Protect your home from damp this winter with one garden job

As autumn sets in, there are a few tasks that gardeners need to get to grips with before the weather changes.

One of these is cleaning their gutters to prevent a range of potential problems caused by the accumulation of leaves and other debris. When gutters are clogged, rainwater cannot drain properly, often leading to overflowing water that can seep into the structure of the house, causing expensive repairs.

Clogged gutters can also lead to holes and leaks. Over time, debris and pooled water can damage the gutter materials, creating cracks or holes that worsen the drainage issues.

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According to the experts at Howarth Timber, clogged gutters are "the dreaded product of heavy rainfall."

They said: "As we move into October, gutters are beginning to get clogged with falling leaves or other debris, and rainfall collects in them rather than flowing away from the home via downspouts and drains at the base of each wall.

"Particularly during the autumn season, gutter cleaning should be done on a regular basis to guarantee that water is constantly directed away from your property."

Beyond structural concerns, clogged gutters can also become a haven for unwanted visitors at this time of year. Standing water attracts mosquitoes, while leaves and twigs can provide shelter for rodents and termites.

Frozen winter temperatures can cause even greater problems, as gutters can freeze forming ice dams that not only damage the gutters themselves but also allow water to seep into the building.

The added weight of ice, debris, and water puts extra pressure on both the gutters and the roofing system, which can lead to further damage.

Dirty gutters can also make your home look a bit rough around the edges. Clean, functional gutters not only ensure that rainwater drains properly, it also enhance curb appeal.

How to clean your gutters

According to , cleaning your gutters is a straightforward process. You should:

• Position a ladder on a solid ground surface
• Stand on the ladder and begin removing large pieces of debris
• Use a trowel and bucket to remove slushy debris and dirt - a gutter scoop also works well
• Move the ladder frequently to avoid overstretching
• Wash the clear gutters with a garden hose and a spray nozzle attachment
• Apply some mild dish soap to the gutter and rinse once more

Always exercise caution when using a ladder.