When the cold season hits in Michigan, gutters that already have leaks can quickly turn from a minor annoyance into a major home problem. Winter brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, which put extra stress on your home’s drainage system. Here’s why fixing those leaky gutters before winter is so important.
Leaky Gutters and Freezing Water
Ice Build-Up Worsens the Problem
When water escapes from a leak, it doesn’t flow safely away from your home. In freezing weather, that water can quickly turn into ice. Not only does this make walkways hazardous, but the ice can also expand and make the leak larger.
Ice Dams Form More Easily
Leaking gutters don’t direct water correctly, which can cause it to refreeze along your roofline. This leads to ice dams—thick ridges of ice that trap melting snow on the roof. Ice dams often cause roof damage, leaks inside the home, and even broken shingles.
Foundation and Basement Risks
Water Pools Around Your Home
Even in the winter, melting snow has to go somewhere. If your gutters are leaking, that water tends to pool around your foundation. When it refreezes, it expands, putting extra pressure on your basement walls.
Cracks and Seepage Develop
Over time, that freeze-thaw cycle creates cracks in the foundation. What may have started as a small gutter leak could easily lead to water seepage into your basement once spring arrives.
Extra Strain on Gutters
Leaks Make Gutters Weaker
Leaking gutters are often a sign of loose seams, gaps, or corrosion. In the winter, the added weight of ice and snow makes these weak spots worse. Gutters may start sagging or even pull away from the house.
Repairs Become Harder in the Cold
Fixing a small leak in the fall is simple, but once temperatures drop and ice sets in, repairs become more difficult and costly.
How to Prevent Winter Gutter Problems
Repair or Replace Leaks Before the First Snow
If you’ve noticed drips or leaks, now’s the time to repair them. Seamless gutters are a great option since they reduce weak points where leaks usually occur.
Keep Gutters Clean and Clear
Clogs make leaks worse. Cleaning your gutters before winter ensures water can flow smoothly instead of finding new escape routes.
Add Gutter Guards
Gutter guards keep out leaves and debris, which often contribute to leaks and overflows. Installing them in fall helps your gutters perform at their best during winter storms.
Final Thoughts
Leaky gutters are always a problem, but in the winter they become a much bigger threat to your roof, foundation, and overall home safety. By addressing issues before the first freeze, homeowners can avoid expensive damage and keep their homes protected all season long.
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