Concrete, or Finlock gutters, are a system of guttering created from concrete that was very popular on houses constructed between 1950 – 1970. In post-war Britain, there was a shortage of cast iron for guttering, and concrete seemed a logical option as it was durable and low-cost. As residential practices had also begun introducing cavity walls, concrete guttering was a solution for closing the top of the cavity in the walls. A Finlock gutter consists of two troughs, one of which closes the distance between the cavity and the other serves as the gutter system. They are connected using steel reinforced with mortar and rods. The outside is lined with bitumen and waterproofing to weatherproof the guttering.
What is the problem with Finlock gutters?
Finlock gutters were designed to last for several years, but houses built in the 50s, 60s and 70s are long past the date when they were intended to last and the systems are falling apart. While concrete, bitumen and other materials commonly used in Finlock systems are durable materials, they are subject to deterioration over time. The deterioration creates dampness and leaks which leads to further problems such as rot and mould which are harmful to health. The damp can cause crumbling plaster, sagging and even the collapse of guttering onto driveways, gardens and vehicles and, if left untended to, even cracks in the building’s foundations.
Should I change the Finlock gutters to sell my house?
There are several reasons why changing your Finlock guttering could help you sell your house, not least because if there are visible issues caused by them – such as patches of damp or cracks on the outside or mould inside – it will put off potential buyers. Some of the biggest reasons for sorting out your Finlock guttering before putting it on the market are:
Some of the ways properly functioning concrete gutters affect a house sale is included below:
Curb Appeal
The clean, modern materials of new UPVC or metal guttering can enhance the visual aesthetic as potential buyers pull up to view your property. That might just be enough to tip the balance in favour of them making an offer or not as it will reassure them about having to deal with potential issues straight after moving in. It also gives the impression to a potential purchaser that the house has been cared for and updated and can make it stand out in comparison to your neighbours’ houses.
Insulation
Finlock guttering generally causes thermal bridging – which means it conducts heat out of the house which leads to increased heating costs and potential cold spots on internal walls. In the current cost of living crisis, having guttering that helps the house retain its heat is a great selling point for any potential buyer.
Water leakage, damp and mould
The biggest problem with failing Finlock guttering is water leakage. Over time in the great British climate, the concrete becomes porous, or joints between sections fail, and water begins to seep into the building causing damp patches on walls or ceilings which in turn is conducive to mould growth. Whilst it is possible to try and patch up evidence of damp and mould, a savvy purchaser will spot them instantly and it will put them off making an offer.
Return on investment
Many people consider investing in a new kitchen or bathroom before putting their house on the market as they believe it will make it more appealing and lead to a better offer. Changing leaking and sagging guttering is an investment well worth considering as it will reassure potential buyers that it’s not a job they’ll have to do immediately after moving in. Most buyers will prefer to choose their own interior fittings anyway, so, why spend money on aesthetics that they will probably change?
What can I do with my Finlock gutters to help the sale of my house?
There are two solutions for dealing with your Finlock guttering. The first is gutter lining and the second is replacement.
Gutter Lining
This does what it says on the tin. The edge of the guttering is exposed and all old lining is cut out, cleaning the area for a painting with quick-drying, waterproof fibreglass. Then an EPS (eaves protection system) is installed to angle water away from the home into the gutter. When the EPS trays are joined, they are then covered with flashform and the tiles are replaced. The lining and repair solution to Finlock guttering is a cheaper option, although it will eventually need to be redone as it isn’t a long-term solution.
Gutter Replacement
Gutter replacement is the complete removal of the old guttering and then the replacement with new uPVC guttering. Our expert team will install the uPVC guttering in your chosen shape and colour to ensure your home is the smartest on the street. We use high-quality tools and materials and bring our own scaffolding. When the job is completed, we ensure that all debris and rubbish are removed – leaving your property clean, tidy and ready for potential viewers.
Have a question? Contact us today for a free quote:
Who are Finlock Removals
We are a well-known and reputable company in the industry – and for good reason! We don’t cut corners; we use only the best materials and the most highly qualified teams. Our long list of satisfied clients testifies to our high levels of customer service, care and quality of our work. With a dedicated team to keep you informed and up to date with every aspect of the work we undertake for you, we have streamlined our processes to make sure that the job is done professionally and quickly. We also pride ourselves on being straight-talking and trustworthy giving you honesty all the way. Moreover, all of our products are covered with an impressive twenty-year warranty on workmanship and materials.
If you’re considering selling your home soon and are worried that your Finlock guttering will get in the way of getting a good asking price, or know it’s causing damage to the house which will put off a potential buyer, why not discuss your options with a member of our team? We are happy to provide a free, no-obligation quote.
Get in touch today or give us a call on 0800 915 3287 to see how Finlock Removals can help you.
Trusted and reliable
Finlock Removals have been trusted by many as we have proven time and time again just how reliable we are both in our customer service and in the work, we complete for our many happy customers. We keep you updated throughout the process, make it minimal fuss for you, and ensure that the work is done to the best possible standard, so you don’t have to worry about your home.
Mr and Mrs Ashed | Coventry
We had our gutters lined by Finlock Removals, they were very professional and we aren’t experiencing problems anymore. If we decide to get them removed we will go back to Finlock Removals.
Mr and Mrs Rees | Surrey
We were looking at selling our property but found that buyers were trying to haggle money off because our property had concrete gutters. We decided to get them removed and replaced with upvc and we got our asking price.
Mr and Mrs Barker | Plymouth
Our concrete gutters were leaking, we’d had them lined by another company but apparently that counted for nothing. We decided to get them removed by Finlock Removals and haven’t looked back
Mr and Mrs Mason | Whitby
We’d had quotes from other companies but Finlock Removals really seemed to stand out and we’re so glad that we went with them.
Mr Franklin | Cheshire
I can’t believe how quickly the fitters completed the work and now it all looks so much better
Ms Ward | Essex
What a fantastic job! Signed the order form online, the fitters came with the access equipment, were polite and helpful and took the access equipment away with them