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Hurrican Preparation:

  • Writer: Browning's Screen Repair brumale
    Browning's Screen Repair brumale
  • Sep 17
  • 3 min read


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Protect Your Ocala Home With Clean, Debris-Free Gutters

As hurricane season approaches in Florida, your gutters are one of the most important defenses your home has against storm damage. If they’re clogged or damaged, heavy rains can cause water to overflow, leading to flooding, roof leaks, foundation issues, and costly repairs.

In this guide, we’ll cover why gutter prep matters, how to safely clean your gutters, and when to call a professional like Browning’s Aluminum, Marion County’s Best of the 352 award-winning gutter and screen company.

Why Clean Gutters Are Essential Before a Hurricane

During a storm, Florida homes face extreme rainfall and high winds. If your gutters are clogged, water can’t flow properly through the downspouts — and that creates serious problems, such as:

  • Roof leaks and wood rot from standing water backing up under your shingles.

  • Foundation damage caused by water pooling around your home’s base.

  • Overflowing water that floods landscaping, patios, and lanais.

  • Excess weight on gutters, which can pull them loose or rip them away entirely.

Pro Tip: Even one small blockage can cause a chain reaction during heavy rainfall. Regular maintenance is far cheaper than storm damage repairs.

Step-by-Step Gutter Prep Before Hurricane Season

1. Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts

  • Walk around your home and look for visible damage, like sagging sections or loose brackets.

  • Make sure downspouts are directing water at least 3 feet away from your foundation.

If you notice significant damage, schedule a repair right away — don’t wait for the next storm.

2. Remove Debris by Hand

  • Wear heavy-duty gloves to scoop out leaves, twigs, and dirt.

  • Place debris into a bucket instead of tossing it to the ground.

  • Pay extra attention to areas where tree branches hang over your roof, as these spots tend to clog quickly.

3. Flush Gutters with a Garden Hose

  • Once large debris is removed, flush the gutters with a garden hose.

  • Check for proper water flow and identify any leaks or blockages.

  • If water isn’t flowing freely through the downspouts, there may be a hidden clog.

4. Check for Signs of Improper Pitch

  • Gutters should slightly slope toward the downspouts for smooth drainage.

  • If water sits stagnant in sections, it may indicate your gutters are installed incorrectly or need adjustment.

5. Install Gutter Guards for Ongoing Protection

Consider adding gutter guards, like our premium K-Screen system, to keep leaves and debris out year-round. This extra layer of protection saves you from constant cleanings and minimizes storm-related clogs.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY gutter cleaning can work for single-story homes, there are times when it’s safer and smarter to call in a pro:

  • Your home has two or more stories or steep rooflines.

  • Gutters are heavily clogged or damaged.

  • You want a full inspection to make sure your system is hurricane ready.

At Browning’s Aluminum, our team provides:

  • Thorough gutter cleanings and inspections.

  • Seamless gutter installations with a 4-year workmanship warranty.

  • Expert repairs to ensure your home is storm ready.

Why Choose Browning’s Aluminum

  • Local, Veteran-Owned Business proudly serving Marion County.

  • Voted “Best of the 352” for superior craftsmanship and service.

  • Fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind.

We understand Florida weather — and we build gutter systems designed to withstand it.

Final Hurricane Prep Checklist

  •  Clear all leaves and debris.

  •  Flush gutters and downspouts with water.

  •  Inspect for leaks, sagging, or improper pitch.

  •  Trim nearby tree branches.

  •  Schedule a professional inspection if needed.

Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm Hits

Hurricane season is unpredictable, but your gutter system doesn’t have to be. By keeping your gutters clean and in top condition, you’ll prevent costly water damage and give your home the best defense against heavy Florida rains.

Call Browning’s Aluminum today at [352-680-0280] or [www.browningsaluminum.com] to schedule a free gutter inspection and make sure your home is hurricane ready.



 
 
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