exceed $8,000. Ice dams can weigh more than 60 pounds per cubic foot, pulling gutters away from fascia boards and causing permanent structural damage.

Historic North Shore homes face extra challenges

Older homes in Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, and Fox Point often have:

• Half-round gutters that hold only half the water of modern K-style designs

• Complex rooflines with multiple dormers, valleys, and eaves—prime ice dam territory

• Original insulation that falls far short of today's R-49 to R-60 standards

• Poor ventilation from before soffit and ridge vents became standard

These architectural features that give North Shore neighborhoods their charm also make professional maintenance particularly important.

When to schedule gutter cleaning in Wisconsin

Fall cleaning is critical. Schedule your main cleaning for late October through early November—after most leaves have fallen but before temperatures drop below freezing. Clogged gutters heading into winter virtually guarantee ice dam problems.

Spring cleaning (late April to early May) removes winter debris, pollen, seed pods, and twigs from storms. Homes surrounded by trees should consider three to four cleanings annually.

Season Timing Priority Action Spring Late April–May Remove winter debris, inspect for damage Fall October–November Most critical—clear leaves before freeze Winter December–February Monitor for ice dams, remove snow if needed

Reputable local companies for gutter services

Dedicated gutter cleaning specialists

Milwaukee Gutter Cleaning stands out for North Shore coverage and reputation. Based in Menomonee Falls with over 10 years in business (since 2013), they hold a BBB A+ rating and specifically serve Mequon, Fox Point, Shorewood, River Hills, Glendale, and Brown Deer. Owner Sheldon Gasek leads a full crew that completes most cleanings in about 30 minutes. They provide before-and-after photos, offer free estimates with no trip charge, and handle minor repairs and gutter guard installation. Call (262) 220-7034.

Leaf It 2 Me Gutter Cleaning & Protection is a Gutterglove-certified company offering thorough hand and vacuum debris removal, downspout clearing, and installation of Leafblaster Pro guards with a 40-year warranty. They email before-and-after photos and provide detailed reports noting any gutter issues found. Fully licensed and insured with competitive pricing.

GutterGrizzly offers straightforward pricing from $159 to $399 for most properties, covering cleaning, minor repairs, gutter guard installation, and heating cable installation. This family-owned company also handles soffit cleanups and solar panel cleaning.

ViewRenew appears in Yelp's Top 10 for Milwaukee gutter cleaning, offering tiered packages (Basic, Premium, Deluxe) with a "3-Month Clog Free" guarantee on higher tiers. They send text notifications when arriving and completing work.

Southeast Wisconsin Gutter Cleaning is veteran-owned and operated—owner Cody served nine years in the Marine Corps. They offer a 15% discount for military, firefighters, police, and EMT personnel and provide before-and-after photos. Call (920) 207-6094.

Full-service gutter companies

Community Roofing & Restoration has served the North Shore since 1975—nearly 50 years of local expertise. They explicitly market to Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Glendale, and Mequon, calling themselves "North Shore's trusted gutter experts." They specialize in copper gutter installation and built-in gutters for historic homes, plus standard installation, repair, and ice dam removal. Free exterior assessments available. Call (414) 332-1139.

BCI Exteriors brings 40+ years of experience with in-house gutter fabrication. Their specialized trucks and metal shop custom-fabricate each gutter system on-site—no one-size-fits-all solutions. They offer aluminum, copper, and steel gutters and specifically serve Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Glendale, and Mequon. Family-owned with extensive roofing and siding services.

All Things Gutters (since 2005) focuses on Ozaukee County, making them ideal for Mequon-area homeowners. They're BBB members with Home Advisor and Metropolitan Builders Association credentials. Services include 5-inch residential and 6-inch or 8-inch commercial gutters, half-round and K-style options, and seamless installation with many color choices.

Marcel's Gutter Solutions LLC in Mequon brings 19+ years of gutter guard design and manufacturing experience. Owner Marcel personally handles work, providing quick identification of gutter issues. They use aluminum and stainless steel mesh systems. Call (414) 828-4968.

We Clean Gutters LLC in West Allis has operated for nearly 20 years under owner Greg, offering cleaning, downspout repair, gutter guards, and new system installation. Licensed and certified with ongoing technician training. Call (414) 206-3096.

Regional exterior contractors with gutter expertise

Infinity Exteriors offers seamless aluminum gutters with expertly mitered corners, gutter guards, and repairs. Pricing runs $5–$15 per linear foot for aluminum installation, with a lifetime workmanship warranty.

Exterior Pros serves Whitefish Bay and the broader Milwaukee area with seamless aluminum installation, custom-mitered corners, oversized downspouts, and gutter guards. They offer a lifetime warranty on labor and materials, plus $1,000 off any service over $10,000.

Alois Roofing and Sheet Metal (West Allis) specializes in sheet metal gutters and downspouts with Wisconsin's largest selection of sheet metal products. They serve from Milwaukee to Madison and Racine to Sheboygan.

LeafFilter Wisconsin provides seamless gutter installation and their nationally-rated gutter guards. They explicitly serve Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Bay View, and Wauwatosa. Gutter replacement runs $400–$3,500 (average $1,969), while gutter guards cost $2,920–$9,700 depending on home size. They offer 60-month no-interest financing and a lifetime transferable warranty.

Pricing reference for gutter services

Service Typical Milwaukee Cost Gutter cleaning (1-story) $70–$200 Gutter cleaning (2-story) $150–$300 Gutter cleaning (complex/multi-story) $200–$400 Gutter repair $150–$500 Gutter installation (per linear foot) $4–$15 Total gutter installation $400–$3,500 Gutter guard installation $2,920–$13,350

Ice dam removal and prevention specialists

Emergency steam ice dam removal

Ice Dam Guys® operates a dedicated Wisconsin service area from their Minnesota headquarters, serving Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Fox Point, Whitefish Bay, Brookfield, and surrounding communities. They use steam-only removal (since 1995)—the safest method that won't damage shingles. With an A+ BBB rating and Angie's List Super Service Awards, they offer same-day and next-day emergency service, operating 6 AM to 11 PM, seven days a week. Call 1-800-ICE-DAMS (1-800-423-3267).

DamBreakers Steam Ice Dam Removal is one of the oldest and largest steam ice dam removal companies in the Milwaukee area, owned by Jeremy Hage. They offer guidance on working with insurance companies and can connect customers with water remediation services. Call (715) 492-1100.

RTD Ice Dam Removal (headquartered in St. Paul) serves Milwaukee through their website milwaukeeicedams.com. They handle residential, commercial, and townhome services using touch-free steam methods. All employees are covered under Workers' Comp—no subcontractors.

Absolutely Clean Window Washing brings 20+ years of experience and founded IDSAFE (Ice Dam Steaming Association For Education). They use low-pressure steam at 300°F and 100 PSI with a zero-damage guarantee, operating 24/7 during peak ice dam season and serving all of Wisconsin. Call (612) 919-4185.

Ice Dams Removed serves Milwaukee, Madison, Kenosha, and southern Wisconsin with 15+ years of experience. Call 1-833-ROOF-ICE.

Ice dam prevention through heat cable installation

Wisconsin Ice Dam Solutions (GSB Companies LLC) is the exclusive Edge Melt Systems Certified Installer for southeastern Wisconsin. They hold a BBB A+ rating and have installed over 100,000 feet of heat cable. Services include heat cable installation, radiant roof panels, heated gutter guards, and annual testing and maintenance. Their coverage includes Whitefish Bay, River Hills, Mequon, Fox Point, Bayside, Thiensville, Shorewood, Brookfield, and surrounding communities. They work with Bylin (Pentair/Raychem), Thermal Technologies, Gutterglove Icebreaker, and other professional-grade systems.

Wisconsin Home Improvement (38+ years in Milwaukee) focuses on permanent ice dam prevention through proper insulation and air sealing—addressing root causes rather than symptoms.

Heins Contracting offers low-pressure steam removal plus ice dam damage repair. As roofing specialists, they can address root causes of recurring ice dams. Milwaukee-area office at W305 S3990 Brookhill Rd, Waukesha. Call (877) 347-6634.

Roofing contractors offering snow and ice services

Absolute Home Improvements provides emergency roof snow removal and covers an extensive North Shore service area including Bayside, Brown Deer, Fox Point, Glendale, River Hills, Shorewood, Whitefish Bay (Milwaukee County), plus Mequon, Cedarburg, Grafton, and Thiensville (Ozaukee County).

Lefever Roofing offers roof snow shoveling, raking, and calcium/magnesium chloride ice dam treatment at hourly rates. Fully insured with NARI and Angi membership. Call (262) 968-2800.

Infinity Exteriors charges a $350 minimum (includes 2 hours of work), then $60/hour for roof snow and ice dam services. Salt costs extra. Call (262) 650-5040.

Sawvell Roofing and Siding (second-generation company) charges a $400 minimum that includes 2 workers for 4 hours with salt included. They serve Waukesha and Jefferson counties. Call (262) 567-6418.

Ice dam removal pricing

Method Price Range Notes Salt/chemical removal $300–$1,500 Most common; varies by house size and roof steepness Steam removal $800–$2,400 Gold standard; most jobs around $1,500 Professional removal (general) $300–$1,000 Many companies have $300–$400 minimums, then $300/hour

DIY versus professional service

When DIY gutter cleaning makes sense

You can safely handle gutter cleaning yourself if you have a single-story home with safe ground-level access, you're comfortable working on ladders, and weather conditions are dry and mild. Basic equipment includes a sturdy extension ladder, work gloves, a gutter scoop, garden hose, and safety glasses.

However, the statistics give pause: 164,000+ Americans visit emergency rooms annually from ladder falls, with over 300 deaths each year. Working at gutter height (10–25+ feet) carries inherent risk.

When to call the professionals

Professional service is strongly recommended for:

• Multi-story homes (two floors or more)

• Steep roof pitches

• Ice dam removal (dangerous and requires specialized equipment)

• Work near power lines

• Complex rooflines with multiple levels

• Any work during icy, snowy, or wet conditions

• Gutter repairs beyond simple cleaning

The math often favors hiring help

DIY equipment costs $180–$400 upfront (ladder, safety gear, tools), plus 4–8 hours of your time. Professional cleaning typically costs $150–$300 for a two-story home. When you factor in safety risk and the opportunity cost of your time, professional service twice yearly ($300–$400 annually) often makes financial sense—especially compared to potential medical bills or property damage from DIY mishaps.

What to look for when hiring a contractor

Wisconsin requires proper licensing

For projects over $1,000, Wisconsin law requires contractors to hold a Dwelling Contractor License from the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Licensed contractors must:

• Complete a 12-hour approved training course

• Pass the dwelling contractor qualifier exam

• Carry a $25,000 surety bond OR $250,000 general liability insurance per occurrence

• Maintain workers' compensation insurance

• Register with the Department of Revenue

Verify any contractor's license through the Wisconsin LicenseE online system before signing a contract.

Insurance you should verify

Request a certificate of insurance showing current:

• General liability insurance (minimum $250,000 per occurrence—required in Wisconsin)

• Workers' compensation insurance for all employees

• Commercial vehicle insurance for work vehicles

If a contractor can't produce these documents, walk away.

Red flags that signal trouble

Avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront (never pay more than 15–20% deposit), request cash-only payment, show up uninvited after storms ("storm chasers"), use pressure tactics or "today only" deals, or can't provide a written contract. Out-of-state plates, no local references, and unusually low estimates are additional warning signs.

Questions worth asking

Before hiring, ask:

1. "Are you licensed as a Dwelling Contractor in Wisconsin?"

2. "Can you provide proof of liability and workers' comp insurance?"

3. "How long have you been in business locally?"

4. "Can you provide references from North Shore customers?"

5. "What's included in your estimate, and do you offer a written warranty?"

Always get at least three competitive estimates and check BBB ratings before making a decision.

Prevention strategies that actually work

Start with your attic, not your roof

Proper insulation and ventilation are more effective than heat cables at preventing ice dams. The goal is keeping attic temperature the same as outside air so roof snow doesn't melt unevenly.

Wisconsin homes should have attic insulation rated R-49 to R-60. Equally important: air seal around wiring, plumbing, light fixtures, attic hatches, and exhaust fans. Many older North Shore homes fall far short of these standards.

Proper ventilation requires balanced intake (soffit vents) and exhaust (ridge or box vents)—at least 1 square foot of vent area per 300 square feet of attic floor. Install baffles to maintain a 2-inch air gap between insulation and the roof deck.

Gutter guards worth the investment

Quality gutter guards reduce (but don't eliminate) cleaning frequency and can help prevent ice dams. For Wisconsin's harsh winters, choose:

• Micro-mesh guards (LeafFilter, Raptor) with surgical-grade stainless steel mesh—these won't warp in freeze-thaw cycles

• Metal guards made of aluminum or steel

Avoid plastic or PVC guards, which crack in cold weather and warp with temperature changes. Foam inserts can trap moisture and freeze solid.

Heat cables as a supplement

Heat cables can prevent ice dam formation when professionally installed, but they're not a standalone solution. Self-regulating cables that adjust to temperature changes work best. Budget for increased electricity costs during winter months.

Heat cables work best when combined with improved insulation and ventilation—addressing symptoms and root causes together.

Roof raking after heavy snowfall

Removing snow from the first 3–4 feet of roof edge after significant snowfall prevents ice dam formation. Use a proper roof rake (available at hardware stores) and work from the ground when possible. Never climb on an icy roof.

Your seasonal maintenance checklist

October–November: Schedule professional gutter cleaning; verify gutters are clear before first freeze.

December–February: Monitor eaves for ice buildup; roof-rake after heavy snowfall; watch for water stains on interior ceilings.

March–April: Inspect gutters for winter damage; check fascia boards for pulling or rot; schedule repairs before spring rains.

May: Complete spring cleaning; clear pollen and debris; consider gutter guard installation.

September: Pre-fall inspection; check downspout drainage; verify attic insulation before winter.

The bottom line for Milwaukee homeowners

Milwaukee's 52 inches of annual snow, lake-effect weather, and relentless freeze-thaw cycles make gutter maintenance non-negotiable. The cost of prevention—$150–$400 annually for professional cleaning—pales against the $2,400–$8,000+ price tag for water damage or foundation repairs.

North Shore homeowners in particular should establish relationships with experienced local contractors who understand the unique challenges of historic homes and complex rooflines. Companies like Community Roofing & Restoration, BCI Exteriors, and Milwaukee Gutter Cleaning have decades of experience specifically serving Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Fox Point, and Mequon.

For ice dam emergencies, keep contact information handy for steam removal specialists like Ice Dam Guys (1-800-ICE-DAMS) or DamBreakers—waiting until water is pouring through your ceiling limits your options and increases costs.

The best strategy combines regular maintenance with long-term prevention: clean gutters twice yearly, address attic insulation and ventilation, consider quality gutter guards, and build a relationship with a licensed, insured local contractor before winter arrives.