January Gutter Check: What Portland OR Homeowners Should Look For

Why January Gutters Need Attention

December was hard on Portland gutters. The historic storms dropped record rainfall, winds brought down branches and debris, and many homeowners were too busy with holidays to notice developing problems.

Now that the holidays are over, it is time to check your gutters before the next round of winter weather.

What to Look For From the Ground

You do not need to climb a ladder for an initial inspection. Walk around your home and observe:

Visible debris - Leaves, branches, or buildup you can see from ground level indicates gutters need cleaning.

Sagging sections - Gutters pulling away from the house or dipping in the middle suggest damage or excessive weight from debris and water.

Staining on siding - Water marks below gutters indicate overflow problems during rain.

Pooling near foundation - Standing water close to your home means downspouts are not directing water properly, risking foundation damage.

Check During the Next Rain

The best gutter test happens during rainfall. When it rains, observe:

Is water flowing from downspouts? If not, you have a clog somewhere.

Is water spilling over gutter edges? That means blockage or insufficient capacity.

Are there any drips behind gutters? This indicates fascia or gutter seal problems.

Ice Damage Signs

If temperatures dropped below freezing in December, check for ice damage:

Bent or misshapen gutters - Ice expansion can warp aluminum gutters.

Loose hangers - Freezing and thawing cycles loosen gutter attachments.

Cracked seams - Ice pressure can separate gutter joints.

Even if gutters look fine, hidden damage from winter weather may cause leaks during your next heavy rain.

Address Problems Before February

January and February typically bring more Pacific Northwest storms. Problems identified now can be fixed before conditions worsen.

Minor issues like loose hangers or small debris buildup are easy fixes. Major problems like extensive damage need professional attention before they cause interior water damage.

Schedule Your January Cleaning

For professional gutter inspection and cleaning, contact Seasons Cleaning Services. We help Portland homeowners stay ahead of winter weather with thorough gutter maintenance.

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