⛈️ How to Prepare Your Gutters for Heavy Rain and Storms
Prevent leaks and flooding by checking gutters early
Keep water flowing with a clean and clear gutter system
Avoid roof and fascia damage during high winds
Stay safe and dry with expert seasonal prep
Storms in the UK are becoming more frequent and intense – and your gutters are the first line of defence. If they’re blocked or sagging, heavy rain can cause serious damage, from overflowing water to internal leaks and flooded gardens.
This guide walks you through preparing your gutters for bad weather so you can avoid emergencies, protect your home, and feel confident when the skies open.
Start with a Visual Inspection Before the Rain Arrives
A quick visual check can tell you a lot. Look up from ground level to check your gutter line and downpipes. Are they straight? Is there debris poking out? Any signs of rust or cracks?
🌧️ Overflow marks under the gutter? That’s a red flag.
📏 Sagging sections may indicate trapped water or old clips.
🌿 Weeds or moss? Time to clear them out.
🏚️ Loose brackets or leaks? These need repairing before the next storm.
We recommend having a pro inspection before storm season. At Gutters London, we offer thorough assessments and storm-ready cleaning so your system is working when you need it most.
Clear Out Debris That Could Cause Flooding
When gutters get blocked, water backs up fast – and storms don’t wait. Make sure your gutters and downpipes are free of leaves, moss, bird nests and anything else that might block the flow.
🧤 Wear gloves and remove larger clumps by hand
🧹 Use a long-handled brush to dislodge stuck muck
🚿 Flush the gutters to check the water exits quickly
🌳 Trim back overhanging branches to stop future build-up
Doing this before a storm hits saves you from panic later. For taller properties or tougher jobs, our cleaning team uses extendable vacuum systems and live camera feeds to clear even the most stubborn mess safely.
Check Downpipes and Drains Too – Not Just the Gutters
Your gutters may be clean, but if the downpipes or drains are blocked, water will still back up. In a heavy storm, that water has nowhere to go – and could end up pouring through your walls.
💧 Test water flow by running a hose into the gutter
⚠️ If water pools or backs up, check downpipe joints
🔧 Use a drain snake or jet if blockage is deep below
🧼 Clean out garden drains and soakaways near your home
Need a full flush? Our drain cleaning service gets to the root of the problem. Whether it’s leaves, silt or compacted mud, we’ll restore full flow before the storms hit.
Looking to deep-clean indoors at the same time? Try End of Tenancy Cleaning London for full house refreshes – ideal if you’re preparing to rent, sell, or move back in after repairs.
Fit Guards and Screens for Ongoing Protection
One of the best long-term solutions is installing gutter guards. These mesh covers stop leaves and debris from settling in the first place. You’ll still need occasional cleaning – but far less often.
🛡️ Guards block twigs, leaves, and even nesting birds
🔩 They’re easy to fit and come in clip-on or slot-in styles
🌤️ Choose UV-stable guards to handle sun and rain
🧽 Wipe down or rinse occasionally to maintain airflow
Check out Wickes’ selection of mesh gutter guards for DIY options – or have them fitted by our team as part of your seasonal service.
Stay Safe – Don’t Risk Climbing Ladders in Wet Weather
Even if you’re confident on a ladder, wet and windy conditions make rooftop work extra risky. Slippery leaves, unsteady ground, and strong gusts can turn a simple clean into a serious hazard.
At Gutters London, we’re trained and equipped for safe gutter work year-round – especially when storms are on the way. With camera inspections and vacuum systems, we clean from the ground up, no ladders needed. 🛠️
For homes with mossy roofs, pairing your gutter clean with a roof wash helps extend your protection. Have a look at Checkatrade’s advice on roof moss removal for insights on managing roof health during wet months.
Don’t Wait – Gutter Prep is Cheaper than Repairs
Gutter care might not be exciting, but it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your home. A bit of preparation today could save you from paying for damp repairs, roof replacements or even flooded basements.
🧰 Need help before the next storm rolls in? Book a visit from Gutters London today.
🧼 Want a full-property clean inside and out? End of Tenancy Cleaning London has your back.
🧱 Looking for exterior repairs too? Services like Rated People can connect you with trusted trades.
