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Real Estate Tips

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How to Prepare Your Gutters and Downspouts for Fall Leaves

As the crisp air of autumn rolls into East Tennessee, so do the colorful fall leaves. While they’re beautiful to look at, those leaves can spell trouble for your home if they pile up in your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks, foundation damage, and even pest problems. That’s why preparing your gutters before the leaves start to fall is one of the smartest home maintenance steps you can take.

Here are some practical tips to keep your home safe and dry this fall:

1. Clean Out Debris Before the Season

Start fresh by removing any leaves, twigs, or dirt already sitting in your gutters. Even small blockages can cause water to overflow during autumn rains. A garden scoop or gutter cleaning tool can make the job easier, or you can hire a local professional for a thorough clean.

2. Check for Sagging or Damage

As you clean, inspect the gutters for sagging sections, rust, or cracks. Loose gutters can cause water to spill over the edge and pool near your foundation. Tighten brackets, seal small holes, and replace any sections that are too damaged to repair.

3. Flush Downspouts with Water

Use a garden hose to flush out your downspouts. This helps clear any hidden clogs and ensures water flows freely away from your home. If water backs up, you may need to use a plumber’s snake to dislodge debris.

4. Install Gutter Guards

To save yourself repeated cleanings throughout the season, consider adding gutter guards. These screens or covers keep most leaves and debris out while allowing water to flow through. They’re especially useful in heavily wooded neighborhoods common across East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.

5. Redirect Water Away from Your Foundation

Make sure your downspouts extend at least three feet away from your home. You can use extensions or splash blocks to prevent water from seeping into your basement or crawlspace.

6. Schedule Regular Checks Through Fall

Our area's fall season is long and colorful, which means leaves can continue falling for weeks. Plan to check your gutters every few weeks until the trees are bare to avoid unexpected blockages.

Maintaining your gutters and downspouts this fall is a small task that can save you from costly home repairs later. Whether you tackle it yourself or call in a professional, staying ahead of falling leaves will keep your home protected and ready for the cooler months ahead. See more home maintenance ideas for your fall to-do list here »

At Blue Ridge Properties, we know that protecting your investment goes beyond buying or selling a home—it’s also about taking care of it year-round. If you’re preparing your home for sale or want expert advice on maintaining property value, our team is here to help.

Contact Blue Ridge Properties

Blue Ridge Properties real estate brokers and agents have the hyper-local knowledge and experience you want on your team. You can use our online tool to Find An Agent or call us at 423-247-4181 with any questions.