As winter approaches, homeowners need to be proactive about maintaining their gutters. One of the most common issues during the colder months is the combination of melting snow and clogged gutters. When snow melts and gutters aren’t properly maintained, it can lead to serious problems for your home. Below, we explore why clogged gutters and melting snow are a bad combination and how you can prevent costly damage this winter.
1. Ice Dams: A Risk to Your Roof
When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, water from melting snow cannot flow freely. As a result, water can refreeze along the edges of your roof, creating ice dams. These ice dams:
- Trap more melting snow, increasing the weight on your roof.
- Cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to leaks and roof damage.
- Pose a hazard if the ice breaks off unexpectedly.
Clearing your gutters in late fall ensures smooth drainage and reduces the risk of ice dams throughout the winter.
2. Water Damage to Siding and Foundations
When gutters are clogged, melting snow has nowhere to go. Instead of being directed away from your home, water can:
- Overflow from gutters and run down your siding, causing stains, mold, and wood rot.
- Pool around your home’s foundation, leading to cracks or basement flooding.
By keeping your gutters clear, you protect both your siding and foundation from water damage during the winter thaw.
3. Increased Weight on Gutters
When snow accumulates and then melts without proper drainage, it adds unnecessary weight to your gutters. Over time, this can:
- Pull gutters away from the roofline, causing them to sag or detach.
- Damage the gutter hangers, leading to costly repairs.
A quick gutter cleaning before the first snow ensures they are ready to handle the added winter load.
4. Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth
Trapped moisture from clogged gutters promotes the growth of mold and mildew.
- Mold can grow in areas where water overflows and seeps into walls and roofs.
- It can also affect your home’s air quality, posing health risks to your family.
Routine gutter maintenance helps you avoid these moisture-related issues.
5. Protect Your Landscaping from Erosion
Overflowing gutters can lead to water dumping directly onto your garden beds or walkways, causing erosion.
- Plants, mulch, and soil can be washed away, ruining your landscaping.
- Excess water can freeze overnight, creating slippery patches that pose safety risks to your family and guests.
Keeping gutters clear ensures that water is directed safely away from your home, preserving your landscaping even during winter melts.
Prepare for Winter with Professional Gutter Cleaning
The best way to avoid the problems caused by clogged gutters and melting snow is to schedule a professional gutter cleaning before winter sets in. At Pristine Pro Wash, we offer expert gutter cleaning services to keep your home safe and protected throughout the season. Call us at 315-758-3064 or visit our Google Maps listing to schedule your appointment. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your home this winter with Pristine Pro Wash!
