How To Unclog A Gutter Downspout

Use a strong stream of water and avoid spraying underneath the roof shingles.

How to unclog a gutter downspout.

Be sure that the area is clear at the end of the downspout. Remove the guard at the other end of the drain pipe if there is one. 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. Step 2 take apart your gutter downspout.

Gutter cleaning by p j. Learning how to unclog a downspout is easy for any homeowner who is comfortable on a ladder. Tips on how to unclog a gutter downspout. Follow these suggestions to unclog your downspout starting with the easiest options first.

Gutter hangers and spikes often slip free from the fascia landing in the gutter. Then use a ladder to reach the top of the downspout insert a. Install gutter covers so leaves can t get inside the downspout. Periodically rinsing your downspout in this manner is a good way to prevent the formation of clogs.

Position the covers on top of your gutter system so there s a 1 2 in 1 3 cm opening between the edges. Once you ve located the source of the clog don a pair of rubber gloves and carefully. Check to see if water and debris come out the other end of the pipe. If spraying the clog with your hose proves unsuccessful use a screwdriver to take apart your downspout at the bends.

Many people wait until the spring but it s much better to clean out the leaves prior to all the winter snow melt and spring rains. Measure the length of your gutter system with a tape measure and buy the same length of gutter covers from a hardware or outdoor care store. Then climb back up and try rinsing the downspout with your garden hose again. Flush out the gutter with water starting at the far end and moving toward the downspout.

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. Turn on a garden hose to its most powerful setting and run water through the drain pipe. Rinse the downspout from the top thoroughly to confirm that water is flowing freely.

Start by cleaning the bottom downspout opening. To unclog a gutter downspout try your easiest options first. If you wait until spring or summer the downspouts elbows and drop outlets are usually already clogged. For maximum power when spraying gutters and downspouts use a pressure washer.

Where s the gutter clogged. Often this item is bent or out of place. Put the downspout extension back on. Late autumn or early winter or whenever the trees are bare is the right time to clean out your gutters.

Specialty gutter cleaning attachments for your garden hose can make the job easier. Tap the side of the downspout.