Gutters · 3 min read
Why you should clean your gutters before winter
Blocked gutters cause overflow, damp and rot. Why autumn is the best time to clean gutters in Christchurch, and what a proper gutter clean includes.
- Clean gutters after autumn leaf fall, before winter rain
- Blocked gutters cause damp walls, rotten fascia and foundation issues
- Homes with overhanging trees benefit from a spring clean too
Gutters are easy to forget until water is pouring over the edge in a storm. By then the damage may already be happening.
What blocked gutters cause
- Water running down walls, staining cladding and soaking framing
- Rotting fascia boards behind the gutter
- Water pooling against foundations
- Heavy, overloaded gutters pulling away from the house
- Leaves and sludge that breed mould and attract pests
Why autumn is the best time
Most leaves drop in autumn. Clearing gutters once they’ve fallen, before winter rain arrives, keeps them clear for the wettest months. If you have trees over the roof, a second clean in spring is worth it.
What a proper gutter clean includes
Debris should be removed by hand and taken away, not blown onto your lawn. Downpipes should be flushed and tested, and you should get photos of the finished job. That’s how our gutter cleaning works.
Not sure if yours are blocked? Check the signs your gutters need cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
How often should gutters be cleaned?
Once a year for most homes, and every six months if trees overhang the roof.
Maidly looks after homes across Christchurch with eco-friendly methods and a 100% work guarantee on every service. Request a free quote.