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Gutters are an essential part of any property; helping to get water away from our walls and windows as quickly as possible, gutters prevent rain from damaging our homes and causing serious problems in our properties.

However, as Home Advice Guide says, “Unfortunately, gutters are often neglected and sometimes many seasons pass before we remember that the gutters are even there – often when the gutters become so clogged with leaves and other detritus that they fail or break.”

If your gutters do fail, or you think they’re on their way out, replacing them is the best way to protect your home and prevent unnecessary damage to your property. To help you complete the work quickly and efficiently, here’s our guide to replacing your gutters.

Carry out a thorough inspection

If you’ve noticed a leak or a crack in one of your gutters, it’s a good idea to carry out a thorough inspection to see how extensive the damage is. If your gutters have been hit by falling debris or if one section is older than the others, you may not have to replace the entire network. Inspect the length of your gutters, looking out for cracks and signs of wear and tear. This is also a good opportunity to clear out any leaves or other blockages from your gutters to help them run smoothly.

Call in the professionals

In order for gutters to work well, they have to be installed properly. If they’re incorrectly installed your gutters won’t be as efficient as they could be, this could lead to leaks, water damage and blockages. A professional installer will be able to remove your old gutters and fit new ones in no time. They’ll be able to select the correct materials for the job and will have the expertise necessary to lay your guttering out for optimum efficiency.

Timing

In general, it’s a good idea to have your gutters replaced when there’s a minimal chance of rain. Although the weather in the UK is never 100% predictable, this often means having the work done during the spring, summer or autumn months. However, if your existing gutters are badly damaged, you may not be able to wait for a break in the weather and will need to get them replaced as soon as possible.

Materials

When replacing your gutters you’ll have a variety of materials to choose from. The most affordable option is generally vinyl. Durable, easy to fit and available in a selection of colours, plastic guttering is an excellent choice for homeowners who want their gutters to blend in with their property’s exterior. Other materials available include: aluminium, steel and, if you really want to splash out, copper.

Gutter maintenance is an important part of looking after your property. To find out more, or to arrange to have your gutters replaced, contact a member of our team today.