Melbourne winters mean more than blankets and hot coffee by the window. It’s also the season when rain puts your roof and gutters to the real test. And right now - before a downpour turns into a genuine problem - is the best time to look after the outside of your home.
What happens to your roof and gutters in winter
Over spring and autumn, leaves, twigs, pollen and debris build up in your gutters. Once the winter rains set in, this mix turns into a dense, soggy mass that blocks the flow of water. The result: water overflows the edges, seeps under the roofline, and runs down your walls and foundation.
The most common consequences of blocked gutters include:
- flooding around the foundation and basement areas;
- mould and damp patches on walls and ceilings;
- damage to eaves and the facade;
- premature wear on roofing material;
- winter drainage issues that turn into costly repairs by summer.
Why now is the right time
While the rainy season is in full swing, it’s easy to see the real picture: where water is pooling, which parts of the roof need attention, and whether your drainage is actually working. That means you can fix the problem before it becomes something bigger - and before spring arrives, when the load on your roof and gutters typically increases.
How professional cleaning helps
We do the whole exterior, including:
- Gutter cleaning - removing leaves, debris and standing water, and checking that drainage flows freely;
- Roof cleaning - clearing moss, mould and build-up that shortens the lifespan of your roofing;
- Pressure washing - for driveways, pathways and other hard surfaces around the home;
- Window cleaning - to keep your home bright even on grey winter days.
We use eco-friendly products that are safe for plants, pets and everyone living in the home.
Frequently asked questions
How often should gutters be cleaned in Melbourne?
Twice a year suits most homes: once after the autumn leaf drop and once before the storms of late spring. Properties under gums, plane trees or liquidambars often need a third visit, because those species shed all year rather than in one burst.
Can blocked gutters really damage the roof?
Yes. When the channel fills, water backs up under the first row of tiles or sheets and runs into the eaves. The first signs are usually a stained ceiling cornice, peeling paint on the fascia, or a musty smell in the roof space - all of which cost far more to fix than a clean.
Is winter a bad time to clean gutters and roofs?
It is the most useful time, as long as the work is done safely. Wet roofs are slippery, so ladder work is riskier in winter and rope access or roof anchors are the safer option. Clearing before a heavy rain event is what prevents the overflow, not clearing after it.
Do you clean the roof as well as the gutters?
We do, and on most jobs it makes sense to do both in one visit. Debris left on the roof simply washes back into a freshly cleared gutter with the next downpour, so the clean lasts weeks instead of months.
