Ice and Snow Buildup: Why It’s Bad for Your Gutters

The winter season can be tough on roofs and gutters. In this blog, best gutter guard system provider Gutter Helmet® of Minnesota discusses what happens when ice and snow accumulate on roofs and gutters, and what you can do to prevent this problem.

Types of Gutter Damage

Accumulated snow on the roof can lead to the following problems:

1. Increased Pressure on the Roof — Roofing structures are designed to handle heavy snow loads. Gutters, however, are not so strong and may not be able to support heavy loads of snow and ice. The increased pressure can push down on the gutters, which can bend the gutter troughs or, in extreme cases, completely knock them off the roof. This is why it’s a good idea to have snow cleared off your roof using a telescoping snow rake or a similar tool after a particularly heavy snowfall.
2. Downspout Blockage — The downspout routes rainwater and melted ice away from the house foundations, and it is vital that it should be kept clear at all times. Snow on the ground can block the downspouts, which can cause water to back up, leading to damage.
3. Ice Dams and Icicles — Ice dams are a serious problem in the winter. Water that flows over the edge of ice dams forms icicles. In addition to blocking the gutters and increasing pressure, ice dams may also damage the roof through water infiltration. Icicles also present danger to people who happen to be walking under them.

Solutions

The best solution to such problems is taking the preventive route. You can’t prevent snow from falling on your roof, but you can prevent it from getting into your gutters with a good gutter protection system. Unlike filter or sieve-like gutter protection systems, gutter covers like Gutter Helmet® shed rain and snow off the gutters. Gutter Helmet® has an optional feature called Helmet Heat®, which helps keep the roof edge free from ice dams.

If your roof is prone to ice dam formation, you should look into addressing problems with roof insulation, as well as possibly insufficient attic ventilation. In addition to preventing ice dams, a properly ventilated and insulated attic can help reduce indoor heating costs.

Gutter Helmet® of Minnesota is your leading provider of the best gutter guard system in Minnesota, Gutter Helmet. Give us a call at (800) 824-3772 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Monticello, MN, and nearby areas.