Cleaning under old, terracotta-colored gutter guards is a crucial maintenance task that requires a specific approach to be effective. Over time, these guards, often made from older plastics or metals, can become brittle and allow fine sediment, moss, and decomposing leaves to accumulate underneath, creating a dense sludge that clogs the gutter system. This buildup can defeat the purpose of the guards, leading to water overflow, fascia damage, and potential water ingress into the home. The Problem with Old Gutter Guards Many older terracotta-colored gutter guards were installed with the promise of a "no-maintenance" solution. However, experience has shown this isn't the case. While they are effective at blocking large leaves and branches, they often fail to stop smaller particles. -Silt and Sludge Buildup Dust, pollen, and decomposing organic matter get washed through the guard's mesh by rain. This material settles in the bottom of the gutter, forming a thick, heavy sludge that regular rainfall can't flush away. -Material Degradation Exposed to Melbourne's harsh sun and variable weather, the plastic in older guards can become brittle and crack. Metal guards can rust. This degradation can lead to sections breaking off, creating larger openings for debris to enter. -Weed and Moss Growth The accumulated sludge provides a fertile bed for moss, weeds, and even small seedlings to grow directly within the gutter, completely obstructing water flow. The Professional Cleaning Process A professional service like Grayson's Gutter Cleaning tackles this issue systematically to ensure the entire roofing drainage system is clear. Safety First The process begins with a thorough safety assessment. Roofs, especially older tiled ones common in Melbourne, can be treacherous. Technicians use appropriate safety harnesses and equipment to prevent falls and property damage. Careful Removal of Guards: The old terracotta guards are carefully unclipped or unscrewed. Due to their age, they can be fragile, so this step is done with precision to avoid unnecessary damage. The sections of the guard are systematically removed to expose the gutters beneath. Gutter Excavation The real work begins here. The heavy, compacted sludge is manually scooped out using specialized gutter tools. This material is often too dense to be removed by a vacuum or blower alone. All the accumulated debris is collected into buckets and removed from the property, ensuring no mess is left behind. System Flush and Downpipe Check Once the solid debris is removed, the entire gutter system is flushed with water. This final step clears any remaining fine sediment and, most importantly, confirms that all downpipes are clear and water is flowing freely from the roof to the ground drainage. Any blockages in the downpipes are addressed to ensure the system is fully functional. The old guards are then securely reinstalled, or if the client prefers, replaced with a more modern, effective system. By addressing the hidden buildup under the guards, this specialized cleaning restores the gutter's function, preventing costly water damage and protecting the integrity of your Melbourne home.