Downspouts are made up of the pipe that diverts rainwater from the gutters into the house and eventually out and away from the foundation. Clogged downspouts can cause rainwater to back up and flow over the edge of the gutters. This can damage the siding, foundation, landscape, and can even cause flooding in and around the home.

Downspouts are typically clogged at the top entry with leaves, twigs, bird nests, pet toys, roof debris, pine needles, etc. Downspouts can also become clogged internally. Debris often gets stuck in one of the downspout elbows and then begins to build up. This not only blocks the flow of rainwater, but can also cause permanent damage to the downspout. When water and debris that is trapped inside the downspout freezes and then expands, the downspout can split or rust from years of debris sitting there.

Using the proper gutter cleaning equipment, a professional gutter cleaner must test that all your downspouts are working properly. If there is an internal clog try using a plumber’s snake and work through the debris and tapping on a downspout will often free the debris. If that doesn’t release the debris, you can try using a garden hose with a high-pressure water nozzle on the end. You can climb the downspout from below or try to wash the debris from above. If the downspout is still clogged, use the proper tools to disassemble the downspout and remove any debris by hand. The amount of debris that can get caught in a downspout is staggering. I’ve seen them packed down 4-5 feet with md, dirt, leaves biodegrading in there. The downspout then needs to be put back together and water tested to make sure it is in good working order.

It is also very important where the downspout diverts rainwater. A common problem that I see is that rainwater is poured directly next to the house. At the end of the downspout there should be an extension or splash block that carries water at least 4 to 5 feet from the house. I see many extensions that are broken and not working properly. Extensions are often stepped on and squashed because they extend into aisles. Others are designed to fold up out of the way, but never put back. Most companies can install, repair, or replace these extensions when necessary.

Like your personal health, prevention is always the best answer. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts at least once a year will reduce many of the problems associated with rainwater damage.

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