Water spilling over the sides of a gutter when it rains is the first sign of a blockage. If water backs up around the top of a downpipe instead, the downpipe itself is probably blocked. Both are easiest to spot during or just after rain, so that is the time to step outside and look.
A blocked gutter does more than overflow. Rain can run down the outside wall and cause damp inside. It usually shows as a patch that feels damp to the touch and is worse after rain. Moss and standing water also add weight, which strains the joints and can make gutters sag, crack or pull away from the house.
Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes in spring and again in autumn, before the wetter winter weather. Check again after windy or stormy spells. Only climb a ladder if you feel confident, with it on firm, level ground and ideally someone steadying it. Wear sturdy gloves, scoop debris into a bucket, then rinse with a hose to check water flows to the downpipe.
Acting early saves you from damp walls inside and a gutter coming away from the house. If a downpipe will not clear, do not force anything into it; that is the time to call. At Clandon Roofing Company Ltd I do general roof repairs across Leatherhead, so get in touch and I will come and take a look.
