Ready for Fall Eavestrough Maintenance?

Fall eavestrough maintenance may not be at the top of mind while the sun is still shining and kids are squeezing the last bit of summer out before heading back to school. But it’s coming if we like it or not.

Why is fall eavestrough maintenance important for protecting your home?
What should you look for?
What should the homeowner do and what should a professional take care of?

Why is Fall Eavestrough Maintenance important?

Home maintenance, cleaning, and repairs are important several times a year. Preparations made in the fall are recommended to avoid problems throughout the cold winters in Southern Ontario.

Moisture causes rot and mould

A poorly functioning eavestrough increases the risk of moisture reaching the wood under your roof, seeping into your soffit and fascia, or leaking inside down your walls and into your basement causing water damage.

Avoid freezing and ice dams

Cleaning eavestroughs making sure they are in good condition every fall is particularly important. When water laying in your gutters freezes over the winter, it creates even bigger problems.

Regular eavestrough cleaning is the key to prevention

A well-maintained eavestrough system free from clogged gutters protects your home and avoids unnecessary repair costs in the future.

Fall Checklist:

Cleaning

Ensure eavestroughs and downspouts are free of clogs with a good gutter cleaning so water can travel smoothly away from your home and avoid ice dams over the winter.

Trim trees and tall landscaping away from your roof before leaves and needles make their way into your eavestrough.

Keep your yard clean so other debris can’t find its way up to your roof during heavy winds.

Consider installing leaf guards as an added measure of protection from collecting things you can’t prevent.

Inspection & Repair

Make certain to get your roof Inspected for loose roofing shingles or other materials that could fall into the gutters and arrange for necessary repairs.

If you have gutter guards, make sure they are installed properly on their trough and you clean away any debris collecting on top away.

Check for sagging sections and ensure the angle of your eavestroughs so they are directing rain and melting snow correctly to the downspouts instead of becoming trapped and able to freeze.

Speaking of downspouts, make sure you properly direct them away from your home on the ground.

Confirm your eavestroughs connect to the fascia boards correctly, secure enough to hold the weight of snow before it melts. If they separate, water can sneak in between and fall down the side of your house. This negates the purpose of eavestroughs.

Make sure you don’t have holes or cracks in your eavestroughs. If you discover leaks, seal them up. If the condition of the system is too far gone, the fall is a great time for a new eavestrough installation.

Should you take care of fall eavestrough maintenance or hire a professional?

Of course, most homeowners can complete simple tasks. If you choose to complete fall eavestrough maintenance yourself, make sure you take proper safety precautions and use common sense.

DIY Fall Eavestrough Maintenance Tips

Use proper ladder safety.
Wear proper footwear and protective equipment.
Be aware of your surroundings, such as overhead wires.
Choose the right materials

If you don’t have time or simply don’t want the hassle yourself, hire a professional gutter cleaner for peace of mind.

Unsure of the condition of your current eavestrough system?

Schedule a free inspection with Only Eavestroughs. We can identify tasks that need to be done and make recommendations for any repairs or replacements you may need for a safe, damage-free winter.

SCHEDULE FREE FALL INSPECTION