Winter Storms Are Tough on Gutters—Here’s How to Protect Your Boston Home

January brings some of the heaviest snow, freezing rain, and storms of the season to Boston. While slate and copper roofs are built to withstand harsh New England winters, your gutter system often takes the brunt of the damage. Heavy icicles, packed snow, and freeze–thaw cycles can strain copper gutters and downspouts, leading to leaks, blockages, and long-term structural issues.

At Art Slate Roofing, we specialize in copper gutter installation, historic roofing restoration, and full-service gutter repair for slate and copper roof systems throughout Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Belmont, and surrounding areas. Here’s what homeowners should do now to prevent winter storm damage from turning into costly repairs.

1. Clear Ice and Snow Buildup—Safely

Snow-heavy gutters can bend, pull away from fascia boards, or stress copper seams. After a storm, look for:

• Large icicles hanging from gutter edges
• Frozen blockages in downspouts
• Overflowing meltwater during above-freezing temperatures

Avoid knocking off ice yourself—this can damage copper. Instead, schedule a professional assessment to prevent long-term gutter warping.

2. Check for Loose or Pulled-Away Gutters

Winter storms often cause copper gutters to loosen from their mounts. This is especially common on historic Boston homes with older fascia boards. Signs include:

• Visible gaps between gutters and the roofline
• Downspouts that have shifted or separated
• Sagging gutter sections

Left unaddressed, these issues can lead to roof-edge leaks and structural damage.

3. Look for Water Stains or Overflow Marks

Staining on siding, exterior trim, or beneath gutters often indicates poor drainage or ice dam activity. This is especially important for homes with slate and copper roofing, where improper gutter flow can push water under tiles or flashing.

4. Remove Debris Left From Storm Winds

Even in winter, branches, leaves, and windblown debris can clog gutters. With melting snow on the way, blockages can cause:

• Overflow and roof-edge leaks
• Downspout backups
• Ice dam formation

A quick seasonal cleanup helps keep gutters functioning properly between storms.

5. Inspect Copper for Stress, Cracking, or Separation

While copper is extremely durable—and ideal for Boston’s climate—it can experience stress at soldered joints after extreme temperature swings. Look for:

• Warping or denting
• Separated seams
• Unusual patina changes near joints

Our copper roofing experts can repair or refabricate damaged sections to restore a watertight system.

6. Prevent Ice Dams With Proper Drainage

Gutters play a major role in preventing ice dams. When water cannot drain properly, it refreezes at the roof edge and forces meltwater beneath slate or copper flashing. A mid-winter gutter checkup helps reduce the risk of ice dam damage to:

• Slate shingles
• Copper valleys and flashing
• Roof underlayment

When to Call a Professional

If you notice leaks, sagging gutters, heavy ice, or water stains inside or outside the home, it’s time for professional help. Art Slate Roofing offers specialized services tailored to historic Boston homes, including:

• Copper gutter repair and installation
• Winter storm damage assessments
• Slate and copper roof inspections
• Ice dam prevention and remediation

Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm

Gutters are a critical part of your roof’s winter defense system. With proper maintenance, your slate and copper roofing will stay strong throughout Boston’s toughest weather.

Contact Art Slate Roofing today to schedule your post‑storm gutter inspection and keep your home protected for the rest of winter.