Most homeowners don’t really think about their downpipes and gutter drains until something
goes wrong in the house. The truth is a blockage or other issue in your external drainage
system can cause serious water damage, long before you ever notice.
In this post, we run through the most common downpipe and gutter drain problems, what they
can lead to inside and when to call a professional for help.
How downpipes and gutter drains actually work
Your gutters collect rainwater from the roof and channel it into the downpipes, which then carry
it away from your home’s foundation and walls.
When the system is working properly, water is directed into stormwater drains which are well
clear of your home. When it doesn’t work the water has to go somewhere, and that’s often into
your walls, ceilings or floor.
Common issues to look out for
When we’re called out to investigate internal water damage, we see the same problems come
up again and again:
- Leaves and debris causing a complete blockage
- Crushed or cracked downpipes
- Disconnected downpipe joints
- Incorrectly graded drainage
Professional drain cleaning helps to protect your entire plumbing system
Signs that your gutter drain issues are causing internal damage
Sometimes the connection between an external drainage problem and internal water damage
isn’t obvious. There are some signs to look out for:
- Damp patches or staining on internal walls, especially after rain
- Musty smells indoors
- Peeling or bubbling paint on walls
- Soft or spongy floors
If you spot any of these, the issue may have been developing for a while. Water damage tends
to worsen quietly before it shows itself.
What a licensed plumber can do at your home
Blocked or faulty gutters are best left to the professionals, rather than a DIY job. A licensed
plumber from Curran can come to your home and assess the situation.
They can do any of the following:
- Use a CCTV drain camera to inspect the drainage line and identify exactly where the
blockage or issue is - Use a high-pressure water jetter to clear compacted debris or roots
- Repair or replace damaged downpipe sections
- Reroute drainage that was incorrectly installed
- Identify where there are any other issues that need attention
If you’re unsure if your drainage is the cause of a damp issue, getting a drain inspection
completed is a great starting point. It’s non-invasive and gives you a clear picture of what’s
happening underground.
Downpipes and gutter drains might not be something you think about, but they play an important
part in protecting your home from unwanted leaks and flooding. If you’re noticing signs of
internal dampness or it’s been a while since your drains have been checked, call Curran before
it becomes a bigger (and more expensive) problem.
