Downspout Elbows

An elbow changes the direction of the downspout. It can connect a gutter outlet to a wall-mounted pipe, help route around a projection or turn the discharge toward the next part of the drainage system. Match the elbow to the adjoining pipe and the required route.

For square and rectangular downspouts in their usual orientation against a wall, an A elbow bends toward or away from the building, while a B elbow bends sideways along the wall. A and B identify bend direction, not angle. Compare the drawing with your installation, especially if the pipe is rotated.

Round elbows do not use the A/B distinction. Their round connections allow the bend to be oriented around the pipe axis before fastening. You still need to match the profile, diameter, angle and connection details.

In K&M’s conventional elbow range, #0 is 30 degrees, #1 is 45 degrees, #2 is 60 degrees, #3 is 75 degrees and #4 is 90 degrees. Availability depends on the product. The seamless European copper elbow uses a separate angle range.

A 75-degree elbow is common in K&M’s conventional range, but multiple angles are offered. Do not assume a fitting called a 90 is actually 75 degrees. Select the listed angle that suits the layout and check its dimensions before ordering.

Use the size and profile of the adjoining downspout. Measure the diameter for round pipe or width and depth for rectangular pipe. Smooth and corrugated profiles must be identified separately. Gutter width alone does not determine which elbow will fit.

They may, but matching nominal dimensions does not guarantee a fit. Seams, corrugations and actual connection dimensions can differ. Some installations need additional crimping or an adapter. Send measurements and photos if you are matching an existing system.

K&M describes these as elbows with a smooth appearance and a welded, minimally visible seam. The listed European copper model uses 18-ounce copper, comes in 3- and 4-inch sizes and offers 40-, 72- and 85-degree angles. Check that specific model rather than applying conventional elbow specifications.

A typical offset uses two elbows, often with a straight pipe section between them: one turns toward the wall and the other returns the run downward. The actual quantity and pipe length depend on the outlet location, offset, elbow dimensions and overlap. Measure the complete route before ordering.

These are assemblies with two changes of direction that move the downspout to a different position. They can replace an arrangement of separate elbows and connecting pipe when designed for the application. K&M handles these as custom orders in larger quantities; confirm minimum quantities and provide a dimensioned drawing.

K&M can review custom sizes and angles, including fabricated smooth square and plain round elbows. Send the pipe dimensions, angle or dimensioned layout, material, finish and quantity. Custom fabrication methods and available options depend on the profile and project.

Thickness varies by product. Common selections include 0.027-inch painted aluminum, 0.032-inch Kynar aluminum, 24-gauge steel and 16-ounce copper. Selected copper products also offer 20-ounce material, while the European copper elbow is listed at 18 ounces. Confirm the specification of the exact item being ordered.

Typical connections use a reduced or crimped upstream end inserted into the downstream receiving end and secured with suitable screws or rivets. The end may need further crimping to fit, especially after trimming. Follow the connection details for the selected assembly and provide appropriate support.

Typical freely draining gravity-flow downspout joints with correctly oriented overlaps do not necessarily require solder or sealant. Special details or project specifications may require joint treatment. Use a method compatible with the metal and installation, and do not rely on sealing to correct a reversed overlap or a downstream blockage.

Seam position depends on the profile, bend direction and fabrication method. It can be planned on some fabricated smooth elbows, while conventional incrementally bent elbows have manufacturing constraints. If a visible seam matters, identify the viewing side and desired position in your drawing before ordering.

An exact match cannot be assumed. Match the base metal, finish system and color, and compare a physical sample where available. Existing metal may have weathered, and the same color name can differ between coatings or suppliers.

Keep gutter outlets, elbows and downstream drainage clear of debris, and plan access where blockages may occur. A compatible downspout cleanout can provide an accessible debris-removal point, but it still requires cleaning and does not eliminate maintenance elsewhere in the system.

Availability depends on the profile, size, angle, material, finish and quantity. Some items require fabrication or special sourcing. Confirm preparation time for your selected items and allow separately for transit. Local pickup is available in Durham, North Carolina, once your order is confirmed ready.