Downspout Services in Alamogordo, NM
Strategic placement, extensions, underground drainage for desert soil. Protect foundations from monsoon runoff.
Why Downspouts Are Critical in Alamogordo
Proper downspout placement is essential in Alamogordo's desert environment. Our caliche and desert soil has poor permeability—water doesn't soak in readily, instead pooling or flowing along grades during monsoon storms. Downspouts must discharge at least 5 feet from foundations (10 feet better) with proper grading or underground drainage. During a 1-inch monsoon storm, a typical 1,500 sq ft roof generates 900+ gallons in 30 minutes—all must be directed away from your foundation to prevent cracks and settling common in our soil.
Alamogordo's combination of caliche soil and concentrated monsoon rainfall makes downspout management more critical than in many regions. Water that can't percolate into soil creates hydrostatic pressure against foundations, leading to expensive structural damage.
Desert Soil Drainage Challenges
Tularosa Basin caliche (calcium carbonate-cemented soil) creates an impermeable layer that prevents water absorption. During monsoon events, this means water pools on the surface or flows along grades rather than soaking in. Downspouts discharging near foundations create standing water that exerts constant pressure, causing cracks and moisture intrusion.
The solution: Proper extensions (minimum 5 feet, preferably 10 feet) and strategic placement based on lot grade. For properties without good surface drainage, underground pipe systems carry water to street, alley, or drainage basins.
Monsoon Water Volume
When a July thunderstorm dumps 1 inch in 30 minutes, a 1,500 square foot roof generates over 900 gallons. Your downspouts must evacuate this volume quickly and direct it where it won't damage your property. Undersized or poorly placed downspouts create immediate problems during these events.
Services We Provide
New Downspout Installation
Strategic placement of 3x4-inch downspouts for optimal drainage. Analyze roof layout, lot grading, drainage patterns. Includes elbows, extensions, mounting hardware.
$75-150 per downspout
Downspout Extensions
Above-ground or buried extensions carry water 5-10 feet from foundations. Critical for Alamogordo's caliche soil. Rigid, flexible, or underground PVC options.
$50-150 per downspout
Downspout Repairs
Fix separated joints, replace damaged sections, secure loose straps, clear clogs. Fast service—failures cause immediate problems during monsoon storms.
$75-250
Underground Drainage Systems
Complete buried drainage using PVC pipe. Water travels underground to street, alley, or drainage basin. Includes pop-up emitters, cleanouts, proper grading.
$200-500 per line
Splash Blocks & Accessories
Concrete or plastic splash blocks disperse water flow and prevent erosion. Also install downspout filters, pop-up emitters, rain barrels.
$15-75 each
Sizing & Placement for Alamogordo
Recommended Sizing:
- • 3x4-inch rectangular downspouts: Standard and adequate for most homes with 6-inch gutters
- • Spacing: One downspout per 30-40 feet of gutter maximum
- • Oversized 4x5-inch: For very large roofs or steep pitches
Strategic Placement:
- • Foundation protection: Discharge at least 5 feet from foundations (10 feet better)
- • Grade consideration: Water must flow away, not pool or return to foundation
- • Underground options: When surface drainage inadequate, buried lines carry water to suitable discharge points
- • Military housing: Base housing specifications may require specific placement—we're familiar with Holloman standards
Common Alamogordo Downspout Problems
❌ Inadequate Extensions
Most common: downspouts discharge within 2-3 feet of foundations. In our caliche soil, this guarantees water pooling and potential foundation damage.
🏜️ White Sands Dust Clogs
Gypsum dust can pack in downspout elbows creating solid blockages. Water backs up even though downspout appears fine. We clear using professional equipment.
🔗 Separated Joints
Temperature extremes (20°F to 105°F) cause expansion/contraction. Sections separate at elbows, dumping water near foundations instead of proper discharge point.
Protect Your Foundation with Proper Downspouts
Expert installation, strategic placement, desert soil solutions. Prevent foundation damage.