Before you search for rain gutter installation near me to find the best professionals to install a new gutter system to protect your home, learn about a few things about gutters and how to take care of them. In the winter, one of the biggest issues with gutters is freezing, but this is only a problem if the gutter is clogged. The good news is there are ways to keep this from happening.
The most immediate concern is that the frozen water can cause the gutter to become heavy and potentially detach from the house. If the gutter is full of ice and snow, it can also cause the roof to become overloaded and potentially collapse. In addition, a clogged and frozen gutter can cause water to overflow and potentially leak into the house, causing water damage to the roof, walls, and foundation.
All this is especially a danger if the weather goes through cycles of freezing and thawing. As snow and ice on the roof starts to thaw, the melted water will slowly run down the roof and into the gutters. If the gutters are clogged with debris, that water will back up. As the temperatures drop again in the next cycle, ice forms, overloading the gutters.
What To Do
If you know or suspect you have a clog, or if the gutters have already suffered damage, call a professional to repair or replace your gutters as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely small damage will become more expensive. Never try to remove ice and blockages yourself.
Working at roof level is dangerous at any time for those without the proper equipment and experience, but it’s especially dangerous during the winter. Everything is slippery and wet, and the cold can compromise your dexterity. Wearing thick gloves and other winter gear can make it harder to be sure of your footing and grip climbing up and down ladders.
How to Prevent the Issue
To prevent gutter clogs and freezing, it is important to regularly clean and maintain your gutters. Remove any leaves, twigs, and debris that may cause a blockage. Always get regular gutter cleaning seasonally. If you notice damage to your gutters at any time of year, don’t wait to get them repaired.
What About Gutter Guards?
Gutter guards sit on top of the gutters themselves and keep leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging your gutters. There are different types of gutter guards available, including mesh screens, solid covers, and reverse curve systems.
Gutter guards can certainly reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning. However, they do not completely eliminate the need for gutter cleaning and maintenance. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain your gutter guards to ensure that they are functioning properly.
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If you’re looking for gutter installation, cleaning, repair, or inspection, contact us at Precision Gutters & Roofing today. We’re a local, family-owned business that’s been serving the community for more than 20 years.