Prevent Clogged Gutters
If your home’s gutters look like this, then it might be time for a gutter cleaning. Keep reading to find out ways on how to prevent clogged gutters.
Clogged gutters might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can later turn into a costly problem. When the gutters are blocked, the water has nowhere to escape to, which overtime can buildup and lead to roof damage like leaks, mold, and even structural damage. But don’t worry! Here’s some ways to help prevent this from happening.
Installing Gutter Guards
Installing gutter guards is the most effective way to prevent a clogged gutter to keep out debris. But they are not completely maintenance-free, it’s important to act ahead of time.
Choosing a high-quality guard system like micro-mesh or perforated aluminum design, can improve protection of the gutter guards at blocking small debris like pine needles and roof granules that commonly cause build ups. Here at First Choice Constructors S&B LLC, we recommend Smooth Flow Gutter Guards and RainDrop Gutter Guards.
Smooth Flow Gutter Guards is more of a budget friendly option and works great for larger debris (leaves, flower petals, etc)- NOT good with pine needles
RainDrop Gutter Guards can be more costly and is effective for keeping out all types of debris including pine needles
Clean gutter guards
Remove leaves, twigs and debris at least twice a year mostly during the Fall and Spring in order to keep the water properly moving.
Clean more often if your home is near trees to prevent blockage.
Downspout strainer installed to prevent debris buildup and deep clogs.
Install Downspout strainers
You can use plastic or wire (whatever is convenient for you) on top of the downspouts to stops large debris from going down them. This will stop deep clogs that are difficult to remove.
It is easy to install and replace, most of the strainers can installed without tools and it can also be taken off without any damage.
They’re accessible and can easily be purchased from most stores like Home Depot, Lowes, or Amazon in bulk and at low costs.
trim surrounding trees
Remove overhanging branches from the roof to reduce debris buildup.
Supports better airflow to keep the gutter and roof in better condition overall.
Prevents possible storm damage from falling limbs.
Ensure proper slope and alignment
Make sure that the gutters and downspouts are correctly pitched to allow water to flow freely.
Poor alignment can lead to overflow and/or standing water.
Consider heat cables (in colder climates)
Placing heat cables inside of your gutters will help prevent ice dams during colder temperatures, especially in Winter.
Improves water flow and allows water to easily drain through the gutters and downspout in freezing temperatures.
important take aways
Gutter guards are only one part of the solution. While they help reduce debris and improve water flow, they do not eliminate the need for maintenance. Regular inspections, cleaning, and additional preventative measures—like trimming trees and installing downspout strainers—will keep your gutter system functioning properly and protect your home year-round. Check out our gutter page to find out more about the gutter guard solutions we offer and to find out more about RainDrop and Smooth Flow Gutter Guards.
