Turn over a new leaf this autumn by cleaning gutters and downpipes

SPLASHING roof water, clumps of saturated moss and creaking gutters full of frozen water are the unwelcome rewards for ignoring gutter and downpipe maintenance in your home. Unnecessary water damage around property occurs as a result of clogged gutters and downpipes and it’s important not to ignore this important autumn job. Neglected sods of earth and grass that grow from guttering are not only unsightly but the longer the sod remains it will continue to grow and can even loosen adjoining roof tiles and slates. Who needs that headache?

The crisp dry days of autumn offer a great opportunity for cleaning gutters and downpipes so winter rains will drain away. Cleaning gutters at this time of year is also easier as the silt has dried up and will often come away with just one pull. Overflowing and blocked gutters will also create annoying droplets of rainwater that drip constantly onto the path around your home. But a more serious consequence of blocked guttering and downpipes is water will start to lodge around the foundation. This must be avoided at all cost as water should always be directed away from a house. The last thing you need is damaged foundations or dampness taking hold on internal walls - all because you shrugged your shoulders when it came to a simple DIY job.

If you’re uncomfortable with heights and scaling ladders, seek the help of a local tradesman. If you have a bungalow and stepladder, you’ ll have the job done in no time. Autumn is the time for clearing gutters – not when they are full of rain and hardened over with frost.