As winter approaches and the holiday festivities begin, it’s not unusual for chores to start piling up. From decorating homes to planning parties, the list of tasks seems to go on and on. However, there’s one project in particular that it’s important homeowners don’t forget as the temperatures start to drop. In today’s post, Gutter Helmet® of Northern Minnesota provides a basic checklist for gutter and gutter guard cleaning this winter.
Clear Up Debris
Left unattended, dirty gutters can do a lot of damage. In fact, clogged gutters are just as counterproductive as having no gutters at all. When rainwater and melted snow are not properly diverted away from your home, the moisture can cause structural damage. Keeping your gutters clean and free of debris is an important task, and it’s even more important during the winter months.
Investing in an efficient gutter guard system can help you maintain your gutters all year round, without the hassle of doing any actual cleaning yourself.
Check the Hardware
Your gutters are held in place by spikes and fasteners. Make sure all the hardware is intact and there are no leaks. Gutters should be firmly attached to the house. Bearing this in mind, always look out for gaps between your fascia and gutters and make repairs as needed.
Inspect Surrounding Structures
Failing gutters can affect the performance of the roof, fascia, siding and even your home’s foundation. Check for signs of water-related damage such as stains and decay.
Examine the Downspouts
The downspout should direct water at least ten feet away from your home to avoid damage to the foundation. Test to make sure each downspout is diverting water efficiently, then check for downspout blockage by applying water pressure or using a long pole to dislodge the clog.
Gutter and gutter guard cleaning are rarely interesting or enjoyable, so let Gutter Helmet of Northern Minnesota take care of your dirty work and offer a solution to all your gutter woes. Our gutter protection products ensure clean and maintenance-free gutters so you can focus on your holiday tasks. Call us today at (866) 937-3508. We serve Culver, Minnesota.
