How much is it to have my gutters cleared?
The accumulation of dirt and debris in your gutters and downpipes can cause damage to your home if not addressed promptly.
Clearing your gutters and removing debris from your downpipes will ensure rainwater is directed away from your home, preventing problems from occurring.
In this article, we share why this is important and what affects the cost of clearing your gutters.
Five reasons you need to clear your gutters and downpipes
Gutters and downpipes play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage. When these systems are clogged with leaves, debris, and other materials, they can cause many problems that can lead to costly repairs.
Clearing your gutters and downpipes regularly is an essential maintenance task that can help prevent these issues and keep your home in top condition.
Here are five reasons you should get your gutters and downpipes cleared:
- Prevent water damage: Clogged gutters and downpipes can cause water to overflow, which can lead to water damage to the roof, walls, and foundation of your home. This damage can be expensive to repair, and it can also result in mould and mildew growth.
- Improve water flow: When your gutters and downpipes are clogged, water may not flow correctly, resulting in stagnant water and an increased risk of leaks.
- Avoid pest problems: Debris in gutters and downpipes can attract pests such as rodents, birds, and insects, which can cause health and safety concerns. Clearing these systems can help prevent pests from setting up camp in your gutters and downpipes.
- Prevent fire hazards: Clogged gutters and downpipes can also create fire hazards, especially if they are clogged with dry leaves and other materials that can easily ignite.
- Protect your home’s value: Clearing your gutters and downpipes can help maintain the value of your home by preventing damage and keeping it in good condition. Regular maintenance of these systems can also increase your home’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
How much does it cost to clear gutters on a house?
Several factors can affect the cost of getting your gutters cleared. The size of your home foremost, and the number of gutters and downpipes that require clearing.
The property size, including the number of stories, will affect the amount of clearing required and the gutters’ access. If specialist equipment is needed, such as scaffolding, this will increase the cost of the gutter clearing.
The level of blockage and type of gutter system will play a role in the cost of the clearing. Gutters and downpipes clogged with heavy layers of debris will take longer to clear, and complex gutter systems will also result in higher costs.
Contact a gutter clearing service provider near you to determine how much it will cost to clear your gutter system. They will be able to quote for your specific clearing needs.
How to save money on gutter and downpipe clearing
If you’re looking to save money on gutter clearing, the best way is to take measures to prevent a more thorough clear from being needed.
We suggest:
- Regular Maintenance: Check your gutters regularly to spot any potential blockages or damages, which can be rectified quickly and cheaply before they become a major problem.
- DIY Gutter Clearing: DIY gutter clearing is possible if you’re up for the challenge. You can save money by clearing your own gutters and downpipes.
- Invest in Protection: Such as gutter guards and leaf filters to help keep them clear of debris and leaves that gutters are designed to collect.
How do I clear my gutters?
Clearing your gutters is a crucial part of maintaining the health of your home. Gathering all the necessary tools before you begin is vital to ensure that your gutters are cleared properly. This may include gloves, a ladder, a bucket, a trowel, and a hose.
Start by safely positioning your ladder and climbing up to reach the gutters. If the gutters are filled with leaves, debris, and other materials, use a trowel to scoop the debris into a bucket. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or debris. Continue this process until all the debris has been removed from the gutters.
Next, flush the gutters with water to remove any remaining debris and check for leaks. Start at one end of the gutter and work towards the downpipe. If clogs are in the downpipe, use a hose to flush them out. If the clog is too stubborn to be removed with a hose, you may need to disassemble the downspout and remove the clog by hand (this may be time for a professional).
Once all the debris has been removed, and the gutters have been flushed, inspect the gutters for any damage. Check for any holes or cracks, and repair or replace any damaged sections. Finally, check the downpipes to make sure they are securely attached to the gutters and are directing water away from the foundation of your home.
Clearing your gutters is an important task you should do regularly to protect your home from water damage and other problems.
If you’d rather leave it up to a professional, find out more about our gutter clearing service. Get in touch.
