Get Your Gutters Ready Before Rainy Season

In Southern California, most of our rain arrives between late fall and early spring. After months of dry weather, the first big storm often catches homeowners off guard — and that's when clogged or damaged gutters cause the most trouble. A little preparation now goes a long way.

Clear out leaves and debris

Dry months mean leaves, pine needles and dust collect in your gutters. When the rain comes, that debris turns into a soggy dam. Clean your gutters out completely, including the downspouts. If you can't safely reach them, have a professional do it — ladder falls are one of the most common household injuries.

Flush the downspouts

Run a garden hose into each downspout. Water should flow freely and come out the bottom. If it backs up, there's a clog that needs to be cleared.

Check that water drains away from the house

Look at where each downspout empties. Water should land at least a few feet from your foundation. Downspout extensions or splash blocks are an easy fix if water is dumping right next to the house.

Look for loose sections and gaps

Check that every section is firmly attached and that the gutter sits snugly against the roof edge. Loose hangers and gaps between the gutter and the fascia let water run behind the gutter and into the wood.

Inspect the seams and corners

Corners and seams are where leaks usually start. Look for rust, cracks, or old sealant that's peeling away.

Don't forget the roof

While you're looking at your gutters, take a look at the roof from the ground. Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or debris piled in valleys are worth addressing before the rain starts.

When to call a pro

If your gutters sag, leak at several spots, or overflow even when they're clean, they may be undersized or past their lifespan. A professional inspection before the rainy season can catch these problems while it's still dry and easy to schedule.

MTZ Roofing & Raingutters serves Orange County, Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire. Call (714) 473-7336 to schedule your free estimate before the rain arrives.