Clogged Gutters Will Lead to a Bad Winter in Your First Home

Tweet

 

Take a look at the gutter on this house. Do you think standing water is a problem? You're right - it is. First of all, when this water freezes, it becomes a hazard that can weight down and ruin the gutter.

Clogged gutters can also lead to ice dams, which can ruin your roof line in the spring. This clogged gutter fits all of those scenarios.

So, how do you unclog a gutter? First, you'll need to make sure your downspouts are clear. Those are the drainage pipes that go from your roof down the corner of your house, and they drain the gutters. Sometimes debris - leaves, twigs and the like - will get stuffed in there. Another step to cleaning out clogged gutters is to use a ladder to reach the gutters, and dig in to clean out the leaves, twigs and roof-dirt that's built up in there.

Keeping your gutters clean isn't as much fun as playing Angry Birds, but it's vital to the first time home owner. You don't want water leaks in your roof just because you didn't maintain clean drainage from your roof.

Get ready for winter before it gets here with our free guide full of ideas and tips. Download "Winterize Your First Home" at the button below.

(creative commons photo credit)