How to stop leaves blocking gutters
If you use a water butt to collect and utilise the rainwater that falls on your home and garden, you should ensure your gutters are kept clear to maximise the amount of water you collect and recycle, as well as making sure you don’t unexpectedly run out.
Aside from not working properly, gutters clogged with leaves and other debris can cause water to overflow and even lead to leaks and water damage to the inside and outside of your home.
Thankfully, there are several ways of keeping your gutters clear of leaves and other detritus and ensuring you are collecting as much rainwater as possible in your water butt and avoiding damage to your home and gutters.
Trimming trees surrounding your property
Keeping any trees that surround your property or stretch over your roof trimmed, especially in autumn, should help prevent a large number of leaves from falling or being blown into your gutters and disrupting water flow. The problem is exacerbated when the leaves become wet and form a dense barrier in your gutters.
Install gutter guards or brushes
Gutter guards and brushes are devices installed on your gutter which allow water to flow through the gutter whilst preventing the ingress of leaves and dirt. If you are considering installing a leaf guard, we recommend getting expert advice to ensure you choose the right option for your home and that they are properly installed.
Have gutters professionally cleaned
Cleaning the gutters yourself can be a difficult and dangerous job without the correct health and safety training. A professional gutter cleaner can ensure every last leaf and accumulation of dirt is removed to allow your gutters to flow as efficiently as possible and avoid damage.
Professional gutter cleaning is not a service Owls Hall offers, and we recommend searching online for reputable local gutter cleaning companies. Simply search for gutter cleaning companies online and contact a local company for a quote.
Install better gutters
If your gutters were poorly installed and seem to clog regularly despite preventative measures being taken, it may be more cost-effective to install an entirely new gutter system. Gutters that haven’t been installed correctly can lead to blockages forming in specific areas and prevent the whole system from working effectively.
Have gutters regularly inspected
Damaged gutters can significantly increase the chance of leaves and dirt getting trapped and creating a blockage. Even very small cracks can act as a magnet for debris which is why having your gutters occasionally inspected will help identify and fix any issues before they develop into a more serious problem. A gutter inspection will also alert you of any loose tiles and any other issues with your roof that could cause damage to your guttering system.
If you need advice on the right water butt for your needs, get in touch with our expert team who will be happy to help you.