Gutter and Downspout Cleaning Device and Method

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/470,312 filed Jun. 1, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

The present disclosure is directed to apparatuses and methods for cleaning a gutter, and more particularly for clearing a downspout.

Roof gutters direct water off of a roof of a building. Typically, gutters collect water along an edge of a roof, funneling the collected water to a downspout. Downspouts typically direct the water from the gutter into a drain or into the ground. Water flowing along the roof may collect leaves, branches, or debris. The debris tends to flow into the gutter and to the downspout. Accordingly, downspouts may become clogged by accumulation of debris absent regular maintenance.

Known apparatuses for cleaning gutters require accessing the gutter along an elevated roof edge, which in turn requires climbing a ladder and/or climbing onto the roof. Accordingly, appropriate cleaning and maintenance of a gutter and/or downspout is often difficult and potentially dangerous.

In at least some examples, a downspout clearing apparatus comprises a base configured to be attached to an extension pole, and a hook secured to the base. The hook comprises a first projection having a first longitudinal axis configured to be oriented parallel to an extension pole axis when the base is secured to the extension pole. The first projection extends away from the base a first distance along the first longitudinal axis. The hook includes a second projection having a second longitudinal axis and extending a second distance along the second longitudinal axis to an end knob. The hook may further include an intermediate curved portion joining the first projection to the second projection such that the first longitudinal axis defines an acute angle with respect to the second longitudinal axis. Additionally, the second distance extends such that the second projection extends downward through a gutter and positions the end knob within a downspout extending below the gutter while the base is positioned below an upper edge of the gutter adjacent the downspout.

In at least some example apparatuses, the base and the hook may be integrally formed in a monolithic single piece, and the base defines a female bore having a thread configured to be attached to an extension pole. Additionally, the first projection may be tapered such that the first projection is narrower at a first location adjacent to the intermediate curved portion than at a second location adjacent to the base. Further, the end knob of the second projection may include a hemispherical end surface defining a circumferentially extending edge, with the circumferentially extending edge defining an edge radius larger than a second projection radius adjacent the end knob. The acute angle may, in at least some examples, be between 5 degrees and 25 degrees. Additionally, in these examples the hook may be formed of a resilient material configured to allow the second projection to deflect relative to the first projection in response to a lateral force applied by the gutter or the downspout to the second projection.

In at least some examples, a method of making a downspout clearing apparatus comprises providing a base configured to be secured to an extension pole and forming a hook secured to the base. The hook comprises a first projection having a first longitudinal axis configured to be oriented parallel to an extension pole axis when the base is secured to the extension pole, with the first projection extending away from the base a first distance along the first longitudinal axis. The hook also comprises a second projection having a second longitudinal axis and extending a second distance along the second longitudinal axis to an end knob. The hook also includes an intermediate curved portion joining the first projection to the second projection. The first longitudinal axis may define an acute angle with respect to the second longitudinal axis and the second distance extends such that the second projection extends downward through a gutter and positions the end knob within a downspout extending below the gutter while the base is positioned below an upper edge of the gutter adjacent the downspout.

Example apparatuses described herein generally include a base and a hook that facilitates accessing a downspout by a user positioned below the gutter, e.g., while standing on the ground. Accordingly, a downspout may be cleared without requiring a user to climb a ladder or onto an adjacent roof to do so. By contrast, known apparatuses and methods are focused on cleaning gutters and cannot penetrate into a downspout to clear debris in the same manner. Furthermore, example apparatuses and methods herein may be used to access and clear any downspout, and as such are generally universal for all widths and configurations of a gutter.

Generally, a hook of an example apparatus may be secured to a base that allows for selectively attaching or securing the base to an extension pole or other elongate device that facilitates reaching an elevated gutter. The hook may thereby be raised in a generally vertical orientation by a user extending the pole vertically toward an elevated gutter and downspout. The hook may be configured such that the end of the hook can be inserted downwardly through the elevated gutter and into the downspout extending below the gutter. The portion of the hook adjacent to the end thereof may be relatively thin to facilitate penetrating debris, while a knob or other enlargement at the end of the hook may help clear the downspout by “grabbing” branches, leaves, or other debris. Additionally, the enlarged end or knob may enhance safety by reducing the sharpness of the relatively thin hook end.

Turning now to, a downspout clearing apparatusis illustrated and described in further detail. The apparatusmay include a baseconfigured to be attached to an extension pole (not shown in). For example, the basemay define a female borehaving thread(s)that facilitate securement to, e.g., a corresponding threaded male member of an extension pole. Merely by way of example, an extension pole may have a standardized broom handle-type thread, and the threading of the female bore of the base may correspond to the standardized thread to facilitate attachment to a variety of different length or configuration extension poles.

A hookmay be secured to the base. The hookmay comprise a first projection, a second projection, and an intermediate curved portion, which extends from the first projectionto the second projection.

As noted above, the hookmay generally be shaped or configured to facilitate clearing a downspout. In the example illustrated in, the intermediate curved portionis curved such that a longitudinal axis A-A of the first projectionis positioned at an acute angle α with respect to a longitudinal axis B-B of the second projection. The angle α is 15 degrees in the example illustrated in, however the angle α may be any other angle that facilitates lowering of the end knoband at least a portion of the second projectioninto a downspout while the first projectionis held in a generally vertical orientation, e.g., by a user standing below a gutter and/or downspout. In the example illustrated in, the angle α is between 5 and 25 degrees. In other examples, the angle α can be larger than 25 degrees, however a larger angle will generally require the user to stand further horizontally from the downspout and gutter, and may as a result increase difficulty of unclogging a downspout. Additionally, a smaller angle than illustrated may reduce flexibility of unclogging downspouts in larger gutters, e.g., 4″ to 6″ gutters. In at least some examples, the angle α may be larger than 15 degrees to the extent the second projectionmay still be lowered in a substantially vertical orientation by a user positioned on a ground surface below a downspout opening within a gutter. Further, in at least some examples, the angle α may be smaller than 15 degrees to the extent the second projectionis spaced apart from the first projectionso as to not interfere with lowering the second projectioninto a downspout opening. In this manner, the apparatusmay be used to clear a downspout while a user is positioned at a ground surface below the gutter and downspout, as will be further illustrated and described below.

As noted above, the first projectionmay be characterized by a first longitudinal axis A-A. The first projectiongenerally extends a distance Dfrom the baseto an end of the hook. Additionally, the second projectionmay be generally cylindrical, and may be characterized by a second longitudinal axis B-B and extends a second distance Dalong the second longitudinal axis B-B from the end of the hookto an end knob. The end knobis positioned at a free end of the second projection, and as will be described further below is configured to be used to scrape an interior surface of a downspout connected to a gutter.

Generally, when the baseis secured to an extension pole the first projectionmay be oriented parallel to the extension pole, e.g., parallel to an axis of the extension pole. The angle α between the first projectionand the second projectionis generally established by a curvature of the intermediate curved portion. The angle α may be acute as noted above, e.g., between 5 and 25 degrees, and the second projectionmay be nearly as long as the first projectionsuch that the second projectionmay be “hung” over the lip of an elevated gutter to allow the end knobto be projected down into a downspout. Accordingly, as will be described further below the second projectionmay extends downward through a gutter such that the end knobis positioned within a downspout extending below the gutter while the baseis positioned below an upper edge of the gutter adjacent the downspout.

The end knobmay be relatively wider than the second projection. The end knobhave a hemispherical end surfacethat is generally rounded due to the hemispherical shape. Accordingly, the end knobis not relatively “dull” to reduce a possibility of injury. The end knobalso may define a circumferentially extending edge. As will be described further below, the circumferentially extending edgemay be configured to be applied to an interior surface of a downspout. Accordingly, the end knobmay be used to generally scrape or grab debris to facilitate unclogging the downspout. The circumferentially extending edgemay generally encircle the second projection, such that the circumferentially extending edgeextends around an entire circumference of the second projection. Additionally, the circumferentially extending edgemay define an edge radius Rthat is relatively larger than a second projection radius Radjacent to the end knob. In this manner, the end knobmay define a relatively enlarged or flared shape relative to the second projection.

As best seen in, the first projectionmay generally taper away from the base. Accordingly, the first projectionmay be relatively narrower further away from the base. Put another way, the first projectionmay be relatively narrower at a location adjacent the intermediate curved portionthan at a second location adjacent the base.

The apparatusmay be formed in any manner that is convenient. In the illustrated example shown in, the baseand hookare formed integrally as a single monolithic piece. For example, the baseand hookmay be molded, e.g., in an injection molding process. Additionally, the hookmay be formed of a resilient material that generally allows deflection of the hookwhile being used to clear a downspout. For example, second projection to deflect relative to the first projection in response to a lateral force applied by the gutter or the downspout to the second projection. Merely by way of example, the hookmay be formed of a nylon or other plastic material. In other examples, the hookmay be formed of a steel material, or a combination of steel and plastic. It should be noted that to the extent steel material is used for the hookor otherwise in the apparatus, strength, weight, and cost may be comparatively increased to the extent the steel material used in place of a plastic material.

Referring now to, the apparatusis illustrated in use for clearing a downspout of an elevated gutter. The apparatusmay be secured to an extension poleby a user, e.g., by mating the threadsof the baseto a corresponding male thread (not shown) of the extension pole. The user may then raise the apparatustoward the gutterand downspoutvia the extension pole. Upon raising the end knobabove the gutter, e.g., above an upper edgeof the gutter, the user may guide the end knobdownward through the gutterand into the downspout, e.g., using the exterior of the downspoutas a visual guide for placement of the end knobalong the gutterto ensure insertion into the downspout. Accordingly, as best seen in, the end knobmay be placed down in the downspout, contacting any leaves, branches, shingle grit, or other debris that may be present in the downspoutand adjacent areas of the gutter. The rounded or hemispherical surface of the end knobmay facilitate penetrating debris, while the circumferentially extending edgemay facilitate scraping of interior surfaces of the downspout. Further, the circumferentially extending edgemay be used to grab or lift debris. Accordingly, a repetitive up/down movement of the second projectionwithin the downspoutmay loosen debris, allowing it to flow downward through the downspoutto a drain, into the ground, etc. Alternatively, the circumferentially extending edge may also facilitate lifting larger debris, e.g., branches or twigs, up and out of the downspoutand/or the gutter. The apparatusmay be particularly effective at removing or clearing the downspoutwhile water is flowing through the gutterto the downspout, e.g., while rain is falling on the adjacent roof surface. Alternatively, a garden hose or the like may be employed to supply water flowing within the gutterand to the downspout.

Furthermore, as noted above the user may accomplish the operations of clearing the downspoutwithout being required to access a roof, e.g., roof surface, above the ground surface, or to even climb a ladder to gain access to the elevated gutter. Moreover, the user may remain standing on the ground surface, given a sufficient length of the extension poleto raise the apparatusto the gutterand/or downspout.

Turning now to, a processof making a downspout clearing apparatus is illustrated and described in further detail. Processmay begin at block, where a base is provided, e.g., base. For example, as noted above the basemay be configured to be attached to an extension pole, allowing the apparatusto reach elevated gutters and downspouts relatively easily. The basemay have a specific attachment mechanism, such as a threaded connection, clamping system, etc., to ensure a stable and secure fit on the extension pole. Processmay then proceed to block.

At block, the hook may be formed, e.g., hook. The hook, as noted above, may generally extend from the baseand may be used to clear debris from the downspout. The hook, as noted above may include first projection, second projection, and an intermediate curved portion. The first projection, as noted above, may have a longitudinal axis A-A configured to be aligned substantially or nearly parallel the extension pole or axis thereof when the baseis attached to the extension pole. Further, as described above the first projectionmay extend a desired distance D, with the second projectionextending a desired distance Dand an angle a between the first projectionand second projectionto facilitate positioning of the end knobwithin a downspout. In at least some examples, the distance Dmay be relatively larger than the distance D, corresponding to the first projectionbeing relatively longer than the second projection. Further, the second projectionmay be nearly as large as the first projectionin length, while also being relatively thinner than the first projection. Accordingly, the second projectionmay be configured to better penetrate into debris, deflect in response to bumping against interior surfaces of the downspout, etc. By contrast, the first projectionmay be relatively stiffer, providing overall strength and durability of the hook.

In an example, the distance Dis 10.0 inches, while the distance Dis 9.0 inches. In this example, the first projectiontapers from an initial width or diameter of 1.0 inches where the first projectionmeets the baseto a width or diameter of 0.313 inches where the first projectionmeets the intermediate curved portion. Additionally, in this example the second projectionhas a cylindrical outer surface having a diameter of 0.313 inches (i.e., identical to the intermediate curved portion), while the circumferentially extending edgeof the end knobhas a radius of 0.2 inches. Further, the radius of the circumferentially extending edgecorresponds to a radius of the hemispherical end surface of the end knob. It should be understood that in other example approaches one or more of these dimensions may be different than described in this example.

As noted above, in some example approaches the hookmay be formed integrally as a monolithic single piece with the base. For example, an injection molding process may be used to form the baseand hook, e.g., of a nylon or other plastic material. Any other material that may be convenient may be employed. The material used to form the hookmay, at least in some examples, generally allow for deflection of the relatively thin second projectionduring use, e.g., to allow the end knobto scrape along interior surface(s) of the downspoutin use, or to prevent damage to the gutterand/or downspout. An integral construction of the baseand hookmay facilitate a relatively smooth outer surface of the apparatus, e.g., such that the apparatusis without any joints or seams that might reduce durability or strength. Additionally, the hookand the basebeing made from a resilient material may facilitate deflection of the second projectionrelative to the first projectionwhen a lateral force is applied, e.g., as a result of contact with interior surface(s) of a downspout, a user applying force side to side on the apparatuswhile positioned within the downspoutin an effort to loosen or remove debris, etc. The deflection capability may also facilitate navigating internal contours of the gutterand downspoutby the user from the ground surface without visibility into the gutterand opening of the downspout, preventing breakage or damage to the apparatusduring use. Processmay then terminate.

Turning now to, a processof clearing an elevated gutter and/or downspout from a ground surface is illustrated and described in further detail. Processmay begin at block, where a user may secure a base of a downspout clearing apparatus to an extension pole or any other elongate member that allows the user to place the apparatus adjacent the gutter.

Proceeding to block, the user may initiate flow of water toward the downspoutin which debris or a clog is present. For example, as noted above the user may perform the downspout clearing operation while rainwater is flowing through a guttertoward a downspout. Processmay then proceed to block.

At block, the user may raise the end knob of the downspout clearing apparatus above the gutter, e.g., gutter. At block, the user may lower the end knobinto the downspout. For example, having raised the end knobabove an uppermost edge or lip of a gutter, the user may lower the end knobthrough the gutterand into the downspout.

Proceeding to block, the user may loosen and/or remove debris positioned within the downspout. For example, with the end knobpositioned within the downspout, the user may repetitively raise and lower the end knob, e.g., to penetrate, loosen, and/or remove leaves, branches, or other debris within the downspout. As noted above, in at least some example approaches the end knobis positioned at the end of the second projectionand includes a hemispherical end surface. Accordingly, the end knobmay present a rounded, smooth contact point that can engage with the interior surfaces of the downspoutwithout causing damage, and to avoid injury to a user or others during installation/removal of the apparatusfrom the extension pole. Additionally, as noted above, the hemispherical end surfacemay have a circumferentially extending edgeconfigured to contact interior surface(s) of the gutterand/or downspout. This circumferentially extending edgemay promote effective clearing of debris as the apparatusand end knobis moved within the downspout. Additionally, as noted above in some examples the circumferentially extending edgemay have a larger radius than that of the second projectionadjacent to the end knob. The relatively flared end knoband circumferentially extending edgebeing relatively larger than the second projectionmay allow the circumferentially extending edgeto scrape along interior surfaces of the downspout. Additionally, the enlarged radius/size of the circumferentially extending edgemay also allow the end knobto “grab” or otherwise move debris upwardly via upward motion of the apparatus. Processmay then proceed to block.

At block, the end knobmay be withdrawn from the downspout. For example, the user may raise extension polesuch that the end knobis moved out of the downspoutand above the gutter, allowing the user to lower the apparatus. The apparatusmay subsequently be removed from the extension poleand stored, if desired. Processmay then terminate.

The example apparatuses and methods described herein may facilitate clearing downspouts of a residential or commercial building having a gutter that is elevated but accessible by an extension pole. Accordingly, a user may relatively safely access a clogged downspout and loosen or remove debris while standing on a ground surface below the gutter and/or downspout, thereby avoiding the need to climb a ladder or climb onto a roof surface adjacent the gutter/downspout.

The following numbered paragraphs set forth example methods of making and/or using a downspout clearing apparatus, e.g., an apparatusconsistent with the above-described and illustrated examples.

Numbered paragraph 1. A method of making a downspout clearing apparatus, comprising:

Numbered paragraph 2. The method of numbered paragraph 1, wherein the end knob includes a hemispherical end surface defining a circumferentially extending edge.

Numbered paragraph 3. The method of numbered paragraph 2, wherein the circumferentially extending edge is configured to be applied to an interior surface of the downspout.

Numbered paragraph 4. The method of numbered paragraph 2, wherein the circumferentially extending edge defines an edge radius larger than a second projection radius adjacent the end knob.

Numbered paragraph 5. The method of numbered paragraph 1, wherein the first projection is tapered such that the first projection is narrower at a first location adjacent the intermediate curved portion than at a second location adjacent the base.

Numbered paragraph 6. The method of numbered paragraph 1, wherein the acute angle is between 5 degrees and 25 degrees.

Numbered paragraph 7. The method of numbered paragraph 1, wherein forming the hook secured to the base comprises forming the hook and the base integrally in a monolithic single piece.

Numbered paragraph 8. The method of numbered paragraph 7, wherein the hook and the base are formed of a resilient material configured to allow the second projection to deflect relative to the first projection in response to a lateral force applied by the gutter or the downspout to the second projection.

Numbered paragraph 9. A method of increasing flow through a downspout, comprising:

Numbered paragraph 10. The method of numbered paragraph 9, further comprising withdrawing the end knob from the downspout.

Numbered paragraph 11. The method of numbered paragraph 9, wherein handling the extension pole at a position below the gutter associated with the downspout comprises the user standing on a surface below the gutter.

Numbered paragraph 12. The method of numbered paragraph 11, wherein the surface below the gutter is a ground surface.

Numbered paragraph 13. The method of numbered paragraph 9, further comprising initiating a flow of water toward the downspout.

Numbered paragraph 14. The method of numbered paragraph 9, wherein a hook is secured to the base, the hook comprising:

Numbered paragraph 15. The method of numbered paragraph 14, wherein the base comprises a female bore having a thread;

The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of this disclosure and various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments described herein are provided for purposes of illustration and not of limitation. Thus, this disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed systems, devices, apparatuses, components, and methods, and instead includes variations to and modifications thereof, which are within the spirit of the attached claims.

The systems, devices, apparatuses, components, and methods described herein may be modified or varied to optimize the systems, devices, apparatuses, components, and methods. Moreover, it will be understood that the systems, devices, apparatuses, components, and methods may have many applications. The disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, but rather should be construed according to the claims.