Dirty Gutters? If So, Read These Tips to Avoid Winter Ice Dams
It doesn’t take much for a home’s gutters to cause an ice dam and the water damage that can then follow. The result could include stained ceilings, peeling paint, ruined walls and even damaged belongings. Your gutters can play a key role in preventing these issues. Check out our expert tips, and take action now.
Remove the Clogging Debris
If you can climb a ladder and have safe, easy access to your gutters, then it’s important to clean them out so that leaves, twigs and debris can’t trap water and encourage freezing. Try and do this before the nasty weather begins this winter.
Ice dams are those dreaded thick ridges of ice that build up along the edges of your roof. If your gutters are already clogged with debris and leaves, they become the convenient spot for ice dams to develop. It happens to homes of all sizes and architectural designs where meltwater drains down to the gutters (or eaves) and then refreezes. The accumulating ice then forms a dam, preventing additional snow melt from draining off.
Use an Ice Rake After Snowfall
Maybe you have been caught off guard, and it’s cold and already snowing. Some homeowners purchase an ice rake with wheels and use it to pull off the accumulated snow. The less snow there is on the roof, the better. This means there is less water to develop ice dams and their potential interior and exterior damage. Never get on a ladder in icy conditions as it can be quite dangerous.
In addition, you should never use an ax on your roof’s eaves to try and break up an ice dam. You could damage the roof and end up with larger, costlier problems.
Run Lots and Lots of Hot Water
If you have a frost-proof mixing faucet that connects to both hot and cold supply lines inside, adjust the temperature at the spigot, and use your garden hose to bring hot water to the ice dam. Begin at the top, and work your way down. If you start hosing from the bottom, you may release the ice dam and cause it to slide down, potentially injuring someone.
Are Your Roof and Gutters Winter-Ready?
If you have exhausted the safe methods described above in preventing ice dams and other water damage, but you still need expert assistance, don’t wait a minute longer! Reach out today to the team of professionals at Clean425 for gutter cleaning services in Seattle, WA.
