Different rain gutter types react differently to changes in weather. These changes are more likely to happen in the spring and fall as the climate adapts from warm to colder weather.

While your rain gutters may be able to handle what the weather throws at it, it’s always a good idea to ensure your gutters are well-maintained and ready to go for the colder season. Despite the fact that K-style gutters typically have twice the capacity of half-round gutters, they can still be directly impacted by expanding ice.

The effects of winter on your gutter systems
As the weather gets colder, it becomes increasingly important to ensure your gutter systems are clear of any clogs and debris. This is because when water backs up into the gutter due to clogs, the water can freeze in the cold. When the water freezes, it expands, causing most rain gutter types to crack.

For this reason, it’s recommended that homeowners have their roof gutters checked before the winter season and also to have them cleared by gutter cleaning services. However, clogs in your gutter system may not only be caused by debris from the prior warmer months. When snow covers the top of the roof and begins to melt, it can cause trapped debris to fall down into your gutter and cause multiple problems.

How to protect your gutter systems
To prevent a necessary gutter replacement during the winter, it’s necessary to protect your gutters may performing proper maintenance and care throughout the year. Consider the following maintenance tasks to keep your rain gutters protected from the weather:

• Clear out any debris from your gutter system
  It’s typically a good idea to wait until warmer weather to clean your gutters of debris unless there’s a clog. However, whether in warmer or colder weather, debris cleaning may be best left up to professional gutter cleaning services. This is because professionals know how to handle pests that may be lurking in the system and are properly trained in preventing further gutter damage.
• Inspect for structural damage to the home
  Signs of damage to your gutter systems can sometimes be evident in places other than the gutter system themselves. Check the siding and foundation of your home as well as the fascia. If you notice any signs of water damage, you may have a problem with your gutter system.
• Check anchor and seam damage
  When checking for damage to your gutter system, be sure to inspect the gutter seams. There shouldn’t be any noticeable gaps or separation between the gutter and the house.

Different rain gutter types respond to cold weather in different ways. However, ensuring your gutters are in great shape is the best way to protect your roof and siding from water damage during the winter. Be sure to perform proper maintenance throughout the year and to consult a professional if you notice any damage to your gutter system.