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Winter can wreak havoc on your home, with one of the most prominent problems being the effect it has on your gutters. Gutters are essential to protecting your home from the elements. As such, it’s crucial to ensure their integrity isn’t compromised during the colder months. For the best results, keep an eye out for the issues below, and call a qualified gutter contractor to handle the problem if you do spot one.

Ice Dams

guttersIce dams occur when snow builds up on parts of the roof. When it starts to melt, it naturally runs off into the gutter. Theoretically, this is a beneficial process, but because gutters are made of materials like steel or aluminum, they’re going to be colder than the roof. As such, any snow runoff will automatically freeze again, creating a “dam” that prevents any lingering snow from properly draining away. This dam effect causes gutters to expand with the water. Gutters with multiple seams and/or made from inferior materials can experience damage especially over time.

Cracks

Water buildup within the gutters also creates a risk of cracks. As the temperatures fluctuate, the moisture may freeze and refreeze over time. Eventually, the pressure of this buildup could cause the gutters’ seams to crack, and eventually, may cause the entire system to stop functioning properly. 

 

Luckily, hiring a roofing contractor to clean your gutters will help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. For those in Lincoln, NE & surrounding areas, Innovations Siding & Windows is here to help. They provide reliable installations for gutters, windows, and siding, and they will ensure your home and family remain safe all year long. If you’re concerned about the condition of your gutters, give them a call today at (402) 423-8831 to speak with a friendly staff member and schedule an appointment. For more information on what they do, visit their website.

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