Our latest content from Alfresco – Gutter cleaning
Why should I get my Gutters cleaned?
An unbiased view by – Oxfordshire’s most rated exterior cleaning company.
Every homeowner knows the trials and tribulations of having to upkeep a property; especially the outside. While most would not give a second thought to the exterior, we recommend that you clean and maintain your gutters every 6 months.
But why should I bother?
Well, let us start with the domestic property –
The Challenge: Clogged Gutters and Downpipes
In the UK, most properties have tiled roofs, plastic gutters, and downpipes. Properties located near trees often experience issues with leaves clogging the guttering system, especially during autumn. Additionally, moss growth on tiled roofs can also lead to blocked gutters and downpipes.
A Solution: Balloon Leaf Guard
One solution to prevent gutter clogging is installing a balloon leaf guard at the top of the downpipe. This creates a symphonic gutter effect, requiring a small amount of water (about 10-15mm) to fill the gutter before it cascades over the edge of the leaf guard. Larger particles, such as leaves or moss, remain at the bottom of the gutter, allowing water to flow smoothly down the downpipe.
Importance of Regular Inspection
It is crucial to conduct regular inspections of gutters, downpipes, traps, and soakaways, as insurance companies typically do not cover water ingress due to blocked gutters. As a property owner, you must ensure that your property remains in good condition and is properly maintained according to policy wording.
Clearing Methods
Gutters and downpipes can be cleared using various methods, such as ladders (subject to risk assessment), gutter vacuums with CCTV, or cherry pickers. Regularly employing these techniques helps keep your property’s guttering system functioning properly and reduces the risk of water damage.
Example –
Meet Mrs. H: A Background
Mrs. H, an 80-year-old resident of Oxfordshire, has lived in the same house for over five decades. With her children grown and her husband’s passing, she now lives alone. About 30 years ago, she added a single-story extension to the rear of her property.
The Roof Problem
Over time, the roof of the extension accumulated significant moss growth, which ultimately blocked the soak-away pipe. As a result, rainwater would overflow onto the ground. Upon closer inspection, a large crack was discovered near the downpipe on the house’s corner.
Taking Action
Mrs. H called a professional to clear the gutters and soakaway pipe. Afterward, she contacted her insurance company to file a claim for the damage. A building surveyor was sent to assess the situation and determine the cause of the problem.
Insurance Woes
Unfortunately, the surveyor concluded that the subsidence resulted from inadequate home maintenance, specifically the blocked pipe. Consequently, Mrs. H’s insurance policy did not cover the damage. She was left with no choice but to seek quotes from local builders for the necessary repairs and bear the cost herself.
So, why should you clean gutters?
Look at it this way, the property you, own or rent is a significant asset to you or someone. So, with any asset, you look after it and maintain it. If you had a nice Bugatti, you would not just keep driving it until you had a problem. You would wash it, change the oil and have it looked after by a professional. With the help of an experienced gutter cleaning company, the above situation would be unlikely and keep your property in good shape. As an experienced exterior cleaner, we can offer our services using our gutter vacuum system which uses a large capacity commercial three-motor vacuum unit to suck any detritus from your gutters and downpipes. Some companies may use old-fashioned methods including using a ladder to get up to the gutter line to inspect and clear. As it is not illegal to use ladders you should ensure they use a ladder stand-off to make sure the ladder is not leaned against the plastic gutters. Also, when up a ladder cleaning gutters it’s very hard to always keep three points of contact with the ladder. If you have the space and need then you may require a cherry picker for gutter cleaning. This is more of an extreme way to clear gutters and is more suited to commercial gutters.
Some gutter cleaning companies local to you, may offer an inspection service using a small cctv or Bluetooth camera to the mobile phone to have a good look before getting the Gutter Vacuum System from the van.
How much should I pay for gutter cleaning in Oxfordshire?
This depends on the size of your home.
If you live in a 2 bedroom house without extension or conservatory you should budget £120 – £160 per clean. If you live in a 10 bedroom house with stables and outbuildings, you should budget £500/600 subject to home assessment.
Who should I use to clean my gutters?
Ask your neighbours for recommendation for companies they have used before. Checkatrade, Facebook groups can be used, also try googling ‘Oxfordshire’s most Rated Exterior Cleaning Company’
Always check that the company you use are a professional company:
Registered with Companies House
Have public liability insurance
Demonstrate knowledge and experience in Gutter Cleaning in Oxfordshire
Sign written vans and company uniform.
Staff ID
Waste Carriers licence if waste being taken away
