Top 5 Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning

How to spot the warning signs before it costs you.
Your gutters quietly protect your home every time it rains — directing water safely away from walls, brickwork, and foundations. But when they get blocked, things can go wrong fast.
At Kings & Queens Window Cleaning Sunderland, we see the same problems time and again: a simple blockage that’s been ignored until it causes damp patches, leaks, or costly repairs.
Here are five clear signs your gutters need attention — and how professional cleaning can save you money.

1. Water Overflowing or Leaking During Rain

If water pours over the sides instead of flowing down the drainpipe, your gutter system is blocked.

Leaves, moss, and dirt stop rainwater from moving freely, so it pools and overflows. That water then runs down your walls, leading to staining, damp, or even internal leaks.
A quick vacuum clean restores flow instantly — and prevents long-term damage.

2. Visible Plants or Moss Growing in the Gutters

If you can see little green tufts from ground level, your gutters have turned into flowerbeds!
Seeds carried by wind and birds settle in wet debris and start to grow. Besides looking messy, the roots hold moisture against your roofline, causing rot in wooden fascias and soffits.
Our high-reach gutter-vac system removes all soil, leaves, and growth, leaving clear channels once again.

3. Damp or Green Patches on Walls

Dark streaks or algae on exterior walls are tell-tale signs of leaking gutters.
As water spills over, it runs down brickwork and seeps into mortar joints, creating damp insulation and flaking paint.
You might notice that one side of the house always stays damp — that’s usually where the blockage sits.
Cleaning your gutters once or twice a year (especially after autumn) stops this completely.

4. Sagging or Bowing Gutters

When gutters fill with heavy, wet debris, the weight can cause them to sag or pull away from brackets.
You’ll notice uneven lines or sections that droop. If left too long, they can crack or even detach during storms.
A professional vacuum clean relieves the strain and keeps your guttering safely in place.

5. Insects or Birds Hanging Around the Roofline

Blocked gutters are a perfect breeding ground for insects — and birds love nesting in the debris.
If you spot extra bird activity or buzzing near your eaves, it’s a good indicator your gutters are holding stagnant water or nesting material.
A camera-inspected clean removes everything safely, discouraging pests and restoring proper drainage.

Bonus Sign: You Can’t Remember the Last Clean

If you’re unsure when your gutters were last checked, it’s probably time.
Most homes in Sunderland, Newcastle, and Tyne & Wear need gutter cleaning once or twice a year — typically in spring and autumn when leaves and moss cause the most blockages.

Why Professional Cleaning Beats DIY

While it’s tempting to try cleaning gutters yourself, ladders and rooflines are risky.
Our vacuum poles reach up to 30 feet from the ground, meaning:
No climbing or wobbling ladders.
No mess on your driveway or garden.
A safer, faster, and more thorough job.

We also show you before-and-after camera footage, so you can see exactly what’s been removed. Just ask us about this service when you book.

Protect Your Home and Wallet

Ignoring blocked gutters leads to hidden damage that’s far more expensive to fix than a routine clean.
Water intrusion can affect plaster, flooring, and insulation — turning a £60–£80 clean into a £600 damp repair.
Regular cleaning is small maintenance with a big payoff.

What We Include in Every Gutter Clean

✅ Full vacuum of gutters and downpipes
✅ Camera inspection before and after
✅ Fascia and soffit rinse if requested
✅ All waste removed from site
✅ Fully insured service for your peace of mind

You can also combine this with window or fascia cleaning for a complete exterior refresh.