Your Fall Checklist: Don’t Forget the Gutters!

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When the leaves start to turn and the mornings feel a little crisper, we know fall is officially here. It is one of my favorite seasons in Ohio, but it is also one of the busiest times for home maintenance.

And if there is one thing we have learned over the years, it is that gutters can make or break your home’s defense against fall weather. Clogged or damaged gutters do not just cause overflows. They can lead to foundation damage, basement leaks, roof problems, and even pest issues.

That is why we put together this quick-hit fall gutter checklist. It is easy to follow, homeowner-friendly, and perfect for printing or saving so you can tick off each task before the first snow hits.

Fall Gutter Checklist

1. Clear Out Leaves and Debris

• Scoop out leaves, twigs, and gunk from every section of your gutters.
  
• Check downspouts for clogs; even a partial blockage can cause backups during heavy rain.
  
• If you have tall trees nearby, plan on doing this more than once before winter.
  

2. Inspect for Sagging or Pulling Away

• Look for gutters that are bowing, leaning, or pulling away from the fascia.
  
• Loose fasteners or warped sections cannot handle the weight of heavy fall rains or snow melt.
  
• Tighten or replace hangers as needed before freezing temperatures set in.
  

3. Check for Leaks and Rust

• Look for drips, water stains, or rust spots along the gutters and seams.
  
• Seal small leaks with gutter sealant before they get worse.
  
• If you see larger rusted-out sections, it may be time to replace them entirely.
  

4. Ensure Proper Pitch

• Gutters should slope slightly toward the downspouts, about 1/4 inch for every 10 feet.
  
• Standing water indicates the pitch is off, preventing water from draining correctly.
  
• A quick adjustment now can prevent ice dams and pooling later.
  

5. Test Downspout Flow

• Spray water from a hose into your gutters to make sure downspouts are clear.
  
• Water should flow freely out, away from the foundation.
  
• If the downspout is slow or backing up, flush it or remove and clean it.
  

6. Check Splash Blocks and Extensions

• Make sure splash blocks or downspout extensions are directing water at least 3 feet away from your home.
  
• Without them, water can pool around your foundation and seep into your basement.
  

7. Trim Back Overhanging Branches

• Cut back branches that drop leaves directly into your gutters.
  
• This reduces clogs and also prevents branch damage in storms.
  

8. Inspect Roof Edges While You’re Up There

• Look for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or moss growth.
  
• Even if the gutters are clean, roof issues can cause water problems in the same spots.
  

9. Consider Gutter Guards

• If you are constantly cleaning your gutters, guards can be a wise investment.
  
• They will not eliminate maintenance, but they will cut it down significantly.
  

10. Schedule a Professional Gutter Service

• A pro can spot issues you might miss and handle repairs before winter.
  
• It is crucial to address issues such as sagging, persistent clogs, or water damage.
  

Why This Matters Now

Fall in Ohio can mean weeks of wet leaves, surprise storms, and early freezes. If your gutters are not ready, you risk costly repairs, many of which can be avoided with just a few hours of maintenance.

I have seen what happens when homeowners skip this step, and it is a lot harder to fix water damage in February than it is to clean out your gutters in October.

Keep Your Gutters Clear This Fall 🍂

Protect your home from seasonal damage and costly repairs with Campo Roofing’s Fall Gutter Promotion. Don’t wait until the leaves pile up, take advantage of this limited-time offer today!

Claim Your Gutter Special Now and be one step ahead this season!