When it comes to preparing your home for the colder months, gutter cleaning might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be. Blocked gutters are a leading cause of roof leaks, mould growth, and foundation damage during winter. According to the UK Property Care Association, poorly maintained gutters are responsible for over 60% of damp-related property issues in colder seasons.
At Proclad Roofing, we’ve seen how quick fixes become costly repairs when gutters are neglected. Whether you’re looking after a residential property or managing a large commercial site, here’s why roof and gutter maintenance before winter is not just important, it’s critical.
Here’s why cleaning your gutters and fascia boards before winter is essential:
Blocked gutters prevent melting snow from draining properly. As temperatures drop, this trapped water refreezes, forming ice dams. These can lift shingles, cause leaks, and compromise your roof gutters. Ice dams are particularly problematic on flat or low-pitched roofs, often leading to roof water damage and expensive roof gutter repairs.
In colder parts of the UK, especially in Scotland and northern regions, homes with poor roof and gutter maintenance are at much higher risk. The National House-Building Council (NHBC) reports that ice damming causes an average of £2,500 in roofing and ceiling repairs when left unaddressed. Proactive roof and gutter cleaning is far more affordable, and much less stressful.
Standing water from clogged gutters creates the perfect environment for mould and mildew growth, especially on wooden fascia and soffits. This doesn’t just cause structural damage; it poses a serious health hazard. Public Health England warns that mould exposure increases the risk of asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections, especially in children and the elderly.
Mildew cleaning and roof moss removal, and gutter cleaning are far more complex and costly than simple gutter maintenance. By investing in gutter cleaning and roof inspection before winter, you avoid the risk of black mould outbreaks, interior damp patches, and expensive mildew cleaning later down the line.
Overflowing gutters can dump excess water near your home’s foundation, causing cracks, erosion, and even basement flooding. Foundation damage is among the most expensive structural issues a property can face. According to UK property insurers, subsidence repairs cost anywhere from £6,000 to £25,000, depending on severity.
With regular roof gutter cleaning, especially before winter rains and freezes, you can prevent these complications entirely.
Water that backs up due to clogged gutters can seep under your roof or into your walls. From roof leaks to internal water damage, the repairs can be extensive. The average cost to repair a water-damaged ceiling in the UK is £750 to £1,200, and that’s before factoring in insulation damage or electrical hazards. Regular roof and gutter cleaning services near me can safeguard your home and save you thousands in restoration costs.
At Proclad Roofing, our experts specialise in early detection and roof servicing that saves you money before problems snowball.
Your fascia and soffits are more than decorative features; they protect your rafters and roof structure. Gutter blockages can cause water to overflow and damage your fascia and roofing fascia boards. If this area becomes compromised, it can lead to wood rot, create a breeding ground for rot and pests and compromise the structure of your roof & gutters.
Replacing fascia boards can cost upwards of £600–£1,000, depending on the property size. A regular roof and gutter cleaning service near me is a smart preventative investment.
Blocked or poorly maintained gutters can quietly wreak havoc on your property before you even realise there’s a problem. Spotting early signs is crucial, not only to protect your roof and gutter system but also to avoid costly repairs in the colder months.
Here are the most common warning signs, and what they typically indicate:
What it means:
If you see water spilling over the sides of your gutters during rainfall, it’s a sure sign of a blockage. Leaves, moss, or silt build-up are preventing water from draining properly.
Why it matters:
Overflowing water can damage fascia boards, leak into the soffits, and pool around your home’s foundation. This significantly increases the risk of roof water damage and foundation issues.
What it means:
Streaks, staining, or mildew patches on your external walls often suggest water is leaking from or overflowing out of your gutters. This can lead to rot and the need for local guttering repairs.
Why it matters:
This can indicate prolonged moisture exposure and poor drainage. Over time, it leads to cracked render, rotting cladding, or damp internal walls. If mildew is present, it may also spread indoors, triggering health issues.
What it means:
If your gutters are sprouting grass, moss, or even small shrubs, they’re not just blocked; they’ve been that way for quite some time. If vegetation is growing in your gutters, they’re beyond overdue for a clean. This often indicates long-term neglect and requires professional attention from gutter cleaning companies near you or industrial gutter cleaning providers for larger properties.
Why it matters:
Plants trap more debris and absorb moisture, increasing the weight of the gutter system. This can cause sagging or collapse. Plant roots can also penetrate seals and cause leaks.
What it means:
Gutters filled with twigs and leaves provide a perfect habitat for birds, squirrels, insects, and even rodents.
Why it matters:
These pests bring health risks, attract other predators, and damage your roofing structure. Bird droppings can corrode materials, while nests block the water flow. This is especially problematic for commercial properties where hygiene is essential.
What it means:
Water making its way inside your home is often the result of backflow caused by blocked gutters. This can lead to stained ceilings, damp insulation, and serious internal repairs. If you notice dripping in your attic or damp walls, check your gutter system first.
Why it matters:
Damp insulation, mouldy ceilings, and peeling wallpaper often follow. The longer the issue is left, the more expensive the repairs, potentially involving full roof gutter repairs and redecoration.
What it means:
When water overflows from the gutters, it often runs down and pools near your foundation or basement. Pooling water from faulty gutters can weaken foundations over time. If you notice cracks or a shift in your building’s base, your gutters might be the hidden culprit.
Why it matters:
Over time, this erodes soil and can destabilise the foundation. Visible cracks in the base of your building, uneven floors, or basement dampness are signs your gutter system is failing to protect your property.
What it means:
Gutters filled with debris and water can become heavy, causing them to bow or detach from the fascia boards.
Why it matters:
This compromises the entire drainage system. A sagging gutter won’t carry water efficiently, and can collapse under the weight of snow or ice in winter.
What it means:
If you can’t remember the last time you had a gutter cleaning service, chances are, it’s time. Experts recommend roof and gutter maintenance at least twice a year, especially before winter.
Why it matters:
Regular, proactive roof and gutter maintenance is cheaper and safer than reacting to emergencies. Prevention is always better than cure.
With freezing temperatures, increased rainfall, and potential snowfall, winter is the most demanding season for your gutter system. Taking the time now to inspect and prepare your gutters can save you hundreds, if not thousands, in future repair costs. Follow these essential steps, or let our team at Proclad Roofing handle it for you.
Clear out all leaves, twigs, moss, and dirt. In autumn, debris builds up quickly, especially in areas with overhanging trees. This is the first and most crucial step in cleaning roof gutters
Why it’s important:
Leaves, twigs, pine needles, moss, and general grime are the most common causes of gutter blockages. They prevent water from draining and create a heavy, damp environment.
What to do:
Use gloves, a scoop, or a gutter cleaning tool to remove debris by hand. For hard-to-reach areas or multi-storey properties, hire professional gutter cleaning experts like Proclad Roofing with the proper safety equipment and ladders. Don’t forget to clear valleys and roof gullies as well.
Even after removing visible debris, silt or smaller particles may still be trapped inside the gutter or downpipes, slowing drainage.
What to do:
Use a hosepipe to flush water through the system and ensure it drains freely. Check all downpipes for clogs. If water backs up or trickles slowly, you may need a more intense clean or gutter jetting service.
Why it’s important:
Gutter guards are mesh or plastic covers fitted over your gutters to prevent leaves and debris from entering while still allowing water to flow. They’re especially effective on properties that require frequent cleaning. We recommend gutter cleaning and guard installation before late autumn.
What to do:
Choose the right type of guard for your property. Metal guards are more durable and suited for commercial buildings, while mesh options work well for homes. Combine this with gutter cleaning and guard installation to prevent frequent blockages year-round.
Why it’s important:
Make sure your downpipes are clear and draining away from your home’s foundation. Water needs to be directed at least 1 metre away from your property’s foundation to prevent erosion and flooding.
What to do:
Check that downpipes aren’t loose or leaking. Consider adding extenders or drain channels to divert water further. For urban areas or commercial buildings, ensure that drainage complies with local council regulations.
Why it’s important:
Cracks, corrosion, rust spots, sagging sections, and loose joints are all weak points that can fail under pressure, especially when snow or ice adds weight.
What to do:
Conduct a full inspection of the gutter system, brackets, and nearby fascia boards. Look for watermarks, leaks at joints, or separation from the roof. If you’re unsure, schedule a roof and gutter cleaning inspection to assess the full condition.
Why it’s important:
High winds, snow, and ice can dislodge poorly secured gutters. Gutters with holes, detached segments, or missing brackets won’t protect your property during winter storms. Damage only worsens with time and temperature swings.
What to do:
Secure loose gutters with new brackets, seal minor leaks with waterproof silicone, and replace cracked sections. If extensive repairs are needed, get help from local guttering repair companies or roof gutter cleaning services near you.
Why it’s important:
Gutters should be slightly sloped (around 1/4 inch for every 10 feet) towards the downpipes to ensure proper flow. Incorrect pitch leads to standing water and increased ice risk.
What to do:
Check that water flows consistently to the outlets when you test with a hose. If it pools, the alignment may need to be adjusted.
Why it’s important:
Even if your gutters look clean, hidden damage or minor issues can escalate quickly during winter. A professional inspection ensures your entire drainage system is sound.
What to do:
Contact Proclad Roofing to perform a full-service roof and gutter cleaning, inspection, and repairs as needed, especially before frost, snow, or high winds arrive.
For businesses, blocked gutters can cause disruption, property damage, and costly insurance claims. If your building has a flat roof, poor drainage is especially risky in winter.
Blocked gutters on industrial units can also violate health and safety regulations. Issues like pest infestations, leaks over stock or equipment, or dangerous icicles forming on gutters can lead to liability concerns.
Proclad Roofing specialises in both commercial and industrial roof gutter cleaning, helping businesses stay compliant, safe, and dry throughout winter
Don’t wait until you’re dealing with leaks or a damp ceiling. Book your roof and gutter cleaning before the frost sets in. Proclad Roofing offers a full range of services, including:
Based in Glasgow, serving clients across Scotland. Request a free quote today for roof and gutter cleaning cost insights and expert service.
