The coming months are sure to bring heavy snow. And while you’re no doubt ready with shovels and snow blowers, you might have overlooked another  aspect of dealing with downfall: your gutters.

It’s easy to forget about gutters, as we rarely see what’s collecting in them. But take heed: If your gutters are clogged, melting snow will send water down the sides of your home and spill onto your foundation, doing damage along the way.

Gutters should be clear of all debris, so that water is channeled through downspouts and away from your foundation. If you haven’t cleaned them lately, Houselogic offers tips on how to approach the task:

• Wait for a warm day when snow and ice aren’t a factor.
• Wear rubber gloves and a shirt with long sleeves to protect your skin.
• Buy or borrow an extendable ladder. Use a ladder stabilizer to protect the gutters from damage and to provide added safety.
• Buy a gutter scoop at the home improvement store. A child’s sand shovel will also do the trick.
• Set out a plastic tarp to throw the debris onto, making for easier cleanup.
• Use a garden hose to flush the gutters and downspouts once the job is done. Be sure to look for leaks in your gutters at the same time.
• If this sounds like too much trouble, you can always hire a professional for the job.

Houselogic notes that professionals charge between $50-250.

Photo Copyright: Pixabay