Gutter cleaning is an essential part of home maintenance. It helps to keep your home safe from water damage and other issues that can arise from clogged gutters. But, it's not enough to just clean the gutters. You also need to clean out the downspouts.
This is a crucial step in gutter cleaning that should not be overlooked. Downspouts are the pipes that carry water away from your gutters and away from your home. They are usually made of metal or plastic and can become clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris. If left unchecked, this debris can cause water to back up in your gutters and cause damage to your home's foundation or roof.
Fortunately, cleaning out the downspouts is relatively straightforward. The first step is to inspect the downspouts for any visible blockages. If you see any, you can use a garden hose to flush them out. Start at the top of the downspout and work your way down until all of the debris has been cleared away.
If you don't see any visible blockages, you can use a plumber's snake or auger to clear out any hidden debris. Start at the top of the downspout and slowly feed the snake into the pipe until it reaches the bottom. As you feed it in, twist it back and forth to break up any clogs that may be present. Once you reach the bottom, pull out the snake and check for any debris that may have been dislodged.
If you don't have a plumber's snake or auger, you can also use a pressure washer to clean out your downspouts. Start at the top of the downspout and slowly move the pressure washer nozzle down the pipe. As you move it down, make sure to keep it pointed away from your home so that you don't damage any siding or windows. Once you reach the bottom, move the nozzle back up and check for any debris that may have been dislodged.Once you've finished cleaning out your downspouts, it's important to inspect them for any signs of damage or corrosion.
If you notice any cracks or holes in the pipe, it's best to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from leaking into your home.Cleaning out your downspouts is an important part of gutter cleaning that should not be overlooked. By taking the time to inspect and clean out your downspouts regularly, you can help protect your home from water damage and other issues that can arise from clogged gutters.