Your Gutters In Winter: Tips For Success

By now, we know that your gutter system and your roof work together simultaneously to keep water away from your home to avoid erosion around your foundation and to keep water from running down the sides of your home.

Midwest winters pose many many threats to your gutter system much like those to your roof. They work together so they share many problems if they are not properly functioning. Let’s get into how you can set your gutters up for success before winter.

Clean, Clear, Clean Again

One of the easiest ways to prevent ice build up in your gutter system is to have a clean and clear gutter system. If this is not something you are able to do by yourself safely, contact your local exterior contractor to do it for you.

Cleaning your gutters in the latter of fall is optimal as that is when the Midwest is most likely to get our first snow fall. Debris such as leaves, twigs, and dead bugs can and will clog your gutters. This will promote ice build-up during thawing and refreezing if left uncleaned.

Trim Back Trees

Trimming back your trees will drastically cut back the amount of leaves and debris that will fall into your gutters. This will relieve your gutters of clogging and chances of coming down incase of a limb break. Your local tree service is your best option for safety and optimal results.

Test Run

After you’ve cleaned your gutters and downspouts, take your garden hose and run some water through them to make sure there aren't any missed clogs or leaks around the seams. If you notice leaking from seams, contact your local exterior contractor.

Realign Your Gutters

Over the years your gutters will take a beating from wind rain and hail, contact your local exterior contractor to inspect your gutters for any shifts or sags. Flawed gutters like this can cause debris to get stuck in their cracks causing build up. Your local exterior contractor will be able to recommend any action steps.

Install Heat Tape

Heat tape for your gutter system is a great way to keep water moving throughout the system preventing ice buildup. It is best to contact your local exterior contractor to help with the job and to make sure it's installed properly.

Conclusion

If you do everything you can to prolong the life of your gutter system, you will be saving money in the long run. Preventative measures done to your roof and gutters will extend the life of them dramatically.