Most people tend to overlook the importance of keeping their home’s downspouts cleaned. They are an important component of the house that drains away the rainwater, thereby preventing it from accumulating on the roof.
However, as the water drains through the downspouts, so does debris—including leaves and twigs that can clog the drainpipe. Luckily for you, Reimer offers drain cleaning services in Buffalo and Western New York.
What happens if a drain pipe clogs?
Roofs, especially those with parapet walls, are catchalls for any and all sort of debris, including leaves, twigs, and plastic bags, among others. Drains and debris don’t mix. A drain’s dome lets water flow through while catching debris, which would otherwise clog the plumbing. Unfortunately, this debris builds up around the drain dome, slowing or eventually stopping the water.
Keep in mind that debris and drain is a bad match. If you don’t clean the debris, it will slowly accumulate around the drain dome and slow down or stop the flow of water. A clogged drain pipe can result in accumulation of water over the roof that can cause damage in many ways:
- As water seeps into the gaps, it can expand and contract due to changing temperature thereby weakening the seams of the roofing material
- Accumulated water can deteriorate roofing cement, tar, and caulking
- Build up of water may strain the structural support of the roof due to additional weight
- Lead to the formation of moss, plants, and slime on the roof deck
- Create the breeding ground for mosquitoes
So, how can you prevent your home’s downspouts from clogging?
The answer is simple. You should either regularly check the condition of the downspout yourself, or have the downspouts checked by an experienced plumber. The plumber can inspect the dome of the downspout and clear twigs, leaves, and other debris using proper tools without damaging the assembly or the structure.
Another advice to avoid clogged downspout is to ensure that the correct type, size, and thickness of the drain-dome slot is installed. You must talk with a professional roof drain expert to inquire about the right size and type of downspout for your home. Some of the factors that determine which is the right size downspout for your house include average rainfall exposure and the roof size.
In the end, remember that the best time to inspect and clean the downspout is before the rainiest season of the year. You should have the downspout inspected and cleaned of all debris. Also, after a heavy snowstorm, you should maintain the openings by creating a 12-inch path along the curb for the melting snow.
Call Reimer for drain cleaning of downspouts and other drains
If you to have the downspout checked and cleaned in the area of Buffalo, you can contact Reimer Home Services. You can rest assured that our highly experienced and trained plumbers can expertly perform all kind of plumbing in your home.
