How to clean and maintain new home gutters

Cleaning gutters might not be something that comes to mind immediately when you think about new home maintenance, but it’s really important. The gutters on any home can be susceptible to damage, build up and debris, so adding in a step of gutter clearing to your routine will really help keep your home in its best condition.

 

Two Heritage homes on a street featuring a charming Victorian-style cast iron lamp post 

As the weather changes throughout the year, guttering can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. So, we’ve put together a quick guide to the best ways to maintain and clean out your new home’s gutters all year round. You can also watch our video below.

 

What is guttering?

Guttering is the series of pipes and connectors that line the roof of your home, leading to a downpipe that feeds into the drain. Gutters are there to direct excess water away from the brickwork and structure of your house.

If you’ve got blocked guttering or there is any damage to the pipes, this can lead to water pooling or soaking into your home. This can lead to significant structural damage, so it’s vital to maintain the guttering regularly.

How to clean gutters

Using a stable ladder, you should be able to check the joins, joints and clips that hold the guttering together around your home. You’ll want to check to make sure they’re properly connected and fitted together, keeping an eye out for any cracks or build-ups of debris.

Make sure to clear out anything that could block the flow of water through the pipes. Depending on the time of year this could be leaves, twigs, dirt, litter or any other kind of debris. Checking this regularly will help keep your gutters in good condition and help protect your home. We recommend at least twice a year; late spring to clear out seeds, pollen, and nesting materials dropped by birds. And autumn to remove fallen leaves and “soggy mush” before the winter freeze sets in.

You may want to consider these “add-ons” to reduce your maintenance workload:
  • Gutter Guards which are rigid grids that clip on to block leaves and twigs
  • Gutter Brushes to stop debris but let water flow
  • Balloon Guards to prevent internal clogs
  • Snow Guards to prevent heavy snow from sliding and crushing gutters

Safely must always be your priority; if you have any concerns about cleaning and maintaining your guttering, please contact a professional.