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ARE YOUR DOWNPIPES AND GUTTERS FLOWING FREELY OR ARE THEY CAUSING WATER DAMAGE TO YOUR PROPERTY?

Are your downpipes and gutters flowing freely or are they causing water damage to your property?

With 28% of all property insurance claims being due to water damage,* and blocked guttering and downpipes being one of the top reasons, we recommend a proactive approach to guttering maintenance.

Are your downpipes and gutters flowing freely or are they causing water damage to your property?

 

With 28% of all property insurance claims being due to water damage,* and blocked guttering and downpipes being one of the top reasons, we recommend a proactive approach to guttering maintenance.

 

Why do properties have guttering?

 

Guttering is the exterior plumbing of your property, diverting rainwater away by channelling it along the roof edge, through downpipes and directly into a drain below. It is an integral structural element of any property.

 

Why is it so important to keep guttering and downpipes clear?

 

It is surprising the problems that can arise from poorly maintained guttering, a build-up of fallen leaves and moss can cause havoc to a property.

 

Property owners can find themselves faced with:

  • Damp and moulding on internal walls
  • Water pooling along external walls
  • Saturated foundations

All of which will require significant repair works to correct.

 

When and how do I maintain the guttering on my property?

 

Gutter maintenance is an essential job that can save a lot of hassle further down the line, we recommend two inspections a year, one at the beginning of winter after the autumn leaves have fallen and one in early spring ensuring any winter debris has been cleared.

 

Are there any products available that can help reduce the risk of a blockage?

 

There are products on the market that can help reduce the risk of a blockage, these include:

  • Gutter guards

Gutter guards prevent leaves and most debris from entering the guttering and downpipes whilst still allowing rainwater to flow. They clip onto existing guttering without the need for special tools or fixings and act as a filter. Although the guards won’t stop all debris from entering your gutters they will keep the larger, more hazardous pieces from causing problems.

  • Drain guards

Drain guards act in the same way as gutter guards by preventing leaves and most debris from gathering in the drains at the base of downpipes.

 

I suspect I may already have a blockage?

 

Signs of a blockage could include:

  • Water spilling over the sides
  • Guttering sagging
  • External walls looking discoloured
  • Visible plant growth

If you suspect you may have a blockage it is important to act as soon as possible to avoid water damage to your property.

 

Need some expert advice?

If you require some expert advice around guttering maintenance and repair contact specialists Westone Housing on 01733 320500 or visit www.westonehousing.co.uk

 

*abi key facts 2017 (abi.org.uk)

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