Gutters are easy to forget until water starts pouring over the edge. Here's a simple rule of thumb for how often to clear them, and the signs to look out for in between.
The rule of thumb: twice a year
For most homes, clearing the gutters twice a year is enough:
- Late spring, to clear seeds, blossom and moss washed down over winter
- Autumn, once most of the leaves have dropped
If your property is surrounded by trees, or is particularly exposed, check them more often. Pine needles, seeds and moss can block a gutter surprisingly quickly.
Warning signs between cleans
- Water spilling over the gutter when it rains
- Plants, weeds or moss growing along the gutter line
- Gutters sagging or sitting unevenly
- Damp patches or staining on the walls below
- Water pooling at the base of the walls
Why not just use a ladder?
Ladders are risky on soft or uneven ground and at height, and they rest on the very gutter you're trying to clear. You also only see the short stretch within arm's reach, so you're constantly climbing down and moving the ladder.
From a cherry picker platform the operator has a stable position and can work steadily along the full length of the gutter, seeing exactly what's in it.
How we do it
We use a powerful high-level gutter vacuum from the platform, which reaches gutters on three and four storey buildings that ladders and standard vacuum poles can't. Then we flush the run through to make sure the water gets away down the downpipes.
Need a cherry picker?
Operated hire from £280, with an IPAF-trained operator and local travel included.
