How Often Should I Clean My Gutters?
Why is it Important I Clean My Gutters?
Clogged and messy gutters can have a knock-on effect to other areas of your house. If your gutters are full of moss and leaves, it can cause the gutters to sag and overflow, leading to leaky roofs and basements, cracked foundations, mould and much worse. In extreme cases the structural integrity of your home could even be compromised, or it could have negative effects on your health.
How Often Should I Clean My Gutters?
We’d recommended that you clean your gutter system twice per year. This is best done in the late spring and early autumn.
However, the frequency does depend on what sort of foliage and plants surround your home – pine trees, for example, shed their needles all year round which can lead to heavy blockages, meaning you may want to clean your gutters quarterly in this instance.
How Do I Clean My Gutters?
There are a number of ways in which to clean your gutters, but whichever way you choose, you must ensure you have the correct equipment. It is also best to choose a dry day in which to do this, as wet weather can make surfaces slippery and means that debris in the gutter is more difficult to remove.
You could use a pressure washer or garden hose with a spray nozzle to flush the gutters clean, or it’s possible to use a shop vac to suck up the debris if this is mostly dry.
The simplest way requiring only the basic equipment is to scoop the debris away with your hands.
To do this, it’s wise to use a stable ladder and protective gloves to avoid injury. From here, you can either lay tarpaulin or use a bucket to collect the debris you remove. You should make sure to clean debris from the following places:
- Roof
- Gutter lengths
- Downpipes
This is to ensure the whole system is clear and to prevent close by debris from blocking the gutter system in the coming weeks.
Cleaning Different Types of Gutters
While the basic method of gutter cleaning remains similar across types, different materials have specific care requirements. Below is a guide on how to clean and maintain some of the most common gutter systems: aluminium, cast iron effect, half-round, copper, zinc, steel, cast iron, and PVC.
Aluminium Gutters
Aluminium gutters are popular for being lightweight and rust-resistant. To clean them, use a garden hose or pressure washer to flush out leaves and debris. For any stubborn grime or algae, a soft brush and mild detergent can be used without damaging the surface. Avoid using metal tools to prevent denting.
In terms of maintenance, aluminium gutters should be inspected twice a year for signs of sagging, loose brackets, or leaks at the joints. Applying gutter guards can help minimise future cleaning needs. Check after storms or strong winds to ensure they haven’t shifted or warped.
Cast Iron Effect Gutters
Cast iron effect gutters, typically made from uPVC or coated aluminium, replicate the look of traditional cast iron without the weight or risk of rust. Cleaning involves removing debris by hand or scoop, followed by flushing the guttering with a hose. Avoid abrasive sponges or cleaners that could wear away the decorative finish.
To maintain them, check the coating regularly for signs of fading or cracking. Clean twice a year, or more often if leaves tend to build up quickly in your area. Make sure joints and brackets are tightly secured and undamaged, especially during seasonal checks.
Half-Round Gutters
Half-round gutters are shaped to promote smoother water flow, which makes them less prone to blockages, but they still need attention. To clean them, use your hands or a scoop to remove leaves and then rinse with a hose. Their open design makes this fairly straightforward.
Maintenance involves checking that the gutters are correctly sloped, as half-round profiles carry less volume than other shapes and can overflow if misaligned. Inspect hangers and brackets for stability, especially after heavy rain or snow. Twice-yearly cleaning is usually sufficient, but more often may be needed near trees.
Copper Gutters
Copper gutters are durable and corrosion-resistant, and over time they form a natural patina. Cleaning should be done with soft gloves or a plastic scoop to avoid scratching the metal. Rinse gently with a garden hose, no high pressure or abrasive tools should be used.
To maintain copper gutters, inspect for joint separation, sagging, or build-up that might disrupt water flow. If you prefer the bright finish, specialised copper cleaners can be applied occasionally. Otherwise, let the patina develop naturally. Clean at least twice a year to prevent blockage.
Zinc Gutters
Zinc gutters are valued for their strength and natural resistance to corrosion, forming a patina that protects the surface. Clean them by removing debris manually and rinsing with water. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the zinc layer.
For maintenance, inspect twice a year for white oxidation patches or pooling water, which can indicate drainage problems. Ensure joints are watertight and that there are no visible cracks or stress points. When well-maintained, zinc gutter systems can last several decades.
Steel Gutters
Steel gutters are extremely strong and often galvanised or coated to prevent rust. Clean using a scoop to remove debris, followed by a hose to flush out the channel. After cleaning, inspect the surface carefully for rust spots or scratches.
To maintain steel gutters, touch up any exposed areas with protective paint to avoid corrosion. Ensure the internal coating, if any, remains intact. Clean at least twice a year and always inspect after storms. Proper maintenance extends their lifespan and performance.
Cast Iron Gutters
Cast iron gutters are traditional and long-lasting, but they require more care than modern alternatives. To clean, remove debris by hand and flush the system with water. Once dry, check thoroughly for rust, especially at joints and fixing points.
Maintenance includes repainting or treating with a rust-inhibiting primer every few years to prevent corrosion. If paint becomes chipped or worn in specific areas, you can spot-repaint those sections to maintain protection and appearance. Bolts and brackets should be checked for tightness and replaced if signs of wear appear.