The Best Times to Clean Your Gutters

If your home is surrounded by trees, it’s no surprise that leaves and debris can clog your gutters. While many homeowners wait until autumn, when falling leaves create obvious blockages, gutter maintenance is needed throughout the year. In fact, autumn’s combination of falling leaves and frequent rain can accelerate moss growth, turning clogged gutters into a breeding ground for more significant problems.

It’s not just leaves causing issues, though. Debris like dust, twigs, and moss accumulates over time, and without regular cleaning, your gutters can become blocked year-round. If oak trees surround your home, you might get away with gutter cleaning every six months. However, we recommend booking cleanings in both spring and autumn to keep your gutters clear and prevent damp issues before they start.

Preventing Water Damage

Moss is a common problem on roofs, especially when it begins to cover large areas. If more than half your roof is covered in moss, quarterly gutter cleaning is advisable. Moss that dies off will naturally fall into gutters, creating blockages that can quickly become a headache.

When gutters overflow, the consequences can be more severe than simple water drips. Water can find its way under your roof and into your home, damaging soffits, fascia boards, and even internal walls. In more severe cases, prolonged water exposure can erode your foundation, leading to costly repairs and a potential reduction in property value.

Signs that water is already making its way inside include mildew, musty odors, and black mold appearing on ceilings, walls, or around window frames. At this point, regular surface cleaning won’t solve the issue. It’s critical to address the root cause—stopping water from penetrating your home’s exterior before it leads to extensive damage.