The winter months can wreak havoc on your home’s gutters. As snow melts from your roof, it can seep into gutters and freeze, forming large icicles or even ice dams that lead to water damage.
However, here at Hedrick, we have noticed that installing gutter guards can help mitigate these winter problems.
All About Gutter Guards
When your home’s gutters are functioning properly, they will direct water from rain or snow and ice away from your home to prevent possible water damage. Gutters need regular cleaning and maintenance to avoid clogs and debris buildup, and to better handle the weight of winter snow and ice. This is where gutter guards can help.
Gutter guards are mesh or perforated shields that fit over the top of your existing gutters. They are designed to keep leaves, sticks, and other debris out of the gutters while still allowing rainwater to flow through. In the winter, gutter guards can potentially help prevent buildup of debris or ice inside your gutters. Ideally, rainwater and snowmelt will pass through the holes in the gutter guard while everything else is blocked from entering the gutter and instead washed away down the side.
Some gutter guards are designed for certain weather, like snow and ice or heavy rain, which is ideal for those of us who suffer through snowy and cold winter seasons. At Hedrick, we’ve also noticed that installing gutter guards can lead to less icicle and ice dam formation on homes. Rather than large icicles hanging from the gutter, the water freezes in a thinner sheet along the top of the guards, then drips into the gutters as it melts. The dispersed spread of water prevents it from pooling and overflowing the gutters.
Are Gutter Guards Worth It
While nothing is ever foolproof, we believe that quality gutter guards can go a long way in preventing debris buildup in your gutters. This, in turn, can prevent major water damage, pest infestations inside the gutters, and ice dams and freezing issues.
While gutter guards require an upfront investment, installing them properly can save money in the long run by preventing costly gutter repairs or damage from ice dams. Homeowners can often install gutter guards themselves following manufacturer instructions, but hiring a professional who can customize the guards to the specific gutter size and pitch of the roof may be worthwhile, especially if you live in colder climates.
Remember, it is very important to remember that your gutters must be cleaned regularly even with gutter guards installed - preferably before heavy snow to prevent clogs from leaves or debris. Checking for damage after winter, and removing any leftover ice buildup, can also help gutter guards work their best year after year.
While not a complete solution for all icicle or ice dam issues, gutter guards may provide an extra layer of protection against common winter gutter problems. Their ability to disperse rather than pool melting snow or ice in gutters can help minimize ice formation and damage. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, gutter guards are worth considering to reduce seasonal headaches.
To learn more about efficient gutter systems, subscribe to our blog!
Comments