Holiday Prep Checklist for Homeowners: Don’t Forget Your Gutters This Season

Michael Triska • December 6, 2025

What Arkansas homeowners need to know about gutter cleaning and winter home prep.

As the holidays roll in and Arkansas weather starts doing its usual December mood swings, most homeowners focus on decorations, winterizing pipes, and getting the house ready for guests. But there’s one task that quietly determines whether your holiday season goes smoothly or turns into a soggy, expensive headache: gutter maintenance.

This is the time of year when heavy rain, leftover leaves, and freezing temperatures collide. Clogged or damaged gutters don’t just look bad; they cause roof leaks, foundation issues, siding damage, and interior water intrusion. That’s why a pre-holiday gutter check should be as routine as bringing the tree out of the attic.

Below is a simple, no-nonsense checklist to get your home ready.


Why Is Gutter Cleaning Important Before the Holidays?

Answer: Because Arkansas winter storms hit hard, and clogged gutters cause overflow and freeze-ups that lead to costly repairs.

When gutters are full of leaves and debris, water backs up and freezes overnight. This creates pressure on the gutter system, fascia boards, and roofing materials. A little neglect now can turn into major winter repairs later.


1. Clear Out Leaves, Sticks, and Fall Debris

The fall leaf drop often continues into early December. A quick gutter cleaning prevents blockages that lead to winter overflow. For two-story homes or homes surrounded by trees, now is the ideal time to schedule a professional cleaning.


2. Inspect for Sagging or Loose Gutters

Winter storms add weight to your gutters. If any section is sagging or pulling away from the home, it needs to be tightened or repaired before freezing weather makes it worse.


3. Check Downspout Flow

A clean gutter means nothing if your downspouts can’t drain. Make sure water is flowing freely and directed away from the foundation. Winter pooling near the home leads to cracks, uneven settling, and slippery walkways.


4. Add Gutter Guards for Long-Term Protection

If you’re tired of calling for multiple cleanings each year, gutter guards are the smartest holiday gift you can give your home. They reduce clogging, prevent ice buildup, and keep debris out year-round.


5. Schedule a Professional Holiday Inspection

Every home benefits from a professional gutter inspection before winter hits full force. MT’s Gutters provides a detailed check of:

  • Seamless gutter performance
  • Secure hangers and brackets
  • Downspout alignment
  • Roofing-edge integrity
  • Potential leak points


If your system needs repair or replacement, you’ll catch it early—before the freeze-thaw cycle magnifies the problem.



Common Questions Homeowners Ask Before the Holidays


  • Should I clean my gutters before or after hanging Christmas lights?

    Before. Leaves and debris trapped behind light clips cause water backups and ice formation.

  • How often should Arkansas homeowners clean gutters?

    Two to three times per year, especially after the fall leaf season and before winter storms.

  • Do gutter guards eliminate cleaning?

    Not entirely, but they drastically reduce it and prevent winter clogging.

  • When is the best time to install new gutters?

    Late fall through early spring is ideal thanks to contractor availability and mild weather days.


Don’t Let Holiday Weather Wreck Your Home

A simple gutter cleaning and inspection can save hundreds—sometimes thousands—in winter damage. Before family arrives and the weather turns unpredictable, give your home the protection it needs.


If you’re ready for a fast, professional solution, MT’s Gutters can handle cleaning, repairs, guards, and full seamless gutter installation anywhere in Central Arkansas.


Schedule your holiday gutter inspection today and protect your home before winter storms hit.



Request a inspection today!
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