Gutters overflowing during rain

Symptoms

• Water sheeting over the front of the gutter in rain
• Water pouring from one spot rather than the downspout
• Staining or erosion on the ground below the overflow point

Likely causes

• CommonClogged gutter or downspoutDebris blocks water from reaching and exiting the downspout.
• PossibleIncorrect gutter slopeGutters need a slight pitch toward the downspout; a flat or reverse-sloped section pools and overflows.
• PossibleGutters too small for the roof's water volumeA large roof area or steep pitch can overwhelm standard-size gutters in heavy rain.
• PossibleToo few downspouts for the gutter runLong runs with only one downspout can back up in heavy storms.

What to do

1. Clean the gutters and downspouts thoroughly first, since a clog is the most common and easiest cause to fix.
2. During the next rain (or with a hose test), watch where the overflow happens to pinpoint the section.
3. Check the slope of that section with a level; it should drop slightly toward the nearest downspout.
4. Re-secure or re-pitch a sagging section using new gutter hangers if the slope is off.
5. If overflow happens roof-wide in heavy storms even when clean, consider adding a downspout or upsizing the gutters.
6. Add downspout extensions to carry water at least a few feet away from the foundation.
7. Recheck during the next significant rain to confirm the fix worked.

Tools and parts

• Ladder
• Level
• Gutter hangers/screws

When to call a pro

Call a gutter installer if the system needs re-pitching, more downspouts, or replacement.

Safety