THE purpose of guttering is to protect your home’s exterior walls from rain by channelling it from the roof to a drain in the ground via the gutter and downpipes.

If the guttering becomes damaged or blocked it may put your home at risk from water penetration or damp, so make sure you check it regularly – especially in autumn when leaves are falling and at this time of year when trees are shedding their blossoms.

Checking and repairing guttering and downpipes usually involves working on a ladder, which can be dangerous.

Only go up a ladder if you feel confident and safe – and always make sure to take full safety precautions.

Iron guttering (found on some period properties) is particularly heavy and difficult to manoeuvre, so get someone to help you if you need to replace it. You could also consider getting a professional in.

If you notice that water is falling sharply from one place, this usually indicates a blockage in the gutter.

Cleaning that out is not rocket science – simply scoop out the offending object with your hand or a trowel.

If your gutter is difficult to check or you don’t want to have to check it often, consider investing in gutter guards.

These are grates designed to prevent leaves and other debris getting into your gutter.

They can be fitted easily by most DIYers.

Downpipes can also become blocked. To clear one, make a hole in the blockage with a wire coathanger then wiggle the coathanger to loosen the blockage.

That done place a hosepipe in the top of the downpipe and turn it on fully. The flow of water through the hole should dislodge the blockage.

Seasonal task

Now is a good time to treat wooden garden furniture to protect it against the elements and wear-and-tear during summer – especially if you plan to leave it outside.

Wait for a fine day and apply an exterior wood treatment, oil or paint, following the instructions carefully.