Best Practices to Remove Icicles From Your Gutters

All Aluminum Gutters

531 Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, New York 11704

(631) 816-2498

If you're located on Long Island, then you're probably aware of the winter weather advisory alert that has been announced for tonight into tomorrow. With a mix of snow and rain in our forecast accompanied by low temperatures, there's a chance that winter conditions - such as icicles - will be left behind.

Although groups of icicles can be a pretty scene to look at, it's important to realize that they pose a threat to our homes due to the way they hang from our gutters. That's why it's important to spend some time getting rid of them before they get too heavy and weigh down vital pieces of our homes. If this weekend leaves you with such shimmering sticks hanging from your gutters, use the following techniques to remove them:

1. Using the proper tool, such as a roof rake, gently prod or scrape at the icicles to weaken them. However, keep your body position in mind and avoid standing directly under the icicle in order to keep it from falling on you.
2. Place heat tape on your gutters near where the icicles have formed to encourage the melting process.
3. Carefully pull the icicles off by hand. Since you will likely need to use a ladder to reach them, avoid leaning on your gutters in the process so that they don't have to carry any extra weight. When taking them off, be sure to not pull too hard so that your gutters remain securely fastened to your home.

Do you have another helpful tip on how to remove icicles from your home? What about ways to prevent them from forming? If so, we'd love to hear it, so be sure to visit us on our Facebook, Twitter or Google+ page to let us know!

Here at All Aluminum Gutters, we specialize in gutter cleaning, repair and replacement. If winter weather conditions land you with gutter damage this year, contact us for help! Our services extend to Suffolk County, Nassau County, Queens, the Bronx and Westchester. For more information, visit us on our website or give us a call at (631) 816-2498 today.