Taking care of your home is a year-round job, especially maintaining your gutters. According to Nate's Clean and Screen Gutter Service in La Crosse, WI, clogged gutters can lead to the formation of ice dams during the winter. These dams constrict the normal flow of water through your gutters, which can contribute to a slew of problems when the weather turns cold.

Here are the top three ways to prevent damage caused by ice dams in your gutter:

• Schedule Regular Gutter Cleanings: Preventing ice dams starts with routine gutter cleanings to prevent the buildup of leaves, sticks, and debris. Blocked gutters can cause water to pool; when the temperature drops below freezing, this water will turn into a solid block of ice, known as an ice dam. As these dams expand and contract in response to changing temperatures, they can cause water leaks inside your home if your gutters remain blocked. Plan to have your gutters cleaned at least once a year, ideally before winter starts, to prevent ice dams from forming.
• Install Gutter Guards: You should consider having a professional install gutter guards to keep debris from accumulating in your gutters. These guards are designed to keep leaves and plant materials out of your gutters, making them a good investment for homeowners who have a lot of trees on their property.
• Replace Damaged Gutters: If you have old or damaged gutters, they might not be as efficient in channeling water away from your home as they should be. If your roofing system has seen better days, consider a new gutter installation to prevent ice dams from causing serious wintertime damage.

Protect your home this winter with regular gutter maintenance. If you’ve put off having yours cleaned or inspected, schedule a service visit before it’s too late. Call Nate's Clean and Screen Gutter Service at (608) 526-4010 or visit them online to learn more about their full line of services.