As the weather grows colder and leaves begin to turn, it is important to prepare the home for what lies ahead. Falling leaves, twigs, and other debris are looking for a landing spot while small animals and rodents seek a place to nest, the gutters on your home are the perfect space. This can wreak havoc on your gutter system, your roof, and ultimately your entire home, causing extensive damage and taking a chunk out of your wallet.

Here are 5 tips to prepare gutters for fall, prevent damage, and save a substantial amount of money.

1) Clean Gutters & Downspouts

The first step to prepare gutters for fall, clean them. Use that garden hose one last time and flush any leaves, twigs, and other debris in the gutter system. Once that is complete, use gloves to wipe away any remaining debris and the finish it off with warm water and soap flush followed by a final wipe down with a sponge. Be sure to check the downspouts and surrounding areas, as debris is known to accumulates in these areas. If a clog persists in your downspouts, you may need to disassemble the system, clear the clog, and then reassemble. This can be an arduous task, if you do not feel comfortable doing this, call a professional.

2) Inspect Gutters & Fix Damage

After a deep cleaning, inspect the gutter system for any damage. Check for leaks, cracks, holes, missing hardware. Ensure the gutters are not sagging, pulling away from the home, missing sections, and that all downspouts are tight.

If any damage exists, fix it immediately. These small problems can lead to greater issues in the future, such as damage to the home’s roof or water seepage into the foundation.

3) Trim Branches

Trees and branches see a growth spurt in the summer, eliminate any branches that have grown over your roofline. These overhanging branches can lead to leaves, seeds, and other debris calling into your gutter, causing future clogs.

4) Repel Rodents & Unwanted Visitors

As the weather turns, nature’s small furry friends seek warmth and shelter, and the gutter system is the perfect place. A nice coat of rodent repellant will keep our furry friends out and prevent any damage they might cause

5) Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are a perfect way to keep your gutters clean and water flowing throughout the fall and winter. These covers go over your gutter and prevent debris build up while still allowing water to flow freely.