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.
Clogged gutter downspout.
The good news is it s not hard to clean gutters.
Use this guide to learn the basics of how to clean gutters and downspouts.
If you notice water leaking over the sides of your gutters there may be something stuck in your downspout preventing it from draining.
Over time leaves dirt and other debris can clog up the pipe.
These obstructions catch leaves and twigs.
How to unclog a gutter downspout written by cameron sherber on apr 17 2010.
Follow these suggestions to unclog your downspout starting with the easiest options first.
Then climb back up and try rinsing the downspout with your garden hose again.
Where s the gutter clogged.
Tap the side of the downspout.
Here s how to do it.
Then use a ladder to reach the top of the downspout insert a.
Tips on how to unclog a gutter downspout.
Gutter hangers and spikes often slip free from the fascia landing in the gutter.
The downspout cage a wire strainer designed to trap debris while allowing water to flow through is located where the downspout intersects the gutter.
If your downpipe isn t draining or water is flowing out the back then it s probably clogged.
Insert the end of the plumber s snake in the downspout until it meets resistance.
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.
To unclog a gutter downspout try your easiest options first.
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.
Learn more about how downspouts work.
When you fail to clear out a clogged downspout water backs up and the excess water may damage the exterior and.
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.
Walk down the ladder one rung at a time gently knocking on the side of the downspout as you go.
A downpipe drain is the underground pipe that runs water from gutters away from a building and usually lets out at the curb.
Start by cleaning the bottom downspout opening.