Downspout &
Drainage
Solutions
Where does your gutter water go? If it's pooling near your foundation, you're risking $5,000-$25,000 in foundation repairs. Our drainage solutions protect your biggest investment.
Foundation Damage Prevention
- Minor cracks: $500-$1,500
- Major cracks: $2,000-$7,000
- Structural repair: $10,000-$25,000
- Basement waterproofing: $3,000-$12,000
- Underground system: $800-$2,500
- Extensions: $200-$600
- Prevention saves 5-10x repair costs
Warning Signs You Need Better Drainage
Water is your foundation's enemy. These warning signs indicate your drainage isn't protecting your home:
→ Foundation damage, basement flooding
→ Mold growth, structural damage
→ Serious structural failure risk
→ Soil loss, landscaping damage
→ Mold, poor air quality
→ Water infiltration history
Notice any of these signs?
Get Free Drainage Assessment →Drainage Solutions We Install
Downspout Extensions
$50-150 each
Extend downspouts above-ground to direct water away from foundation
- ✓ Quick installation
- ✓ Budget-friendly
- ✓ Various styles available
- ✓ Easy to relocate
Underground Drainage
$200-600 per downspout
Buried PVC pipes that invisibly channel water far from your home
- ✓ Invisible from surface
- ✓ Permanent solution
- ✓ Best protection
- ✓ Connects to storm drain
French Drains
$25-50 per linear foot
Perforated pipe in gravel trench that captures and redirects water
- ✓ Handles groundwater
- ✓ Works with poor soil
- ✓ Yard-wide protection
- ✓ Reduces soil saturation
Catch Basins
$250-500 each
Collection points that capture surface water and route to drainage
- ✓ Collects surface water
- ✓ Debris filtering
- ✓ Low maintenance
- ✓ Strategic placement
Rain Barrels
$150-400 installed
Capture rainwater for garden use while managing runoff
- ✓ Eco-friendly
- ✓ Saves on irrigation
- ✓ Reduces runoff
- ✓ Connects to existing downspouts
Downspout Diverters
$75-200 each
Route water to rain barrels or different drainage paths
- ✓ Seasonal flexibility
- ✓ Rain barrel connection
- ✓ Simple installation
- ✓ Manual or automatic
Downspout Best Practices
📏 Proper Extension Distance
Downspouts should extend at least 4-6 feet from your foundation—though 10+ feet is ideal for problem areas or homes with basements. Water deposited too close causes hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls.
⬇️ Proper Grading
Your yard should slope away from your foundation at a minimum of 1 inch per foot for the first 6 feet. Poor grading negates even the best drainage systems. We assess grading during every drainage consultation.
🔢 Proper Sizing
Standard 2x3" downspouts handle about 600 sq ft of roof area. Larger roofs or high-rainfall areas may need 3x4" oversized downspouts or additional downspout locations. Undersized downspouts overflow during heavy rain.
Downspout & Drainage FAQs
How far should downspouts extend from the house?
At least 4-6 feet, though 10+ feet is ideal for problem areas. Water deposited too close can seep down and cause foundation damage, basement flooding, and soil erosion. We assess your grading and soil type to recommend the optimal distance.
How much does underground drainage cost?
Underground drainage runs $200-$600 per downspout depending on trench length and soil conditions. A complete system for an average home costs $800-$2,500. While more than surface extensions, underground systems are permanent, invisible, and provide the best protection.
Can you connect downspouts to storm drains?
In many areas, yes—we can connect underground drainage directly to municipal storm drains or dry wells. Local codes vary, and some areas require permits. We handle all code compliance and permitting as part of our service.
What's the difference between French drains and underground downspout drainage?
Underground downspout drainage routes roof water through buried pipes to a specific discharge point. French drains capture groundwater across a broad area using perforated pipe in gravel. Many homes benefit from both—we assess your specific needs during the free consultation.
How do I know if my drainage is adequate?
Watch your home during a rainstorm. If water pools near your foundation, runs toward your house, or causes any visible flooding—your drainage needs improvement. We offer free assessments to identify all drainage issues before they become expensive problems.
Can rain barrels replace proper drainage?
Rain barrels are great for sustainable water use, but they're not a drainage solution—a typical barrel holds only 50-60 gallons while a 1,000 sq ft roof generates 600+ gallons per inch of rain. We can incorporate rain barrels into a complete drainage system with overflow protection.
Protect Your Foundation Today
Don't wait for water damage. Get a free drainage assessment and custom solution recommendation.
✓ Free Assessment ✓ Custom Solutions ✓ Licensed & Insured