Gutters are easy to forget about — they're out of sight, and they only become a problem when something goes wrong. By then, the damage is often already done.
What happens when gutters block? Leaves, moss, and debris build up and prevent rainwater from draining properly. This causes it to overflow, running down the exterior walls and pooling around the foundations. Over time this leads to:
- Damp and mould inside the property
- Fascia board rot as wooden boards stay permanently wet
- Foundation damage from water pooling at the base of the building
- Cracked render or brickwork caused by freeze-thaw cycles in saturated walls
How often should gutters be cleaned?
- Standard properties: once a year, ideally in late autumn after leaves have fallen
- Properties near trees: twice a year (spring and autumn)
- Flat roofs: at least twice a year
Signs your gutters need attention:
- Water spilling over the sides during rain
- Plants or moss growing in the gutter channel
- Staining on exterior walls
- Sagging gutter sections
A professional gutter clean takes under an hour for most properties and typically costs far less than the remedial work caused by blocked gutters. It's one of the simplest forms of home maintenance you can invest in.
