As a homeowner in Jenks, OK, do you have a list of least favorite chores? For many people, gutter maintenance is near the top. It's a hassle to get out a ladder and clear the leaves or spend time trying to figure out why one is clogged. One more maintenance consideration is that gutters can ice over in the winter and cause significant damage to your home. De-icing a gutter is an important task. Here are a few tips to do it well.
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1. Do Prioritize Safety

Any time you work on your roof, it's important to take safety precautions. This is even more true during the winter months when snow and ice are involved. Especially if you are a new homeowner, you might not have the tools readily available that you need to deal with ice in your gutter. Never use a hammer, shovel, or any sharp object to break up ice. You can damage your home and hurt yourself. Never use fire to try and melt ice or heated cables that you don't have training for.
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2. Do Research Carefully

There are safe ways to handle winter gutter maintenance. Ideally, you should do a little research in advance to find safe and effective ways to prevent or treat ice in your gutters. De-icing products are available at most home improvement stores or in a pinch, you can use a hair dryer or hot water and table salt. Always consult reputable sources when looking for maintenance information.
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3. Do Consider a Professional

De-icing the gutters on your home can actually be more involved than it seems. If you have any doubts, it's best to call a roofing professional who has the tools and know-how to safely and effectively clear ice blocks.
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Each gutter on your home serves the important function of keeping your home safe from excess water intrusion. Proper maintenance is essential to prevent damage.