Autumn Gutter Maintenance

Posted on October 29, 2020 in Cleaning

Here at Protech Property Solutions we have compiled our Autumn Gutter Maintenance top tips which could save you money and stop you from making an expensive insurance claim.

Did you know that the leading cause of water damage in the UK is clogged gutters and downpipes?

Gutter and downpipe maintenance is an important aspect in preserving the value of your property. Without regular gutter and downpipe maintenance & cleaning your gutters become full and heavy, they pull away from the wall and the proper angle of the gutter becomes distorted.

Below are our 10 top tips to maintain your gutters and help reduce the chance of water ingress and unwanted insurance claims:

1. Every spring and autumn, clear any plants, leaves and silt from gutters, hopper heads, flat roofs and drainage channels.
2. Look for blocked downpipes (best done during heavy rain to see water coming from any leaky joints – in dry weather look for stained brickwork).
3. Keep gullies at ground level clear and have them cleaned out if necessary.
4. Remove vegetation from behind downpipes by cutting back or removing the plant altogether.
5. Use a hand mirror to look behind rainwater pipes as splits and cracks in old cast iron and aluminium often occur there and are not easily noticed.
6. Fit bird/leaf guards to the tops of soil pipes and rainwater outlets to prevent blockages.
7. Check that gutters junctions are watertight by watching them in rainy conditions.
8. Have gutters refixed if they are sloping the wrong way or discharging water onto the wall.
9. If sections are beyond repair, make sure that replacements are made of the same material as the originals (on older houses, this is sometimes lead, but more usually cast iron).
10. Regular painting of cast iron is essential to prevent rust.

When carrying out your autumn gutter maintenance always wear protective work-wear such as gloves, eye goggles, and hard hat when necessary and act safely and responsibly when carrying out your autumn gutter maintenance.

For information on our autumn gutter maintenance and downpipe maintenance services please click the button below:

Should you need help or advice please call 0845 604 1288 and speak to one of our friendly.