Rain gutters on your home can easily become clogged with leaves and debris. That's why it's important to inspect and clean them twice a year; usually in the fall and again in the spring. Loosen dirt that has blown into the gutters and scrub with a stiff brush. You can then flush the gutters with a steady stream of water from your garden hose to clear any material that may be clogging the downspouts.

Another way to prevent clogs is to install a mesh screen or leaf-catching system. Make sure that you purchase a type that can be easily removed when it's time to clean.

You may want to adjust the slope of your rain gutters from time to time. Run water through them, and if you find they drain slowly, reposition them so they slope toward the downspouts at a rate of 1/4 inch for every 10 feet.

Be sure that your downspouts expel water away from your home. If necessary, add downspout extenders that carry the water away. Also consider concrete or plastic splashblocks that are slightly sloped and extend away at least 4 feet from the home.

Also check your downspouts for rust, flaking, or peeling paint & leaks. Make sure they are affixed tightly against the fascia boards of your home's exterior. Check the fascia boards themselves fro dry rot or other damage, and, if need be, replace them with lumber treated with wood preservative to prevent water damage. You can finish them to match existing boards.