Winter is Coming: How to Prepare Your Gutter System
Your gutter system is essential in preventing water from damaging your home. While your biggest concerns for most of the year are leaves and other plant debris types, you face a different set of challenges when winter comes.
Snow buildup in your gutters can cause a blockage that prevents water from flowing freely. It can then result in pooling along the edges of your roof, creating leaks and other types of water damage that affect the roof’s structural integrity. Discover how to prepare your gutter system for winter to protect your roof and your home.
How to Prevent Gutter Damage from Snow
Much like other parts of your home, your roof gutter protection system needs to be well-maintained to survive the colder months. In addition to regular maintenance, there are some things you should do before the first expected snowfall.
Clean Your Gutters of Debris
Inspect your gutters for debris regularly. Use a garden trowel or a gutter scoop to scrape off any debris littering the water’s path. Then, scrape off grime to prevent it from accumulating and becoming an obstruction. During winter, try to do this every week. Snow and sleet can clog up the gutter and become a problem once they thaw.
Inspect Your Gutters for Damage
Once you’ve cleaned out your gutters, take the time to inspect it for damage. This structure experiences severe wear throughout the year; repairing any damage before winter will improve its performance and extend its lifespan.
Inspect the Seams and Anchors
Check its seams and anchors for holes and leaks. Additionally, make sure the gutters are firmly attached to your roof. Gaps often indicate that a part of it has been detached from the roof, presenting a structural issue that can cause it to fall in the future.
Inspect Its Structural Integrity
Look at the areas surrounding the gutters, including the house’s siding and foundation. Examine them for signs of staining or rotting and make the necessary repairs if you find any. These types of damage are caused by unaddressed water damage.
Install Guards on Your Gutters
Installing the appropriate gutter protection system prevents debris from entering and accumulating in this structure. Although most homeowners have gutter screens installed, there are other better alternatives for snowfall and sleet.
LeafLock™ is a hanger and bracket system that provides protection all year long. Apart from leaves, mulch, and dirt, this tool prevents snow and water from accumulating in your gutters. It has a “nose-forward” design that has debris sliding off it. It’s enhanced with a heavy-duty finish that prevents corrosion.
Bruce Andrews Seamless Gutters, LLC: Your Partner in Protecting Your Gutters
With winter months arriving, you still have enough time to prepare your roof and gutter system. If you are unsure of what to look for during maintenance, you can hire a professional. It gives you insight into any potential issues and how to address them properly.
Bruce Andrews Seamless Gutters, LLC, provides maintenance, repair, and installation services. Let us help you prepare your home for the deep of winter with our gutter solutions. Get in touch with us for details.
