Gutter Downspouts: What They Are and Why You Need Them

“When it rains, it pours” serves as a stark reminder of the importance of a good gutter system. Gutters effectively move water away from your home during rain, snow, and melting ice. Typically made of aluminum, but also available in vinyl, steel, or copper, gutters are installed around your roof’s edges and direct water to the ground. This design prevents damage to your roof and siding, while also stopping water from seeping into your home. As a result, you can avoid costly repairs and headaches. Additionally, gutter downspouts play a crucial role in ensuring your gutters function efficiently.

What is a Downspout and Why is it Important?

A gutter downspout is a tube that connects to the gutter at your roof’s edge and runs down the side of your home. It directs water away from your house, helping to prevent structural damage. Without downspouts, heavy rain and melting snow can flood the area near your foundation. This accumulation can seriously harm your basement if you have one.

How to Extend Your Gutter Downspout

Gutter drains at the bottom of the downspout leverage gravity to pull the water away from the foundation of a home and then allow it to flow over a wide area of dirt. Your downspout can even be extended to your driveway or an underground drainage system to further ensure protection by buying gutter extensions. Gutter extensions are flexible attachments that fit to the bottom of your downspout and can then be pulled out and even turned to the right or left. They are sold ready-made at many home improvement stores, and you can install them yourself.

Cleaning Downspouts

Clean your gutters and downspouts at least once a year to keep them functioning properly. Regular maintenance prevents leaves and debris from clogging the system. To check if your downspout is clear, run water through it. If the water doesn’t flow quickly, something is likely stuck. To unclog the downspout, insert a hose from the bottom and turn the water to full pressure. This often dislodges the blockage. If that doesn’t work, use a plumber’s snake to remove the clog and flush water through the downspout.

Additionally, inspect your downspouts regularly for damage. Look for dents, cracks, and gaps, as well as rust, broken fasteners, and peeling paint. If you find any issues, consider hiring a professional to replace the downspouts or the entire gutter system.

Find an Experienced Gutter Contractor

Hiring a professional installer for your gutters and downspouts can save you time and money. Contractors have the equipment needed to work in a timely and safe manner, and the expertise to complete the installation without wasting materials.

Modernize helps you find experienced gutter installers by providing information on trusted, local contractors who have been vetted for their experience and work quality. Check out our guide on how to vet potential gutter contractors to help you make an informed decision on who to hire by evaluating and comparing professionals until you find the one that’s right for you.

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