subject: Stop The Snow Damaging Your Copper Gutters [print this page] Author: carly chaffer Author: carly chaffer
Its something UK residents are becoming increasingly used to dealing with, and it doesnt get any easier as time goes on. The snow is a frustrating part of the cold winter months and people dont often realise just how damaging it can be to the home. Your once shiny and new copper gutters could soon become damaged if you dont take care of them properly during the bad weather.
When the snow falls, it covers everything, and that includes the guttering. The level surface of the guttering makes it a target area for snow deposits to fall and lodge in the shape of the guttering. This isnt so much of a problem if the snow melts quickly, but with recent UK winters feeling bitter and lasting for longer, the snow remains in the guttering for a long time and this can cause blockages. Copper gutters are in fact of the best options to have when the weather is bad, as they are very hard-wearing, but even the toughest of guttering materials can struggle when it comes to freak snow conditions and long winters. As the snow falls in the guttering and on the roof, you often find that icicles form this is what causes most of the damage. Once they fall, they could take your guttering down too with the sheer force and impact. That is, of course, if the weight of the snow itself doesnt bring the guttering down in the meantime.
In bad weather, you have to be extra vigilant about your home. Look out for snow mounds falling from the roof and hitting you on the head. Be aware that long periods of cold and snow could result in frozen pipes, and move any cars out of the way if they are in the direct line of fire from falling snow. The problems start when your guttering gets blocked though, and so its important that you try your best to minimise any problems caused by heavy snow. Safety permitting, it is a good idea to get up on a ladder to try and sweep clean your guttering when there has been a heavy snowfall. This will ensure the rain can move freely down the pipes again. If the ground is too slippery though, try buying a telescopic window cleaning pole or something similar that will allow you to reach up high and clean the guttering from standing on the ground. Keeping your copper gutters clean will help in the long-run, but you should never compromise your safety, so make sure you carefully work out your safe and effective way of preventing snow damage to your guttering, copper gutters or otherwise.About the Author:
For the finest, high quality guttering, visit Rainguard - the UK's number 1 choice for rainwater systems and guttering solutions. We specialise in copper gutters, cast iron gutters and more, all at affordable prices. With over 30 years experience, we are the guttering name you can trust.
