Downspout Repair: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Common Downspout Problems

Like any part of your home’s exterior system, downspouts take a beating. Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles, hail, wind, tree branches, and even shifting soil can all lead to damage. Here are the most common downspout issues we repair at Ernie’s Gutter:

1. Clogged Downspouts

Leaves, pine needles, and debris get stuck inside, especially if there’s no gutter guard system in place. This can cause water to back up into the gutter and overflow.

2. Disconnected Joints

Downspouts can come apart where they connect to the gutter or where elbow sections join. Water will leak at these joints instead of being directed away from the home.

3. Crushed or Bent Pipes

Heavy objects leaning against downspouts (or vehicles bumping them) can crush them and restrict flow. We often see this in narrow alleyways or driveways.

4. Improper Slope or Length

If the downspout isn’t long enough or doesn’t extend far enough from the house, water can pool near the foundation. Likewise, downspouts that slope uphill (yes, we’ve seen it) simply don’t work.

5. Leaky Seams

Older downspouts, especially sectional ones, may develop leaks at the seams. Seamless downspouts are a great solution here.

DIY Downspout Repair Tips

Some minor downspout issues can be fixed by handy homeowners. Here are a few tips:

Unclog a Downspout

• Remove the bottom elbow and flush with a hose from the top down

• Use a plumber’s snake to break up clogs if needed

• Reconnect with self-tapping screws and check for leaks

Reattach Loose Sections

• Use pop rivets or sheet metal screws to secure loose parts

• Seal any gaps with exterior-grade silicone caulk

Extend a Downspout

• Add a flexible or rigid extension to redirect water at least 4 to 6 feet away from your foundation

• Use splash blocks or underground drainage piping if needed

When to Call a Professional

Not every downspout problem is a DIY job. You should call a licensed contractor if:

• The downspout is crushed, severely corroded, or broken

• You need to replace multiple sections of gutter or downspout

• The water runoff is causing foundation or basement damage

• You want to install buried downspout drainage

• You’re unsure what’s causing the problem

Our experienced crew at Ernie’s Gutter can diagnose the issue and provide a solution that lasts.

Professional Solutions We Offer

Ernie’s Gutter provides full-service downspout repair and replacement for residential and commercial properties across Denver and the Front Range. Here’s what we can do:

• Replace damaged downspout sections

• Reconfigure your drainage for proper flow

• Install buried drain lines with pop-up emitters

• Upgrade to seamless downspouts

• Add leaf guards or gutter screens to reduce clogs

• Tie downspouts into French drains or rain barrels

Why Downspouts Matter in Denver

Colorado homes are exposed to wild weather swings—hail, heavy snow loads, fast-melting snow, and dry spells followed by downpours. That mix means your drainage system needs to be rock-solid.

If your downspouts are underperforming, water will find its way into places it doesn’t belong—like behind your siding, under your foundation, or into your basement. That’s not something you want to discover after a storm.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Want to keep your downspouts flowing right year-round? Do this:

• Clean gutters and downspouts twice a year (spring and fall)

• Install gutter guards to prevent clogging

• Inspect downspout connections and joints regularly

• Extend downspouts at least 4 to 6 feet from your home

• Watch runoff patterns after a storm—adjust as needed

• Schedule annual gutter inspections

Areas We Serve

Ernie’s Gutter proudly services the following areas:

• Denver

• Englewood

• Aurora

• Littleton

• Wheat Ridge

• Arvada

• Commerce City

• Westminster

• Parker

• Northglenn

• Thornton

• The entire Front Range

Why Homeowners Choose Ernie’s Gutter

• Over 45 years of experience serving Colorado homes

• Fully licensed and insured

• Seamless custom-fit gutter and downspout solutions

• High-quality materials built to withstand Denver’s climate

• Free estimates, honest recommendations, no pressure

We don’t cut corners—and we don’t do guesswork. Our name is on every job we finish, and we stand by our work.

Ready for Downspout Repair?

Don’t let water damage your home. Call Ernie’s Gutter today at 720-346-ROOF or visit us online at https://erniesroofing.com to schedule your free estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I replace just part of a downspout?
Yes. In most cases, only the damaged section needs to be replaced. We can match materials and fit it to your existing gutter system.

Q2: How much does downspout repair cost in Denver?
Basic repairs typically range from $150 to $400. If new materials or buried drain lines are needed, it could run higher. We always provide a written estimate before work starts.

Q3: Should downspouts be buried or extended above ground?
Either works, depending on your property. Buried lines are neater but require excavation. Surface extensions are easy to adjust and maintain.

Q4: Do you offer seamless downspout installation?
Yes, we fabricate seamless gutters and downspouts on-site for a perfect fit and leak-free performance.

Q5: What causes downspouts to disconnect or fall off?
Improper installation, heavy clogs, and wind stress are the usual suspects. We secure downspouts with brackets and screws designed for Colorado wind loads.

Q6: Can I install rain barrels at the end of my downspout?
Absolutely. We can modify your downspouts to tie into a rain barrel system for eco-friendly water collection.

Q7: How long should a downspout last?
With proper installation and maintenance, aluminum or steel downspouts can last 20 to 30 years in Colorado’s climate.

Q8: What’s the best material for downspouts in Denver?
We recommend aluminum for rust resistance or galvanized steel in high-traffic areas. Both handle hail and sun exposure well.

Q9: How far should my downspouts discharge from my foundation?
Ideally, 4 to 6 feet. In some cases, longer extensions or underground lines are needed to prevent pooling and erosion.

Q10: Do I need a permit to repair or replace downspouts?
Not usually. However, if you’re tying into storm drains or doing extensive drainage work, we’ll check local code for you and pull permits if needed.

Company Information

Ernie’s Gutter
Roofing, Seamless Gutter, and Siding Contractor
1195 W Custer Pl, Denver, CO 80223
Phone: 720-346-ROOF
Website: https://erniesroofing.com
Serving Denver and the Colorado Front Range Since 1978