How To Remove Ice From Gutters?

Ice usually forms in gutters when there is a sharp drop in temperature after rain, or after a heavy snowfall. The accumulation of ice in your gutters can cause a collapse in the system, the water will not be evacuated and the weight of snow and ice accumulated in the gutters can cause deterioration of the gutters, as well as damage to your house.

What problems does the ice cause in gutters?

Ice buildup on gutters may not seem like a problem, but it creates clogs and overloads the system due to weight. The combination of these factors can cause several problems:

The collapse of gutters.

Roof damage.

Humidity and leaks

Cracks and breaks in the gutters.

Water expands when it freezes, if this happens inside our gutters it can easily break. The ice also tends to accumulate dust and other residues, which will accumulate inside our gutters and on the facade of the house when it melts.

The ice also blocks the flow of water that would normally carry this debris to the downspouts. When the ice melts, the residues it has accumulated will form a sludge at the bottom of the gutters, easily causing the downspouts to clog.

How does ice appear on gutters?

Snow is the most common cause of the appearance of ice in gutters, but in high mountain areas, it can also occur in the early hours of the morning if fog is combined with low temperatures.

If there is a snowfall and the snow accumulates on our roof, it will melt little by little because the interior of the houses is usually heated. The melting snow, if it is not drained correctly, will produce the appearance of a thick layer of ice that can not only cause damage to the roof or the gutters. There can be detachments of ice sheets that are very dangerous for people.

How can I remove ice from my gutters?

The most recommended way to do this is with a roof rake specially designed for this purpose. It consists of a rake with a rubber end and an extendable pole. It is easier to use if the snow has not yet turned to ice. In any case, it is advisable to always use it with caution and work in areas. It is advisable to start on the north face of the house since it is the one that receives the least amount of sunshine and therefore the one that will accumulate the most ice.

If the amount of snow or ice is not very high, we can remove it with the hose; but take care that the temperature is not below zero, since otherwise we only worsen the problem. Also, if the snow cover is very thick on the roof, soaking it with the hose only encourages more ice to form. This method is not the most recommended, it should only be used for small accumulations of snow, and otherwise, the temperature contrast can cause damage to the roof or gutters.