Where Should the Water From Your Gutter and Downspout Go?

• Shannon Morton
• 4 years ago
• Categories: gutters
• Tags: downspouts, gutter malfunction, rainwater

Your gutters and downspouts are essential in protecting your home’s exterior and foundation from water damage such as pooling and infiltration. Your shingles guide them into the gutter and downspout and release them safely away from your property. Regardless of your climate or location, a gutter and downspout are a must-have for all homeowners.

However, not a lot of homeowners know where the rainwater gathered by the gutters should go. Read on to learn more from the top roofing and siding replacement company.

Where Should Rainwater Go?

• Drainage Pit. A drainage pit can appear as a seamless addition that effectively and safely transfers rainwater away from your home. It doesn’t intrude with your home’s design or curb appeal because of its low-profile appearance since it lays low on the ground. To install one, you have to dig a hole that’s three inches wide and deep. Then, the pit is filled with polished stone and a drain pipe is installed near the ground to catch the rainwater and direct it into the pit. This addition is cost-effective and is great for large volumes of water.

• Rain Barrel. A rain barrel is an eco-friendly option that allows you to reuse saved rainwater for other activities such as gardening. This water can be converted into clean water if you have the proper filtration equipment. You can also ask your roofers to add a diverter to lead the rainwater into the barrel. These barrels hold around 30 to 100 gallons of water and are made of plastic or wood.

• Rainwater Collection System. This is a big underground tank that collects rainwater gathered in the rain gutters. The water is then linked into a filter and pump that can be reused for other purposes. One example of which is linking the pump into an irrigation system to water your plans when you’re away from home.

What Happens When They Malfunction?

When your gutters and downspouts malfunction, you’ll notice that they’ll overflow since they’re clogged by debris such as leaves, rocks, and twigs. This makes it difficult for the gutter to redirect the rainwater. If the downspout is too short, the water could splatter onto your home which could damage the foundation. If your gutter system doesn’t have sufficient downspouts, it will collapse in the long run due to the load and stress put onto it from the heavy volume of water coursing through it. Not to mention that a malfunctioning downspout can erode and flood your garden, which will negatively impact your home’s curb appeal.

Do you need a certified local roofing company? Look no further than Ken Morton Roofing & Siding! We’ve been treating our customers like family since 1985. We’re a GAF Master Elite® Certified Contractor! Call us at (856) 582-8800 or fill out our contact form to get a FREE quote! We serve customers in the Pitman area and the rest of NJ!