If you have a downspout that has become clogged, you should know that there are several ways to fix the problem yourself. One way is to bend the hanger, remove a section of the gutter, and rehang it. However, if the downspout is seamless, you should contact a gutter repair company to fix it.
Signs of a Clogged Downspout
If you’re having trouble with your downspout, the first step is determining where the clog is. In general, a gutter downspouts Lynnwood should drain on the outgoing side of your home, but if it doesn’t, you’ve probably got a clog in the downspout. The easiest way to determine if you have a clog is to pour water down the downspout and watch it slowly drain. If the water flow is very slow, there is likely a clog. If your downspout is connected to the underground drainage system, you’ll need to remove this from the system before you can clean the clog.
A variety of reasons can cause clogged downspouts. Most clogs occur at the downspout’s intersection with the gutter. A wire strainer in the downspout can become loose, or a piece of debris can become lodged inside the downspout. If this happens, it’s a good idea to call a professional plumber or a home improvement center to get the clog out of your drainpipe.
Repairs
There are many reasons why homeowners need to make repairs to their gutter downspouts. A damaged downspout may not be as visible as you would like, but there are some steps you can take to make the repairs easier. First, you should identify where the downspout is located and where it drains. Ideally, the outlet of the downspout should be at least four to six feet from the house. If it is located closer to the foundation, you may need to remove the bottom strap. You should also ensure that the end of the gutter stays within any landscaping features. If it does, the water from the downspout can wash away your plants.
Performing regular gutter cleanings will also help you identify any blockages. If you notice that the water in your gutters is not draining, you can use a garden hose to flush it out. Also, if you find debris, you can remove it with a long stick or broom handle. If the debris is too tough to remove, you can use a powerful blast of water from a garden hose to clear the downspout.
Cost
Many factors affect the cost of gutter downspout repairs. Repairing gutters on your home can increase the value of your property and can also save you money in the long run. Repairing gutters made of copper can add a lot of value to your home and can last up to 50 years. Copper gutters often need various repair forms, including a green patina, which can be expensive but protects the underlying metal.
A damaged downspout can cost from $125 to $250 to replace. The amount you pay will depend on the material and type of downspout that needs repair. For example, a vinyl downspout is much cheaper to replace than a copper downspout. In some cases, the downspout needs to be replaced altogether.
The best place to start is by inspecting the gutter. Look for any rusty spots or open seams. If you see any of these, you can purchase some gutter repair tape at your local home center or hardware store.
Accessories
Gutter downspout repairs can be costly, but luckily, there are accessories to help keep them in good working condition. These accessories range from heating cables (about $1 per linear foot) to screens preventing clogs. Additionally, these accessories help redirect leaves and debris away from the downspout opening. These accessories can also protect siding and roof underlayment from water damage.
Splash blocks are another inexpensive accessory you can add to your gutter downspout. These splash blocks redirect water away from your home and may be made from plastic, terracotta, or concrete.
Rain chains are another useful accessory. They direct water from gutters into a special area and can be a decorative alternative to downspouts. You can also use rain chains to blend into your home’s decor.
