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Maintaining your residential gutters can be tricky, especially if they are clogged or malfunctioning. Often, a clog begins in the downspout, the pipe that carries rainwater from your roof down to the drain or ground level. Knowing the symptoms of common malfunctions is the first step towards preventing them, as well as costly repairs down the road.

Here are three downspout defects and how to address them:

  • Dumping Downspouts: The purpose of your home’s gutters is to move rainwater away from the foundation of the house and deflect potential water damage. If your downspouts are malfunctioning, you may notice standing water near the structure of your home. Downspouts that are too short can lead to dumping water and soaked soil—both of which put pressure on your foundation and lead to expensive repairs.
  • downspoutClogged Gutters: When your gutters and downspout are first installed, they are clear of debris, allowing water to flow away from your home. When leaves, twigs, and other debris block the downspout, water will remain stagnant in the pipes. This can cause your gutters to sag and pull away from your home’s fascia. By scheduling yearly maintenance visits, you can keep your gutters clean and allow water to move freely through the drainage system.
  • Downspout Damage: Depending on where you live, your downspouts can be damaged by ice, frost, splits, holes, leaks, and even animals. Each of these phenomena can affect your pipe’s ability to carry water away from the home, and will likely require a new gutter installation. While there is little you can do to protect your downspout and gutters from the elements, it’s wise to have a reliable company on call that can preserve your home’s structural integrity.

 

If you’re a homeowner in La Crosse, WI, looking for a gutter service to manage and maintain your downspouts, consider working with Nate’s Clean and Screen Gutter Service. With over 20 years of experience, this team will keep your gutters in top shape and answer any questions you may have about your downspouts. Visit them online or give them a call at (608) 526-4010 for more information.

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