Debris in eaves troughs and down spouts can be a real pain, especially when they are up there out of easy reach. A call-out to clear them can turn out expensive. Some homeowners have searched for an automatic way to clear stoppages for a long time.
Less Expensive Options to Gutter Guards
Gutter guards are our preferred solution, although many homeowners balk at the cost. There are a number of gadgets on the market that present alternatives. Some are quite good, while others offer cheap solutions for debris in eaves troughs and down spouts that seldom work.
There are two points on the downspout line where debris accumulates. The first of these are entry points where downspouts connect to eaves troughs. While the second is somewhere in the underwater drainage where the water finally flows away.
Ways to Prevent Debris Entering Downspouts
Leaf catchers insert into tops of downspouts to prevent large debris entering. They may be flat strainers across the opening, or rounded as we illustrate above. They may help for a while, but not permanently.
That’s because debris can accumulate into a sodden mass, blocking them and causing water to spill over the eaves trough. They are easy to install if you don’t mind climbing up a ladder. However, they do need regular clearing so the problem is deferred, not eliminated.
Ways to Prevent Underwater Drainage Stoppages
We move on to the second alternative to leaf guards. These are downspout clean-outs AKA leaf eaters we illustrate in the video below. They interrupt downspouts at convenient points, accessible while standing on the ground below.
They could work in an almost debris-free environment with no trees nearby. However, the homeowner needs to remember to clear them after every rainfall. Or else they could overflow sending water plummeting directly over the foundations.
Why Valiant Exteriors Recommends Leaf Guards
Leaf guards are self-clearing devices that catch, and hold debris until wind blows it away. However, this may become solid and block the flow in eaves troughs and down pipes when moist. But on a sunny dry day the moisture usually evaporates, and the next wind clears the debris away. Speak to Valiant Exteriors for an honest quote for leaf guards whenever you are ready.
Links to More Useful Information
Strong Winds Are Not Gutters Friends
YouTube Share Link: a Down Spout Clean Out
Preview Image: Two Types of Down Spout Filters (Ibu BY CC 4.0)