Why do gutters need cleaning?

What do gutters do?

Gutters play an important role in a property's drainage system, they are there to channel rainwater away from the roof and foundation. Gutters protect your building and prevent water from accumulating on the roof, running down walls or pooling in the foundation. Unfortunately gutters can become blocked over time, which can lead to uncontrolled rain water causing water damage and erosion.

Why do gutters get blocked?

Over time gutters will become blocked with leaves, twigs, dirt and moss which can obstruct the rainwater draining away from your property. These materials are usually carried by the wind and land in your gutters, if you have moss on your roof this can also fall into your gutters as well. Blocked gutters can cause a wide range of problems and it is important to have your gutters regularly cleaned to remove these obstructions.

Blocked gutters can cause water damage

It is important to clean gutters regularly as the consequences of blocked gutters can be severe. One of the most common problems is water overflow, this can cause water to run down the walls. Water routinely running down your walls can lead to damage of the siding and foundations, it can even cause basement flooding and internal water damage. In colder climates there is also a risk that blocked gutters will freeze, resulting in ice dams that can damage both the gutters and roof. Blocked gutters are also heavy and there is a risk of gutters breaking and falling causing damage or injury.

Blocked gutters can cause roof damage

Blocked gutters can lead to roof damage in several ways. A build up of water can seep under tiles causing them to lift and allow water to enter the roof. This can result in leaks, internal water damage and expensive roof repairs. Regular gutter cleaning plays an important part in preserving the integrity of your property’s roof.

Blocked gutters can damage your landscaping

If gutters are blocked then rainwater has no where to go, it will run down your walls potentially eroding the soil away from your foundation and landscaping. This erosion not only affects the look of your property but also poses a risk to the stability of your property’s foundation.

Blocked gutters are unsightly

Gutters full of leaves, twigs, moss and debris can be unsightly. Dirty water and debris can also attract pests (animals such as mice, squirrels, bugs and birds) and can turn your gutters into a breeding ground for algae and mould, further taking away from your home's curb appeal. Regular gutter cleaning keeps your gutters looking clean and maintains function, enhancing the overall appearance of your home.

Regular gutter cleaning will save you money in the long term

When gutters aren't properly cleaned and maintained, they can cause water to leak and overflow, resulting in damage both inside and outside of your home. This damage can include foundation problems, rotted roofs, mould and dampness, broken gutters and more - all of which can be costly to fix. To save yourself money and the hassle of repairs, it is recommended that you regularly clean your gutters, we advise that you have your gutters cleaned once a year to stay on top of this important task. The cost to do so is much less than what you would spend if water damage were to occur.

Gutter cleaning is a job best left to the professionals

While it might seem like a straightforward job, there are intricacies involved in ensuring that gutters are deep cleaned and maintained. Professional gutter cleaners use specialised techniques and equipment to achieve great results. This is what you can expect from a professional gutter cleaning company:

1. Inspection - the first step in any professional gutter cleaning service is a thorough inspection of the gutters and downpipes. This evaluation helps technicians identify any issues such as blockages, damage, or signs of wear. It also helps them find the appropriate cleaning approach based on the level of debris accumulated and gutter condition.

2. Safety first - working at heights can be dangerous, especially when dealing with ladders and roofs. Professional gutter cleaners are equipped with the necessary safety gear and are trained to work at height. Most professional gutter cleaners also use high reach gutter vacuums which allow them to clean gutters safely from the ground, no need for ladders. Safety is a priority at all times, and professionals follow best practices to ensure their well-being while carrying out the task.

3. Removing debris - once the inspection is completed and safety measures are in place, the actual cleaning process will begin. Professionals often use a combination of tools to remove debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt from the gutters. This clearing will either be done by hand or with a gutter vacuum, both methods promise excellent results without damaging the gutters.

4. Gutter repairs and maintenance - during the cleaning process, professionals are trained to see any damage to the gutters or downpipes. They may notice loose or detached gutter sections, rust, leaks or other issues that require repair. Addressing these problems promptly can prevent further damage and extend the life of your gutter system.

5. Final inspection - once the cleaning tasks are completed, professionals perform a final inspection to ensure that all dirt has been removed, downpipes are clear and the gutters are in great condition. This quality control step is crucial to guarantee that the gutter system is fully functional and ready to handle rainwater.

6. Disposal of debris - after cleaning the gutters professionals will gather and dispose of the dirt responsibly. This includes collecting leaves, twigs and other waste removed from the gutters and ensuring it is properly discarded.

Conclusion

In essence, gutters might be a small feature of your home, but their significance cannot be underestimated. Regular gutter cleaning is a vital part of home maintenance that ensures proper drainage, prevents water damage, protects your roof and maintains the overall integrity and aesthetic appeal of your property. By investing time and effort into this seemingly minor task, homeowners can save themselves from costly repairs down the road and enjoy a safer, more structurally sound and visually appealing home.

Gutter cleaning in Croydon & Bromley

Rinse and Shine provide gutter cleaning services throughout Croydon and Bromley. We specialise in providing top-notch gutter cleaning solutions that keep your property safe and well-maintained. We use both traditional methods of gutter cleaning by hand and the latest technology a powerful gutter vacuum to clean gutters. Our expert team is dedicated to ensuring that your gutters are free from debris and blockages, allowing them to efficiently channel rainwater away from your home. With a focus on professionalism and thoroughness, Rinse and Shine is the go to company in Croydon and Bromley for gutter cleaning. So if you notice your gutters are leaking or overflowing, give us a call!