Downspouts are the vertical lengths of piping attached to the sides of a home. They connect to the gutters that run vertically along the roof so that runoff water can be carried off the roof and safely away from the home, preventing damage to the structure and surrounding foundation. Downspouts are sized according to the quantity and velocity of runoff water needed to be eliminated from the home, and are generally constructed out of a material such as metal or vinyl, but can also be constructed out of wood.

When performing routine maintenance on downspouts, the following should be considered:

• All trapped debris should be removed from the downspout, using a plumber’s snake or garden hose that has been modified to spray water at a higher pressure. When cleaning, avoid being too rough, as the downspouts could pull away from the gutters or walls. Periodic cleaning, particularly during the fall, is highly recommended since most debris consists of leaves, twigs, and other organic matter which will break down into earth. This earth, then, becomes firmly compact and much more difficult to remove then loose leaves and twigs. To reduce the amount of debris that collects in gutters and downspouts, mesh coverings or leaf guards can be installed over the gutters and downspout outlets. However, it is important that installing these coverings do not result in other problems, such as reducing the amount of water they must accommodate or trapping vermin in the drainage system. It is recommended homeowners explore the several types of guards on the market today, and that they shop around for the guard best suited for their home.

• Downspouts should be connected securely to the gutters. If screws or pop rivets are used to connect a downspout outlet to a gutter, make sure these are tightened and silicone sealant forms a waterproof seal. If a gutter drop outlet is used, ensure it is also connected to the gutter with a waterproof seal.
• Check the fascia boards, whether they are flat or angled. Fascia boards run along the roof eaves as an edge and hide the rafters for aesthetic purposes. Since gutters and downspouts are normally attached to these boards, it is important that they are not damaged to provide a strong base for the attached drainage system.
• Sections of downspout piping must be connected securely to each other. The tapered ends of piping fit inside the non-tapered ends, and are fastened together with screws. Tighten these screws if necessary, or add more. Make sure that the screws which are used do not protrude too much into the downspout, as this will catch falling debris and result in clogs. Anchor straps attaching the downspouts to the wall should be secure, one placed ideally every six feet.
• Rust and damaged downspouts should be replaced or fixed.
• Elbows should be angled properly to maintain efficient dispersal of runoff water.
• Once runoff water reaches the end of a downspout, it should be directed well away from the property by a splash block, underground drainage system, or connecting downspout extender. Common in North America, splash blocks and downspout extenders are inexpensive but effective ways to eliminate runoff water.

Maintaining your downspouts is essential for effective water drainage, but common mistakes can undermine your efforts. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Neglecting Regular Inspections: One of the most frequent mistakes is failing to perform regular inspections. Downspouts should be checked at least twice a year, especially after heavy storms. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
2. Improper Cleaning Techniques: Using the wrong tools or methods can damage your downspouts. Avoid using high-pressure hoses that can dislodge downspouts from gutters or walls. Instead, use a garden hose with moderate pressure or a plumber’s snake to clear blockages gently.
3. Ignoring Small Repairs: Small issues like loose screws or minor rust spots can escalate if ignored. Tighten screws, replace rusted sections, and apply sealant where necessary to maintain the integrity of your downspouts.
4. Inadequate Debris Prevention: Many homeowners fail to install leaf guards or mesh coverings, leading to frequent clogs. Invest in quality gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris entering your downspouts, making maintenance easier and more effective.
5. Incorrect Installation of Extensions: Improperly installed downspout extenders or splash blocks can cause water to pool near your foundation, leading to damage. Ensure extensions direct water well away from your home and are securely attached.
6. Overlooking Connections and Joints: The connections between sections of downspouts and between downspouts and gutters are critical points. Make sure these connections are secure and watertight. Use silicone sealant and appropriate fasteners to prevent leaks and disconnections.

When to Call a Professional for Downspout Repairs

While regular maintenance can address many common issues with downspouts, there are times when calling a professional is the best course of action. If you notice persistent clogs despite regular cleaning, this might indicate a more significant blockage or damage within the system that requires specialized tools and expertise to resolve. Additionally, if your downspouts are pulling away from the house or gutters, a professional can ensure they are securely reattached without causing further damage.

Signs of rust or corrosion, especially in metal downspouts, should also prompt a call to a professional. These issues can compromise the integrity of the entire drainage system and lead to costly water damage if not addressed promptly. For homeowners with vinyl downspouts, cracks or splits that appear after severe weather events may require expert repairs to maintain the system’s effectiveness.

Finally, if you’re unsure how to maintain downspouts correctly or if you’ve tried to fix an issue but it persists, a professional assessment can provide peace of mind. Experts can evaluate the condition of your downspouts, suggest necessary repairs, and offer advice on preventative measures to keep your drainage system functioning optimally.

Conclusion

Maintaining your downspouts is crucial for protecting your home from water damage. Regular maintenance includes clearing debris, ensuring secure connections, inspecting and repairing any damage, and making sure runoff water is effectively directed away from your property. By following these practices, you can prevent clogs, reduce the risk of water damage, and extend the lifespan of your downspouts and gutters.

Following this checklist during routine maintenance will ensure proper drainage of runoff water from your home. Please see the page Gutter Downspout Extender Maintenance for more information.