Rainfall is an integral part of the climate in Fort Worth and there might be a lot this fall. Rain isn’t always the best thing to happen your home though. That’s why there are measures in place to protect your home from rain damage: gutter systems.
Sloped gutter channels direct rainwater to the attached downspouts which in turn direct water towards a designated drainage area. Homeowners can benefit immensely by understanding how downspouts work, what their purpose is, and how they can maintain them. Here’s a guide to help you with just that.
The Basics
Gravity is a downspout’s best friend. A downspout is a lightweight tube that extends from your gutter troughs to the ground. They direct rainwater away from the home. They are typically placed at the end of a trough along the sides of your home and towards a proper drainage area. However, they can also be placed at any low point along a gutter system.
Downspouts are important because they protect your home from water damage. As water accumulates on the roof of your home, it moves down into your gutter system. The gutters collect and prevent water from dripping off the sides of your house.
How Many Do I Need?
As a rule, you should typically have one downspout for 20 feet of guttering. However, more may be required depending on the weather, the size of the drainage area, and the gutter system’s design.
A badly designed or poorly installed gutter system can cause water to pool around the base of your house. This runs the risk of serious damage to the roof, siding, and foundation.
Downspout Maintenance
While it can be relatively straightforward to clean out your gutters, maintaining your downspouts can be more difficult because you can’t see them. Wash out clogs in your downspouts with a hose so they remain at peak performance throughout the year.
Make sure that you have your gutters and downspouts inspected and cleaned at least twice a year. This will allow you to detect leaks and other drainage problems before they become worse.
If, despite your best efforts at maintenance, your home’s downspout drainage system does not function up to the task, consult experts for the job. Pro Serve Plumbing offers residents in Fort Worth professional sewer and drain repair services. Drop us a message to get an estimate! Call 817-244-0614.
