One of the biggest problems Alaskan homeowners face during the winter is icicle formation. While icicles may be pretty to look at, they can be very dangerous, particularly to your roof. Remember that water expands when it turns into ice. This can cause warping and breakage within your gutters and downspouts. Frozen gutters can also lead to ice dams, which cause serious water damage to your roofing system.
The challenge is to prevent gutters from icing up in the first place. Admittedly, this can be difficult in winter but it is not entirely impossible. There are ways to keep your gutters and downspouts in good working condition even during the coldest of days. Here are a few tips from our gutter guard systems experts at ABC Seamless Siding.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters are notorious for becoming clogged with leaves and other debris. This can cause water to pool, which, in turn, freezes in winter. You can minimize the risk somewhat by having your gutters cleaned in the fall just before the cold days roll around or by installing Gutter Helmet® to prevent anything from getting in your gutters in the first place.
Apply Rock Salt
Salt lowers the freezing point of water through a process called freezing point depression. This means it takes much lower temperatures to turn salt water into ice, which is why roads are sprayed with salt during winter. Putting rock salt in your gutters when snow and ice are in the forecast helps prevent any water from freezing.
Install Helmet Heat®
Helmet Heat® is one of the best gutter guard systems available today. Its exclusive heat application technology allows it to use just the right amount of heat to always keep your gutters free of any icing problem. It is also fuss-free to install and use, letting you enjoy safe and convenient gutter maintenance.
Get Helmet Heat this winter from ABC Seamless Siding. Give us a call at (800) 824-3772 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in Anchorage, AK, and nearby areas.
