How Do You Redirect Rainwater From A Downspout?
Your house would probably be better off without gutters if they simply dump water in concentrated areas right next to its foundation. That’s what happens when downspouts terminate with only an elbow or a splash block at the bottom. You’ll find some effective solutions below. If foundation plantings or ground cover camouflage the downspouts, add a length of horizontal downspout, PVC or flexible drainpipe to the bottom of the existing downspout to extend it at least 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 2 m) away from the house. If necessary, drive downspout-extension stakes into the ground to support and hold metal extensions in place, and place a rock or concrete splash block at the end to reduce soil erosion (see A). You can make a hinged extension, which tilts up and out of the way when not in use (see B). Remove the elbow (if any) at the bottom of the downspout. Cut the end off a length of downspout at a 45-degree angle using a hacksaw with a fine-tooth blade. Join the cut end to the bottom of the do