Downspout Clogged

Step 1: Confirm the clog is in the extension

1. Wait for a dry moment or use a hose so you can test without standing in heavy runoff.
2. Look at the bottom of the downspout while water is running from above.
3. If water backs up at the connection, spills out at seams, or barely trickles from the far end of the extension, the extension is likely blocked.
4. Check the visible length for a crushed section, sharp bend, or low spot packed with mud.

If it works: You have confirmed the blockage is in the extension or right at its connection point.

If it doesn’t: If water flows strongly through the extension, the problem is more likely higher up in the gutter or downspout instead of in the extension.

Step 2: Set up the area and disconnect the extension

1. Put on gloves and place a bucket or tarp under the connection.
2. Pull the loose end of the extension away from mulch, stones, or splash blocks so you can work on a straight run.
3. If the extension is screwed or clamped on, remove the fastener and slide the extension off the downspout outlet.
4. If it is just friction-fit, twist gently and pull it free without bending the downspout.

Step 3: Remove packed debris by hand and with a brush

1. Start at the end that was attached to the downspout, since clogs often form near the first bend or low section.
2. Pull out leaves, seed pods, roof grit, and mud by hand where you can reach.
3. Run a flexible brush or rod through the extension to break up compacted material.
4. Shake the extension and tap it lightly along the ground to loosen stubborn buildup.

Step 4: Flush the full length with a hose

1. Insert the hose into one end and run water through the extension.
2. Keep the far end pointed away from the house so the dirty water does not wash back toward the foundation.
3. Flip the extension and flush from the opposite end to clear any remaining debris.
4. Continue until water runs out at full flow without backing up.

Step 5: Reconnect and aim the extension for drainage

1. Slide the extension back onto the downspout outlet and reinstall any screw or clamp that held it in place.
2. Lay the extension so it runs downhill or at least flat, without a sag that can trap sediment.
3. Aim the discharge away from the foundation, walkway, and driveway edge.
4. Make sure the outlet is not buried in mulch, soil, or grass that can clog it again right away.

If it doesn’t: If the extension will not stay aligned, add support, shorten an awkward section, or replace a warped piece.

Step 6: Test it in real use

1. Run water from a hose into the gutter or top of the downspout for several minutes to mimic steady rain.
2. Watch the connection, the full length of the extension, and the discharge point.
3. Confirm there is no backup at the elbow, no leaking at the joint, and no pooling next to the house after the flow stops.
4. Check again after the next real rain if possible.

If it works: Water exits cleanly at the far end and the area near the foundation stays drier.

If it doesn’t: If backup returns during a normal test, the clog may be higher in the downspout or farther downstream in a buried drain line.