It seems like summer just started, and while we’re only in the middle of it, it’s prudent for homeowners to start thinking about how to prep their homes for the fall season. And while there are plenty of components to consider, your home’s eavestroughs should be one of them.

This important system is tasked with catching rainwater and melting snow and ice and directing that water away from your home so that no water damage is caused to your home, both inside and out. But if they’re filled with leaves and other debris, or if they’re in bad shape and in need of repair, they won’t be able to do the job they are supposed to do.

Before the fall season approaches, it’s a good idea to make sure your eavestroughs are ready for what comes. Here are a few ways to get your eavestroughs ready for the fall.

Clean Out Leaves and Other Debris

One of the first things you need to do is clear out any fallen leaves and other items that may have gotten into your eavestroughs over the past few months. Be sure to use a tool that won’t scratch the eavestrough material, such as a spatula with a silicone end. You can even use a plumber’s snake to get rid of any clumps of leaves that may be clogging your downspouts.

But this won’t be just a one-time clean-up job. Be prepared to regularly clean out your eavestroughs throughout the fall as leaves continuously fall.

Make Any Necessary Repairs

Take a close look at your eavestrough system and identify any areas that may need repairing. Look for signs such as sagging, cracks, dents, and other issues that may be indicative of a system that is in need of repair. You want the system to be ready for what the fall season brings, so make sure it’s up to par.

Seal Any Leaks

Leakage defeats the purpose of your eavestroughs, which are designed to direct water far away from your home. If there are any leaks, this could compromise the integrity of your home. If you find any leaks, be sure to have them sealed right away.

Install Eavestrough Guards

To avoid having to climb up a ladder all the time to clear out falling leaves, you can install guards that act as covers to prevent any debris from making its way onto the eavestroughs while still allowing rainwater to get in. These guards can save you plenty of time and hassle.

Install Heating Cables

Installing heating cables in the eavestroughs and roofs can help to prevent ice dams that often form when the temperatures dip. When ice dams form, they can block any running water, then can cause damage both to the eavestroughs themselves and your home. To avoid this, heating cables can ensure that any accumulation of ice is prevented, allowing the water to run off rather than freeze and cause a blockage.

If you’re ready to get your eavestrough system ready for the fall season, call the experts at Tip Top Trough to help!