Solving blocked gutters: A safe, simple technique for clearance and downpipe maintenance

The tell-tale sign of a blocked gutter is usually water cascading over the side during heavy rain. Delaying gutter blockage removal is a recipe for expensive damp problems, as water pools and overflows onto your walls and foundations. Luckily, many blockages can be cleared using simple techniques—but safety is paramount.

Safety first: Safe gutter cleaning DIY

Never use a ladder if you are uncomfortable, or if the job is too high. A handyperson is fully insured for this kind of work. If you must attempt safe gutter cleaning DIY, always follow these steps:

• Stable ladder: Ensure your ladder is properly secured on firm, level ground. Have someone hold the base. Never overreach—climb down and move the ladder instead.
• Tools: Use a small scoop or trowel, and wear thick gloves to protect your hands from sharp debris or screws.
• Weather: Only work on dry, calm days.

Clearing the gutter and downpipe maintenance

Once you have safely reached the gutter, follow the water’s path to locate the problem.

1. Clear the gutter: Start scooping out the obvious leaves, moss, and dirt, working towards the downpipe. Place the debris into a bucket, not on the ground, for easy disposal.
2. Inspect the outlet: The main point of failure is often the running outlet, the hole connecting the gutter to the downpipe. Clear this thoroughly with your hand or a stiff brush.
3. How to unblock gutter downpipe: If the problem persists, the blockage is in the vertical downpipe.
   • The hose method: Feed a garden hose down from the top of the downpipe. Turn the water on gradually to high pressure. The water force may break up the blockage and flush it out the bottom.
   • The rod method: If the hose fails, feed a flexible drain rod or a stiff piece of wire up from the bottom of the downpipe, or down from the top, to try and puncture or push the debris through.

If these methods fail, the pipe may need to be dismantled at the joints, which is a job for a professional Handyperson. This is a common part of downpipe maintenance.

Prevention is the best downpipe maintenance

To avoid repeat gutter blockage removal:

• Gutter guards: Install mesh guards or ‘hedgehog’ brushes to prevent leaves from entering the system.
• Regular checks: Clear debris twice a year—ideally late autumn (after leaf fall) and late spring.
• Check the joints: Ensure all seals and joints on the clearing blocked rainwater pipe are firm and leak-free.

Why use Rated People for outdoor maintenance?

Gutter cleaning and clearing blocked rainwater pipe blockages are inherently risky jobs involving heights. If you are not comfortable or lack the right ladder and safety gear, don’t risk it! Our handypersons are experienced in safe gutter cleaning DIY and maintenance, saving you the risk, hassle, and potential injury, whilst protecting your property from water damage.

With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.