Winter weather can be especially hard on your gutter system. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and all types of falling debris can combine to create conditions that clog your gutters, cause ice dams, lead to water overflow, and even potentially damage your home’s foundation. One solution many homeowners consider is gutter guards—but do they still work during the coldest and wettest time of the year? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Winter Is Tough on Gutters
During fall and winter, and even early spring in many regions, gutters are often filled with leaves, twigs, branches, pine needles, and other types of natural debris. Plus, when temperatures drop, trapped moisture can freeze, creating ice blockages that prevent proper drainage. These ice “dams” can lead to:
- Water backing up under shingles
- Sagging or detaching gutters due to excess weight
- Water damage affecting the siding, fascia, and foundation of your home
Types of Winter Gutter Guards & Their Benefits
While gutter guards don’t eliminate winter risks entirely, the right system can make a large difference. A few different types of gutter guards that can be used during the winter include:
Mesh Gutter Guards
These feature a fine metal or synthetic screen that covers the gutter while allowing water to pass through. They greatly reduce the likelihood of larger debris from entering. However, keep in mind that fine mesh can accumulate small debris or ice in extreme conditions, so these guards will still require routine maintenance.
Surface Tension Guards
These use a curved design that directs water into the gutter while debris slides right off the edge. They encourage snowmelt to flow smoothly into the gutter too, minimizing the buildup that contributes to ice dams. However, they may not handle ultra-heavy rainfall too well.
Foam Insert Guards
Foam inserts sit inside the gutter, blocking debris while still allowing water to pass through. They are a fairly simple and affordable solution; however, since foam can absorb water and degrade over time, they aren’t a long-term fix or something you should rely on in harsher climates.
You should also keep in mind that gutter guards won’t completely prevent ice dams and other issues; they should be a part of a larger winter protection plan for your home that also includes insulation and ventilation. Winter can be the most demanding season for your gutters, but ensuring they have the protection they need will allow them to, in turn, adequately safeguard your home.
About Platinum Gutters
Our team here at Platinum Gutters has proudly served DFW homeowners for over 15 years, offering a wide variety of gutter repair, replacement, and maintenance services, including gutter guard installation for the unpredictable Texas winter season. If you have questions about the blog or you want to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, reach out online or call today for more information.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.