Gutters quietly protect your roof, siding and foundation — until they clog and stop working. A little seasonal upkeep prevents the water damage that costs thousands. Here's the simple New Jersey rhythm.
Fall (the big one)
New Jersey's oaks and maples drop heavily, so clean gutters after the leaves are mostly down. Clogged gutters going into winter are the #1 setup for ice dams and overflow.
Spring
Clear out winter debris, seed pods and shingle granules. Check that downspouts drain well away from the foundation before the heavy spring rains.
After big storms
Nor'easters and summer thunderstorms drop branches and debris. A quick check after major storms catches clogs early.
What to look for
- Sagging or pulling-away gutters (loose fasteners)
- Overflow during rain (clogs or undersized gutters)
- Granules building up (your roof may be aging)
- Downspouts dumping next to the foundation (add extensions)
- Rust, leaks at seams, or peeling fascia paint
Cut the work with gutter guards
If cleaning gutters two-plus times a year isn't your idea of fun, gutter guards keep leaves and needles out so water flows freely and you rarely have to get on a ladder. They also help prevent winter clogs and ice dams. See our gutters page and seamless gutters guide.
Lightning installs seamless gutters and guards across New Jersey. Get a free estimate.