Clogged gutters can cause serious problems, from water damage to foundation issues. If your gutters are overflowing or your downspouts aren’t draining, a clog is likely the culprit — especially at tricky bends and elbows. Fortunately, clearing them out is a straightforward DIY task with the right tools.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods for unclogging your gutters and preventing future blockages.
Why Keeping Your Gutters Clean Is Important
For rain gutters to work properly, they need to stay clear of leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Clogged gutters can overflow, leading to water damage and other issues. They can also create noisy downspouts as trapped water struggles to drain.
While cleaning out the gutters is simple, the real trouble often starts where the downspout connects. Bends and elbows in downspouts are the most common spots for clogs.
How To Clean Gutters Using a Plumbing Snake
To unclog gutters and clean downspouts, just make a quick trip to the plumbing section of the home store and buy a plumber’s snake. The flexible metal cable of a plumber’s snake is the best way to clean them out. Follow these steps to unclog the gutter:
- Feed the plumber’s snake into the downspout until you hit the clog.
- Turn the crank while pushing forward to break up the blockage.
- Pull the snake out and remove any loosened debris.
- Insert a garden hose into the downspout and turn on the water at full pressure to flush out remaining dirt and leaves.
- If water still isn’t flowing freely, repeat the process until the clog is gone.
How To Prevent Downspouts From Clogging
To prevent downspouts from clogging, install a gutter strainer above the downspout opening. It allows rainwater to pass through while trapping leaves and debris where they can be easily removed. Just remember to clean the strainer regularly — if it gets clogged, your gutters will still back up.
Another option is GutterBrush, a cylindrical brush that sits inside the gutter. It lets water flow freely while blocking larger debris from settling and causing buildup.
So, Is Keeping Gutters Clog-Free a Good Idea?
Keeping your gutters and downspouts clear protects your home from water damage. Regular gutter maintenance, like removing debris and using tools like plumber’s snakes, gutter strainers, or GutterBrush, can help prevent costly issues down the line. A little upkeep goes a long way in ensuring your gutters work efficiently year-round. If you notice persistent clogs or drainage problems, consider upgrading to a gutter guard system or consulting a professional for long-term solutions.
