Gutter guards are a smart investment for any homeowner, granting your home protection from water damage, reducing clogs, and minimizing the need for frequent cleanings. However, while they do a lot of the work for you, they still need regular care to stay effective—especially as the colder (and wetter) winter weather heads this way. Here are some practical tips to keep your gutter guards maintained and performing well year-round.
1. Inspect Your Gutters Seasonally
Even the best gutter guards can accumulate debris over time, and as autumn wraps up and winter approaches, the possibility of this is much higher. Leaves, pine needles, twigs, and dirt can settle on top of the guards and prevent water from flowing correctly. Check them at least once every season so that unexpected storms don’t overwhelm the whole system. If you do notice any sagging or loose sections, they’ll need to be addressed, either through repair or replacement.
2. Clear Surface Debris Regularly
You can use a soft brush, leaf blower, or even your gloved hands to remove debris sitting on top of your guards. This helps maintain proper drainage and reduces weight on the gutter system. Avoid using sharp tools that could damage the mesh or screen. In the spring or summer, when it’s warmer, it’s also good to give them a hose down to ensure they’re still flowing normally.
3. Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches drop leaves, seeds, twigs, and sap directly onto your roof and gutters. You can fight back against Mother Nature by regularly trimming back trees, which will significantly reduce the amount of debris your gutter guards have to handle—keeping them cleaner in the long run. This can also help to reduce pest and critter activity, which in turn helps to prevent gutter clogs and damage.
Even with a solid at-home routine, having your gutter guards professionally inspected once or twice a year is another great way to ensure they continue serving your home well as winter and the possibility of freezing temperatures approach!
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. If your gutters are due for an inspection or repair before the winter season hits, trust us to ensure everything is up to the finest standard. If you have questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, just reach out online or call today for assistance.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.