If your downspouts have become clogged with leaves and debris, water can back up and cause moisture-related damage, such as leaks, soil erosion and basement flooding. Be on the lookout for these signs that your downspouts are clogged before calling a gutter shield and maintenance specialist.
Signs of Clogged Downspouts
- There is no evidence of water. After rainfall has passed, check to see if water is flowing out of the bottom of your downspout’s extensions and being directed into a drainage in the ground. If there is no sign of rainwater or snowmelt, there may be a problem with your gutters and downspouts.
- Seams are leaking. Take a look at your gutters and downspouts when it is raining. If water is leaking out of the seams of these pipes, there is a real likelihood that blockages in the guttering system are present.
- Water has backed up in the gutters. Another indication that your downspouts are clogged is the presence of a buildup of water in the gutters. If water is spilling over to the sides of the gutters when it is supposed to be running off seamlessly into the ground, there are definitely clogs in your downspouts.
How to Test if Your Downspouts Are Clogged
If you suspect that your downspouts are clogged but want to make sure, test it with a garden hose. Point the hose to your downspout system and turn on a forceful stream of water. If the water from the hose spritzes back toward you, there is a clog in the system. However, the forceful stream of water might be able to clear it.
You can count on Gutter Helmet® of Cookeville for professional gutter cleaning and gutter shield installation services in and around Cookeville, Tennessee. Give us a call at (866) 985-9982 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.
