Gardeners urged to complete essential work this fall or risk ‘expensive repairs’

As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, gardeners are urged to tackle an important task before the fall weather takes a turn for the worse.

Cleaning your gutters is essential to prevent a number of problems that can arise from clogged gutters and leaks.

When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, it restricts the flow of rainwater, potentially leading to water overflow that can penetrate the home structure and cause costly damage.

Additionally, neglected gutters can develop leaks and holes as accumulated dirt and standing water corrodes the gutter material and worsens drainage problems.

Industry specialists at Howarth Timber have issued a stark warning about the impact of heavy rainfall on unattended gutters.

The experts said: “As we approach October, gutters begin to become clogged with falling leaves or other debris, and rainfall collects in them instead of flowing away from the house via downspouts and drains at the base of each wall.”

They added: “Gutter cleaning should be carried out regularly, particularly in the autumn, to ensure water is constantly diverted away from your property.”

In addition to structural damage, clogged gutters can also attract unwanted pests. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, while accumulated organic material can provide nesting opportunities for rodents and insects such as termites, reports The Mirror.

The onset of freezing winter conditions poses additional danger as ice dams can form in frozen gutters, further damaging the gutter system and increasing the risk of water entering the building.

The buildup of ice, dirt and water can put additional pressure on the gutters and roofing system, potentially causing damage to your roof and tiles.

Finally, dirty gutters can make your home look a bit run down. Clean, functional gutters not only ensure proper drainage of rainwater, but can also help increase curb appeal.

How to clean your gutters

Cleaning your gutters is a straightforward process. You should:

• Place a ladder on a solid surface
• Stand on the ladder and begin removing large pieces of debris
• Use a trowel and bucket to remove muddy debris and dirt. A gutter shovel also works well
• Move the ladder frequently to avoid overstretching
• Wash the clear gutters using a garden hose and a spray nozzle attachment
• Apply some mild dish soap to the gutter and rinse again

Always use caution when using a ladder.