You ordered the installation and your new gutters are finally up on your home. While you may be tempted to kick back and ignore maintenance for a while, this is the time that you should be paying close attention. With the right care, you can keep your gutters looking like new for as long as possible.

Consider what damaged your old gutters
While you may have had to order gutter installation because of general wear and tear, determine whether there was a specific cause. Did debris cause major clogs and sagging? Did ice dams start to pull the gutters away from the roof? Were rodents running amok? Pinpointing the cause of gutter damage will tell you where your maintenance practices need to improve.

Clean out debris
Even though your new rain gutters will be void of any leaves and other debris, they may fill up quickly. Now is the best time to stay on top of it, keeping your gutters effective for as long as possible. If you are having trouble clearing them out yourself, consider hiring a professional.

Factor in climate
If you live in a particularly cold area, you may have some extra challenges when it comes to caring for your gutters. Watch out for ice dams and icicles in the winter, as the freeze and thaw of this water can cause major damage. Ask your gutter replacement service how to best protect your gutters during times of harsh weather.

Remember your downspouts
Be sure to clean out your downspouts just as often as you are cleaning out your gutters! While you need downspouts for every 30 to 40 feet of linear gutter, you can consider adding more if your gutters are not working well. Effective and clean downspouts make drainage successful. Ineffective and clogged downspouts can cause major damage to your home's siding, landscaping, and foundation.

Involve a professional
When a gutter professional installs your new gutters, be sure to ask how to best maintain them. They will have specific instructions to clean and inspect your gutters. They can also tell you how long your gutters should last.

Especially with new installations, it is important to call the gutter company if anything goes wrong. The gutters may be covered under warranty, so you may be able to receive a new installation if something has gone wrong unexpectedly. By being proactive in gutter maintenance, you can ensure that your residential gutters are doing their job and protecting the rest of your home's exterior.