Clogged gutters can cause expensive problems.

When they fill up with melt-water from snow on the roof, and the water freezes and re-melts, it can work its way up under the roof shingles and leak into the house. Excessive ice and icicle build-up can damage the gutter itself. In warm weather, rainwater in the gutter overflows and runs down the side of the house, which can cause rot, damage paint, attract mildew, and lead to moisture problems in the basement.

A cost-effective way to keep gutters clear is to have the gutters and downspouts cleaned out at least once a year after the leaves are off the trees, and install strainers at the outlets to keep them unclogged until the next cleaning.

Wood gutters are very expensive and their life can be prolonged by oiling them every year to prevent cracking and drying out.

Atwood Painting offers a free gutter cleaning with any interior job over $500 booked for the winter months.