Why is Regular Gutter Cleaning Important?

Gutter systems are a legal requirement in Australia and are not installed for decorative purposes. Your roof gutters serve just one but a key purpose – direct all the rainwater away from your premises, preventing water from seeping into your roofs, walls, and foundations. In case your gutter system stops functioning, rainwater can accumulate on your roofs, potentially leading to water damage, erosion, and structural issues. Everyone is aware of this but still tends to overlook gutter maintenance. How often do you clean your gutters and downpipes, or when was the last time you wondered if your gutters are functioning properly?

The homes that schedule gutter cleaning services regularly experience no blockages throughout the year and ones that skip, experience trouble quite often. So, gutter cleaning should be a preventive maintenance task, not a reactive emergency fix. The money you spend on gutter cleaning today can help you save thousands in repairs. To convince you further, let us take you through some points that reflect the significance of gutter cleaning.

What Happens When Your Gutters Are Blocked?

There are not one but multiple downsides of a gutter blockage, let’s explore some.

Overflow and Water Damage
When leaves or debris accumulate in your gutters, it blocks the pathway for rainwater to flow away from your premises. The water level will rise slowly, covering your entire roof and then overflows down the sides of your home. Especially so during months when you experience heavy rainfall. If ignored for long, this overflowing water can seep into your exteriors and ceilings, bringing down your curb appeal and damaging your interiors.

Roof Leaks and Rot
Blocked gutters trap water on the roofline. With nowhere else to go, the standing rainwater stays on your roof for a long time, slowly soaking itself into the roof structure and eventually reaching the ceilings. A lot can be damaged in the process – your shingles, tiles, fascia boards, roof battens and ceilings. The result could be partial or complete roof repair work, costing you thousands.

Foundation and Landscaping Erosion
The water overflowing from your gutters would gather around your premises, creating water pools that are more than just an eyesore. The money that you spent on landscaping can all go down the drain. It could bring in the possibility of soil erosion, cracked paving or damaged garden beds. And worst case scenario – if water pools around your home’s foundation for too long, it can lead to cracking or movement, impacting the overall structural integrity of your premises.

Mould and Mildew Growth
Excessive moisture can become the hotspot for mould and mildew growth in no time, compromising both the aesthetics and safety of your premises. It begins with damp walls and ceilings, subsequently leading to hidden mould growth in your insulation or behind plasterboard. And that’s not it; mould and mildew produce a moist odour, which, when inhaled for long, can potentially cause respiratory issues.

Why is Gutter Cleaning Especially Important in Australia?

Gutter cleaning is important no matter where you are located, but Australia’s unique weather conditions make it more so.

• As Australia usually has a hot and dry climate, dry leaves and twigs in gutters can become a fire hazard during bushfire season.
• A blocked gutter can quickly snowball into major structural damage or repair work during intense seasonal rain.
• Most Aussie homes are surrounded by native trees that shed leaves, increasing the chances of a gutter blockage.
• Dirty gutters can contaminate water, defeating the purpose of rainwater harvesting.

How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned?

On average, gutters should be cleaned at least once every 2-4 years. But a more frequent routine is suggested if you live in areas surrounded by trees or regions with extreme weather conditions. To avoid unnecessary issues, be sure to check whether your gutters are functioning properly before weather changes like pre-monsoon or pre-bushfire season.

Why Choose Professional Gutter Cleaning Over DIY?

Are you wondering whether gutter cleaning is a DIY task or if you would need professional assistance? If you do it yourself, you will be sure to save some money, but it is not recommended. Here’s why –

• AIf not done right, climbing ladders and working at heights can pose safety risks, be it a single or double storey home.
• For a thorough clean, you will need high-powered vacuums or pressure systems that professionals own.
• Gutter cleaning is a lengthy and complicated process with a lot of mess involved. Professional gutter cleaners follow a streamlined procedure and ensure no hassles for you. You can sit back and relax while they do it all for you, saving you time and energy.
• When cleaning your gutters, experts can identify any underlying issues like leaks, cracks or sagging gutters that you might miss. Early identification can help you cut down on any associated costs.

Schedule Gutter Cleaning With Us at ABS Cleaning

Our job doesn’t end with familiarising you with the importance of gutter cleaning; we offer comprehensive gutter cleaning services. At ABS Cleaning, we are a team of experts skilled and qualified enough to handle even the most complex gutter cleaning projects. We come to your premises, equipped with all necessary equipment and complete the project with no hassles for you. Trust our experts to work around your schedule and ensure your gutter system works efficiently, year in and out.