Clogged Gutter Downspout

Where s the gutter clogged.

Clogged gutter downspout.

Over time leaves dirt and other debris can clog up the pipe. 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. To unclog a gutter downspout try your easiest options first. Then use a ladder to reach the top of the downspout insert a.

Here s how to do it. Follow these suggestions to unclog your downspout starting with the easiest options first. How to unclog a gutter downspout written by cameron sherber on apr 17 2010. 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.

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. When you fail to clear out a clogged downspout water backs up and the excess water may damage the exterior and. Tap the side of the downspout.

Often this item is bent or out of place. If you notice water leaking over the sides of your gutters there may be something stuck in your downspout preventing it from draining. Walk down the ladder one rung at a time gently knocking on the side of the downspout as you go. These obstructions catch leaves and twigs.

Gutter hangers and spikes often slip free from the fascia landing in the gutter. Tips on how to unclog a gutter downspout. Start by cleaning the bottom downspout opening. To ensure our content is always up to date with current information best practices and professional advice articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands on experience.

The good news is it s not hard to clean gutters. 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. 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. Use this guide to learn the basics of how to clean gutters and downspouts.

Insert the end of the plumber s snake in the downspout until it meets resistance. Learn more about how downspouts work.