Abstract: A pair of counter-wound spring-like members are placed in a gutter above an opening communicating with a downspout. A cord joined to the spring-like members extends through said downspout and out of an opening in the downspout. The cord is pulled and released to contract and expand the spring-like members to grind and/or crush debris collected in the gutter.

Abstract: A de-icer formed of a solid block of a pressed, granulated salt has at least a top portion water-proofed to prevent rapid deterioration due to precipitation. An exposed bottom surface is in contact with the upper surface of a flat, sloped roof to provide wicking absorption of water flowing down the roof into the salt. Absorption of water by the salt leads to release of the resulting saline solution to the surface of the roof, preventing formation of ice on the roof downstream of the de-icer and in the roof drain. The de-icer may be maintained in place on the surface of the roof by an adhesive tape, or by its own weight.

Abstract: A de-icer formed of a solid block of a pressed, granulated salt has at least a top portion water-proofed to prevent rapid deterioration due to precipitation. An exposed bottom surface is in contact with the upper surface of a flat, sloped roof to provide wicking absorption of water flowing down the roof into the salt. Absorption of water by the salt leads to release of the resulting saline solution to the surface of the roof, preventing formation of ice on the roof downstream of the de-icer and in the roof drain. The de-icer may be maintained in place on the surface of the roof by an adhesive tape, or by its own weight.

Abstract: A sleeve-like container fabricated from a waterproof material, comprising an upper and lower surface with a hollow interior filled with salt. At least a portion of the lower surface is perforated with a plurality of openings and is positioned with the lower perforated surface in contact with the upper surface of a flat, sloped roof to provide wicking absorption of water flowing down the roof into the salt. Absorption of water by the salt and leads to release of the resulting saline solution through the perforated openings to the surface of the roof, preventing formation of ice on the roof downstream of the plastic sleeve and in the roof drain. The waterproof container with the packed salt is, preferably, secured to the surface of the roof by an adhesive tape, or a weight attached to or lying upon opposite ends of the container. In another embodiment, the de-icer is a solid block of a pressed, granulated salt having a top portion water-proofed to prevent rapid deterioration due to precipitation.