Roof Snow Removal is Imperative for Gutter Health

Feb 2, 2023Blog, Gutter Cleaning, Gutters, Minneapolis

Winter weather can be hard on the exterior of our homes. Roofs have to withstand snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Gutters have a difficult time keeping up as well. Many times we don’t think about our gutter systems and the important job they do, especially in the wintertime. We tend to consider their job to be more important in the spring and summer during rainstorms as the water is drained away and into our lawns. Wintertime is a key season to consider our gutters though. Here are some essential keys to remember about keeping our gutters working properly during that chilly season

ice dam gutter system Minneapolis, MN

Keep Your Gutters Clean

Leaves, debris, and small twigs can get lodged in the gutter system during the autumn months. If the gutters aren’t cleaned out, water cannot flow freely through the system. Winter temperatures fluctuate, causing the snow on the rooftop to thaw and refreeze. That thawing water has nowhere to go if the gutters are clogged. This can create complications as the water refreezes. Ice dams can form which can lead to damage to the shingles on the edge of the roof

Secondly, if water does make it to the gutter system, but is not able to flow through, it can quickly turn to ice during the freezing process. The weight of the ice in the gutters can become quite heavy. Fasteners may not be able to hold the weight, and soon the gutters could rip off of the house. This can become a costly repair. 

Please use safe procedures when cleaning out a gutter system. If you have concerns about climbing a ladder, please contact a Gutter Cleaner professional for assistance.  

Clean Off Excess Snow From the Roof

If excess snow accumulates on a roof, you will have a deluge of water running through the gutter system when it melts. There are safe ways of removing the snow from your roof including snow rakes or installing heat cables. Removing the excess snow will not only be good for your gutter system but also advantageous for the roof and siding. 

gutter system with ice dams

Address Leaks Quickly

If you notice icicles over your windows or doors, this could be an indication of a crack in the gutter system. Perhaps it could also be an overflowing situation due to debris in the gutters. Inspecting the gutter system will help determine the course of action to fix any leaks found. A small leak could easily become a large crack in a short amount of time. 

Check the Downspouts

Don’t forget to monitor the downspouts as well. This is a vitally important part of the gutter system since this deters the water away from the foundation. Downspouts can easily become full of ice during the chilly snowy months in Minneapolis.  

Call a Professional When Needed

Gutter Maids in Minneapolis has been servicing the Twin Cities area for over 10 years. We strive to keep your roof and gutters clear of debris and working as intended. We have a five-step cleaning process and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every job we do. 

When Gutter Maids is on your side, you don’t just get clean gutters, you also get peace of mind. Call today to learn how we can resolve your gutter concerns.