Don't Let Winter Storms Overwhelm Your Gutters

Gutters play an important role in your home by helping to keep rain and snow from overflowing and damaging your roof, foundation, and landscaping. However, they can only do their job when they are working properly. If you live in an area that is prone to winter storms, it is important to take steps to protect your gutters, so they don't get overwhelmed and cause damage to your home. 

In this blog post, we will discuss how gutters work, how often they need to be cleaned and replaced, and some of the possible issues that can occur if they are not maintained properly. We will also provide tips on how to find a reputable gutter installation company.

How do gutters work?

Gutters are designed to help collect and divert rain and melted snow away from your roof, foundation, walkways, and landscaping. They are typically made of metal or plastic, although wooden gutters are sometimes used in older homes. The gutters must be properly sized for the slope of your roof so that water is diverted away as quickly as possible. 

To do this, they are usually placed at an angle so that the water runs downhill toward downspouts connected to the end of each section. The collected water is then directed to a designated drainage area, such as a dry well or storm drain.

How often do gutters need to be cleaned?

Gutters should generally be cleaned at least twice a year—once in the fall and once in the spring. However, if you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall or rain during the winter months, it’s a good idea to inspect your gutters more frequently and clean them as needed to prevent clogs from forming.

How often do gutters need to be replaced?

Gutters generally last for about 20 years before they need to be replaced. If you notice any signs of wear and tear—such as cracks or holes—it is important to have your gutters inspected by a professional right away so they can recommend any repairs or replacements that may be needed.

Possible gutter issues to be aware of

It is important to keep an eye out for potential gutter issues such as:

• Clogs or blockages caused by leaves, dirt, and other debris

• Rust due to exposure to the elements

• Leaks or holes that can cause water damage to your foundation

• Sagging gutters from the excess weight of snow and ice buildup.

Troubleshooting gutter issues

Sometimes, figuring out what exactly is wrong with your gutters can be tricky, so it is a good idea to call in a professional if you suspect something is wrong. However, here are three common issues:

Your gutters are too small

If your gutters are overflowing during a heavy rainstorm, it might be because they are too small for the amount of water that needs to be diverted away from your home.

Your gutters aren't positioned correctly

If your gutters are not positioned at the correct angle, it can cause them to overflow. An experienced professional should be able to assess and adjust the angle of your gutters, so they work properly.

Your downspouts are blocked or clogged

A clogged downspout is one of the most common gutter issues. It is important to inspect your downspouts regularly and clean them out as needed.

How to stop your gutters from freezing this winter

Gutters can easily freeze over during the winter months, particularly if you live in a colder climate. To prevent this from happening, take steps to keep your gutters free from debris and consider the following options:

• Add snow guards to help break up large chunks of snow and ice buildup

• Use de-icing cables or heating tape to help prevent your gutters from freezing

• Insulate exposed sections of the gutter with foam insulation

• Install a mesh cover over the top of your gutters to keep leaves and other debris out.

Finding a reputable gutter installation company

It is important to find an experienced and reliable gutter installer who can provide quality workmanship when it comes time for repairs or replacements. Do some research online to read customer reviews and ask for referrals from friends and family. Take your time in selecting the right contractor so you can be sure the job is done correctly.

Takeaways

Winter storms can take their toll on gutters if they are not properly maintained. Make sure to inspect and clean your gutters at least twice a year and watch out for any signs of damage that may require repairs or replacements. Finally, do your due diligence in finding a reputable gutter installation company so you can be sure the job is done correctly.

With these tips, you can help protect your home from winter storm damage by taking steps to ensure that your gutters are working properly. 

If you are ready to update and protect your home’s this winter and all year-round, new or cleaned gutters could be the way to go. And when you use a TrustDALE certified professional, you're always protected by Dale's trademark $10,000 Make-It-Right Guarantee. So start looking for a trusted gutter professional in your area today!