Protect Your Roof & Home With Fall Gutter Maintenance

Most people don’t think much about their gutters—until something goes wrong. However, gutters protect your home, landscaping, walkways, and foundation from water damage. In the fall, performing gutter maintenance and repairs is crucial to preparing your home for winter weather. You may also consider installing new gutters or upgrading your current system with Arrow Gutter Guards.

If you notice any issues or have any concerns about your gutters or roof, don’t hesitate to contact BD Exteriors. Fill out our contact form or call us at (320) 229-2855 to schedule an inspection or estimate.

How Often Should I Clean My Gutters?

Many factors affect how often you should clean your gutters, but a general rule of thumb is at least twice a year—in the spring and fall. If you have numerous trees around your home or live in a rural area, three to four cleanings per year may be more appropriate. Fall cleaning is critical to prevent blockages as winter and ice dam season approaches.

It’s also essential to check on your gutter cover twice a year. No cover is 100% effective at preventing debris from collecting on top.

House sidewalk protected from winter ice by proper gutter installation.

What Happens If I Don’t Clean My Gutters?

Ignoring gutter cleaning for too long can lead to blockages. When too much plant material and debris build up in the gutters, water cannot flow and drain properly. This blockage can add weight, causing physical damage to your roof and possibly leading to water damage or ice dams if the gutters are damaged or improperly installed.

Why Is Winter Dangerous for Gutters?

Clogged gutters can become a severe problem in winter. When temperatures drop, built-up water in the gutters turns to ice. Snow and rain hitting the warmer roof flow into the gutters, adding to the ice and possibly creating ice dams. Ice dams can prevent water from flowing off the roof, causing weight to accumulate and potentially leading to significant damage to the roofline. This can also cause water leaks into your attic or above windows, resulting in ceiling discoloration or dripping.

While gutters can, when cleaned, contribute to preventing ice dams, they are not a foolproof solution. Ice dams are typically caused by a combination of clogged gutters and poor attic insulation, which allows warmth to escape and melts snow unevenly. Gutters alone won’t prevent ice dams, but improperly cleaned gutters can exacerbate the issue.

How Can I Prevent Clogged Gutters?

Prevent clogged gutters by cleaning them regularly, or consider professional gutter cleaning services from BD Exteriors.

Gutter guards are another option to reduce debris buildup. At BD Exteriors, we recommend Arrow Gutter Guards to protect your gutters from clogs, making maintenance more accessible and safer.

Contact BD Exteriors Today to Talk About Gutter Guards

Our team at BD Exteriors is well-trained to professionally install Arrow Gutter Guards to help protect your gutters and prevent damage to your home. In the unfortunate event that your home does sustain damage, we also perform service and repairs on gutters and roofing.

If you need an inspection or estimate for gutter covers, gutter replacement, or roof repair, BD Exteriors is here to help. Fill out our contact form or call (320) 229-2855. Our team of experts is ready to ensure your home or business’s exterior is in top condition, no matter the season!