CLEAN GUTTERING IS IMPORTANT

Whilst clean guttering may not necessarily cause problems relating to an insurance claim we always advise customers to do this in the Autumn (thats Fall to all you Americans) as it can cause damage to property when it overflows. The claims we have had though are of a liability nature. Guttering overflowing due to being blocked and causing water and leaves to land on the ground, on which unsuspecting visitors can slip and break bones.It is particularly important therefore to ensure that guttering is clear where elderly people may be likely to walk.

WHAT CAUSES THE GUTTERING TO BE BLOCKED.

The majority of blockages in guttering are caused by leaves or twigs from trees or debris and rubbish washed off the room by rain. Normal guttering is sufficient provided that it is kept clear of leaves and debris so water cannot accumulate.

WHEN TO CLEAN GUTTERING

Fall or Autumn as we call it in the UK is the big time when gutters need cleaning. Gutter cleaning is an often overlooked part of house maintainance. The easiest time to replace guttering is when the weather is clear. Gutter cleaning is a must for this time of year. Leaves that fall in the autumn can also block the down pipes, so check that they are clear also.

HOW TO GO ABOUT IT

Usually guttering is held on by clips you can unclip by hand, after you have scraped away the obligatory moss and build up of crap. Efficient guttering is important for your home. I would just mention that when clearing guttering you also need to check that the joints are sealing properly and that none of them are broken. Basically you need to make sure your guttering is cleared and repaired and in perfect condition. It does not matter what kind of trees over look your house, their leaves all seem to end up in your guttering. Clear leaves twigs and debris from guttering by scraping them out and placing in a bucket.

Once all debris is cleared I then wash my guttering out with water containing a little washing up liquid. Don't use washing powder unless you want your roof looking like an overflowing washing machine when it rains heavily. A number of products are available that can keep large items, such as leaves, from the guttering but personally I think they are unnecessary if you keep the gutters clean.

It may be worth cutting back any tree branches that are shedding leaves or dead twigs into your guttering.

SAFETY

There are a couple of things to remember.

Guttering is not sufficiently strong enough to support the weight of a ladder and the person using it, so do not rest any ladders on the guttering.

When cleaning the guttering of a bungalow,always place stepladders at right angles to the exterior walls.