How to Get Your Gutters Ready For Fall & Winter

Your gutters are probably the last thing on your mind whenever the winter weather hits, but it’s important to make sure they’re prepared. Clogged or sagging gutters can cause more damage with snow and ice, leading to more serious and expensive repairs to your home. Here are some tips to prepare your gutters for fall and winter.

Clean Leaves/Debris From Gutters Thoroughly:

Cleaning your gutters and making sure it’s clear and clog free should be at the top of your list whether it’s Winter or Fall. Leaves could clog up the gutters and make water overflow and seep into your homes foundation. Make sure to pay close attention to corners and junctions when cleaning where leaves tend to accumulate. Snow and ice add unnecessary weight and could cause your gutters to detach and fall to the ground.

Inspect Your Gutters:

Cleaning your gutters isn’t the only thing needed to ensure your gutters are ready for the upcoming season. Inspect your gutters for any wear and tear. See if your gutters are sagging or getting separated from the house in any way. Gutters that are also loose or full of debris can make a smaller problem grow into a much worse, more expensive fix.

Trim and Realign:

Trim any branches away from both your gutters and your roof. If branches are nearby, leaves and seeds could fall into your gutters and clog them up causing future problems. Also be sure to check if your gutters are realigned properly to prevent standing water in gutters.

Install Gutter guards/downspout extensions:

Keep leaves and debris out of gutters after cleaning them by installing Gutter Guards. Gutter guards can strengthen your entire gutter system and extend its life, keeping your gutters strong all winter long. Installing downspout extensions can also help prevent any damage to your home’s foundation caused by melting ice and snow. Gutter extensions should be a minimum of 6 feet away from your home to prevent water from seeping into areas like your basement and foundation of your home.

Hire a Professional:

If you’re not fully comfortable with DIY projects or are too busy, the best way to prepare your gutters for fall and winter is to hire professionals like Gutter Systems of Michigan. We can help ensure your gutters are ready. Give us a call or request a free estimate with us and we’ll get right back to you!

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