Clogged Gutter Downspout

Here s how to do it.

Clogged gutter downspout.

Since leaking gutters can create water damage weaken your home s foundation or make walkways slippery it s important to unblock the downspout as soon as possible. A downpipe drain is the underground pipe that runs water from gutters away from a building and usually lets out at the curb. Rain gutters get clogged with leaves and other debris over time so it s best to clean them regularly to avoid more difficult work later. Often homeowners remember to clear out gutters but forget downspouts which means that water flows down smoothly from the roof through the gutters and then gets stuck in a clogged downspout.

If you notice water leaking over the sides of your gutters there may be something stuck in your downspout preventing it from draining. Where s the gutter clogged. How to unclog a gutter downspout written by cameron sherber on apr 17 2010. Tap the side of the downspout.

Follow these suggestions to unclog your downspout starting with the easiest options first. Learn more about how downspouts work. Use this guide to learn the basics of how to clean gutters and downspouts. Expose the bottom downspout opening divert the flow away from any landscape drain and then use a garden trowel to reach up into the opening and remove any clogged leaves and debris that could have accumulated there.

Then climb back up and try rinsing the downspout with your garden hose again. If your downpipe isn t draining or water is flowing out the back then it s probably clogged. When you fail to clear out a clogged downspout water backs up and the excess water may damage the exterior and. Over time leaves dirt and other debris can clog up the pipe.

To unclog a gutter downspout try your easiest options first. Start by cleaning the bottom downspout opening. Walk down the ladder one rung at a time gently knocking on the side of the downspout as you go. The downspout cage a wire strainer designed to trap debris while allowing water to flow through is located where the downspout intersects the gutter.

These obstructions catch leaves and twigs. Then use a ladder to reach the top of the downspout insert a. The good news is it s not hard to clean gutters. Elbows in downspouts are the worst culprits and the flexible metal cable of a plumber s snake is the best way to clean them out.

Gutter hangers and spikes often slip free from the fascia landing in the gutter. Often this item is bent or out of place.