How does one make a homemade 25 foot snake to clear a clogged downspout of leaves and debris?

Making a homemade snake to clear a clogged downspout can be done using a few basic materials. Here's a simple method to create a 25-foot snake that can help remove leaves and debris from downspouts. ### Materials Needed: 1. **Flexible wire or cable**: You can use an old metal coat hanger, a length of flexible steel cable, or thick, flexible plastic tubing. The wire should be able to bend without breaking. 2. **Duct tape**: This will be used to strengthen and secure any joints. 3. **A narrow brush or bristle attachment** (optional): If you have a scrub brush that can fit into the downspout, it can help dislodge debris. 4. **Protective gloves**: To protect your hands while working. 5. **Safety goggles**: To protect your eyes, especially if you are working with metal or debris. ### Instructions: 1. **Prepare the Wire**: - If using a coat hanger, untwist it and straighten it as much as possible. - For a thicker steel cable, cut it to the desired length of 25 feet. If you need to join two pieces together, use duct tape to secure the joint. - Make sure the end of the wire is relatively smooth to prevent it from snagging. 2. **Create the Hook End** (optional): - Bend one end of the wire or coat hanger to form a small hook. This can help grab and pull out stuck debris when navigating through the downspout. 3. **Reinforce the Snake**: - If using wire, you can wrap some duct tape around the handle to give you a better grip. Ensure it's sturdy enough to apply pressure when tugging out any clogs. 4. **Insert the Snake**: - Locate the clogged downspout and insert the homemade snake gently into the downspout. - Push the snake in carefully, twisting it as you go to help dislodge any debris. 5. **Clear the Clog**: - Once you feel resistance, gently wiggle and pull the snake back and forth to break up the clog. You might need to pull it out occasionally to remove debris that it's collected. - If the clog is stubborn, you can apply more pressure while twisting the snake to help break apart the blockage. 6. **Remove and Clean**: - After clearing the clog, remove the snake carefully, and be prepared to clean off any residue or debris collected along the way. - Dispose of any leaves or material pulled out of the downspout properly. 7. **Test the Flow**: - Once you believe the clog is cleared, test the downspout with water to ensure it drains properly. ### Safety Tips: - Always wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or debris. - If you're using a long piece of wire, make sure you handle it carefully to avoid any injury from the ends. - If the clog remains stubborn, consider using a professional plumbing snake or contacting a professional for assistance. ### Note: For frequent clog issues in your downspouts, consider installing leaf guards or screens to reduce the amount of debris that can enter the downspout in the first place.