When downspouts clog, break, detach, or simply don’t exist in the right locations, they open the door to a host of problems. Keep your downspouts clean and functional to prevent:
- Roof Damage
Without proper drainage, water backs up in the gutters and spills onto the roof deck. That constant overflow can rot decking, peel shingles, and eventually lead to interior leaks. Worse, it shortens the lifespan of your entire roof system. In colder months, clogged downspouts can contribute to ice dams, which trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration.
- Foundation Issues
Water that’s not channeled away will collect around the perimeter of your house. Over time, that water saturates the soil, shifts the ground, and erodes your foundation. Cracks, settlement, and even basement flooding can follow. Properly placed downspouts move water away from your foundation, protecting one of your home’s most critical structural elements.
- Siding and Trim Rot
Constant dripping water doesn’t just look bad—it wreaks havoc on your siding and trim. Over time, moisture can penetrate behind boards, leading to mold, mildew, and rot. If your home has wood elements or fiber cement siding, that trapped water can turn into serious (and expensive) repairs.
- Landscape Erosion
Water pouring straight off the roof forms ruts in flower beds, washes out mulch, and kills plants. Over time, it can wear down walkways and damage your driveway. Redirecting water with properly functioning downspouts keeps your landscape intact and your hardscape looking clean.
