How to Tell if Your Downspouts Are Clogged
Your downspouts allow rainwater or snowmelt from the gutters to reach the ground without splashing or dripping down the side of your home. If your downspouts become clogged with leaves, animal droppings, shingle granules and other debris, water can back up and threaten the foundation of your house.
Look for these telltale signs that your downspouts are clogged before calling a residential roofing professional:
- There is no sign of water. One of the most obvious signs your downspouts may be clogged is when there is no water flowing out of it after a rainfall. A well-maintained downspout should be able to seamlessly transport water from the gutter and into the drain in the ground.
- The water is backed up in the gutters. Is there an accumulation of water in your gutters? If water is spilling over the sides of the gutters, then you definitely need to check your system for clogs. The last thing you want is for water to back up, get under your roofing shingles and leak inside.
- There are leaks in the seams. If you see water spritzing from the seams or joints of your gutter or downspout, there is a real likelihood that a blockage is present. In addition to clearing out your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year, it is important to have any cracks or holes on their exterior sealed to prevent leaks.
- Test it with a hose. If you suspect your downspouts are clogged and want to confirm it, point a garden hose into your underground downspout system and turn on a forceful stream of water. If the water sprays back toward you, there is a clog.
Howard Roofing & Home Improvements is a premier source of high-quality residential and commercial roofing. From roof inspections and repairs to gutter and downspout cleaning and maintenance, our team is ready to help. Call us at (636) 251-5573 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We work with clients in and around St. Louis, MO.