How to Protect Your Gutters from Snow and Ice This Winter

As the temperature drops and winter sets in, every conscious homeowner is determined to fortify their home against the harsh weather. From insulating the pipes to caulking their doors and windows, many homeowners often forget their gutters. This guide offers detailed ways to clean your gutters and protect your home this winter. 

Do Gutters Need to be Cleaned Before Winter?

Like every other part of your home, the gutters should be cleaned at least once a year, especially before winter sets. If your home’s landscape is filled with towering trees, you must clear your gutters more frequently to prevent stagnant/standing water from seeping into your decor. The following are signs that show you need to clean your gutter:

• Animals or pest movement on the roof
• Caving or sagging gutters
• Mold and mildew growth
• Sudden plant growth
• Leaking roof
• Decayed or damaged roof work
• Slippery surface due to mold growth

How to Keep Gutters from Freezing in Winter?

Now that you know the benefits of keeping a clean gutter during winter, you must know how to keep your gutters clean. This is particularly useful for homeowners who do not want professional assistance. The following are some common ways to keep your gutters from freezing this winter:

• Remove debris from your gutters that clog water flow. This debris may include leaves, twigs, or even dead animals. 
• Install gutter guards to prevent clogging and encourage water flow.
• Gently remove snow buildup with a rake. Unattended snow buildup tends to melt and refreeze the base.
• Install heated gutter cables to prevent snow buildup on the roof. 
• Try salting your gutters and sprinkling sodium chloride to prevent ice from forming. Do not use rock salt to prevent damage.  
• Ensure your gutter is slightly slopped downwards so melted snow buildup can easily flow into the downspout without causing leakages. 

Why The Gutter Queen Can Assist

Clearing snow buildup on your roof requires expertise, commitment, and expensive equipment. Many homeowners do not have access to this equipment or are not well-versed in roof maintenance, hence the need for professionals. 

The Gutter Queen has served hundreds of families over the past few years by clearing winterproofing their gutters and also clearing heavy snow buildup. Our workers have years of experience, and we are well-equipped with the right machinery to keep your roof and gutter clean from debris. For more information about our services, please feel free to get in touch at 978-212-3004