Extension ladder or step ladder
Use it for: To safely reach the elbow if it is above ground level.
Shop laddersOutdoor drainage repair
How to Replace a Downspout Elbow
To replace a downspout elbow, remove the screws or rivets holding the damaged elbow, pull it free, match the new elbow’s size and direction, fasten it in place, and test water flow for leaks or misalignment.
A bent, crushed, split, or loose downspout elbow can send water toward the foundation instead of away from the house. This is usually a straightforward replacement if the surrounding downspout is still in good shape. Work from a stable ladder if needed, and stop if the downspout is badly rusted, pulling away from the wall, or hard to reach safely.
Before you start: Match the replacement part to your exact downspouts extension before ordering.
Safety first
- Wear gloves because downspout edges can be sharp.
- Use a stable ladder on level ground and keep your balance centered while removing fasteners.
- Do not work during rain, high wind, or when the ground is soft or slippery.
- Stop if the downspout is loose, heavily rusted, or too high to reach safely.
Tools you may need
Work gloves
Use it for: To protect your hands from sharp sheet metal edges.
Shop work gloves
Cordless drill or screwdriver
Use it for: To remove and install sheet metal screws.
Shop drills and drivers
Nut driver or driver bit set
Use it for: To fit the existing fasteners on the elbow and downspout.
Shop nut driver sets
Tape measure
Use it for: To check the downspout size and compare the old elbow to the new one.
Shop tape measures
Sheet metal screws
Use it for: To secure the new elbow if the old screws are stripped, rusted, or missing.
Shop sheet metal screwsAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Repair Riot may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Set up safely and inspect the elbow
- Choose a dry time to work so the ladder area and ground are not slippery.
- Set the ladder on firm, level ground if the elbow is above reach from the ground.
- Put on gloves before handling the metal elbow and downspout edges.
- Look at how the existing elbow is oriented so you can match the new part the same way.
- Check the nearby downspout sections for severe rust, crushed metal, or loose wall straps before you start.
If it works: You can reach the elbow safely and you know the surrounding downspout is stable enough for a simple replacement.
If it doesn’t: If the area is wet, unstable, or the downspout is loose from the wall, wait and correct that issue first or call a pro.
Stop if:
- The ladder cannot be placed securely.
- The downspout is pulling away from the wall.
- The metal is badly rusted through beyond the elbow itself.
Step 2: Confirm the replacement elbow matches
- Measure the width of the downspout opening or compare the new elbow directly to the old one.
- Check that the new elbow bends in the same direction and angle as the old elbow.
- Make sure the crimped or uncrimped end arrangement will let the pieces slide together the same way as the original.
- Keep the new elbow nearby so you can test-fit it as soon as the old one is removed.
If it works: The new elbow matches the old one closely enough to install without forcing the connection.
If it doesn’t: If the size, bend direction, or end style does not match, pause and get the correct replacement part.
Stop if:
- The new elbow is clearly too large or too small.
- The bend sends water in the wrong direction.
- The connection would require heavy bending or cutting you are not prepared to do safely.
Step 3: Remove the old elbow
- Locate the screws or other fasteners holding the elbow to the adjoining downspout sections.
- Back out the fasteners with a drill, screwdriver, or nut driver while supporting the elbow with your free hand.
- Gently twist and pull the elbow free from the connected sections.
- If the joint is stuck, wiggle it carefully instead of prying hard enough to crush the downspout.
- Set aside any reusable screws if they are still in good condition.
If it works: The old elbow comes off without damaging the adjoining downspout sections.
If it doesn’t: If the elbow will not release, check again for hidden fasteners or light corrosion locking the joint together.
Stop if:
- The adjoining downspout starts tearing or collapsing.
- Fasteners are seized and the metal around them is ripping.
- Removing the elbow would leave the remaining downspout unsupported.
Step 4: Clean and test-fit the new elbow
- Brush away dirt, leaves, and old debris from the open ends of the downspout sections.
- Straighten any minor edge bends by hand just enough to allow a smooth fit.
- Slide the new elbow into place without screws first to confirm the alignment.
- Adjust the angle slightly so the elbow points water into the next section cleanly and does not strain the connection.
- Check that the elbow sits fully in the joint and does not leave a large gap.
If it works: The new elbow fits the existing downspout neatly and lines up with the next section.
If it doesn’t: If the fit is loose or misaligned, recheck the elbow size and orientation before fastening it.
Stop if:
- The new elbow will not seat into the joint.
- The adjoining section is too damaged to hold the elbow securely.
- The elbow alignment would direct water toward the wall or foundation.
Step 5: Fasten the new elbow in place
- Hold the elbow in its final position and reuse the old screw holes if they still line up well.
- Install sheet metal screws snugly to secure the elbow to the adjoining section or sections.
- Use only enough screws to hold the joint firmly without overdriving and stripping the metal.
- Make sure screw tips do not block the opening more than necessary.
- Confirm the elbow feels stable and does not rotate easily by hand.
If it works: The elbow is secure, aligned, and firmly connected to the downspout.
If it doesn’t: If the joint still shifts, add a properly placed screw or reposition the elbow and tighten again.
Stop if:
- The screws keep stripping out of thin or rusted metal.
- The elbow cannot be secured without deforming the downspout.
- The connection remains loose after reasonable tightening.
Step 6: Test drainage and watch for leaks
- Run water from a garden hose into the gutter above the elbow or wait for a light rain to test the repair.
- Watch the elbow and nearby joints for drips, overflow, or water escaping at the seams.
- Check that water moves through the elbow and out the lower downspout or extension without backing up.
- Look at the ground below to confirm water is being directed away from the house as intended.
- Retighten or reposition the elbow if you see a small alignment issue during the test.
If it works: Water flows through the new elbow cleanly and exits where it should without leaking or spilling at the joint.
If it doesn’t: If water still leaks or backs up, inspect for a clog farther down the downspout or a poor fit at the new elbow.
Stop if:
- Water backs up from above, suggesting a gutter or downspout blockage.
- The elbow leaks because the surrounding sections are split or badly corroded.
- The repair changes drainage in a way that sends water toward the foundation.
Replacement Parts
Find a downspout elbow on Amazon
Match the replacement part to your exact downspouts extension before ordering.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Repair Riot may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Verify the repair
- The new elbow matches the old elbow’s size and direction.
- All fasteners are snug and the elbow does not wobble by hand.
- Water flows through the elbow without leaking at the joints.
- The downspout still directs water away from the home’s foundation.
FAQ
How do I know which downspout elbow to buy?
Match the new elbow to the old one by size, bend direction, and how the ends connect. A direct side-by-side comparison is the easiest way to avoid ordering the wrong part.
Can I reuse the old screws?
Yes, if they are not rusted, stripped, or bent. If they no longer hold tightly, replace them with new sheet metal screws sized for thin metal connections.
What if the elbow keeps leaking after replacement?
First check that the elbow is fully seated and aligned. If it still leaks, the adjoining downspout section may be bent, split, or clogged farther down the line.
Do I need sealant on a downspout elbow?
Many elbow replacements are secured mechanically with screws and do not need sealant for a basic repair. If joints are damaged or irregular, address the fit problem first rather than relying on sealant alone.
Should I replace more than just the elbow?
If the nearby downspout is rusted through, crushed, or pulling away from the wall, replacing only the elbow may not last. In that case, plan on repairing the damaged section too or have a pro assess it.