Your gutters and downspouts play an important role in your home’s exterior. When they are working together, and correctly, gutters and downspouts prevent flooding and foundational damage. However, weather conditions can make gutters and downspouts clogged or damaged, which can cause havoc for other areas of your house.
Winter weather can be especially awful for the health of your home’s gutters and downspouts. The Chicago area combination of wind, ice, and snow can lead to a variety of problems with gutters and downspouts. Here are a few ways you can keep yours in working order this frigid season.
Clear It When You Can
It is never safe to jump on a ladder and clear out your gutters during icy conditions. However, we are often lucky to catch a few warm days throughout the winter months. On these days, if it’s possible, take a few moments to wipe out your gutters and clear them of any debris. Even a clog made from fall leaves can cause an ice dam in your gutter, which can lead to extensive flooding damage. The more you can clean it out throughout the season, the better.
No Rock Salt
Icing in your gutter system can cause problems, including significant damage that will require replacement. However, some homeowners think that while they are tossing rock salt on their driveway, they can toss some in their gutters to melt ice. Unfortunately, this tactic can cause corrosion which can lead to holes in your gutters or downspouts.
Talk to a Professional
There are options for decreasing ice or snow damage to your gutters or downspouts. Give the team at Stanley Exteriors a call to talk more about insulation or warming options that may work for your specific home. We can learn more about any consistent problems that happen during the winter season regarding your gutters, and develop a plan to decrease or eliminate those for years to come.
Fix Damage Quickly
Finally, if you do notice problems with your gutters or downspouts, don’t put it off until springtime. Instead, call the team at Stanley Exteriors to get the issue fixed before spring temperatures bring thawing (and flooding). We are happy to help you no matter the season.
