The official start of winter is just around the corner, though we’ve already been experiencing our fair share of colder weather and even some snow. But along with the winter comes the need to get our homes ready for the frigid temperatures and icy precipitation that comes with it. And along with all the things that need to be prepped in our homes is our eavestrough system.

Here are some ways to make sure your roof continues to drain and let the water flow freely all throughout the winter.

Clean Out Leaves and Other Debris

If you’ve got the stomach to climb up to your eavestroughs, consider cleaning them out thoroughly. Throughout the fall, all those leaves from surrounding trees can make their way into your eavestroughs, which can create a blockage and prevent water from flowing freely. To clear them out, use a tool such as a spatula. Just make sure it’s plastic to avoid scratching the eavestrough material.

If the spatula is too wide, consider trimming it to make sure it fits. You can also use a plumbing snake to clear out wet clumps of leaves out of clogged downspouts. If this type of job seems too complicated or dangerous, you can always call the pros in eavestrough cleaning and maintenance.

Repair Any Sagging in the Eavestroughs

You should inspect your eavestroughs for any signs of damage. If you notice any sagging in the material, fix it. If you aren’t too handy with household repairs like this, you’d be better off calling the experts. That way you’ll know for sure that the job will be done properly and there will be no chance of further damage.

While you’re at it, look for any other issues with your eavestroughs that may need further attention.

Seal Any Leakages

If you spot any areas that are showing signs of leakage, make an effort to seal them. Leaking is common with eavestroughs, especially at the end caps.

You can seal the leaks yourself by first scrubbing off any oxidation with steel wool, then rinsing it off and allowing it to dry. Afterward, add some sealant around the seam and mold it in with your finger (wearing a glove), then allow it to dry.

Add Eavestrough Covers

To minimize how much debris makes it into the eavestroughs, consider adding a cover over them with a gutter guard. These covers will keep out all leaves and other debris while still allowing water in from rain and snow, which is the entire reason why you have eavestroughs in the first place.

You want the system to be able to capture rainwater and direct it away from your home, but you also don’t want to risk having your eavestroughs clogged as a result of debris. Eavestrough covers will help with this issue.

Consider Installing Heating Cables

One problem in the winter is the freezing of snow that ends up forming ice blocks in your eavestroughs. In turn, this can cause blockage and can not only risk damaging your eavestroughs, but can also increase the risk of water damage to your home.

By installing heating cables, any snow that makes its way into the eavestroughs won’t have a chance to freeze and form ice dams. If you go this route, you’ll want to hire eavestrough experts to install them for you.

If you ever need any help with repair, maintenance, or installation of eavestroughs for your home, call Tip Top Trough!