Gutter Clearing

Why Is Gutter Clearing So Important?

Cleaning your gutters might not feature high on your list of home maintenance and home improvement priorities, but regular upkeep is essential for protecting your property. Gutters are designed to collect and guide rainwater off the roof, down into the drain and away from the building, thus preventing potential structural damage. Clogged or damaged gutters can result in expensive repairs so, although they are out of sight, they should never be out of mind!

What is gutter clearing? Why do gutters get blocked?

A combination of fallen leaves, moss, twigs, and other debris can build up over time. Leaves get blown onto the roof, traveling downA combination of fallen leaves, moss, twigs, and other debris can build up over time. Leaves get blown onto the roof, traveling down. When wet, leaves can stick to gutter walls and floors, and the flow of rainwater becomes lodged in corners and downpipes.

Over time leaves will breakdown, turning into a fertile compost, the perfect breeding ground for seeds, moss, and weeds that have been blown onto the roof or dropped by birds. If left unchecked, these invasive weeds can overtake your guttering and downpipes, blocking the natural flow of water, plugging the downpipe leading to rainwater build-up, and possible overflow. It is critical that gutters are in good health for the winter, to ensure water is free-flowing to prevent damage by snow and ice build-up.

Blocked gutters can lead to costly property damage if they are not dealt with promptly. Rainwater damage can lead to issues such as rotting fascia boards, water damage to walls, windows, ceilings, insulation, and even foundation damage. If left unchecked, water can permeate through to the internal walls, causing damp and mould. Regardless of whether you have cast iron, pressed steel, or plastic gutters, it is essential that these are maintained and regularly checked, to ensure water is free-flowing and clear of debris.