Gutter Helmet® dealers say that the main reason customers install a gutter protection system is to avoid doing maintenance on their gutters. This is not surprising as clearing away debris and dirt from inside the troughs can be tough. Getting up on a ladder to do so involves risks of accidents as well.
Unfortunately, gutter maintenance is essential if you want to keep your roof and the rest of your home protected from water-related problems. This is especially important during winter when clogs can lead to serious issues, such as frozen gutters and ice dam formation. Here are a few tips to keep your gutters and downspouts well-maintained before winter comes.
Visual Inspection
Walk around your property, and do a visual inspection of your gutters. Pay close attention to the brackets and anchors that hold the gutter in place. Note any sign of rusting or corrosion as well as other physical deformities on the troughs themselves. Loose brackets or sagging sections must be fixed immediately before the new season rolls around to avoid bigger problems.
Check the Diverters
Downspouts should direct runoff at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundations. When water seeps into the ground around your home, it could cause the soil to soften, compromising your foundation and causing settling problems. Misdirected diverters can also lead to basement flooding if neglected.
Install Gutter Protection
This is best done at the end of summer to protect your gutters during fall. However, winter time is still never too late to contact your local Gutter Helmet dealers for installation to keep your gutters free of any potential blockages. Consider adding Helmet Heat® Ice Reduction System to your Gutter Helmet installation to further keep you safe against dangerous ice dams.
At Gutter Helmet of Piedmont, we are your leading provider of Gutter Helmet, Helmet Heat and other related gutter protection systems. Give us a call at (844) 204-1015, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in Charlotte, NC, and other surrounding areas.