How To Prepare Your Rain Gutter For Winter

By Author: Mrs. Shannon Egan
Total Articles: 76
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The leaves are changing color, the days are getting shorter, and the nights are getting cooler. Do we need any more proof that fall is here, and winter is just around the corner? Well, denial is not going to help any of us, and so it's time to make sure our homes and cars are winter ready!

First thing on your list should be to make sure your rain gutter is in top form so that it can protect the exterior of your home from water erosion, and prevent leaks in your basement! Ever had your basement flood before? It's not a pretty picture! So, ask yourself: when was the last time I checked my rain gutter for cracks, or verified that the downspout is working correctly? Remember, your rain gutter can only do its job with proper care and the right equipment!

Your Rain Gutter Maintenance Checklist:

Do you have a lot of trees near your home? If so, you may have to unclog your rain gutter several times a year in order to avoid damming and overflowing. Do this especially before the winter weather gets to severe!
Check to see that the downspout is working correctly. Note: it should be forcing water to flow away ...
... from the base of your house not into the base of your house.
Does your rain gutter or downspout have any cracks? If so, you will want to replace it with a seamless one right away. The cost is not too expensive and they are very durable and reliable!
Ice melt systems are a must for those of us who live in snowy/icy climates. These systems keep your rain gutters warm to prevent freezing, damming, overflowing, and flooding. All sorts of good things! Do you have one?

Why Rain Gutter Maintenance Is Important

Many people avoid rain gutter maintenance because they think it's not a big deal. I mean, it's a rain gutter for crying out loud! Who really cares? Or, if an issue does occur they might try to fix the problem themselves in order to avoid spending money on a professional. But what you probably don't know is that gutter cleaning has caused thousands of deaths and nearly two hundred thousand injuries!

On a much less extreme note, not caring for your rain gutter can cost you serious dollars on repairing flooded basements, leaky roofs, cracked and chipping paint on the exterior of your home, rotting wood, and invite a swarm of insects into your home! It's not worth it. And if you are in Utah, Ace Gutters can care for all your Utah rain gutters needs. For more information about Utah rain gutters visit www.aceguttersinc.com now!