Winter brings unique challenges for home maintenance. A common concern for every homeowner is the roof. You’ve got to have a functional and sound roof to stay dry, warm, and protected, right? Well, what about the gutters, when was the last time you peeked at your gutters? Probably before the cold weather and snow.
Don’t forget about your gutters, it’s important to check them during the winter. Why?
Gutters play a crucial role, directing rain and melting snow away from foundations, walls, and landscaping. Neglecting gutter maintenance in winter can cause water damage, ice dams, and structural issues. If you’ve got a home maintenance checklist for the winter, make sure to add the gutter system to it!
Here are 3 main reasons why checking your gutters during the winter is essential, some tips for maintenance during the cold months, and when to call a home improvement professional that specializes in gutter systems.
Importance of Checking Gutters in Winter
1. Preventing Ice Dams: Ice dams form when attic heat melts roof snow. The water runs down, then refreezes at the colder roof edge. If gutters clog, water can back up, damaging your roof, gutters, and home interior.
2. Avoiding Water Damage: Functioning gutters properly direct water from your home. Clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris, gutters can overflow, with water seeping into foundation, walls, and basement. This leads to repairs that are quite costly.
3. Preventing Structural Damage: The considerable weight of snow and ice, along with debris buildup, can make gutters detach from houses or even collapse. This necessitates not just gutter fixes but can damage exteriors too.
Tips for Winter Gutter Maintenance
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- Regular Cleaning: This is a must! Before winter’s onset, ensure gutters stay clear of all debris. You may want to install gutter guards to minimize leaves and twigs accumulating.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your gutters for any cracks, holes, or rust indicating wear and tear. Also, ensure they securely attach to your home and the downspouts properly direct water away from your foundation.
- Check gutters for ice buildup: During freezing weather, regularly check your gutters. If ice starts accumulating, promptly take safe steps to remove it before hazardous ice dams form.
- Ensure Proper Insulation: Check roof before gutters. Insulating your attic adequately can prevent escaping heat from melting snow on your roof. This reduces forming ice dam risk in gutters. A secure roof that is maintained pairs well with gutters that do their job.
3 Surefire Signs You Should Call a Professional – Yikes!
1. Significant Ice Dam Formation: Large ice dams backing water into homes require safe professional removal. They’ll also suggest solutions to stop this happening later.
2. Structural Damage: Gutters pulling from homes signal harm. Professionals assess extensive issues, performing vital repairs or swaps.
3. Safety Concerns: Accessing high gutters risks falls. Icy conditions make ladders hazardous. It’s best to hire a roofing contractor that also installs gutters; they have proper equipment, skill and expertise that reduces risk.
Recap
Keeping gutters clear in winter is key to guarding your home. Clean gutters prevent water damage, ice dams, and structure issues. Monitor for ice buildup. Fix any damage right away. Well-maintained gutters keep your home safe. Remember, if facing big problems or safety worries, call a home improvement contractor like Excel Home Improvement, they’ll ensure gutters work and protect your home.
Gutters, Roofs, Siding and More!
Excel Home Improvement is located in Romulus and is a phone call away from avoiding a disaster in your home. If you are experiencing roofing issues, gutter problems or your siding is damaged we’ll take care of it right away. We specialize in exterior home improvement services making sure your Michigan home is up to par with a proper roof, impeccable siding and a functioning gutter system. Question or concerns about your home? Call and speak to a home improvement specialist today!