As the fall season approaches, you should start thinking about gutter care and maintenance, in preparation for the winter season. In today’s post, your local provider of Gutter Helmet® systems, Gutter Helmet® of Michigan, discusses common fall and winter problems that happen to poorly-maintained gutters.
Common Gutter Problems In the Fall and Winter
Ideally, your gutters need to be clean and free of leaves, debris, and standing water before winter sets in. Homeowners who neglect gutter care and maintenance find themselves having to deal with the following during winter:
Frozen Gutters — Clogged gutters result in standing water mixed in with leaves and debris. As the water freezes and solidifies, it exerts pressure on the gutter troughs, which may result in torn sections, especially in sections where corrosion has created small holes. Ice in the gutters also increases its weight, which can result in gutter sections falling to the ground during the winter season.
Corrosion — Regular maintenance helps prevent corrosion. It gives you an opportunity to spot signs of it and perform repairs before they get worse. If your gutters are due for replacement, consider investing in corrosion-resistant, seamless gutter options like aluminum, stainless steel or copper.
Ice Dams — Ice dams are caused by insufficient ventilation and insulation in the attic. The trapped heat in the attic melts the snow on the rooftop, which then refreezes as the water reaches the roof’s edge. Over time it forms a dam that traps water behind it, resulting in water backing up into the roof and causing damage to the roofing structure. Water spilling from these dams results in icicles.
Gutter Protection Systems
Keeping up with scheduled gutter maintenance can help prevent these problems. Ideally, gutters should be cleaned and inspected by a gutter professional twice a year: once before the winter season, another before the summer season. This helps ensure reliable, problem-free operation all year round.
Investing in gutter protection systems like Gutter Helmet® can help reduce gutter maintenance requirements. Gutter protection systems help keep the gutter troughs free of anything that might cause clogging or damage, even pine needles and asphalt shingle granules. Gutter Helmet® also has optional features like Helmet Heat®, which helps reduce ice dams safely and efficiently.
Gutter Helmet® of Michigan is your leading provider of Gutter Helmet® systems. Give us a call at (800) 824-3772. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Wyoming, Michigan, and surrounding communities.
