Maintenance: Gutters, downpipes, fascias

In this chapter we explain some drainage & building terms, along with problems commonly faced by unit groups. We also look at preventative maintenance.

Click on Legislation above, to view strata title legislation and hints.

Click on Legislation above, to view community title legislation and hints.

The components

The picture below is a view of a typical gutter, scotia, fascia and downpipe at a group of units.

 

Common Problems

• Rusting of the gutter due to a lack of cleaning.
• In this case weeds are growing in the gutter.
• The soil and moisture accelerate the corrosion of the gutter.

• Rusting of downpipes in the bend under the eaves.
• In this case the problem is caused by the accumulation of leaves and other roof debris.

• Rotting of the fascia and scotia due to the gutter leaking.
• This can result in costly timber repairs.

• Fascia corners are especially vulnerable to rot, as the mitred timber corner has exposed end grain.
• Rotting of the fascia and scotia due to the gutter leaking.
• This can result in costly timber repairs.

• Box gutters can overflow into the unit below, as the gutter is 'boxed in' behind the facade so trapping the water.
• Are hidden allowing problems to go undetected.

• Stormwater sumps can quickly fill up with leaves and rubbish.
• Residents tend to overlook or grow accustomed to the driveway sumps, and their maintenance is taken for granted.

 

Rot: Small areas of timber rot may be treatable with an anti fungal agent. Fascia corners can be treated and capped with a galvanised plate to fit. This is then primed and painted to match.

 

Arrange for all gutters, downpipes, sumps and storm water drains to be cleaned in April/May each year. Where there are over hanging trees cleaning may be needed more often.

In salty environments we suggest that unserviceable gutters & downpipes be replaced with colorbond or similar.

The following tools may assist in the maintenance of your group's gutters.

Gutter Clean & Roof Checklist
click on picture for printable version