Doesn’t it drive you nuts when the trees and squirrels clog your gutter with acorns? Get ready to clean them then! Clogged gutters aren’t just an eyesore — they can lead to some serious (and expensive) problems. When water can’t drain properly, it can back up under your roofline, seep into your foundation, or freeze and create ice dams during our long Vermont winters. A little maintenance now saves a lot of headaches later.
Signs your gutters need attention:
- Water spilling over the sides during rain
- Sagging or pulling-away gutters
- Plants or weeds sprouting from the gutter (yes, this happens!)
- Water stains on your siding or foundation
A few tips for the job:
- Time it right. Fall (after leaves drop) and spring are the big cleanings, but if you’re under heavy tree cover, plan on a mid-summer check too.
- Safety first. Use a sturdy ladder on level ground, and consider a helper to hold it steady — Vermont yards aren’t always the flattest.
- Flush with water. After clearing debris by hand or with a scoop, run a hose through the gutters to make sure water flows freely to the downspouts.
- Check the downspouts. Make sure they’re directing water at least 3-5 feet away from your foundation.
- Consider gutter guards. If squirrels and acorns are a constant battle, guards can cut down on how often you need to climb up there.
And if heights aren’t your thing, this is one of those jobs where hiring a local pro is money well spent — especially before the first hard freeze.