Cleaning gutters may not be the most interesting of jobs, but in a town like Tauranga, it is a must. Your gutters are working year-round, as you can expect regular rainfall, sea breeze, and lots of trees. Clogged, broken, or damaged gutters can lead to water leaks, mould, and even household pest problems.
Sun Softwash understands the requirements gutters are put through here in the Bay of Plenty region. We created this guide to help Tauranga homeowners determine the most frequent gutter problem—and how to remedy it fast.
1. Blocked Gutters from Leaves and Debris
The problem
While Tauranga boasts stunning foliage, those leaves, twigs, and seeds often fall into your gutters. They stop the flow of water when they catch up.
The fix
Use gloves and go up a ladder to clear debris. A garden hose can clean out the rest of the sludge. Install gutter guards to prevent future debris build-up, or have the professionals at Sun Softwash clean your gutters regularly.
2. Sagging Gutters
The problem
Wet and clogged gutters weigh a ton. This can lead to drooping or separation from your roof.
The fix
Inspect the gutter brackets for any looseness or rust. Replace any that are broken. Gutters are old, or they are bent; you may have to replace some sections altogether.
3. Downpipes Clogged at the Bottom
The problem:
Gutters may be clear, but still, the bottom part of your downpipe can be jam-packed with debris at this time of the year in Tauranga’s stormy months.
The fix
High-pressure hose or plumber’s snake from the base. However, if there is still no water flowing, it might be time to call in professional plumbers with the correct tools.
4. Overflowing Gutters During Rain
The problem
You see the water running over the sides when it rains. Generally, this indicates a clog or improper gradient of the gutter.
The fix
Clear out the gutters and look for low points. Gutter sections must always slope to provide a slight fall towards the downpipes. Adjust brackets if needed.
5. Leaky Gutter Joints
The problem
Most of the older gutter systems end up having leaks, especially, the seams or joints, if the sealant has worn off.
The fix
Remove all remaining debris from the area around the joint. Use a gutter sealant that is silicone-based. Otherwise, if leaks keep occurring, it is time to substitute the particular portion of the gutter.
6. Rust or Corrosion
The problem
Metal gutters can rust, particularly if they are older. This is often seen in coastal regions, for example, Tauranga, due to the increase in corrosion from the salt air.
The fix
There are small rust spots that can be scrubbed away using a wire brush, followed by a coat of rust-proof paint. Cut out the windows where your rusty area is most severe. So, if you want durability, consider switching to aluminium or PVC.
7. Water Pooling Around Foundations
The problem
When gutters get clogged, or, in some cases, simply do not work as they should, they can pour water around the base of your home and damage foundations and cause mould.
The fix
Make sure downpipes carry water a minimum of 1.5 metres from the house. Use splash blocks or extensions as appropriate
8. Mould or Moss on Walls and Paths
The problem
Overflowing gutters in Tauranga’s moist surroundings frequently cause streaks of green on walls and slippery moss on nearby paths.
The fix
Who knew people would clean your gutters and downpipes regularly? Soft washing outside services can help to remove moss and keep it from coming back. Sun Softwash provides a gentle yet effective clean that will bring your home’s exterior back to life!
9. Birds or Pests Nesting in Gutters
The problem
Clogged, quiet gutters are your favorite nesting site for birds. So do rodents and insects.
The fix
Remove nests (use gloves). You might want to install a gutter guard that lets water in but keeps animals out. Do not use poison — it is more humane to contact an expert.
10. Gutter Damage After Storms
The problem
For instance, in a Tauranga storm, branches may be loosened, or sections of the gutters may become twisted, bent, or lose their hold and fall loose.
The fix
Check out your gutter system after every major weather event. Change any brackets or parts that are gone. If you do not feel comfortable doing this safely, Sun Softwash can perform this service while they are performing a gutter inspection or gutter cleaning service.
Why Gutter Maintenance Matters in Tauranga
Tauranga has a reasonable amount of rain, particularly during winter and spring. Water damage can sneak in quickly if your gutters are not functioning.
Here’s what can go wrong when gutters are ignored:
- Damp patches on walls
- Water entering basements or underneath floors
- Rotten fascia boards
- Slippery moss-covered paths
- Inside the home, mold and mildew
But all this can be avoided with regular maintenance. A little investment reaps a great reward.
For the best results, it’s important to schedule your maintenance wisely—find out what time of year is best for gutter cleaning in NZ to ensure your gutters stay in top shape.
Why Choose Us: Sun Softwash
Local Tauranga Experts
We know what your home needs in this weather; We know how everything from weather to trees to salt air affects gutters and gutter systems year-round!
Safe, Gentle Methods
Our soft washing process is safe for use on all surfaces. There is no high-pressure damage to remove dirt, moss, mould, and buildup.
More Than Gutters
From roofs to decks, we clean it all. Book once and let us handle your whole home exterior.
Friendly, Reliable Service
We arrive at the appointed time, we work quickly, and we leave your house better than we found it.
Sun Softwash gives peace of mind to customers. A neat house with pristine gutters, sans headaches.
Final Thoughts
Your gutters do double duty for your home, provided they have been cleaned and maintained. Things can change quickly in the Tauranga weather and environment. You get a taste of the local as well, leaves, earth, birds, rust, moss.
If you know what to search for—and repair—it might save you some cash, help take care of your investment properties’ most valuable asset , and maintain your house to appear its best.
Need help? Rely on Sun Softwash for quality gutter cleaning that you can trust! We’re local, we’re professional, and we’re ready to keep your house safe from top to bottom.