Winter is coming, get your rain gutters ready now

Though it may not seem like it, winter will be upon us soon. Winter is arguably the toughest season for your home since it’s the time you’re most likely to see the harshest weather conditions. This is especially true for your roof and rain gutter system. You can help out both by doing one simple thing now to prepare: clean and maintain your rain gutters.

Why it’s important

Rain gutters that have become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris can’t function properly. If water can’t travel unobstructed through the gutters and out through the downspouts, it can spill over the sides damaging the home’s fascia, siding, landscaping, and foundation. It can also pool up on the roof itself seeping beneath the shingles and leading to roof leaks. When the temperatures dip below freezing, it can lead to ice dams forming in the rain gutters and along the edges of the roof damaging both the rain gutters and the shingles.

What you need to do

First, examine the state of your rain gutters and determine whether they need to be replaced, or if they can function properly with a bit of work. If they can be salvaged, then work your way around your home always working from a ladder and gently remove any debris. With a hose, test your rain gutters by making sure water doesn’t pool up anywhere and make sure there are no obstructions in the downspout. If the gutters are bent anywhere or if they’re pulling loose from the house, you’ll have to bend them back into shape and make sure they’re securely fastened.

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Source: detroitnews.com/story/opinion/columnists/glenn-haege/2016/09/22/clean-gutters/90861710/