Gutter Cleaning
Having your gutters cleaned might not feature high on your list of home maintenance priorities, but regular upkeep is essential. 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!
Why do gutters get blocked?
This can be a combination of fallen leaves, moss, twigs, and other debris that can build up over time. Leaves get blown onto the roof, traveling down into the gutters. 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 gutters, 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.
Can blocked gutters cause property damage?
Clogged 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 mold spores. 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.
How do I get my gutters cleaned?
There are many known gutter cleaning methods, most of them involves the use of a ladder. However, there is a better and safer way. That is using a telescopic spray wand which will extend the reach of your pressure washer up to 18 feet. This attachment wand will allow you to clean your gutters and other high spots of your house without having to use a ladder.
How often should I get my gutters cleaned?
How often you need your gutters cleaned depends very much on your property's surroundings, weather factors, and age of the building. Properties surrounded by overhanging trees, especially pine trees, or with moss growth should be checked frequently, especially after bad weather to ensure gutters are free from fallen debris.
Ideally, properties should be checked in the autumn after the leaves have fallen to ensure they are in perfect condition and free-flowing for the heavy rain, snow and ice that the winter brings. When spring arrives, it is worth having them checked again just to ensure that they have not been damaged during the winter and that any residual biodegraded leaves and moss have been removed to prevent the growth of grass or weeds.
