How to Prevent Ice Dams by Cleaning Your Gutters Now?

Why You Should Act Before the First Snow

If you live where the first snow hits in late November, you know how quickly ice dams can turn from a minor annoyance into a costly problem. Frozen gutters and blocked downspouts don’t just look messy—they can leak into your roof, walls, or basement.

The good news? With a little prep now, you can prevent headaches and expensive repairs later.

1. How Ice Dams Form

• Snow on your roof melts during the day.
• Water flows down and refreezes at the eaves if gutters are blocked.
• The trapped water can seep under shingles, causing leaks and damage.

Key takeaway: clogged gutters = prime ice dam conditions.

2. Clean Your Gutters Before Winter Hits

• Remove leaves, twigs, and other gutter debris before the first snow.
• Use a leaf blower or gutter cleaning kit to do it safely from the ground when possible.
• Check downspouts to make sure water flows freely.

Even a quick 30-minute cleanup prevents water from pooling and freezing.

3. DIY Roof & Gutter Check

• After cleaning, run water from a hose to simulate snowmelt.
• Look for slow drainage or pooling; these are red flags.
• Address clogs immediately before temperatures drop.

4. Extra Tips for Winter Protection

• Consider installing gutter guards if your home has lots of trees.
• Keep roof edges free of leaves and debris.
• Remove snow promptly after storms to reduce ice buildup.
• Regular maintenance now can save hundreds in repair costs later.

Final Thought

Ice dams are avoidable with a little preparation. Clean your gutters now, check downspouts, and stay ahead of winter weather. A small investment of time now keeps your home dry, safe, and stress-free all season.