publication date: Nov 26, 2010
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author/source: Kate Faulkner, Property Expert and Author of Which? Property Books
Guttering Cleaning and Repairs
Welcome to Gutters Day!
According to SPAB, it’s National Gutters day today! OK, so in theory not one of the most exciting dates in your calendar, but it is an essential one!
When guttering goes wrong, it can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to your home. Damp at the bottom, down the walls and on roofs, depending on the how your property is built.
So why are gutters so important? Kate Faulkner the MD of Designs on Property explains. “When you are buying a home or living in it, the last thing you are likely to do is run out on a cold and wet day shouting ‘I must check my guttering’”. BUT and it’s a big but says Kate “Ignoring the bit that makes your home water tight is a major mistake”.
It’s this level of detail that Kate is obsessed about when buying and owning a home. Whether it’s a brand new property or one that is 400 years old, it is vital to check:-
- Make sure that the guttering is clear of any debris (look out for grass growing!)
- Check that the gutters aren’t leaking at any of the joints (wait for a rainy day)
- Is the pipe work firmly attached to the wall?
- Are there any cracks in the guttering or pipe work?
- Check the water drains away into a ‘soak away’ rather than straight onto the ground
Did you know there is a History of Guttering? Why not have a read and find out that, not hugely surprising, it was down to the Romans.
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