Michigan’s weather is no joke. With freezing winters, rainy springs, hot summers, and leaf-filled falls, your gutters go through a lot. Michigan weather and gutters can cost you more money in damage so ignoring gutter maintenance in any season can lead to costly damage to your home. Let’s break down how each season affects your gutters and what you can do to protect them.
Winter: Ice, Snow, and Gutter Damage
Ice Dams Can Ruin Your Roof & Gutters
Michigan winters bring heavy snow and freezing temperatures. If your gutters aren’t draining properly, ice dams can form, leading to major roof and gutter damage.
Snow Weight Can Pull Gutters Loose
Wet, heavy snow sitting in your gutters adds extra weight, causing sagging or even complete detachment from the fascia board.
Winter Gutter Tips:
- Install heat cables to prevent ice dams.
- Ensure gutters are pitched correctly for drainage.
- Use extra hangers for added support.
Spring: Heavy Rains & Clogged Downspouts
Melting Snow + Spring Rains = Overflow
With snowmelt and frequent rainstorms, gutters that aren’t clear of debris will overflow, leading to foundation erosion and basement flooding.
Pollen & Seed Buildup Can Clog Gutters
Springtime means trees dropping seeds and pollen, which can quickly clog gutters and downspouts.
Spring Gutter Tips:
- Clean gutters early in the season to remove winter debris.
- Check for leaks and sagging from winter damage.
- Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
Summer: Heat Expansion & Storm Damage
Extreme Heat Can Weaken Gutter Materials
Metal gutters expand in the heat, which can loosen fasteners and weaken seals.
Heavy Storms Can Rip Gutters Off
Summer thunderstorms in Michigan bring heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail—enough force to bend, detach, or even rip off weak gutters.
Summer Gutter Tips:
- Inspect and tighten gutter fasteners.
- Install larger 6-inch gutters to handle heavy rainfall.
- Check for storm damage after big weather events.
Fall: The Season of Clogged Gutters
Leaves, Twigs, and Debris Build Up Fast
Michigan’s trees shed massive amounts of leaves in the fall, which can clog your gutters in just a few weeks.
Trapped Moisture Leads to Mold & Rot
Wet leaves sitting in your gutters can cause mold growth, wood rot, and rust—shortening the lifespan of your gutter system.
Fall Gutter Tips:
- Install gutter guards to block leaves and debris.
- Schedule a professional gutter cleaning before winter.
- Trim trees near your roof to reduce falling leaves.
Year-Round Gutter Care is Key
Michigan weather is tough on gutters, but regular maintenance can keep them in top shape. If you need help cleaning, repairing, or upgrading your gutters, J&A Exterior has you covered! Contact us today for a free estimate.
📞 Call us at (248)-403-0281
📧 Email us at @jnaguttercleaning@gmail.com
🌐 Visit our website at www.jaexterior.com
