Gutter Cleaning Frequency – How Often to Get Them Cleaned

October 4th, 2024

Last updated: December 10th, 2024

Maintaining clean gutters is essential for the health of any property and especially in the UK where the weather can be unpredictable. Rain and falling leaves are just a couple of the elements that can build up in gutters, leading to blockages and potential damage. So, how often should gutters be cleaned?

The most common (and sensible) recommendation for gutter cleaning frequency at least twice a year – typically in the spring and autumn. Spring cleaning ensures any leftover debris from winter is removed, preventing blockages when the rainy season starts. Autumn is the prime time for fallen leaves and branches to accumulate so clearing gutters during this season is vital.

These timings aren’t set in stone. The frequency with which gutters should be cleaned often depends on the local environment and the property itself so every business owner needs to consider their gutter cleaning needs in detail.

If a property is in an area prone to heavy rainfall or storms, more regular gutter maintenance may be needed. Storms tend to drive more debris into the gutters, so checking after a particularly rough spell of weather is always a good idea. Additionally, for buildings with old or poorly-designed gutter systems, it might be beneficial to inspect and clean more regularly to avoid potential damage.

Risks of Not Getting Your Gutter Cleaned

This is one of those jobs that may get left behind. Businesses should definitely add it to their list of PPM and make sure that their gutters are being regularly inspected to prevent any disruption.

Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, which leads to water damage to walls and roofs. Over time, this can lead to mould and mildew issues which can be both unhealthy and costly to fix.

On top of this it is possible that stagnant water sitting in clogged gutters can freeze during winter, causing ice dams that can put further strain on the roof structure and cause other leaks. For businesses, it is a responsibility to keep guests and employees safe and gutter cleaning is a part of this process.

Professional Gutter Cleaning Frequency

Hiring a professional to clean gutters can provide peace of mind, especially if the property is tall or hard to access. Most professional services suggest a bi-annual check-up but can adapt based on the specific needs of a property. In some scenarios it makes sense to get the cleaning done more frequently. Some companies also offer gutter guards, which help reduce the gutter cleaning frequency required by preventing large debris from entering the gutters in the first place. Even with guards in place, regular inspections are still necessary as plenty of dirt can still accumulate.

On the other hand, some business owners may prefer to take a more hands-on approach and clean their gutters themselves or have a handyman to do so. This is not recommended unless the right precautions have been taken. However, a handyman can potentially just carry out regular DIY checks that can also help spot any potential gutter damage early, such as sagging, cracks, or rust, which can be fixed before becoming bigger issues (and expense).

Seasons of heavy rainfall followed by sudden cold snaps can cause serious issues for neglected gutters. Properties located in urban areas may have less foliage to deal with but may still face issues and it isn’t worth taking risks.

Deciding Your Gutter Cleaning Frequency

There are numerous factors that go into gutter cleaning frequency including the local environment, weather conditions, and the design of the gutter system itself. While twice a year is a good general rule of thumb, buildings in leafier or storm-prone areas may require more frequent checks.