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To keep debris (leaves etc) and small animals out
True
Leader guards normally copper / stainless steel
That is correct, and at this time of year they get clogged with leaves and need to be cleaned.
Yes, they are, but at this time of year, those baskets themselves get clogged with leaves and require frequent cleaning.
To keep leaves and other debris from going down the downspout and possible plugging it.
You can find decorative downspouts for purchase at the Amazon website. Once on the website, type "Decorative downspout" into the search field at the top of the page and press enter to bring up the items.
You should try to limit the number of downspouts. The number is really determined by the length of gutter run. If the length is over 25-30 feet you may need a downspout at each end. Otherwise you would not be able to get enough pitch or slope on the gutter for it to drain properly. Aslo look to place downspouts where the excess water can easily drain away the house and foundation.
Oh Yes, very common problem
Duct tape, dowel, drainage tile, downspouts.
When extending your downspouts to prevent flooding, you want to make sure you extend them well away from you home to an area of your yard that needs the water. Do not connect them to your foundation.
Take the leaf or color that you want to the paint store. Most have a computer that can read the color and provide the recipe for the paint tint.