DIY repairs are needed on this downspout.
Gutters and downspouts direct rain away from the house, protecting siding, windows, doors and the garden from water damage. Most importantly, they help prevent basement flooding. They are inconspicuous until they stop functioning properly due to clogging or lack of maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?
Downspout Position
No one wants to splash through water or slide on an icy patch from a gushing downspout, so be sure it is not positioned on or near sidewalks. To prevent soil erosion and to keep water away from the foundation, position a cement splash block under a 2-foot-long horizontal downspout extender.
Blocked Downspout
Keep the ladder in the garage, but get out the plumber's snake. Working from the bottom of the clogged downspout, feed in some coil. Turn the handle until it moves easily, then feed in some more coil. Leaves and silt should fall out from the bottom of the downspout. Repeat until all of the debris is removed.
Easy Cleaning
Grab your ladder and a hose with strong water pressure. From the roof, blast water from the hose through the downspout. This will loosen tough clogs.
Leaks
Try some leak-sealing compound on minor cracks. Clean the leaking area, then spray on the sealer.
For significant leaks, metal-patching compound is recommended. Instructions come with the do-it-yourself kit, which can be purchased at home improvement centers.
Install a New Downspout
If the downspout has suffered damage that can't be patched, it is time to install a new one. You will need a ladder, level, nails, screws or masonry fasteners, a drill, tape measure, metal snips or hacksaw, two metal elbows, a downspout and straps or brackets.
Attach an elbow to the drop outlet of the gutter and another elbow to the downspout. Have a helper hold the downspout against the house, then measure the distance between the ends of the two elbows. Cut a piece of downspout a few inches longer than needed and, doing the assembly on the ground, slide it into the inside of the downspout elbows. Position a longer piece of downspout against the house. Every 6 to 8 feet, fasten the downspout to the house with straps or brackets. Attach a downspout extender to the bottom with a splash block underneath.
Tags: against house, away from, brackets Attach, downspout against, downspout against house