We often get asked as well as seeing a lot of gutter hedgehogs. Most of the time they are thick with moss or rotting leaves and our client is calling us for a resolution to their over flowing gutters.
So what are gutter hedgehogs?
These small, brush-like devices are designed to prevent leaves, debris, and pests from clogging your gutters. They are a bit like giant pipe cleaners. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of fitting gutter hedgehogs.
Pros of Fitting Gutter Hedgehogs:
1. Prevents The Build-Up Of Leaves:
Gutter hedgehogs act as a barrier, preventing leaves and larger debris from entering your gutters. This can help maintain proper water flow and reduces the risk of blockages, which can lead to water damage and costly repairs.
2. Easy Installation:
Fitting gutter hedgehogs is a relatively simple DIY task. They are designed to fit snugly into your gutters, requiring no special tools or expertise. This makes them a convenient option for homeowners who prefer to tackle maintenance tasks themselves or there are companies that will install them for you.
3. Pest Prevention:
Gutter hedgehogs act as a deterrent for pests, such as birds, rodents, and insects that may try to nest or seek shelter in your gutters. By blocking access to the gutter system, they help keep unwanted visitors away from your home.
Cons of Fitting Gutter Hedgehogs:
1. Smaller Debris Accumulation:
While gutter hedgehogs are effective at preventing larger debris from entering your gutters, smaller particles like pine needles or roof grit may still find their way through. We also find leaves are left on the hedgehogs which then rot down and cause a sludge. This means you may need to clean your gutters more frequently to remove this debris.
2. Potential for Water Overflow:
In heavy rainfall or during periods of intense downpours, gutter hedgehogs may not be able to handle the volume of water efficiently. This can result in water overflowing from the gutters, potentially causing water damage to your home’s exterior or foundation.
3. Regular Maintenance Required:
Although gutter hedgehogs require less maintenance compared to other gutter protection systems, they still need periodic cleaning. Over time, debris can accumulate on top of the hedgehogs, reducing their effectiveness. Regular inspection and cleaning are necessary to ensure they continue to function properly.
Conclusion:
In our experience, gutter hedgehogs cause more issue than they solve. They need to be cleaned regular and unless you’re able to get up the ladder and do this yourself, it’s more expense to get a company in to clean them. It’s important to consider the potential for water overflow during heavy rainfall. With an annual gutter clearance from Cannins you shouldn’t need to use gutter hedgehogs. We can clear out your gutter every autumn and this would be a fraction of the cost of installing gutter hedgehogs and their maintenance costs.