Blocked downpipe? Unblocking that starts at the gutter.
Water pouring over the gutter in heavy rain, a downpipe that gurgles or stays silent, or a damp patch spreading down the wall are the usual signs of a blocked downpipe. We clear the blockage and the gutters feeding it, then test that water runs all the way through.
Why homeowners choose this service
- Gutters cleared first, so the debris causing the blockage is removed at source
- Downpipe unblocking and a flow test once the gutters are clear
- Damage to joints, brackets or pipe sections photographed and reported
- Fascias and soffits washed at the same visit if you want them done
- Family-run, fully insured team based in Ampthill
Why downpipes block
Almost every blocked downpipe starts in the gutter. Moss washed off the roof, leaves, silt and the odd tennis ball collect at the outlet until the opening narrows and then closes. The worst blockages sit at bends near the top of the pipe, where debris packs tight.
That is why we treat downpipe unblocking as part of gutter cleaning rather than a separate job: clearing the pipe without emptying the gutter just means it blocks again with the next storm.
Our process
A careful, methodical approach designed to protect your roof and your property.
Clear the gutter run
We empty the gutter feeding the downpipe of moss, leaves and silt, starting at the outlet.
Unblock the downpipe
We clear the blockage from the top of the pipe and through the bends where debris collects.
Test the flow
We run water from the gutter through the pipe to check it drains away freely, and report anything that does not.
Signs of a blocked downpipe
The clearest sign is water spilling over the front of the gutter during rain even though the gutter looks level. Other clues are a downpipe that stays dry in a downpour, water bubbling out of a joint partway down, green streaks or damp on the brickwork beside the pipe, and plants growing out of the outlet at the top.
A blocked downpipe is worth dealing with quickly. Water that cannot drain runs down the wall instead, soaking brickwork and render, and in winter it can freeze in the pipe and split a joint.
Downpipe repairs: what we do and what we flag
Our work here is unblocking and cleaning. If the flow test shows a cracked section, a leaking joint, a loose bracket or a pipe that has come away from the wall, we photograph it and tell you, so you can decide how to get it repaired. We do not replace guttering or downpipes.
Underground drains are a separate matter. If the downpipe runs freely but the water backs up at ground level, the blockage is in the drain below and needs a drainage specialist.
Stopping it happening again
Most downpipes stay clear if the gutters are emptied once a year, or twice if trees overhang the house. If moss from the roof is the main culprit, a roof clean with moss removal and a biocide treatment tackles the source, so far less debris reaches the gutters in the first place.
We cover Bedfordshire and the surrounding counties from our base in Ampthill. Call 01525 600162 or send a photo of the problem through the quote form for a free quote.
Frequently asked
How do I know if my downpipe is blocked?
Water overflowing the gutter in rain, a dry downpipe during a downpour, water leaking from joints or damp on the wall beside the pipe are the usual signs.
Can you unblock a downpipe without cleaning the gutters?
We clear the gutter feeding it at the same time, because that is where the debris comes from. Unblocking the pipe alone usually means it blocks again.
Do you repair or replace downpipes?
No. We unblock and clean them, and photograph and report any cracked sections, leaking joints or loose brackets so you can arrange a repair.
What if the water backs up at the drain?
If the downpipe runs freely but water backs up at ground level, the blockage is in the underground drain, which needs a drainage specialist.
How much does downpipe unblocking cost?
It depends on the number of downpipes, the gutters feeding them and access. We quote for free with no obligation.
Related pages
More detail on where we work, what we find on roofs, and how the job is priced.