Is it time to replace your gutters? Perhaps this isn’t something you have considered as you’ve had other things on your mind. Maybe it’s been a long time since you inspected them or had them cleaned. As we approach spring, and after a winter of heavy storms and frosts, now is definitely the time to get up on that ladder (or get someone else to check for you) to ensure that everything is in working order. A good gutter clean may be all that is required but it may also be time to consider gutter replacement for your home.
The Problems with Gutters
While they may not be at eye level and therefore not something you give much attention to, the gutters, along with fascias and soffits, are an integral part of your property structure. They carry water away from the property and through downpipes to the drains, preventing potential damage from water entering your home. They are however, vulnerable to the following issues:
- Blockages from leaves and other debris including birds nests
- Cracks/broken joints where water can escape
- Loose guttering from the weight of frozen water and debris
- Wear and tear and constant battering from wind and rain
Often, these problems can occur without you even realising which is why regular inspections and cleaning are so important.
What to Look Out For
A quick visual inspection with a ladder will give you an insight into the state of your gutters. You should be able to see the debris built up in the gutter and any potential blockages. Spotting cracks/ broken joints can often be done by eye too but if you notice puddles or wet patches on the ground below, this is often a sign that the gutters are leaking, especially if the rest of the ground is dry.
If you are not comfortable climbing a ladder to check for yourself, or your gutters are too high for this to be possible, we would urge you to get a professional in. They have much more of an idea of what to look out for and can often spot issues that you may not notice yourself. They may look and advise a good clean or some simple repairs but it may be time to consider gutter replacement.
Gutter Replacement
There are a number of reasons you might be considering having your gutters replaced. Obviously, the most urgent will be leaks, loose guttering and wear and tear, but you may also be looking for new gutters for aesthetic reasons. If you have had new windows and doors for example, the gutters may now look dirty and out of place or the colour may not match. You may have had exterior cladding installed which has made the gutters look less appealing. You don’t have to stick to a specific colour or style. In fact, we offer may different styles and colours that will work better with your colour scheme and cosmetic look of your property.
If you have a specific type of uPVC gutter in mind, either in pictures or on a neighbouring property, show us a picture and we can advise whether it is something we can provide. You may be looking for inspiration in which case, we can share with you the various types and styles available to choose from.
The good news is the were are able to help and advise not only with your gutters but also the fascias and soffits too. We can carry out a visual inspection, offer advice on the best type of guttering for your property and arrange to carry out the work for you. All you need to do is give us a call in the first instance to discuss your requirements – 01934 824005. We will be happy to help.