Bracing your Gutters for Winter

Winter does have its own fair share of surprises for the home, with snow buildup being one of the most prevalent. Snow, however, can bring a potential long-term danger for the house’s gutters. This will need the support of the best gutter guard system specifically designed for colder environments.

Buildup

Gutters are often plagued by buildup from snow in the troughs, which makes everything sag. Ice dams are even worse due to the repeated hot-cold cycles in the attic and rapid temperature fluctuations brought about by weather changes. As a result, the roofing itself is affected by prolonged moisture.

Solution

An ideal guard designed for winter environments will be made from high-quality anodized steel. The anodization is vital since the exposure of steel to snow can render it vulnerable to long-term corrosion. A heating cable is also added to the gutter guard for expediting the snow melt; as long as the downspout is clear of blockages, the water will easily flow away. The heating will also prevent the buildup of icicles.

As with other times of the year, any blockages right in the gutter’s troughs will be detrimental to the roof’s safety. Your gutter guard will be a valuable asset in protecting it.