Ideally, your gutters should be cleaned twice a year – once in the spring and again in the fall. However, life happens and these tasks are sometimes not possible. In many instances, the occasional skip poses no significant consequence, but in others you may be facing regret. For example, if you skipped gutter cleaning during the fall with Guarded Gutters, you may face ice dams during the winter.
What are ice dams?
In New England, there’s one thing inevitable during the winter; there will be snow. Although some homes are equipped with steeply sloping roofs that allow snow to slide off naturally, others are not. Thus, snow buildup occurs. Once the sun warms the snow enough to melt, the water drips to the edge. However, cold air, remaining snow, and clogged gutters may block the water from dripping off the edge of the roof. If this blockage occurs, the water refreezes, causing an ice dam.
If left unattended, an ice dam will continue forming along the edge of your roof or gutter, preventing water from properly draining. Over time, the water backs up and could eventually begin leaking into your home. Whether the water leakage enters through broken shingles or cracked flashing, you could face costly home repairs come spring.
Preventing ice dams
One of the easiest ways to prevent ice dams from occurring is ensuring your fall gutter cleaning happens. By doing so, you enable a way for water drainage to occur when the snow begins to melt. Staying ahead of the game is crucial! If safe to do so, shoveling your roof will also help prevent ice dams.
If neither of these options are available to you, contact your local gutter cleaning company who can provide you with the safest, most effective alternative.
This winter, be sure to keep your home protected with proactive snow and drainage. But, if you find yourself in the need of help, contact Guarded Gutters!