What Is A Downspout? All About Gutters And Downspouts

If you’ve ever wondered what downspouts are and how they work, you’re not alone. Both gutters and downspouts are essential components of a well-functioning drainage system. They help prevent damage by channeling rain and accumulated moisture away from your home, and make it possible to come and go without getting soaked.

In this article, we’re going to answer some of the most common questions about downspouts so you can make your home improvement decisions with confidence.

What Is A Downspout & How Does It Work?

Downspouts are pipes that are connected to gutters, and their main purpose is to funnel rainwater from the gutters and channel it out and away from the house. They’re also known as waterspouts, gutter pipes, and drainpipes. And whereas gutters are attached to the roof, downspouts are the long vertical pipes you see attached to the side of buildings and homes.

All that water collecting in your gutters needs somewhere to go, and downspouts are the key to redirecting it in a way that doesn’t damage your home’s exterior. Without them, pools of stagnant water would build up on your roof, causing roof damage as well as constant dripping and splashing down the sides of your home.

Where Do They Drain Into?

This can depend on what sort of drainage system you have. For example, some downspouts are connected to drains underground. In this scenario the water may drain to the street or sidewalk. It’s also possible to connect your drainage system directly to the underground sewer line. Other downspouts will drain straight into the ground in your backyard. Using a downspout extension is a great way to keep the water draining a safe distance away from your home.

Can They Get Clogged?

Your drainage system is going to need some maintenance from time to time, and that includes making sure your downspout is working properly. If you notice there’s no water draining after a heavy rainfall, you’ve probably got a clogged downspout on your hands.

Storms can cause leaves and other debris to build up in your downspouts, which increases the chance of water damage if not dealt with quickly. You can either try fixing it yourself by detaching any extensions to check for debris, or you can call your local gutter company to handle it. If you can’t easily find the source of the clog, it’s best to call the professionals for help.

How Many Downspouts Do You Need?

It’s generally recommended that downspouts drain no more than 35 feet of gutter. Because of this, you may end up needing more than one. You can figure out how many downspouts you might need by calculating your roof area and your gutter capacity. Other factors like the slope of your roof, gutter size, and climate can all affect the final number of downspouts you need.

Call Us Today For Your Custom Downspout Installation Needs

Troyer’s Seamless Rain Gutters offers downspout installation in the Plummer and Coeur d’Alene area. We offer decorative and artistic downspouts that can blend in seamlessly with the layout of your home. We also provide high-quality rain gutter installation and aluminum gutter covers. Give us a call at (208) 987-0414 today for your free quote!