- Downspout extensions are a part of the guttering system that helps ensure water is directed away from the facia.
- Common types of downspout extensions are Aluminum and the Rain Chute extension.
- Choose Rain Guard Inc. to install a downspout extension to your guttering system.
As a homeowner, the last thing you want to see when you walk into your basement is water. The leaks and floods that occur in this area of the home could cost you thousands of dollars in damage. That’s why the all-important gutter system acts as a shield against these possibilities. It safely guides water from the roof of the home and onto the ground below. However, without downspout extensions, the water would seep into the foundation and potentially cause damage to the base of your home. It’s important to know about the differences of these extensions and which one suits your property the best.
What Are Downspout Extensions?
Downspout extensions act as your final protection against water damage to your home. They allow water that your guttering system collects to be led away from the foundation of your home. Whenever a leak or flood occurs in the basement, it’s typically the result of a gutter system that does not move water away from the foundation of the home. This tends to happen when there is no system in place to move the water that the gutters and downspouts collects. Don’t confuse these extensions for Splash blocks though. Splash blocks differentiate from downspout extensions because they get placed underneath the elbow of the gutter rather than attaching to the gutter itself.
Why Are Downspout Extensions Important?
They direct rainwater and snowmelt away from the foundation of your home. This prevents water from seeping into the basement or causing damage to the foundation of the property. Additionally, downspout extensions protect your home’s paint by directing water away from woodwork, windows, and doors.
Most Common Types of Downspout Extensions
The most common types of downspout extensions are Aluminum and the Rain Chute extension. These tend to be found in residential areas and have garnered popularity for their affordable prices and the length of the extensions.
Splash Blocks
Splash Blocks are rectangular pieces of concrete or plastic that are placed underneath the end of the downspout. They help direct water far away from your home to prevent soil erosion and foundation issues. Concrete versions excel in durability while plastic versions come in many shapes and sizes. Splash blocks do need to be checked on periodically as sections can get knocked off their places due to various outdoor conditions, including lawnmowers and shifting soil.
Aluminum
Aluminum downspout extensions are an additional section of downspout that is added onto the bottom of the gutter. It lets water out away from your home in a long, horizontal direction. These extensions offer great precision for where you want water to end up. In many cases, they rest on the ground. You do have the option of propping them up with other gutter sections if any obstacles are initially in the way. Keep in mind, aluminum downspout extensions are stationary and can’t be moved when mowing the grass without completely disassembling them from the downspout. Overall, these are one of the most popular options of extensions.
Rain Chute
The Rain Chute is also a popular method for directing water away from your home’s foundation. These extensions are best for homes where the lawn begins at the foundation. It has similarities to a splash stone, but carries more length and height. These extensions are also commonly referred to as Rain Channels or Gutter Channels. If you need to divert water away from your home, especially if your lawn extends up to your house, then using a rain chute is recommended.
Corrugated Flex Pipe
The Corrugated Flex Pipe is a highly popular choice for downspout extensions. Their flexibility allows you to move them in various directions whenever landscaping is getting done or heavy rain is occurring. Corrugated flex pipes come in various colors and sizes, with some featuring pre-fitted adapters that connect directly to your downspout. These extensions tend to attract animals and you do run the risk of a dog mistaking it for a chew toy.
Underground Drains
Underground Drainage Systems are extensions of your downspout and gutter setup. They consist of corrugated flex pipes or PVC pipes buried underground to direct water away from your home. These systems channel water to a nearby street, sidewalk, or directly into the sewer system. With underground drainage systems, it’s crucial to use gutter covers or guards to prevent debris from clogging these pipes. If clogs occur, they can lead to basement flooding and a swampy yard. With this option, be sure all debris stays out of your underground drains.
Which Type of Downspout Extension is Best?
The aluminum downspout extension is the most popular choice among residential and commercial properties. It has been proven to be a cost-effective and durable solution with ease of installation. You can quickly attach the extender to your existing gutter pipes, providing a solution for redirecting water far away from the home. If you’re able to weave around it when mowing the grass, then this is the right downspout extension for you.
Choose Rain Guard Inc For Downspout Extensions
For 41 years, Rain Guard Inc has been providing reliable gutter service in Oklahoma with an emphasis on customer satisfaction. Every one of our projects are inspected and reviewed by a quality control manager upon completion. We conveniently have offices located in Oklahoma City, Norman, and Edmond. All of our employees are knowledgeable and are willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
To learn more about downspout extensions, or gutters in general, at Rain Guard Inc, visit our website to find the downspout extension or guttering system you need. Be sure to schedule a free estimate for your next gutter project and we will respond within one business day or sooner. Give us a call at the closest Rain Guard Inc office near you!