Winter weather can do more than just give you the chills if it damages your gutters, it could cost hundreds of dollars to repair. When temperatures drop and winter brings snow and ice, it’s important to be aware of how your home’s gutters may be at risk for damage.
In this guide, we’ll explore how winter weather can impair gutter function and provide actionable tips on how you can protect them from the elements. Don’t let frozen or damaged gutters lead to a costly repair bill read on to find out what steps you need to take.
How Winter Weather Can Damage Your Gutters?
The weight of snow and ice can cause your gutters to sag and pull away from the roof. This leaves the gutters unsupported and can eventually lead to leakage and damage to your home. In addition, when water accumulates in the gutter system, it can freeze, causing the gutters to break or split.
Icicles that form on the edge of the roof can also cause damage by pulling at the gutters or puncturing them. To keep your gutters in good condition during winter, remove any snow or ice build-up regularly and make sure they are properly secured to your roof. You may also want to install icicle guards.
How do you Winterize Gutters?
Gutters can be winterized by either draining them or filling them with insulation. Draining gutters is the most common method and involves emptying the gutters of all of their contents, including leaves, branches, and dirt. This can be done by either removing the downspout and emptying the water manually, or by using a hose to rinse out the gutters.
Filling gutters with insulation is a less common method, but it can be more effective at preventing ice dams. Insulation can be packed into the gutter system between the roof and gutter using a blower, or it can be poured into the gutters in liquid form.
What Damage can Full Gutters Cause?
A full gutter can cause a number of problems, including:
- Uneven water drainage can lead to flooding in certain areas and erosion in others.
- Roof damage due to the weight of the water and ice buildup.
- Mosquito breeding grounds, as standing water is an ideal environment for them.
- Damaged or clogged gutters that can’t properly drain the water, lead to even more serious problems down the line.
Do Blocked Gutters Cause Leaks?
Yes, blocked gutters can cause leaks. Gutters work by directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation. If they become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, the water will back up and flow over the gutter’s edge, potentially causing damage to your roof or walls. It’s important to keep your gutters clean and clear so that they can do their job properly.
How do I keep my Gutters from Getting Damaged by Snow?
It’s a good idea to keep your gutters clear of debris so that they can function properly and discharge water away from your home. However, during the winter, it’s also important to take precautions to protect them from damage caused by snow.
One way to do this is to install gutter guards, which are screens or covers that keep leaves and other debris from entering the gutters. You can also try folding down an old sheet or tarp and placing it over the gutters to prevent snow from building up on them. Be sure to remove the sheet or tarp once the snow has melted so that the gutters can continue to discharge water properly.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Gutter Damage?
It depends on the policy. Generally, homeowners insurance will cover damage to the gutters if it’s a result of a covered peril, such as wind or hail. However, if the gutter damage is due to something like improper maintenance or neglect, it may not be covered. Be sure to check with your insurer to find out exactly what is and isn’t covered in your policy.
How Often do Gutters need to be Replaced?
Gutters need to be replaced every 10 years on average, but this varies depending on the material they are made out of, the climate, and how well they are maintained. If your gutters are made out of a material like aluminum, they will probably only last 5-7 years. If they are made out of a more durable material like copper or zinc, they could last up to 15 years.
However, regardless of the material, gutters will eventually need to be replaced if they are not maintained properly. Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year once in the spring and once in the fall. They should also be inspected for damage at least once a year.
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are many ways that winter weather can damage your gutters. By taking the time to inspect and repair your gutters now, you can avoid more costly repairs later. Of course, if you don’t have the time or inclination to do this yourself, you can always hire a professional gutter company to do the work for you. Either way, protecting your gutters from winter weather is an important part of maintaining your home.
