Technical Papers

Proper Yard Drainage to Protect your Homes Foundation

Friday, August 27th, 2021 by Jessica Dingle

DOWNSPOUT WATER ISSUES

PROTECTING YOUR HOME FROM POOLING WATER BY YOUR FOUNDATION 

When gutters are initially installed on a home, the goal is to get the water off of the roof and to the ground. The issue is once it is down, if it isn't properly installed or angled correctly, or the water isn't diverted safely away from the homes foundation, this can lead to water issues. Left unchecked this additional water pressure can cause foundation problems.

When water is pooling or culminating in one place in particular, this speeds up any possible issues on the foundation due to the increased pressure. At times this is obvious and seen by puddling around the homes downspouts. However, this problem can be more subtle, if the earth is loose enough in that area and is absorbing the water at a fast pace this can be seen on the interior of the crawlspace or basement with foundation cracks, weeping walls, or leaks that are concentrated in the same vicinity as the downspout. 

Exterior Drainage System

If this is an issue your home is dealing with then we have a few options so we can protect your home. If space allows we can install a Gutter Downspout Extension where we will evaluate the area and add an above ground extension to your downspout so water can be safely diverted away from your home. For other homes, we recommend a drainage pipe from your downspout out and away from your homes foundation. This can work well in tight spaces and areas where an above ground spout would be disruptive. The pipe is then covered up by our install teams and a LawnScape discharge line outlet system is put into place so water has a safe place to go. 

If you have any questions about downspout water issues, give us a call. Our System Design Specialists will be happy to come out and evaluate your home and give you a free estimate! 

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