Once clear of debris, grab a garden hose, ideally with a high-pressure tip, and start rinsing the gutter and downspouts. While you’re up close and personal with the gutters, give them a good look.

The purpose of all types of rain gutters is to move water away from the base of your house, into downspouts and out into a safe discharge zone. When they fail to do so, you can wind up with water ...