Icicles, ice dams and your gutters

Snow melts on a warm roof, runs down to the cold edge and refreezes. That ridge of ice is an ice dam, and the water behind it can back up under shingles.

What gutters do and don't do

• Clogged gutters hold water that freezes solid and adds heavy weight to hangers.
• Clear, well-pitched gutters with sturdy hangers handle winter better.
• Gutters and guards don't stop ice dams. Attic insulation and ventilation do.

Before winter

• Clear leaves so meltwater can drain.
• Have loose or sagging runs re-hung.
• Ask about heavy-duty hangers in snowy areas.