How to Keep Ice and Snow Out of Rain Gutters

If you live in a region that is prone to wintry weather, you know how difficult it can be to keep your rain gutters free from an accumulation of ice and snow. Snow and ice can weigh down your gutters, causing them damage. You do not want ice and snow to clog up your gutters, allowing water and melting ice and snow to get under your roof shingles and drip down your siding. Take the time necessary to protect your rain gutters from ice and snow.

Instructions

1. Insulate your house well so that heat does not escape through the roof. If your house has an attic, you will want to ensure that it is insulated well in order to prevent heat from rising to the attic and heading to the roof. Excess heat on the roof can melt ice and snow. The run-off water runs will run into the gutters and freeze during cold temperatures. Insulating well will help to reduce quickly melting ice and snow from the roof.

2. Clean your gutters a minimum of two times each year. You will want to clean your gutters in autumn when they fill up with leaves and in the spring. If you know your gutters are full of debris, they should be cleaned more often. You can use a leaf blower to blow leaves and other debris out of the gutter. A paint scraper or similar tool can be used to scrape particularly difficult debris from the gutters. Rinse your rain gutters out with a garden hose. Keeping your gutters free from a buildup of leaves, twigs and other items will help to prevent winter blockage where ice can accumulate.

3. Heat tape can be used to keep gutters warm enough to prevent ice from forming. The heat tape can melt ice and snow before it becomes a problem. You will run the heat tape though your rain gutters and plug the power cord into an outlet in your house or at an outdoor receptacle. Follow all instructions that are included with the heat tape you purchase for safe installation.

4. Use a gutter guard to keep out debris and to prevent ice and snow from cluttering up your rain gutters. There are different types of rain guards and covers depending on how much money you want to spend. Keep in mind that with some systems a little debris can still collect in the gutters. Check your rain gutters for debris a couple times each year.

5. Consider installing aluminum rain gutters of a heavier weight than that of most basic gutters. Talk to a contractor to determine if heavier rain gutters will work for your house. The heavier weight of aluminum can withstand more wear and tear. They are less likely to be damaged if ice or snow does get into sections of the gutter. In the long run, they will work more effectively. Rain and water from melting snow and ice on the roof will have a clear path through the gutters and away from the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Hire a professional to clear your gutters if you cannot safely climb a ladder or are not confident in your ability to work at an elevated height. Always use caution when using heat tape. Consult a plumber if you have any doubt that your heat tape has been safely installed.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Buy gutter heat tape.