Get matched with top gutter cleaning pros in Marlinton, WV

Gutters should not drip at the seams. This problem could indicate that water is collecting in the gutters instead of moving to the downspouts. You could have leaves or other debris blocking the flow of water at the seams. Try cleaning the gutters, adjusting the slope, and sealing any holes or cracks in the material to fix this problem.

Buried downspouts can freeze during cold weather as cold water runs through them. If you’ve discovered your downspouts are frozen, you can carefully pour hot water down the top of the downspout to defrost them. If that doesn’t work, you may need to dig your downspout back up. Avoid trying to break the ice from the exterior using a hammer as this can cause cracks and damage to your downspout.

To avoid freezing the future, consider adding a heating cable to the exterior, which can adjust heat based on the surrounding temperature.

Shingle granules can be cleaned out of gutters using a small scoop or a hose, depending on the quantity of granules and how much other debris is in your gutters. First, clear your gutters of leaves and other debris. This may remove granules in the gutters if they are mixed in with the debris. Use a plastic scoop to remove larger quantities of granules or a hose with a high-powered nozzle for smaller amounts, and collect and dispose of the granules once they’ve been removed.

Gutters alone do not prevent ice dams, although proper drainage can help reduce the chance of them forming. It’s also a common myth that gutters cause ice dams, but even houses without gutters are susceptible to ice dams. Keeping your gutters clear and in good condition can help water drain more efficiently, which may help keep ice dams from forming.