How to Deal With Leaking Downpipe Repair

If you're experiencing leaks in your downpipe, it is important to get rid of the blockage as quickly as you can and then replace the damaged part of pipe. Epoxy putty can be used to fix most types of downpipe.

Clean the area first and remove any loose paint, rust or other debris. Then cut a length of repair tape and wrap it around the joint, ensuring that the ends meet.

Clean the area

Following a leak, the first step is to get rid of any standing water and wash the area. Use a wet vacuum to remove any remaining water and wipe down the floors and walls affected by the leak. This will also stop the growth and spread of mildew or mould that may occur if an area damaged by water isn't dried properly.

Next, you must look for obstructions. Downpipes that are blocked can cause water to overflow and run down the sides of your property, causing damage to walls, guttering, driveways and foundations. Blockages can be caused by twigs, leaves and other debris that are in your downpipe and guttering. Ice can cause blockages as well in colder temperatures.

In some instances, the downpipe that is leaking may simply be blocked. You may be able remove it with an hosepipe and wire or drain rod. However, it is a good idea to conduct regular cleaning of your downpipe and guttering system to prevent the build-up of dirt that could cause obstructions.

If you are unable to remove the blockage, the part of the downpipe below the leak could be damaged and will need to be changed. This requires removing the old pipe and replacing it with a new one with fittings and connectors.

Before you begin the process of repairing the downpipe, ensure that you are secure by wearing a pair of rubber gloves and safety glasses. If you're working at high altitude, you must make use of a sturdy ladder and have someone assist you. If you are unable reach the downpipe without assistance, it is a good idea to have someone stand at the bottom of the ladder to hold the hose while turning it on full flow to flush the downpipe and clear the obstruction. This will allow you to work from the top of the downpipe, and will help ensure that you do not miss any areas that require repair. If the clog persists, it is best to remove the hose from the downpipe and then use a plumber's snake for clearing the obstruction.

Repair the joint

As with any plumbing repair it is best to begin by finding the source of the leak. The next step is to clean the area and make sure it's dry. This will ensure that the sealant adheres properly. Turn off the water supply near the leaky section of pipe prior to starting.

It is crucial to stay clear of working on pipes that are soaked, especially when the downpipe is supplying potable water.

Leaks in the downpipes are typically caused by joints. The joints are usually exposed to harsh weather conditions, dirt and debris.

After you've cleaned your area and checked that it's dry, cut a piece of repair tape about 1 centimetre more than the width of the leak. Remove the backing paper and wrap the tape around the joint. When the tape is secured Apply a generous amount of roof and gutter sealant to both sides of the joint. Press the joint firmly to ensure a solid seal.

If the leak is coming from a cast iron downpipe or a fixation screws or nails might have come loose. This can be fixed by replacing the screw with a new galvanised screw. The downpipe may also be loose because of an ineffective wall connector. If the leaking downpipe is plastic, it may be that the retaining clip has become loose and requires to be replaced.

PEX leaks could be caused by a crimped connector that doesn't seal completely. This can be easily fixed with the PEX Crimp tool and test gauge that is usually supplied with the Crimp tool.

Epoxy putty can also be used to repair leaky downpipes. It can be formed into a sausage shape that is a perfect fit for the pipe joint. Apply the putty after blotting the pipe's surface dry. Make sure that you completely cover the crack or hole.

If the leaking downpipe is causing extensive damage your property, or is preventing rainwater from entering your house, it's worth calling in an experienced plumber for a stress-free and cost-effective solution. You should also check your gutters on a regular basis to avoid problems in the future, like leaking downpipes.

Seal the joint

The joints around your downpipe could be a hotspot for leaks, particularly if they're made of different materials (like PVC and metal). Make sure these joints are clear of obstructions that could block water flow freely, and can cause damage.

Regular cleaning can help you identify problems earlier and preventive measures are essential. However, sometimes things go wrong and a swift fix will be needed to stop leaking. There are a few items that you can use to make an interim seal.

Clean the area around the leak first to eliminate any dirt and paint that may be loose. Dry the area and score it with sandpaper in order to prepare it for the repair compound. Mix the ingredients of the putty and then knead until the mix is flexible. Press the putty firmly over the leak, overlapping the edges. Cover the area that has been repaired with a bandage and wait several minutes or as suggested by product instructions for the casting to harden.

Pipe repair clamps can be used to fix leaky downpipe joints. They are available in different sizes depending on the gutter's width. These devices make use of the metal band with rubber gasket, which is secured with bolts to temporarily repair leaks at the end of a pipe or along its length. Simply remove the bolts holding the clamp and slide it over the joint that is leaky Then tighten the bolts to force the gasket of rubber against the pipe.

Repair sleeves are a different option to fix leaky downpipe joints. These sleeves are flexible and can be swathed around a leaky joint. They work well with polyvinylchloride (PVC). Self-fusing tape is a great option to create a compression seal which can withstand water for up to three years when it is applied correctly.

A faulty crimp is usually the cause of leaks in PEX (pressurised Ethylene) pipes. These leaks can be repaired by using specialized tools. You'll need a specialised tool that has a set test gauges (also known as "go/no go" gauges) that are the same size of your PEX pipes. If the crimping tool isn't working, you can simply re-crimp the pipe with the correct tool.

Clear the blockage

Water damage in homes is usually caused by blocked downpipes. They can lead to a variety of issues, including flooding, damp walls and roof damage. It is essential to clear the blockage as quickly and efficiently to avoid further damage.

If you've got a clogged downpipe, the first step to do is turn off the water supply. Remove any debris from the gutters or surrounding area that could block the pipe. Also, wear rubber gloves and a dust mask in order to keep yourself safe from any corrosive materials.

A garden hose can be used to spray water down the downpipe in order to remove any blockages. If this doesn't help you, try using a plumber's snake. These can be purchased from the internet or at a local hardware store. Some are designed specifically for downpipes and come in a variety of sizes. A drain snake is especially beneficial if there is lots of debris that is blocking water flow.


You can also deblock the downpipe with a rod or wire. You should avoid sharp objects and make sure you're standing on a sturdy ladder. Before beginning, turn off any electrical fixtures, fittings, or cables that are close to the downpipe. It is also a good idea to wear safety goggles and rubber gloves.

Another indication of a blocked downpipe is if there is a build-up of water around the bottom of the gutters and along the wall. This can cause dampness and lead to the growth of mould. It is possible to prevent this by cleaning your gutters, downpipes and gutters and trimming branches with overhanging branches.

It isn't easy to tackle an obstruction in your downpipe. It's important to act as soon as you can to prevent any further damage to your home. If you don't want or have the time to clean your own downpipe, it could be worthwhile to hire an expert. exeter Downpipe Specialists will have the necessary equipment and expertise to tackle more complicated blockages and provide a quick and efficient solution. They will also be able to provide guidance on how to keep downpipes clean to minimize the risk of future blockages.