Keeping your gutters clear is an important part of keeping your gutter system functioning properly. However, debris can sometimes get clogged and cause issues.
Fortunately, there are many ways to unclog your gutter downspout. Some are more effective than others, so it’s important to try them all and find the right solution for you.
Use a Ladder
When gutters become clogged, the rainwater is unable to flow down them, which can cause water to pool around the foundation and overflow the downspout, causing damage to your home.
One of the easiest ways to unclog gutter downspout is to simply flush it out with water. To do this, place a garden hose down into the downspout opening and ask a helper to turn on the hose.
If this does not clear it up, you may need to try a different method. If you have a ladder, you can use it to clean the downspout.
Ensure the ladder is stable and in good condition before starting. You should choose a sturdy, four-legged ladder if possible. It will be easier to work from a higher height and it will prevent dents in the downspout.
When working on a ladder, make sure you wear thick gloves and eye protection. You should also have someone on the ground to hold the ladder steady and turn the water on when necessary.
Use a Pressure Washer
A clogged downspout can cause water to overflow your gutter and damage your foundation. It also prevents the water from draining properly, which can lead to stains and mould.
Using a pressure washer to unclog your gutters is an excellent way to keep them clean and free of debris. You can choose a light-duty model that runs off your home’s electricity supply or a more powerful gas engine-powered unit.
The water pressure delivered to the spray gun is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). It provides the power to break up dirt, remove mud and other build-ups, and blast away stubborn oxidation marks on your gutters.
Before using a pressure washer, make sure you follow all safety precautions. For example, hold the nozzle about eight feet from the surface you want to clean and aim it at a 40-degree angle.
Use a Snake
If your downspout is stuck in an elbow or bend, you may be able to use a snake to unclog it. This method is less dangerous than a pressure washer, but it may not work well if the clog is deep in your gutter.
Place the end of the snake in the downspout and push it in as far as you can, then wiggle it around a bit. This will help loosen the clog and push it into the other end of the downspout.
Try this several times to see if the clog comes out. If it doesn’t, you may need to try another method.
If you have a hose, spray it up the downspout to rinse out the clog. If you don’t have a hose, you can also use a power washer with a high water pressure to break up the clog and push it into the downspout.
Use an Auger
Clogged gutter downspouts are a common home-maintenance problem that can cause damage to the foundation and landscaping of a home. These clogs can also lead to basement flooding.
Fortunately, there are several DIY methods that you can use to unclog your downspouts. To start, you’ll need an auger, a metal line that fits inside a cylindrical drum.
Place the bottom end of the auger into the downspout and turn on a strong stream of water to push the clog out. This method will work for most downspout clogs.
If the clog doesn’t come out, repeat this process a few times to force out the blockage.
If you can’t get the clog out, you may need to call in professional help to clean your gutter system. However, if you’re handy with an auger, you can do this yourself at least twice a year to prevent clogs. This way you can keep your gutters clean and free from debris.
Lastly, call a professional to help. Gutter Task Force can unclog downspouts quickly and get the water flowing again.
