A downspout is the pipe that connects to the gutter on your home or business building. It transports rainwater down and away from the structure to prevent moisture damage and flooding. Keeping it maintained and working properly, however, is imperative for the overall health of your home. Here are a few simple tips to ensure your drain is performing optimally.

How to Maintain Your Downspout

1. Clean Regularly

Especially during the spring and summer seasons when rainfall is heaviest, you should invest in regular cleaning. While many people think to clear away leaves and debris from the gutters themselves, this is only part of the procedure. Remember to always check your downspout as well. Because it’s enclosed, it’s a prime location for squirrels or birds to build nests. You can do this by inserting a plumber's snake down the pipe. Once you meet resistance, move it back and forth until the clog is loosened. This should be done at least twice yearly.

2. Check the Screws

One of the biggest issues homeowners face with downspouts is their ability to leak. This can cause damage to the roof or flooding at the foundation of your home. This is most likely to occur when sections of the piping come apart due to a loose screw. At the start of the spring season, inspect the pipes and screws to ensure they are all securely connected and tightened. If a screw is stripped of its ridges, replace it as soon as possible.

3. Replace Rusted Parts

Because it handles a large amount of water, gutters and downspouts alike are prone to rust. When rusting occurs, the integrity of the gutters or pipes is compromised. If not fixed, you run the risk of a pipe bursting during a rainstorm. Avoid this by checking their condition at the start of spring. Call a professional for pipe or gutter replacement if you notice any rust.

Keep your downspouts working in top condition by investing in proper maintenance. If you need professional help in the Cookeville, TN, area, contact Borden Seamless Guttering & Siding. For over 40 years, their highly trained team has provided a number of services, including repairs, installations, and cleaning. To learn more about their gutters and downspouts, visit their website or call (931) 528-2816 today.